The Canadian truck drivers who partly block a major border crossing with the United States are also worrying the government in Washington. The congestion could pose a risk to the automotive industry as the supply of parts comes to a standstill.
“We are monitoring this very closely,” the White House spokesman said on the third day of the Ambassador Bridge blockade.
The Canadian government on Wednesday called the truckers’ action “illegitimate” and illegal and called on the truckers to end their blockade. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau finds it unacceptable. “Blockades and illegal demonstrations are unacceptable and have a negative impact on our companies and manufacturers,” he said in parliament. “We must do everything we can to end them.”
American and Canadian business groups had already called on truck drivers, who protest against corona measures, on Tuesday to end the blockade of the bridge connecting the Canadian province of Ontario with the American state of Michigan.
The route is important for the supply of auto parts to and from Detroit. Some companies say they are already having problems because of a shortage of parts. “It’s important for everyone in Canada and the United States to understand the impact of this blockade on workers and the supply chain,” said Jen Psaki, a White House spokesman. “We are also looking at potential disruption to U.S. agricultural exports from Michigan to Canada.”
Commuters and tourists
This route normally handles thousands of commuters and tourists and 8,000 trucks every day. Another, smaller border crossing is also blocked.
In the Canadian capital Ottawa, truck drivers have been protesting for thirteen days against the corona measures and the vaccination obligation for drivers who have to cross the border. Although their numbers are decreasing, they still cause nuisance in the center, to the dissatisfaction of the inhabitants. They are demanding tougher action from the police, who have arrested 23 people so far. Authorities are considering deploying more police.
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