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Trump vents anger on NATO allies, EU, Trudeau

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I think he is venting common sense, not anger. Slanted reporting yet again. Back in the day, reporters reported the news without the biased commentary

-28 ( +5 / -33 )

I think he is venting common sense, not anger.

Nope, it's anger.

Back in the day, reporters reported the news without the biased commentary

Back in the day, as today, they report what happens. Just like they did in this story. If Trump doesn't want to look like a raging orangutan, he probably shouldn't rage.

26 ( +30 / -4 )

Just acting like he said he would.  Trudeau has always seemed a bit wet and indecisive and "on message" to me.

-19 ( +1 / -20 )

Trump bails on anything. No point is signing anything if he just rage-tweets from the toilet an hour later. No one can deal with him or wants a deal with him.

18 ( +19 / -1 )

Give 'em hell Donny boy! Smug Euro freeloaders and Canadian holier-than-thou types are going to open up their markets and start paying their way on defense or risk losing access to the GIANT U.S. market. Trump is the greatest President since Reagan, maybe even greater!

-32 ( +0 / -32 )

Back in the day, as today, they report what happens. Just like they did in this story. 

Nice try. Trump is pointing out discrepancies in the deficit but biased reporting sees it as anger

-20 ( +2 / -22 )

22% of all the NATO costs so not even a quarter is paid by America.

Not even a quarter? If there were only 4 countries in NATO then yes, that's fair haha

-17 ( +2 / -19 )

Trudeau sure had a lot to say once Trump got on a plane and left. Seems for the benefit of the world, he could have shut up, knowing that Trump is on his way to talk to Kim. Kinda selfish to bring up your personal whining when the man is obviously busy and did you a favor by even stopping by on his way to something else way more important.

-22 ( +2 / -24 )

Trudeau said what was said before and hasn't changed, for literally months, but today suddenly it's news because the Grand Cheeto declares it so. The White House let it slip that Trump needs to look strong before his meeting with Kim. All he can show though is that his word is dirt

1 ( +1 / -0 )

zichi

you are proving his point. your numbers and his differ but that does not change the fact that the US is paying for a quarter of NATO which is outrageous. That needs to change

-14 ( +2 / -16 )

Only five of NATO's 28 members -- the U.S., Greece, Poland, Estonia and the U.K. -- meet the 2% target.

And yeah if the USA is paying 22% of the total, then that leaves 68% for the other 27 members, about 3% each. so our payment is SEVEN times the average amount paid by everyone else.

-11 ( +2 / -13 )

Funny thing USA causes all the wars in the 21st century. Ironically had they defended Ukraine they'd have their war, but they won't touch Russia

7 ( +9 / -2 )

if the USA is paying 22% of the total, then that leaves 68% for the other 27 members, about 3% each. so our payment is SEVEN times the average amount paid by everyone else.

I’d bet a dollar to a donut you’re making this criticism without knowing why it’s that way in the first place, and didn’t even try to google it before posting that rant.

17 ( +17 / -0 )

Canada exports toilet paper to the USA. I'd say that tariff went up a few rolls

9 ( +9 / -0 )

Trump is the greatest President since Reagan, maybe even greater!

I sincerely hope Trump isn't suffering from alzheimer's, as well.

His public venting and childish spats does make for entertainment, I guess. But it's a sordid amusement, like the people who would visit the asylums in the 19th century to point and stare.

I always knew, as far back as Reagan times, that the US "empire" would eventually implode. Just never thought I'd see it in my lifetime.

Thoughts and prayers etc.

8 ( +10 / -2 )

Let it die

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Those with limited intelligence mistake aggression for strength.

10 ( +11 / -1 )

You would be right. At this point I dont care about feelings and why, I care about cold hard facts.

Why is everything a conservative says that is facts and true, a "rant". Trump says we wont be taken advantage of, its a "rant"!!! Trudeau says same thing its just him showing what he feeeels is best for his country, not a rant at all

My landlord doesnt want to hear about why I cant pay the rent or that I feel I dont have to pay because I helped her shovel snow from her driveway last time we had heavy snow. She wants me to pay what I obligated to pay, not "try" to pay it by 2025.

I’d bet a dollar to a donut you’re making this criticism without knowing why it’s that way in the first place, and didn’t even try to google it before posting that rant.

-16 ( +1 / -17 )

Dont you guys get mad when you go out to dinner with friends and they have 5 beers each and you have a coke and then they try to split the bill equally? They had a steak, you had a salad too. Thats nonsense, you would want the bill split more equally based on consumption/usage once your good will runs out.

Thats ok to treat people that way once or twice, cause of your reasons. But after that, you get tired of paying for what others benefit from. Definitely not going to sign an agreement to continue that.

Just like a date, if the advance assumption is that I am paying, we are going where I want to go and eating what I want. Same as the USA "dating" the G7.

-15 ( +2 / -17 )

You would be right. At this point I dont care about feelings and why, I care about cold hard facts.

Hahaha, this is so Trumpian:

"I don't actually know what I'm talking about, or why something is the way it is, and even though it may be in our best interests for things to be this way, I can't be bothered to find out what our best interests are"

13 ( +14 / -1 )

Then you better rip up every agreement you've ever signed and start over, if only to find out what words and numbers mean. USA is so broken and twisted you'll just follow the Cheeto down the next rung

We're not following

9 ( +10 / -1 )

I just don't see why the U.S should be spending any defense money at all in Europe unless it is with the express goal of protecting the American mainland, which of course helps to secure Western freedoms as a whole.

This E.U and affiliated non E.U countries represent the most wealthy part of planet Earth.

Many countries have better living standards than the United States. A few have a higher GDP per capita.

They are advanced, industrialized countries with a long history of defense and manufacturing military equipment.

Its time Europe stood on its own two feet and Germany is central to that goal.

I completely agree with Trump. They have benefit from American largesse since WW2 and it must end.

