Why Canadians Are Upset with Americans in 2025

Canada and the United States have shared a long and close relationship for many years. They are neighbors, allies, and trade partners. Their histories and cultures are closely connected, and many families live across both countries. But in 2025, that relationship is going through a rough period. Many Canadians are starting to feel angry, hurt, and even betrayed by actions and words coming from the U.S.

Tariffs, Trade Threats, and a Loss of Respect

The tensions began to rise when the U.S. government, under Donald Trump’s renewed political leadership, started putting strong tariffs on Canadian exports. Goods like aluminum, steel, lumber, automobiles, and even certain food products were targeted. These sudden trade taxes hurt Canadian businesses and workers badly. It felt to many like a personal attack on Canada’s economy.

Worse still, Trump made several public statements suggesting Canada could be treated as a weaker partner—or even jokingly called it the “51st state.” That remark hit a nerve with many Canadians, who take great pride in their independence and democratic values. These actions were not seen as normal disagreements between friends but as disrespectful and even threatening.

Canadians Are Speaking Up: Polls Show Growing Anger

According to several Canadian polls conducted in 2025, more than half of Canadians say they are “angry” about how the U.S. is behaving toward their country. Around 37% said they felt “betrayed,” and nearly 30% said they were “worried” or “anxious” about the future of the Canada-U.S. relationship. Some have even gone so far as to say that the U.S. is now Canada’s biggest threat more than Russia or China.

That is a big change from just a few years ago, when most Canadians viewed the U.S. as their strongest friend and partner. Back in 2019, only around 20% of Canadians considered the U.S. a major threat. Today, that number has nearly tripled. The change shows how deep the frustration has become.

“Elbows Up”: A New Canadian Identity Takes Shape

In response to all of this, many Canadians are pushing back. A new phrase has emerged in public conversations and even protests: “Elbows Up.” It comes from hockey culture, where a player puts their elbows up when preparing for a rough check. It’s a symbol of strength and self-protection.

In towns like Elbow, Saskatchewan, people have gathered in peaceful protests, waving signs that read, “True North Strong and Peeved.” Canadian social media users have shared messages demanding more respect and independence.

Even Canadian podcasters, teachers, and business owners are joining the movement. They are promoting Canadian history, culture, and pride making it clear that Canada will not accept being treated unfairly.

Leaders Respond: More Trade with Other Countries

Canadian political leaders have also taken steps to respond to the crisis. Prime Minister Mark Carney, who took office during this turbulent time, has called for a more independent foreign policy. His government is now actively trying to build stronger trade relationships with Europe, Asia, and South America.

Canada is also working on strengthening its own internal trade between provinces. Businesses are being encouraged to sell locally and reduce reliance on American partners. Some experts believe this could help protect the Canadian economy if future conflicts with the U.S. continue.

Can the Friendship Be Saved?

While anger and frustration are growing, there is still hope that the relationship between Canada and the U.S. can be repaired. After all, these two countries have shared so much for so long. They’ve worked together in wars, built global businesses, and solved big problems together.

But to fix things, both sides will need to make changes. The U.S. must show more respect for Canada’s independence and avoid harmful trade moves. Canada, in turn, must stand firm in defending its values and pushing for fair treatment. Honest talks, strong diplomacy, and mutual respect are needed now more than ever.

Canadians are ready to speak up and protect their country’s future. They are not turning their backs on the U.S., but they are demanding a relationship based on fairness, trust, and dignity.

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