Kathmandu— Ontario Premier Doug Ford unveiled a billboard-sized sign reading “Lake Ontario” near Hamilton, Ontario, in response to US President Donald Trump’s recent executive order attempting to rename the body of water “Lake America.” The move comes as tensions escalate between Canada and the United States over ongoing trade disputes, with tariffs imposed on billions of dollars worth of goods. Ford has become a vocal critic of Trump's policies, escalating retaliatory actions from Ontario and engaging in increasingly pointed public exchanges with the US president.

Escalating Trade Tensions

The dispute over Lake Ontario’s name is the latest development in a spiralling trade war between Canada and the United States. Trump signed an executive order on Thursday directing US federal agencies to refer to the lake as “Lake America,” drawing criticism from both allies and opponents. Vermont Governor Phil Scott, a Republican, described the move as “petty and disappointing,” while others urged Trump to return to negotiations with Canada, a key trading partner.

Ford’s Direct Response

Ford has consistently challenged Trump's actions since the US president took office for a second term in 2025. He recorded a video of himself standing beside the newly erected sign, stating that Lake Ontario “was called Lake Ontario long before President Trump” and “will still be called Lake Ontario long after President Trump is gone.” Ford has also publicly called for Canada to retaliate against US tariffs, even suggesting the country cede its sovereignty and become a US state.

History of Conflict

The current conflict builds on a pattern of escalating tensions. Earlier this week, trade negotiations between the two countries collapsed, leading to US tariffs of 50 percent on $20 billion worth of Canadian goods. Ford responded with a blunt rebuke of Trump during a radio interview, and Trump fired back by criticizing Ford’s leadership skills on his Truth Social platform. Last year, Ford's government spent $75 million on an advertisement featuring former US President Ronald Reagan advocating against tariffs, which aired in the United States and prompted Trump to cancel trade talks.

From Parallels to Opposition

Ford, a right-wing populist who once drew comparisons with Trump, has distanced himself from the US president. His supporters initially adopted the slogan “Make Ontario Great Again,” echoing Trump’s campaign mantra, but Ford rejected any direct association. He emphasized his family's long history in Canadian politics and asserted that their involvement predated Trump’s rise to power.

The future of trade negotiations between Canada and the United States remains uncertain as both countries maintain firm positions on key issues. Further retaliatory measures are possible, potentially impacting industries heavily reliant on cross-border commerce.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.