The United States cannot afford it.

They must cover the cost of their own defense or take their chances with Russia, China, Turkey etc

They should keep in mind that Belt and Road, the SCO etc could very extend right up to their outer borders one day. With Russia it kind of already does.

Hopefully peace will prevail between East and West. We all want that to be the case, but even if you assume peace you have to be incredibly foolish not to live by that old motto - hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

Those with limited intelligence mistake aggression for strength.

Those with limited intelligence bury their hand in the sand ignore history which tells you, time and time and time again, that the strong prey on the weak. With a few exceptions, this is the lesson of history. We should consider it a miracle we have made it this far as a species. Some would argue nuclear weapons are the reason since the cost of war now is just too high. Perhaps. Again - hope AND work for the best, prepare for the worst.

-10 ( +0 / -10 )

Trudeau sure had a lot to say once Trump got on a plane and left. Seems for the benefit of the world, he could have shut up, knowing that Trump is on his way to talk to Kim. Kinda selfish to bring up your personal whining when the man is obviously busy and did you a favor by even stopping by on his way to something else way more important.

Oh my goodness, you are right. I forgot how scared Trump was of his upcoming meeting with Kim, it really was inconsiderate of Trudeau to make those comments at a time when Trump was outside of his emotional safe space.

On behalf of all Canadians let me offer our apologies for our heartless and thoughtless Prime Minister not having adequately considered the special emotional needs of that delicate, orange superstar during his special me time. We only hope that the fierce language used by Trudeau - featuring such trigger words as "unacceptable" - and the emotional sting it must have caused, won't impede Trump's negotiating prowess in his dealings with Kim.

Thoughts and prayers.

14 ( +14 / -0 )

Our best interests are obviously for people to pay what they owe and meet their obligations. Liberals want to put feelings and excuses and reasons into everything to explain lack of action or lack of results.

I can't be bothered to find out what our best interests are"

-15 ( +0 / -15 )

Dont you guys get mad when you go out to dinner with friends and they have 5 beers each and you have a coke and then they try to split the bill equally? They had a steak, you had a salad too. Thats nonsense, you would want the bill split more equally based on consumption/usage once your good will runs out.

With my true friends, I'd happily buy them a meal and a bunch of beers, so your analogy doesn't entirely work.

But for everyone else, it would really depend on why I'm out with them. I can envision scenarios where the above would annoy me, and other situations where I'd be entirely fine with paying. It all depends on the group, and my motivations for being out with them. Sometimes the cost of a dinner and a few beers is nothing compared to the good business that comes as a result.

12 ( +12 / -0 )

On behalf of all Canadians let me offer our apologies for our heartless and thoughtless Prime Minister not having adequately considered the special emotional needs of that delicate, orange superstar during his special me time. We only hope that the fierce language used by Trudeau - featuring such trigger words as "unacceptable" - and the emotional sting it must have caused, won't impede Trump's negotiating prowess in his dealings with Kim.

Haha, that's funny! I had a good laugh at the bolded part.

11 ( +11 / -0 )

Trade is a two way street. It's not all about you.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

Uh no, thats liberal's thought process. Trudeau was an annoyance at best in the scheme of Trump's thinking. But that doesnt excuse the timing of what he did nor forgive that he did it when Trump is on the way to do something Trudeau cant. Enjoy your meek and mild leader up there with his awesome socks.

Oh my goodness, you are right. I forgot how scared Trump was of his upcoming meeting with Kim, it really was inconsiderate of Trudeau to make those comments at a time when Trump was outside of his emotional safe space.

-16 ( +0 / -16 )

@Blacklabel, yeah, that makes me mad.

Other situations make me uncomfortable. You hold a barbecue with your neighbors. Most people bring some meat or sausages or perhaps a salad and most people bring some beer. But one family shows up with more than enough food and drink for everyone, and it's of really high quality, and they say everyone should try their beef, their cocktails, etc. So you do to be polite. And then they tell you how much it cost, and you wonder if the idiots are suggesting you pay a share.

-6 ( +2 / -8 )

Trudeau is the PM of the Liberal Party of Canada. Liberals Liberals everywhere and around the world. Liberal social democratic countries. Free as in beer healthcare, we don't execute our children, we don't fight

We leave you to yourselves

7 ( +7 / -0 )

With first hand experience of Trump fresh in the minds of world leaders, they're going to want to move forward faster on CETA and CPTPP and other trade agreements to offset the Cheeto in order to secure businesses and avoid market disruptions

6 ( +6 / -0 )

"Justin acts hurt when called out!" the U.S. president said in his latest Tweet. On Saturday, he called the Canadian prime minister "very dishonest and weak."

Look who's talking!!!

10 ( +10 / -0 )

Uh no, thats liberal's thought process.

No, its clearly your thought process, based on what you wrote above. You are scared that Trump is being emotionally hurt by what Trudeau says and it will effect his performance with Kim. And you are absolutely right about that. Trump really does need to be flattered and when his feelings get hurt he just isn't the Trump we all know. How could you not worry?

But that doesnt excuse the timing of what he did nor forgive that he did it when Trump is on the way to do something Trudeau cant.

Again I find myself in 100% agreement with you - it was absolutely inexcusable. How dare Trudeau choose this emotionally vulnerable time for Trump to issue such a devastating tongue lashing against him? Clearly Trump can't take what Trudeau has to dish out - his wealthy New York upbringing having provided him with no mechanisms for dealing with the verbal assault of the notorious cruelty of Canadian political parlance.

So again, my apologies to all Americans on behalf of all Canadians. Sometimes in politics leaders just forget the true victims of their senseless and thoughtless words and we hope Trump will get the emotional support that he needs to recover. I understand that Air Force 1 has been equipped with a variety of emotional support animals for Trump to play with and hopefully that will undo some of the damage, though in mentioning this I acknowledge that it in no way reduces our national culpability for Trump's sadness and tears.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

If America closed its 30 NATO bases probably it would save about $10 billion but the total cost of oversea bases is $150 billion.

