18.07.2026 18:00
Dense smoke from weeks-long wildfires in Canada has affected the northeastern and midwestern United States, particularly Washington, D.C. After air quality reached hazardous levels, U.S. President Donald Trump accused Canada of failing to prevent the fires and announced that billions of dollars in damages to his country would be added to existing customs tariffs.
Thick smoke rising from massive wildfires that have been raging in Canada for weeks has affected the northeastern and Midwestern United States due to wind. Washington DC, New York, Chicago, Detroit, and many surrounding cities have been covered in a gray haze, with air quality reaching levels that threaten health. Following the crisis, US President Donald Trump made notable remarks targeting Canada.
VISIBILITY DROPS IN WASHINGTON DC
Smoke from wildfires in Canada's Ontario province and the US state of Minnesota traveled thousands of kilometers, affecting a large part of the US. In Washington DC, the Capitol Building, Washington Monument, and other landmarks were shrouded in thick fog. Visibility significantly decreased in some areas, and authorities warned children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions not to go outside.
HEALTH ALERTS FOR MILLIONS
Air quality rose to "unhealthy" levels in many US states. Some outdoor events and sports organizations were postponed, while the public was advised to wear N95 masks and stay indoors. Meteorological authorities stated that expected rainfall over the weekend could partially improve air quality.
TRUMP: CANADA WILL PAY THIS BILL
Following these developments, US President Donald Trump sharply criticized Canada in a post on his Truth Social account.
Trump alleged that the Canadian government does not manage its forests adequately, claiming the US faces "dirty, unhealthy, and dangerous air." He asserted that the economic damage caused by the smoke amounts to billions of dollars and said this cost would be added to existing tariffs on Canada. He also announced he would discuss the matter with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
STRONG RESPONSE FROM CANADA
Canada's government quickly responded to Trump's statements.
Canadian Emergency Preparedness Minister Eleanor Olszewski stated that the country has invested approximately 12 billion Canadian dollars in forest protection and firefighting, emphasizing that they have cooperated with the US in firefighting for many years. The Ontario government also announced that new firefighting aircraft would be deployed, expressing that cooperation between the two countries should continue.
HUNDREDS OF FIRES STILL UNCONTAINED
Hundreds of wildfires continue across Canada, with a significant portion still not under control. Many settlements have been evacuated due to the fires, and thousands of people have been moved to safe areas. Experts note that the wildfire season is more severe compared to previous years due to heatwaves and drought.
CRISIS TURNS INTO DIPLOMATIC TENSION
Wildfires that began as an environmental disaster have turned into a new diplomatic tension between the US and Canada following Trump's tariff threat. Experts suggest that cross-border air pollution could reopen discussions on environmental policies and trade relations between the two countries.