U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that if the European Union's proposal to make Canada its first "associate member" was ill-intentioned, the United States would impose heavy taxes on Europe and could cease trade with Europe in many respects. This follows European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's proposal to open "associate member" status to Canada to strengthen ties with Europe, as Canada's relationship with Washington deteriorates. Currently, "associate member" status does not exist in EU treaties, and its specific rights and obligations remain unclear. Any proposal would require the support of EU member states.