US Commerce Secretary Lutnick’s intervention in Canada talks draws praise and blame

Lutnick viewed a framework deal as too generous to Canada and emerged as a champion for US metal producers.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick emerged as a champion for U.S. metal producers while the Canadians blame him for moving the goalposts, sources said.

US-Canada trade talks collapsed after last-minute pressure from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, according to people familiar with the matter, leaving President Donald Trump to impose new tariffs and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney vowing retaliation.