After Carney Says Old Canada-U.S. Relationship is "Over", Trump Calls Him "Prime Minister"

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney isn't playing around as the kids like to say these days.

On Thursday, Carney declared that the old relationship between Canada and the United States is "over":

The old relationship we had with the United States based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military cooperation is over.

It’s clear the US is no longer a reliable partner. It is possible that with comprehensive negotiations, we could reestablish an element of confidence but there will be no going backwards.

Carney's statement got President Trump's attention because Trump requested a phone call with Carney which took place the following morning. Take a close look at Trump's comments concerning his conversation with Carney.

Trump refers to Carney by his proper title. At no point, does Trump attempt to call Carney "Governor" let alone refer to Canada as the 51st state.

Trump isn't dealing with Justin Trudeau anymore. Carney will shed no tears.

Now, I'm under no illusions that Canada-U.S. relations have been fixed in a single phone call. When Trump is due to implement a new set of tariffs on April 2nd, he might very well resume using the 51st state rhetoric or try to belittle Carney. 

But I have no doubt Carney is well aware that Trump will likely be less respectful towards Canada in a few short days. The important thing is that Canada is not without options and tools at its disposal. It is up to Canadians to choose a leader who knows how to exercise those options and tools.

For the moment, Carney is setting the terms with Trump because he knows money works in a way even Trump doesn't and probably never will.