Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney ignited a wave of online debate this week after abruptly cutting off U.S. President Donald Trump during a tense moment at the G7 summit.
The two leaders were in attendance at the annual gathering alongside representatives from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, India, Australia, and Brazil. This year’s summit took place in Kananaskis, Alberta, where Carney, 60, took on the role of host.
The agenda included pressing global issues such as economic stability, international conflicts, and geopolitical developments.
Trade Dispute Sparks Tension
During a press conference, both Carney and Trump fielded questions from journalists, one of whom asked the U.S. president why a trade deal with Canada had been delayed.
“It’s not really being held up,” Trump responded with a smirk. “We just have different visions. I believe in tariffs. Mark has a different take on things — more aligned with what people seem to want.”
Carney’s Eye-Roll Moment
The Canadian leader visibly rolled his eyes during Trump’s remarks — a reaction that quickly spread across social media and drew widespread commentary.
Trump Weighs In on Russia’s Exclusion
In the same appearance, Trump was asked about Russia’s removal from the group, which occurred in 2014. He used the opportunity to criticize Carney’s predecessor, Justin Trudeau, whose term ended in March.
“The G7 used to be the G8,” Trump said. “Barack Obama and a guy named Trudeau didn’t want Russia in. I think that was a mistake. We probably wouldn’t have a war now if Russia had stayed in. And you wouldn’t have a war if Trump had still been president four years ago. But that’s not how things turned out.”
Carney Steps In
At that point, Carney interjected, moving to cut Trump off mid-sentence.
“If you don’t mind, I’m going to exercise my role,” Carney said calmly, glancing at Trump before continuing. “As chair of the G7, we only have a few more minutes with the President and his team, and then we must begin the formal session to address these major issues.”
Online Reaction Divided
The incident drew both praise and criticism online. Supporters applauded Carney’s assertiveness, especially following previous tensions between the two leaders, including a tax-related disagreement shortly after Carney took office in March.
“Trump left early because the other world leaders were laughing at him,” one social media user joked.
“Thank you, PM Carney!!!” another posted.
“He shut him down before he could say something worse,” added a third.
However, Trump loyalists viewed the interruption as disrespectful.
“Carney is such a weakling,” one commenter complained, referencing how Carney appeared to seek Trump’s reaction before interrupting.
“Total embarrassment. What a farce,” another wrote.
As the summit progresses, the exchange has become a flashpoint, underscoring the continuing tensions — both political and personal — between the leaders of Canada and the United States.
