Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to President-elect Donald Trump's recent comments about annexing Canada, describing them as a distraction from the significant threat of tariffs on Canadian imports.

During a CNN interview on 'The Lead,' Trudeau mentioned that Trump's remarks about making Canada a 51st state were meant to draw focus away from his serious plan to impose hefty tariffs on Canadian oil, gas, steel, aluminum, and other exports.

Trudeau highlighted that these tariffs would raise the cost of everyday Canadian products for American consumers, suggesting this should be the main topic of discussion, rather than hypothetical talk of annexation.

He dismissed the notion of Canada being annexed, confidently stating, "That’s not going to happen." He emphasized Canadian national pride, which makes joining the U.S. politically unlikely.

"Canadians are incredibly proud of being Canadian," he said.

"One of the ways we define ourselves is by not being American."

Trump had previously mocked Trudeau by nicknaming him "governor" and amplifying the annexation idea after Trudeau announced his upcoming resignation.

Despite Trump's comments, Trudeau remained composed, asserting that his decision to step down was unrelated to Trump's election victory.

He noted that during Trump’s first term, Canada and the U.S. successfully negotiated the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which he described as beneficial for both nations.

While acknowledging the challenges of working with Trump, Trudeau stressed the importance of continued cooperation between the two countries to address remaining trade issues.

He clarified that his decision to resign was based on personal reasons, not political pressure from Trump’s reelection, stating, "We’ve managed to work together effectively before, and I’m looking forward to maintaining that collaboration for the next two months while I’m still in office."