Washington DC: After US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing a 25 percent tariff on nearly all Canadian imports, outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reminded Americans of his country’s unwavering support during their "darkest hours"—whether in the Iran hostage crisis, the war in Afghanistan, or devastating natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina and the recent California wildfires.

Speaking directly to Americans from a press conference in Ottawa, Trudeau stated that he had no choice but to introduce countermeasures.

"From the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of the Korean peninsula, from the fields of Flanders to the streets of Kandahar, we have fought and died alongside you during your darkest hours," Trudeau said. "We've built the most successful economic, military and security partnership the world has ever seen...We're always there, standing with you."

Acknowledging that the US and Canada have had disagreements in the past, Trudeau pointed out that both nations had always found a way to move forward.

"As I've said before, if President Trump wants to usher in a new golden age for the United States, the better path is to partner with Canada, not to punish us," he said.

"Unfortunately, the actions taken today by the White House split us apart instead of bringing us together," he added.

Trudeau announced that Canada would respond with reciprocal tariffs on US goods.

"Canada will be responding to the US trade action with 25 percent tariffs against Can$155 billion ($106 billion) worth of American goods," he said in a resolute tone, warning that the move risked damaging the long-standing ties between the two countries.

The first round of tariffs, amounting to Can$30 billion in US goods, would take effect on Tuesday, with additional tariffs covering Can$125 billion worth of products set to follow in three weeks.

"We're certainly not looking to escalate. But we will stand up for Canada, for Canadians, for Canadian jobs," Trudeau stated.

He cautioned that the trade dispute would have "real consequences" not just for Canadians but also for Americans, who would feel the economic impact of their President’s decision.

"Tariffs against Canada will put your jobs at risk, potentially shutting down American auto assembly plants and other manufacturing facilities," Trudeau told US citizens.

"They will raise costs for you, including food at the grocery store and gas at the pump," he added.

He specified that the Canadian tariffs would affect "everyday items" such as American beer, wine, and bourbon, as well as fruits, vegetables, consumer appliances, lumber, and plastics—"with much, much more."