Trump yet to call & congratulate new Canadian Prime Minister two weeks after resumption of office

Prime Minister Mark Carney says he still hasn’t spoken to U.S. President Donald Trump since taking office last week, implying the president is waiting for the results of the federal election.

Carney, who was sworn in as prime minister 10 days ago, told reporters Monday he’s willing to speak to Trump, if the president shows respect for Canada.

“I’m available for a call, but we’re going to talk on our terms. As a sovereign country — not as what he pretends we are — and on a comprehensive deal,” said Carney during a campaign stop in Gander, N.L., where he leaned heavily on Canadian patriotism.

In the latest sign of the deteriorating relationship between the once close allies, Carney’s team said Trump hasn’t called Carney to congratulate him on becoming prime minister, and hasn’t posted anything online either.

Liberal Leader Mark Carney, speaking as he campaigned in Newfoundland on Monday, said his government is ready with additional potential retaliatory tariffs, as well as measures to support impacted workers and companies. Carney said the U.S. administration thinks it can weaken — or even own — Canada, a notion he rejected, saying ‘we are going to get stronger.’ 3:44

Canada’s embassy in Washington has been in contact with U.S. officials about a potential call between the two leaders, but there isn’t one on the books, said the Carney camp.

On Day 2 of the federal election campaign, the Liberal leader suggested to reporters he thinks the president is waiting to see who will get a mandate from Canadians.

“Is it someone who is, to quote [Alberta Premier] Danielle Smith, in sync with him? Or is it someone who is going to stand up for Canadians?” Carney asked. “I’m going to stand up for Canadians.”

The Liberal leader was referring to comments Smith made during an interview with a right-wing U.S. media company earlier this month that’s now gaining traction.