How much of the $150 billion is spent, not just in NATO, but Europe all round.

What does the $10 billion spent in NATO actually include?

Does it include the cost of personnel? which I would imagine is a massive year to year cost.

Do you think the E.U should provide for its own security since they are entirely capable of doing so?

France is a nuclear power. Germany, France, Italy and Spain have very high quality defense companies.

Why won't Germany spend 2%. Why is it such a massive ask? Even Australia spends 2%

America has done enough. They should push Europe to act as a buffer between the U.S West coast and what is likely to be the only possible threat for a long time in Russia.

Why should the U.S not redouble its efforts in the Pacific, where the only buffer they between Russia/China and the U.S is South Korea and Japan? Neither of which can hold a candle to those countries.

I think this change is coming anyway. I think the U.S will come to the view they can't afford it. I think they will gradually withdraw as the Europeans start to build more equipment and initiate more projects together.

Britain was always a hurdle. They always argued against Europe going its own way. Now that voice is gone.

-7 ( +0 / -7 )

There is a special place in Hell for the Trump family, and his pretentious 'Christian' hypocrites Ludlow and Navarro, who grandstand, spread fake news and insult common sense and decency while spreading corruption. It is OK for Trump and Trumpers to insult their allies, but unacceptable for others to speak up. And they claim to be Americans? The Founder Fathers fought against such dictatorships. The world did not need Trudeau's brave and honest words to see what Trump is - a weak, dishonest, and corrupt moron.

11 ( +11 / -0 )

What? America can't afford the $533 million, about half a billion dollars it pays for NATO out of a $800 billion military budget?

Source of those figures please. They seem highly mystical.

-8 ( +0 / -8 )

It seems that perhaps Trumps plan of imposing tariffs and then expecting the world to roll over and accept it with out question isn't exactly working out as he hoped! The only people this will ultimately affect is the American people,  as they slowly come to realise that, as the world begins its retaliation their market for exports will go down. What Trump forgets is that America is no longer the workshop of the world and Europe and developing nations will be more than happy to shop elsewhere for their products and there is one place that it eager to do business, China! No one wins in a Trade War and it seems that Trump and the US are already on the back foot!

8 ( +9 / -1 )

loving the posts rainyday! It's like a gym teacher writing out long elaborate punishment sentences against the tin ear talking points

6 ( +6 / -0 )

Kim Jong-Un may end up being Trump's only friend.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

joyriding

Business can't work in China, they can work in Canada and the other developed nations of the world. Where human rights, the rule of law, and contracts mean something. Also English and French in our case.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

Why is everything with liberals emotionally based? Nothing about emotions, by Trudeau trying to challenge Trump (after he left though), people see that. Kim might get the wrong idea that he can challenge Trump too. So it was the wrong thing to do at that moment, just accept it.

Trump showed up, said nice things publicly, was going to sign the statemebt even though it doesn’t really say what he wanted. Take the win!

-9 ( +1 / -10 )

Why is everything with liberals emotionally based?

Did you not notice Dear Leader had a hissy fit after reading Trudeau's comments?

It's not the left that is being emotional here.

10 ( +11 / -1 )

No it was not a “hissy fit”. He used adult language to express his displeasure that a weak leader waited until he left to have a press conference. To complain that he couldn’t negotiate to get what he wanted and try to be a tough guy. If he said the same things in private as he claims why did Trudeau feel the need to play press conference tough guy? Those things can be discussed privately in the meeting.

-9 ( +2 / -11 )

Why is everything with liberals emotionally based? Nothing about emotions, by Trudeau trying to challenge Trump (after he left though), people see that. Kim might get the wrong idea that he can challenge Trump too. So it was the wrong thing to do at that moment, just accept it.

Oh dear, its not liberals, its Trump. If it weren't for the complex emotions he is experiencing at this delicate stage of life, Trump wouldn't be getting upset and lashing out on Twitter all the time like he did again today, now would he? Its his coping mechanism. He can't stand up to strong men like Trudeau in person, so he gets back at them the only way his little heart knows how - Tweeting to soothe his battered soul. Its actually quite cute, my 3 year old often does the same by drawing on the wall with his crayons whenever Trudeau says something to hurt him too (he is too young to have a Twitter account like Trump).

Now you'll be glad to know that Trump seems a little happier now that his plane has landed in Singapore. To be sure it is probably just a brave façade - we all know he is still hurting inside after Trudeau's sucker punch to the Feelie-wheelies. As a Canadian this makes me feel much better though, knowing that the emotional impact hasn't left him completely catatonic and unable to control the parts of his motor skills that are still functioning. This isn't to excuse Trudeau of course, but it does at least seem that the damage has been mitigated. So Trump gets an A for effort on that one, and good on him!

8 ( +9 / -1 )

No it was not a “hissy fit”.

Well you say that, but the world disagrees with you.

Of course, you can Trump it up, and try to pretend it's something it's not, but once again, you people are silly if you think we're going to believe the delusions you have fallen for.

He used adult language to express his displeasure

It's very clear that the Canadians are the ones using adult language.

Trump was worried about looking weak before meeting with Kim, but instead he made himself look weak before meeting with Kim. The guy alienated his allies, and within hours of agreeing to something, canceled it. How could Kim ever make an agreement that may not even last until Trump gets back to America?

With each step, Trump shows himself to be weaker and weaker, and isolates the US more and more. For all of his supporters screaming that the world must do what Trump says 'or else', the rest of the world is starting to say 'or else what?'

11 ( +11 / -0 )

or else you are going to be paying for your own Paris Accord. Paying for your own NATO. having a G6 instead of a G7, trying to control Iran and North Korea by yourselves, fighting your own wars. trading amongst yourselves with no USA products.

