The entire premise of this piece is that it happens consensually within the law. Secretary Krasnov-Trump of the 47th Oblast is not known for respecting consent or the law.

The outcome we have to be wary of is forcible annexation. Trump only respects strength, so the right thing to do is to be strong. Trump’s reaction to Ontario’s energy surcharge is proof that we’re on the right track—it’s him whining “no, I’m stronger”. We have to keep showing Canadian strength in response. Not aggressive strength, but a forcible “no” with enough oomph to back it up.

He’s a bully. He’ll give up when we’re no longer fun and hand the file over to someone who will be willing to negotiate. Then when a deal is reached that is almost exactly where we were in December, he’ll claim victory for bringing Canada to heel.

Peace, Order, and Good Government is the right goal. But right now all three of those aims require paying attention to Trump, not ignoring him.