Donald Trump reportedly accused Canada of burning down the White House during a tense phone call with Justin Trudeau.
CNN reports that on May 25, the President of the United States and the Prime Minister of Canada discussed tariffs on Canadian imports of steel and aluminium. The two leaders disagree about tariffs, with Mr Trudeau repeatedly contesting Mr Trump's claims that they are a matter of national security.
- Trump thought Jacinda Ardern was Justin Trudeau's wife
- Russia investigation 'totally unconstitutional' - Trump
When Mr Trudeau challenged Mr Trump one too many times, he fired back with a poignant piece of history.
"Didn't you guys burn down the White House?" he reportedly asked. This was likely a reference to the War of 1812, a conflict between the United States and the United Kingdom.
While Mr Trump has certainly received plaudits for the retort, it turns out he probably needs to brush up on his history.
The White House was indeed burned down during the war, but it was British troops who were responsible. The arson was in retaliation to a US attack on Ontario, which at the time was a British colony.
It doesn't sound like Mr Trudeau was amused by the President's cheeky quip.
When asked if the Prime Minister took it as a joke, a source told CNN that he would - "to the degree one can ever take what is said as a joke".
"The impact on Canada and ultimately on workers in the US won't be a laughing matter," the source said.
Newshub.