Lots of "or else whats" to consider.

Oh so now "the wold" disagrees. I highly doubt that. Japan doesnt. Italy doesnt. All the countries that get US aid dont.

-11 ( +0 / -11 )

It's fascinating to see Trump's tantrums being projected onto Trudeau.

You have to admire the desperate spin from the cronies, if nothing else.

Kudlow even managed to get Trudeau's name wrong

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-06-10/kudlow-blames-trudeau-for-betrayal-before-north-korea-talks

Kudlow, 70, at one point referred to Canada’s leader as “Pierre Trudeau,” confusing the 46-year-old prime minister with his late father, who served in the same capacity for more than 15 years between 1968 and 1984 and died in 2000.

9 ( +9 / -0 )

He used adult language to express his displeasure that a weak leader waited until he left to have a press conference.

His Nibs left early meanwhile Trudeau was still hosting the G7, and thus waiting until the meeting was over before releasing prepared remarks at a planned press conference all based on what His Nibs agreed to already signed already from language that had already been used literally weeks old.

Alas His Nibs forgot what he signed what he read and what he knows. Probably hit the washroom early to collect his rage

BTW on a side note Trudeau was in a boxing match with a senator when he was first in office, and did well so you'd best not think he's physically weak or simple. Trudeau didn't have to say a word and now has the ear of every G6 leader. They see Trump's number they'll probably just let it ring

9 ( +9 / -0 )

"The U.S. pays close to the entire cost of NATO"

There you go Don, @zichi just saved you billions.

When Trump saw the figure of the USA paying 22% of the NATO budget, did he think to himself, "That's almost 100%!".

@blacklabel "I care about cold hard facts."

It's just been proven to you that Trump lied about those facts. So get mad at the man who is deceiving you, not the one who pointed out his lies.

11 ( +11 / -0 )

Re the fact that 'euros contribute less to NATO' let's not forget that the us were the ones who started & later intensified the nuclear & conventional arms race post ww2.

No one would be spending billions if us military budget wasn't in the hundreds of billions of $ each year (1/3 of world total).

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Yes, because as WWII showed, we cant trust Europe to protect themselves. So we have to make them spend money on their own defense, set up a protection group for them and even put our bases and in their countries and spend even more of our money to make sure no one does anything to those countries.

-13 ( +0 / -13 )

No it was not a “hissy fit”. He used adult language to express his displeasure.

Amen to that. Trump has gotten way better at using his words to show feelings since his presidency entered its second year. The training wheels are truly off.

 that a weak leader waited until he left to have a press conference To complain that he couldn’t negotiate to get what he wanted and try to be a tough guy.

Absolutely! Clearly world leaders should not be allowed to have press conferences in which they disagree with other world leaders unless those other world leaders are physically in the same room with them. That is the way it has always been and the way it always should be. If Trudeau had a problem he should have waited until Trump's schedule permitted him to be there in the room with him to say it. Not before. Rules are rules. Trump clearly leads by example in this regard, having never said an unkind word about anyone else without that person being in the same room with him.

If he said the same things in private as he claims why did Trudeau feel the need to play press conference tough guy? Those things can be discussed privately in the meeting.

Its our Canadian psyche, we always need to play the tough guy, hence our fierce international reputation. Don't mess with us or we'll use language that is sure to trigger an emotional response in the recipient, like Trudeau's use of the word "insulting" - devastating to a pampered real estate tycoon like Trump.

Gee, I sure hope Kim hasn't been paying any attention to what has gone down, he might get the idea that Trump is easily manipulated by his emotional impulses or something.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

Trump is also on record for mentioning he lied to Trudeau's face, and laughed about it. He's even delved lower since then and now authorizing insulting antics from the White House. ABC News comments were full of Americans sincerely apologizing to Canadians.

I wouldn't be surprised if we just stop taking his calls

9 ( +9 / -0 )

Kim Jong-Un may end up being Trump's only friend.

You forgot his BFF Putin.

7 ( +7 / -0 )

Some other of Trump's fun figures need looking at;

USA trade deficit of $800 billion. Let's try $566 billion. Hardly surprising this man keeps going bankrupt.

EU trade surplus of $151 billion. Reality is $31 billion, brilliant work Don.

"The U.S. pays close to the entire cost of NATO" As discussed at length above, ludicrously false

"Germany pays 1 percent (slowly) of GDP towards NATO, while we pay 4 percent" - Donny Donny, let's not encourage the Germans to spend money on tanks & soldiers. When they start doing that, everyone had better duck.

All in all, another cracking pack of lies & falsehoods for his followers to pretend are true.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

If so, then why are these countries paying some of the costs of US bases in their countries? Seems they wouldnt do that if they dont benefit more than the USA does? They obviously save more money on their own defense spending than it costs to have US troops to protect them.

The first and upper most reason for America having an overseas base, is for the protection of its own interests and resources in that area.?

-11 ( +0 / -11 )

Canada charges a 270% tariff on US dairy? Europe charges a 25% tariff on car imports and we only charge 2.5%? This went on WAY too long.

Trump is acting in the best interest of the people who elected him.

-11 ( +0 / -11 )

No! but a NATO without America, if it means we have to listen to Trump's hissy fits for the next seven yeas.

Why no? Don't you trust the Europeans to take care of themselves?

You forget that Britain is also nuclear power. Between France and Britain about 400 nuclear warheads mostly on subs so enough to keep Russia at bay.

So you don't need the U.S then. Cheers.

Really without the Soviets the Nazi wouldn't have been defeated.

And America has been providing a deterrent for nearly 80 YEARS! If its not enough now at the cost of billions upon billions upon billioins, when will it be enough, another 100 years?

The 2% is a guideline to be achieved by 2025.

And from what Ive read, still be lucky if half the countries in NATO get to 2% by then. And German politicians range from skeptical to downright hostile at the prospect of paying 2%. So again, why should the U.S support Germany?

