Carney rejects using energy as leverage in U.S. trade talks

Prime Minister Mark Carney said he does not see value in using Canadian energy exports as bargaining leverage in trade talks with the United States, even as President Donald Trump threatens new tariffs on Canadian goods. Speaking in Red Deer, Alberta, Carney said his priority is reaching an agreement before the proposed Aug. 19 tariff deadline. He said Canada has other options if talks fail, but declined to say what actions the government might take. Carney’s comments mark a softer tone than his earlier statement that “everything’s on the table” if tariffs are imposed. He also stressed the importance of Canada being viewed as a reliable supplier of key resources, including oil. The remarks come as federal and provincial leaders weigh how to respond to the tariff threat. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has pushed for using energy exports as leverage, while Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has said withholding energy would not happen. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc was in Washington this week for talks with U.S. officials, and Carney said he and Trump agreed to intensify negotiations.