Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew delivered strong remarks against U.S. President Donald Trump, describing him as “a bad person” and “not to be trusted.” Kinew urged Canada to resist rushing into concessions in the ongoing trade negotiations with the U.S.

Despite pressures, Kinew believes Canada has significant leverage. His province is considering the reinstatement of U.S. alcohol sales at the request of Prime Minister Mark Carney. This move aims to secure an agreement to prevent 50% U.S. tariffs.

“Everybody knows the American president by now, he’s erratic, he’s irresponsible, and he’s not to be trusted. And this is the person that we were supposed to make a deal with? … you can’t make a good deal with a bad person, because who’s to say it’s not going to be undone?”

Kinew emphasized the importance of buying Canadian, even if U.S. products reappear in provincial liquor stores. Other provincial leaders, including those from Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia, have supported Carney’s negotiation strategy.

Federal Minister Dominic LeBlanc highlighted promising progress towards a trade agreement with the U.S. after discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Trump has described the developing deal as “very fair,” and tariffs on Canadian imports are currently postponed.

The issue of restoring U.S. alcohol sales is central. These bans followed Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods, and eight provinces have imposed restrictions. While provincial governments cannot veto the Canada-U.S. agreement, they manage elements like liquor sales.

Kinew acknowledged Carney’s push for easing restrictions, viewing it as crucial for agreement completion. Carney’s discussions with Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette led to clarification but not endorsement of the emerging deal.

Robert Bothwell, a University of Toronto professor emeritus, noted Kinew’s criticism mirrors a wider Canadian sentiment towards Trump.