It is already that since the beginning of the Cold War.

Sure. I mean the Europeans build up their military to the point that the U.S is free to focus on its other coast where the risk is far greater

If an agreement is achieved with North Korea, America can close its South Korean and Japanese bases too making further savings on its budget.

Why should they close those down? The whole idea is to move the U.S deterrent from the Atlantic to the Pacific, where its needed. N.Korea isn't the main threat to the U.S. The United States has stated in its recent strategic review that it considers China and Russia is the two primary adversaries for now.

Should also add that while Japan lags on % of GDP spending on defense by a pretty significant degree, S.Korea exceeds 2% by some margin. 0.9% v 2.6%

Don't forget also, NATO and European countries buy American weapons too. Not buying will hurt America.

If you are European you should be encouraging the Europeans to take over the overwhelming bulk of their defense so more Europeans will be employed and your capabilities increase, in hardware, IP, skill etc

Not about money, it's about Trump cult of personality and his brand of twitter firestorms, it's about his politics and showing his base how much he's winning even if America in the long run is losing.

But it is about money. Trump says its absolutely about money. His entire argument is based on money. He wants to free up U.S military expenditure to focus on areas outside of NATO, that doesn't mean leaving it.

No it has not. 

They argued against an E.U competitor to NATO. This is well known.

In your own country there are people who don't want the queen as head of state. Maybe that day will come. Britain is leaving the EU but will remain in NATO which it was also a member of even before going the EU and will remain a major player in European defense. The UK is about the world's fifth largest spender on defense.

Sure can agree on all that. Btw I think Australia becoming a Republic is a mistake and security is one big reason. And the political nature of a future Australian President another big one. Those 2 reasons are why it has been rejected in the past. Along with just outright monarchist and U.K expats not wanting it.

Complications creating CANZUK could be another major reason to reject a republic.

-7 ( +0 / -7 )

So as a supposed adult, what would you call it? Canada was "ruled by" UK and France? semantics.

No, they weren't 'owned'. How old are you?

-12 ( +0 / -12 )

Ok, best of luck to you all then. People hate the USA out of jealousy, philisophical differences, religion, attitude freedom, lots of reasons, the list is endless. But also because we engage all the bad actors such as Iran, Russia. China, Syria, N Korea, and others on behalf of the world. Once we dont anymore, they might become more interest in the EU and Asia as a target.

North Korea is not a threat to Europe. No American military in Europe will improve the tensions with Russia. Not buying American weapons will hurt American workers. We work on the deal with Iran. We can move forward with the Paris Accord. There has been a European war since WW11 mainly because of the EU/NATO.

-12 ( +0 / -12 )

Yes, because as WWII showed, we cant trust Europe to protect themselves.

America was being urged by isolationists and anti-Semites such as Lindbergh to stay out of it. The original America First. That's why you came in so late. Took Japan to wake up the sleepy heads.

People hate the USA out of jealousy, philisophical differences, religion, attitude freedom, lots of reasons, the list is endless.

Nobody hates the USA. And nobody is jealous of it. Rather, the hypocrisy and interfering with other countries has tired people out. America gets attacked by the number one state sponsor of terror and we all grieve with you. Now Trump arms them and we wonder just what all the rhetoric about freedoms, wars on terror etc is all about.

As I've said, you've achieved the isolationist goals set out decades ago. You've alienated allies and it's the East who now hold the future in their hands. For better of for worse.

The flame of honest democracy was stolen from America and Trump has put it out for good.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

If so, then why are these countries paying some of the costs of US bases in their countries?

This basically shows what we're working with. Blacklabel has manufactured rage about the costs of bases in other countries, but has no idea whatsoever why the bases even exist, and which of his own national interests they are in.

Seems pretty... Trumpy.

10 ( +10 / -0 )

@Serrano

You've gotten so used to Trump making you into the victim of some hideous world trade plot that you can't see how many sectors of the US economy are almost closed to competition.

US farm subsidies amount to $20 billion per year. This 'handout' is a form of 'socialism', in case you were wondering. Also....

Only 4 out of 28 EU Member States can export beef to the U.S. (France, Ireland, the Netherlands and Lithuania).

None of the 28 EU member states can export poultry meat to the U.S.

Only one (the Netherlands) out of 28 EU Member States can export egg and eggs products to the U.S.

None of the EU countries can export grade A dairy products to the U.S.

Plants, fruits and vegetables; An overly lengthy and burdensome approval procedure is required for EVERY SINGLE plant, fruit and vegetable to be exported to the U.S. from every EU Member State. The Japanese used to try a similar technique with lettuce imports. They'd simply let them rot by the docks for a week, then refuse entry because they were rotten.

In all of the above cases, all 50 US states may export to the EU without limitation

6 ( +6 / -0 )

The first and upper most reason for America having an overseas base, is for the protection of its own interests and resources in that area.

Yes, so what’s the problem?

-9 ( +1 / -10 )

America was being urged by isolationists and anti-Semites such as Lindbergh to stay out of it.

Limbaugh is not a Semite. Now where did you ding that lie from?

The original America First. That's why you came in so late. Took Japan to wake up the sleepy heads.

What?

Nobody hates the USA. And nobody is jealous of it.

Oh, many people do and many people are.

Rather, the hypocrisy and interfering with other countries has tired people out.

Yes, 70 years ago, we didn’t want to get involved with the war, if it weren’t for us, the world would be very, very different.

America gets attacked by the number one state sponsor of terror and we all grieve with you. Now Trump arms them and we wonder just what all the rhetoric about freedoms, wars on terror etc is all about. 

Europe gets attacked even more than us, but we have firearms, Europe doesn’t, greatly changes the narrative.

As I've said, you've achieved the isolationist goals set out decades ago. You've alienated allies and it's the East who now hold the future in their hands. For better of for worse.

