Canadian officials were reportedly surprised last week when U.S. President Donald Trump announced the suspension of trade negotiations with Canada. This decision came in response to an anti-tariff advertisement from Ontario. Sources indicate that Premier Doug Ford's critical remarks about Trump have been a source of tension in the discussions.

Two individuals familiar with the negotiations stated that the U.S. had warned Canadian officials for months about the negative impact of Ford's comments on the Trump administration. Ford has recently labeled Trump a "tyrant" and has expressed his determination not to let the U.S. president "roll over Ontario." His criticism has intensified as major vehicle manufacturers, including Stellantis and General Motors, have reduced production in Canada.

Ford has also made appearances on American news programs, where he referred to Trump as "probably the most disliked politician in the world in Canada." He has threatened to leverage Ontario's energy production as a bargaining tool in trade discussions. This tough stance has garnered support from some Canadians and has contributed to his party's success in securing a third consecutive majority government.

Additionally, Ontario's decision to remove American liquor from its liquor control board has added to the strain. This action was taken in March as a response to Trump's initial tariffs. The liquor board is one of the largest alcohol wholesalers globally, making this move particularly significant.

The $75 million anti-tariff advertisement, which features a 1987 speech by former U.S. President Ronald Reagan criticizing protectionism, has been described as the final straw in a series of grievances. Trump has labeled the ad a "fraud" and has threatened to impose an additional 10 percent tariff on Canada as punishment for not withdrawing the ad sooner. The advertisement is set to be pulled after airing during two World Series games.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has adopted a more conciliatory approach in trade negotiations, easing most non-sectoral counter-tariffs and attempting to build a positive relationship with Trump. Carney, who has not spoken to Trump since the trade talks were halted, expressed optimism about reaching an agreement before the ad aired. He stated, "There were a series of very detailed, very specific, very comprehensive discussions … up until the point of those ads running." Carney reiterated that Canada is prepared to resume negotiations when the U.S. is ready.