United States President Donald Trump has threatened to impose additional tariffs on Canada as a penalty for the wildfire smoke affecting cities across North America. On Friday, July 17th, 2026, Trump expressed complaints about air quality on social media while Canadian officials continue to combat 896 active wildfires nationwide.

In the province of Ontario alone, roughly 200 wildfires are burning, with Premier Doug Ford reporting that 81 remain out of control. Ford also stated that 10 communities had been evacuated due to the fires.

Since beginning his second term in January 2025, Trump has increased pressure on Canada by using tariffs to push for enhanced border security and changes to trade practices he deems unfair. Previously, Trump had targeted California Governor Gavin Newsom during the 2025 wildfires near Los Angeles.

The New York Times reported on the same day that the Trump administration had reduced funding for wildfire research, including labs studying the health effects of wildfire smoke.

Meanwhile, the wildfire smoke has raised concerns about its potential impact on events such as the World Cup final. Additionally, Western Europe experienced its hottest June on record amid ongoing heatwaves.

Sources