I think waaaaaaay better.

The flame of honest democracy was stolen from America and Trump has put it out for good.

Thank heavens!

-10 ( +0 / -10 )

Nope, the costs related to NATO, not the US bases that someone said only exist for the benefit of the USA.

I know why they exist and it is not primarily for the benefit of the USA as was said above. It is for our allies to get cheaper defense than if they had to pay for it themselves. Why else would a sovereign country allow us to have bases there if it wasnt beneficial to them more than us?

Japan has bases, are they in NATO? nope. Do they exist primarily for US benefit or Japan benefit?

This basically shows what we're working with. Blacklabel has manufactured rage about the costs of bases in other countries, but has no idea whatsoever why the bases even exist, and which of his own national interests they are in.

Seems pretty... Trumpy.

-10 ( +0 / -10 )

It costs 13 billion dollars for an aircraft carrier plus hundreds of millions of dollars a month for its support, and maintenance. Then all the aircraft and the people costs and the supporting ships and all their maintenance. Then fuel and consumables and on and on.

Japan has access to as many as 3 of the US carriers, including 1 permanently here. You dont think it is cheaper for Japan to just pay the USA 42 biillion dollars (2015 stat)?

https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/japan-approves-record-us-42-billion-military-budget-to-counter-chinas-rise-726865

"The situation around Japan is changing," Defense Minister Gen Nakatani said on Sunday. "The level of defence spending reflects the amount necessary to protect Japan's air, sea and land, and guard the lives and property of our citizens."

-11 ( +0 / -11 )

Limbaugh is not a Semite. Now where did you ding that lie from?

I recommend you read the line you quoted again, Mr bass.

What?

America First influenced US policy regarding ww2. It took the attack on Pearl Harbour for the US to wake up to the dangers of imperialism.

Oh, many people do and many people are.

So you say but I know one person in all my years who openly admits to hating the US. One person.

Yes, 70 years ago, we didn’t want to get involved with the war, if it weren’t for us, the world would be very, very different.

Yup. Nuclear free, possibly. Well done.

Europe gets attacked even more than us, but we have firearms, Europe doesn’t, greatly changes the narrative.

Saudi Arabian terrorists attacked you. Why did you start up wars in Afghanistan and Iraq? Why not Saudi Arabia?

Anything to do with the vast amounts of money invested by the Saudis in your country?

6 ( +6 / -0 )

Trump is as big a dictator as Kim, but with more power, so it's no surprise he wants desperately to impress the NK leader, and wants to cozy up to Russia.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

America First influenced US policy regarding ww2. It took the attack on Pearl Harbour for the US to wake up to the dangers of imperialism.

And made us a superpower.

So you say but I know one person in all my years who openly admits to hating the US. One person.

And there are about 47 million that love it and willing to break every law in the book to get in and stay.

Yup. Nuclear free, possibly. Well done.

Probably not considering what happened in Pearl Harbor, but more like German, Japanese and Italien would have been the dominant languages.

Saudi Arabian terrorists attacked you. Why did you start up wars in Afghanistan and Iraq? Why not Saudi Arabia?

Anything to do with the vast amounts of money invested by the Saudis in your country?

Oil drives the world market and then there’s gas, ask the Russians.

-10 ( +0 / -10 )

You can’t really focus on just one area and isolate it. The relationship between two countries is based on a host of things.

The US has bases all over the world because it’s in our best interests to have them. Our bases in Japan lets us strike China. Our bases in Europe do the same with Russia and North Africa. How do you put a monetary figure on that benefit?

The US soldiers spend money in the areas where they live, which is a benefit to those areas, but then those areas tend to put up with noisy neighbors who impact their quiet enjoyment of their property. Can we get a net dollar figure on that?

Should we include American hardware these countries buy as a benefit to us?

How about the political costs of these host countries when something goes wrong, like when a Japanese girl gets raped or a South Korean girl is killed in an accident. What’s the cost of the host politicians dealing with mass protests to remove US bases?

Whats the financial and logistical benefit to the US to create agreements where our troops are not arrested by local law enforcement?

Finally, one deal doesn’t get made without another. We have no idea if country A got a benefit in one area so it agreed to a separate benefit with country B in another area. As black said it’s in our interests to be nice to China right now so Trump gave them a pass on ZTE to help with North Korea. How does that factor into the accounting?

The point is that it’s complicated. Beware of someone looking at facts in a vacuum and telling you he has it all figured out. Those people tend to not read or research, and they spread their ignorance around like rotting wood.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

You can’t really focus on just one area and isolate it. The relationship between two countries is based on a host of things.

The US has bases all over the world because it’s in our best interests to have them.

Bingo. It's like a guy who gets his credit card, looks at it and realizes he's spending 50,000 yen/month on food, freaks out, and says "that's it. There will be no more purchasing of this here food anymore. What a rip off. A complete and utter scam."

5 ( +5 / -0 )

I want Trump gone as badly as the next guy. But his opponents just keep giving him all the political boost he needs to keep on ‘winning’.

We all know the various positions on NATO and tariffs and the hard deep divisions around them. But didnt they all just try to meet on some sort of common ground? Did Trudeau need to attack Trump at this moment, when the ink was not even dry? Why? Is that diplomacy? As Trump leaves on an important mission where is good faith of allies? I get it Trump is a jerk and I want him gone. But by issuing his strong statement Trudeau basically challenged Trump. When you challenge Trump you get slapped. We all know this. What did Trudeau think he would gain? Fight around the table. Not in the media. That is where you lose to Trump. Now Trump looks like the tough guy who doesn’t back down. The opposition can complain all they like. Trump wins this round again.

Please let’s stop making this easy on him.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

What did Trudeau think he would gain?

Well, with the exception of probably Abe, he got the support of the other 4 G7 members, and the Canadians seem to be supporting him regardless of party. This will likely strengthen his ability to create agreements bypassing the US altogether.

