Canada’s Ambassador Confirms Ongoing Talks with U.S. Amid Trade Pause

Canada’s Ambassador to the United States, Kirsten Hillman, confirmed that her team has maintained communication with American officials despite a pause in trade negotiations. Following an announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump that trade talks were being terminated, Hillman stated that discussions have been ongoing for the past five days.

During a recent appearance via video before the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade in Ottawa, Hillman noted that the conversations are not directly focused on trade. Instead, they involve various topics with officials from the White House, the U.S. Department of State, and the U.S. Department of Energy. She emphasized that American counterparts have been informed that trade discussions are currently on hold.

The trade talks were interrupted following a controversial advertisement financed by the Ontario government, which featured clips of former President Ronald Reagan addressing the detrimental effects of tariffs on economies. This ad reportedly played a role in Trump’s decision to cease negotiations.

Hillman highlighted that prior to the suspension, discussions regarding trade, particularly concerning sector-specific tariffs imposed by Trump on industries such as steel, aluminum, and lumber, were occurring nearly every day. She reaffirmed that Canada remains prepared to resume trade talks when the U.S. is ready.

The backdrop to these developments includes Prime Minister Mark Carney‘s recent visit to the White House earlier this month, which had generated momentum in trade discussions between the two nations. The ongoing dialogue underscores the importance of bilateral relations in the face of trade challenges.

This report was initially published on October 29, 2025, by The Canadian Press.