U.S.Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra has defended President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on Canada over smoke from wildfires, citing economic and health impacts on American cities like Detroit, Washington, and Chicago.The smoke, which has blanketed major U.S.cities, prompted Trump to accuse Canada of failing to maintain its forests and allowing polluted air to invade U.S.airspace.

Hoekstra emphasized that the haze is causing significant economic damage, including businesses closing due to unsafe working conditions and disruptions to tourism.He warned that Canada could face consequences if the issue is not resolved, though he did not specify potential tariff amounts or legal mechanisms.Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Doug Ford criticized the U.S.for complaining about the smoke while not offering support, calling the situation 'Willful Negligence.' The dispute highlights tensions between the two nations over cross-border environmental issues, with critics noting that the U.S.has also scaled back climate action while blaming Canada for wildfires linked to climate change.Scientists warn that human-driven climate warming has intensified wildfire conditions, complicating efforts to address the crisis.The situation underscores broader geopolitical tensions and the challenges of managing transboundary environmental problems.