Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has rejected U.S. accusations that Canada intends to interfere in America’s November 3 midterm elections, adding another point of tension to the two countries’ already strained relationship.

Speaking on October 23, Carney described the allegations as meritless and expressed disappointment that U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra had made them, according to Reuters.

The dispute comes amid ongoing trade friction between Ottawa and Washington. Canada halted trade negotiations with the United States in August after concluding that American demands were unreasonable. Those discussions had included efforts to reduce tariffs affecting Canadian imports.

Carney said Canada was in no hurry to reach a new trade agreement and could wait until after President Donald Trump’s presidency if necessary. He also reaffirmed that Canada would determine its own political and economic future.

The prime minister’s recent diplomatic outreach, including a visit to Türkiye to strengthen trade, defence and energy cooperation, reflects Ottawa’s broader effort to diversify international partnerships and reduce economic dependence on the United States.

The latest dispute highlights the challenges facing Canada–U.S. relations as trade policy, election-related allegations and international diplomacy remain key issues for the Carney government.