Trump Bans Export Of N95 Masks To Canada, Canadian Leaders Voice Outrage

Canadians are frustrated with President Donald Trump after it was announced that the United States would ban exports of N95 masks to Canada. Canadian healthcare workers, much like American healthcare workers, are also facing supply shortages. 

Newfoundland Premier Dwight Ball expressed his frustration with the president. “To say that I’m infuriated by the recent actions of President Trump of the United States is an understatement,” Ball said. “I cannot believe for a second that in a time of crisis that President Trump would even think about banning key medical supplies to Canada.”

Ball noted that more than 6,600 passengers arrived in Gander, Newfoundland, following the attacks on the United States in 2001.

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“Newfoundland and Labrador will never give up on humanity. We will not hesitate for one second if we had to repeat what we did on 9/11. We would do it again,” Ball said. “This is a time when we need to work together to continue to protect our residents and keep them safe from COVID-19 no matter where they live or what passport they hold.”

Former Gander Mayor Claude Elliott also voiced his opinion on the U.S.’s decision. “I understand the United States is going through a very dramatic time, especially in New York, and they need a lot of supplies, but we’re fighting an enemy that is just not one state, it’s the whole world,″ Elliott said. “And when we come to those times of tragedy in our life, we need everybody helping each other.″

Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford, also disappointed, said, “We have a great relationship with the U.S. and they pull these shenanigans? Unacceptable.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, however, said he’s still confident Canada would be able to import protective masks from the U.S. despite the ban and that he would reach out to Trump. “I’m confident we are going to be able to solve this and I look forward to speaking with the president in the coming days,” Trudeau said.