Now Trump looks like the tough guy who doesn’t back down.

He also gets exposed as the guy with whom an agreement only lasts as long as his next tweet. It would be much better if his word could be relied upon in the first place, but since it can't, the next most important thing is to show that it can't, so that we all know what we're dealing with.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Trump is as big a dictator as Kim, but with more power,

Dictator? Did he sentence someone to a gulag? A firing squad?

so it's no surprise he wants desperately to impress the NK leader, and wants to cozy up to Russia.

He should have decent relations with Russia, makes sense to me, better to have the second largest superpower on a decent working relationship level than to restart the Cold War again.

-8 ( +0 / -8 )

I get it Trump is a jerk and I want him gone. But by issuing his strong statement Trudeau basically challenged Trump. When you challenge Trump you get slapped. We all know this. What did Trudeau think he would gain?

I 100% agree

-7 ( +0 / -7 )

The tensions and contradictions brought about by trying to be isolationist and the centre of attention at the same time.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Strangerland

So you seem to agree with Trump, Trudeau used his statement to undermine Trump. That may work to boost his popularity, as Trump’s aggressiveness boosts his with his supporters. But is it the best way to make true progress on the issue? I doubt it. And more importantly Trump’s supporters will just dig deeper. And Trump will gain more support with the American working class. In the end I believe cooler heads will prevail over trade. But the way this spins in the media just reinforces the perception Trump is misrepresented in the media. Trudeau is given a pass in this drama. Trump supporters see this and that deepens the divide and mistrust. Trump winds up looking like he cares more about the American worker while the press cares more about NATO and the G7.

As far as Kim. Who knows? Maybe Kim will relate to Trump’s style. That whole spectacle is like a Saturday Night sketch. Let’s hope the comedy improve doesn’t go off the rails.

-4 ( +0 / -4 )

Trump is as big a dictator as Kim, but with more power,

Dictator? Did he sentence someone to a gulag? A firing squad?

You constantly called the previous president a dictator and he didn’t send someone to a gulag or a firing squad.

When did your definition change?

3 ( +3 / -0 )

You constantly called the previous president a dictator and he didn’t send someone to a gulag or a firing squad.

Socialist policies are equivalent to a dictatorship.

When did your definition change?

It didn’t.

-7 ( +0 / -7 )

Socialist policies are equivalent to a dictatorship.

Even when a majority of the electorate voted for a leader putting forward these ideas in a democratic election and winning the popular vote as well as the Electoral college?

That makes the leader winning that election a dictator?

4 ( +4 / -0 )

Socialist policies are equivalent to a dictatorship.

Lol! No they aren't.

7 ( +8 / -1 )

So you seem to agree with Trump, Trudeau used his statement to undermine Trump.

The first half is wrong, and the second half is only insofar as any leader standing up for their country against a bully is 'undermining' that bully.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

Kim might get the wrong idea that he can challenge Trump too. So it was the wrong thing to do at that moment, just accept it. No why should countries kowtow to Trumps threats! hes insulted many of Trumps closest allies by labeling them national security threats, if he actually tried to use his so called master negotiating skills instead of recalcitrant threats we wouldnt be in the position were in today. I sincerely do hope there is a peace treaty between America NK, SK, China even if it has to be signed by a vile POTUS, but when Trump continues to break deals and promises that AMerica has signed up to in the past why would anybody put trust in America . America word under Trump has more flip sides than a Hamburger kitchen. When it comes to Trump putting his signature on a piece of paper Id put more value in a roll of toilet paper to wipe my behind.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

 And more importantly Trump’s supporters will just dig deeper. well see 2yrs of tariffs on red states, job loses, mortgage defaults, home repos, does a wonderful job turning people against those that start trade wars

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Do we have a trade deficit with Russia? I'm assuming we don't or else Trump would be going after them along with our allies.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

Because the previous guy signed garbage deals that were not in the best interest of America. Talk to me when Trump breaks a deal that he has signed.

when Trump continues to break deals and promises that AMerica has signed up to in the past why would anybody put trust in America

-7 ( +0 / -7 )

Yes, we have a small trade imbalance with Russia too. But did you forget, Trump would never go against Russia, cause of muh collusion and all that. Did you forget already that Russia hacked the election and is the only reason Trump won?

Despite being on the opposite side of Syria and Iran, and kicking out their diplomats and putting sanctions on Russia and Russians. Yeah right.

-7 ( +0 / -7 )

Wasnt talking about NATO. Its a good deal.....when people pay their fair share. You know what garbage deals I am talking about that Obama signed. The ones that liberals fight to the death to try to make people think are good.

-6 ( +0 / -6 )

'fair' is in the eye of ones who benefit most.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Despite being on the opposite side of Syria and Iran, and kicking out their diplomats and putting sanctions on Russia and Russians. Yeah right.

I wonder how Trump got his orders from Putin at the G7? You know, the ones about reinstating Russia? Fax? Carrier pigeon? My guess is on an unsecured phone, under his bedsheets, late at night.

Because the previous guy signed garbage deals that were not in the best interest of America.

Stopping Iran getting nukes? Yep, bad deal, they should have 'em. Setting a framework for international co-operation on climate change? Awful idea, who needs oxygen? Health care for an obese nation hooked on opioids and junk food? No profit in that.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Of all the Politicians, you have to admire Trump for one thing, he at least is doing what he said he would do upon the Campaign trail. There's no back-peddling, it's just raw what you voted for, here it is, like it or not.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Blind bitter hatred of Trump, overshadows rationality.

-7 ( +2 / -9 )

Anger is all he has. He doesn't have anything else. World leaders now know not to engage with him. The "great negotiator" lie is now fully exposed. He is completely out of his depth, and floundering wildly.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

Well done Trudeau. It is time other so-called leaders got a backbone and stood up to US bullying. The US only has the power the other nations have given it and it is now time to take that power away from such an arrogant warmongering nation.

