US President Donald Trump has blamed Canada for the wildfire smoke drifting into the United States, saying the worsening air quality has imposed a heavy cost on Americans. He also warned that the economic impact of the pollution could be factored into tariffs already imposed on Canadian goods.

In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump accused Canada of failing to properly manage its forests, claiming the issue has repeatedly affected communities across the US.

Trump targets Canada’s forest management

Trump said the United States was being exposed to hazardous air because of Canada’s handling of its forests.

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“We are holding Canada responsible for the fact that they are not properly maintaining their Forests, and Brush therein, and the United States is being unnecessarily invaded by filthy, polluted, and unhealthy air, the quality of which is dangerous, and totally unacceptable!” he wrote.

He added, “The cost is incalculable,” and said he planned to speak with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the matter. Trump also warned that the cost of the pollution “must of necessity be added to the tariffs Canada is currently paying”.

Smoke blankets parts of the US

Trump’s remarks came as smoke from hundreds of wildfires burning across Canada and northern Minnesota spread into large parts of the US Midwest and Northeast.

Air quality alerts were issued in several states as cities including Detroit, Chicago and Washington experienced unhealthy air conditions. According to air quality monitoring platform IQAir, Detroit ranked among the world’s most polluted cities during the episode.

The smoke also drew attention ahead of Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final, scheduled to be played in an open-air stadium shared by New York and New Jersey. Authorities said they were monitoring air quality, while forecasts indicated smoke levels could change depending on wind conditions.

Hundreds of fires continue

Canadian authorities said more than 200 wildfires remained out of control, with Ontario among the hardest-hit provinces. Several communities have been evacuated as a precaution, although officials said no deaths had been reported in Ontario.

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Canadian authorities said more than 200 wildfires remained out of control, with Ontario among the hardest-hit provinces | X/@HJosey4

Health experts cautioned that wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can affect the lungs and make breathing difficult, particularly for children, older adults and people with existing respiratory conditions. Scientists have also linked increasingly severe wildfire seasons to climate-related factors, including rising temperatures and prolonged dry weather.

FAQs:

Why did Donald Trump threaten higher tariffs on Canada?

He said the economic cost of wildfire smoke affecting the US should be added to existing tariffs on Canadian goods.

Why is wildfire smoke spreading into the US?

Smoke from hundreds of active wildfires in Canada has drifted south due to weather and wind patterns.