While the announcement is almost certainly bluster to bring attention to illegal immigration and fentanyl smuggling, there are several reasons why it is so risky.

Justin Trudeau, Canada's prime minister, told reporters on Tuesday that he had a "good" conversation with Trump following the president-elect's post.

President-elect Donald Trump promised to impose a 25% tariff on all goods from Mexico and Canada on his first day in office. Imports from Mexico and Canada totaled $900 billion in 2023. Trump has proposed tariffs as a solution to government funding.