3 ( +4 / -1 )

Many that are not involved in trade cannot comprehend what Trump is talking about when it comes to trade. Surpluses, free trade and fair trade, goes right over their heads, therefore, making ridiculous wild statements, having no idea as to what is truly happening in the market place.

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

Even when a majority of the electorate voted for a leader putting forward these ideas in a democratic election and winning the popular vote as well as the Electoral college? 

That makes the leader winning that election a dictator?

No, but when the gulags open and we have open executions and the full seizure of property or if progressive socialist policies take root, then you can refer to it as a dictatorship.

Does that include the $800 Wall St bailout by G W Bush or the $60 billion subsidies to farming?

I never said GW was a true through and through conservative.

-6 ( +0 / -6 )

Lol! No they aren't.

Yes, they are. Drive through Compton and drive through Newport Beach and tell me if the Dems socialist policies are working well in LA or the Republicans conservative policies in OC.

-6 ( +0 / -6 )

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on why Trump had focused his tweets on Canada and the EU over trade disputes and on NATO partners over defence costs and not on his talks with Kim set for Tuesday.

I think the President Trump is not focusing on all EU member states and it was aimed at France and Germany. Also the American peoples don't see the French Government and German Government as true friends and reliable allies of United State. The trust has been broken between two EU states and United State for more than a decade now.

United State had introduced Marshall Plan for Western Europe to rebuild economy after WWII. The goals of the United States were to rebuild war-torn regions, remove trade barriers, modernize industry and improve European prosperity. Now some of EU member states are wealthiest countries on the earth. but these wealthy countries couldn't stop their greedy and trade concession or trade advantage over the United State. That's a problem between the United State and two wealthiest EU states France and Germany.

Also the generations of previous the US Governments are to blame for its part in the imbalance trade between those countries and the United State. The President Trump Government thinks, now it’s time to stop economy concession with the EU (France and Germany) but the French Government and German Government do not recognize it as an economy concession because they think the trade between the US and EU (German and French) has been doing this way for long times and it was normal trade practice between them and the US. They don’t want to change the way they are doing now because they have trade advantage over the US.

I believed the United State’s trade partners must open and welcome to the United State’s Companies and goods to the EU, and reduce the trade deficit between them. Trade war between the United State and the EU (German and French) will hurt both sides, especially Germany and France because their trade advantage surplus with the US will be dramatically reduced and increase jobless in Germany and France both countries taken refugees and heavily employing immigrant workers. The jobless will create social unrest in Germany and France. They need to find common ground and accept common sense to sort out the problem.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said he will protect his country workers and retaliate against the US.

Does he ever think about his opponent’s side when he talking about protection and retaliation against his opponent?

He always tries to take credit in view of his countrymen and women when talking to reporters. He wants to be seen as a good guy image in other people’s eyes if you look at his refugee policy. Now he changed on refugees coming to his country from the US and other Latin America countries when he understands that refugee policy will be a disaster for Canada and his Government. Trudeau and Macron are same kind of species.

The Democrat and the Press accusing of the president Trump for damaging and deterioration of relations between the US and it's European alliance was absurd and ridiculous and simply jealous. The Western Europe needs to defend themselves and must spend more money on their defence costs. It's unreasonable for relying on the United State for their defence costs. If the EU fear of the Russian expanding in Europe and then it's their duty to protect themselves from Russian and not at the expense of the US tax payers' money. The US has some business in the Asia, especially East Asia. The EU is wealthier than Asia and the EU can spend more money on their defence costs.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

blacklabel: Yes, we have a small trade imbalance with Russia too

I'm showing a similar imbalance between Canada and Russia, except, of course, Canada buys far more and creates far more jobs in the US than Russia, and that doesn't include services, which puts Canada at a surplus for the US.

Trump attacked Canada at the G7 meeting and asked to allow Russia back, which is a night and day difference in how he's treating these "criminals who are robbing us." It supports my theory that Trump lets stronger countries walk all over us while going after smaller fish.

I'd be happy to hear your theory, if you think it's something else.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

The glee club of opposition upset with the President.......

Seems Korea,Japan,Brazil, Australia, and I could go on and on don't seem to be to upset. Yes, the worlds balance of power is changing. Canada?? C'mon

1 ( +3 / -2 )

Super :  It supports my theory that Trump lets stronger countries walk all over us while going after smaller fish.

You're correct. Like all bullies he's weak. And potentially compromised by the Kremlin.

He's doing nothing but winging it. With some utter cranks advising him.

-2 ( +3 / -5 )

Digging in to the chronology of this story I have changed my view. It seems Trump launched the first volley on this post summit fray. As usual I’m disappointed and embarrassed by the guy.

How all this effects the summit with Kim is not so clear. The Kim’s always use a similar style of negotiating themselves. I expect it to be a surreal display in any case.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Because the previous guy signed garbage deals that were not in the best interest of America. Talk to me when Trump breaks a deal that he has signed.

From an outside perspective, the agreement is with America. When America breaks agreements they have made, it destroys the credibility of America. We now know that an agreement made by one president may not be upheld by the next. In other words, the word of America is not to be trusted.

You people can go on about 'Obama's deals' or 'Trump's deals', but from the outside, they are all 'America's deals', and your inner issues is for you guys to work out, not for us.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Socialist policies are equivalent to a dictatorship.

Only to those who have a poor comprehension of politics. Like not being able to tell Lindbergh from Limbaugh, for example.

Looks like Theresa May in the meantime is supporting Trudeau.

Like a proper ally.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-44446008

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Western Europe was built with enormous US assistance. Leave them to their own devices and theyd destroy themselves again.

And as for that primping, PC Trudeau - way to go telling him where to get off.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Trudeau is not a PC he's a Liberal

0 ( +0 / -0 )

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