Donald Trump – mackaycartoons

Thursday July 17, 2025

July 17, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday July 17, 2025

Navigating Uncertainty with Strategic Resilience

June 5, 2025

In the complex and often tumultuous world of international trade, Canada’s steel industry finds itself at a precarious crossroads. With the imposition of a 50% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum imports by U.S. President Donald Trump, challenges have arisen that require astute leadership and strategic foresight. Prime Minister Mark Carney, confronted with an unconventional U.S. administration, has embarked on a path that prioritizes resilience, diversification, and support for Canadian workers.

The crux of the issue lies in the stark imbalance of economic power between Canada and the United States. With 90% of Canada’s steel exports traditionally directed to the U.S., the impact of these tariffs cannot be underestimated. President Trump’s steadfast determination to impose tariffs on foreign steel, regardless of existing trade agreements like CUSMA, places Canada in a difficult position. In such a dynamic landscape, Carney’s approach to diversify Canada’s trade relations and reduce dependency on a single market is not just prudent—it is essential.

News: Steel producers warn of dire consequences of 50% tariff if broader U.S. trade deal isn’t reached

March 13, 2025

Diversification acts as a safeguard against the volatility of U.S. trade policies. By opening new markets and exploring opportunities beyond the immediate neighbour, Canada can reduce its vulnerability to sudden policy shifts. This strategy not only strengthens the steel sector but also aligns with broader national interests in building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.

In tandem with diversification, Carney’s commitment to supporting Canadian steel workers is a crucial component of his strategy. The allocation of $70 million for training supports and $1 billion for technological advancement within the steel industry underscores a forward-thinking approach. By investing in skills development and innovation, Canada is not merely reacting to current challenges but preparing its workforce for the future.

News: Carney cracks down further on cheap steel imports into Canada in bid to protect domestic mills

November 8, 2024

Moreover, the introduction of tariffs on non-free trade countries and reciprocal measures for free-trade partners reflects a balanced response to unfair competition. By reducing the influx of cheap imported steel into Canada—some of which finds its way to the U.S.—Carney addresses a significant concern of the U.S. administration. This measure could open a pathway to a more integrated North American steel market, potentially leading to reduced U.S. tariffs on Canadian products and fostering a collaborative trade environment.

Carney’s measured response, with a focus on long-term sustainability, contrasts with the unpredictability of the current U.S. administration. While President Trump’s policies may be driven by immediate gains and protectionist inclinations, Canada’s approach is rooted in a broader vision of economic stability and growth.

Analysis: Six things Trump should know about Liberia after he praised leader’s ‘good English’

Navigating the challenges posed by an unconventional U.S. presidency requires careful consideration and strategic action. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s emphasis on diversification, worker support, and industry investment demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding Canada’s steel industry. This multifaceted approach not only addresses immediate concerns but also lays the groundwork for a more robust and resilient economic future. As Canada treads carefully in these uncertain times, the path forward is illuminated by a focus on innovation, inclusivity, and international collaboration.

Savvy Man of Steel

My editorial cartoon in the Thursday edition of the Hamilton Spectator: https://www.thespec.com/opinion/editorial-cartoons/mark-carney-prime-minister-of-steel/article_6f7ba0f7-71f9-5666-86bf-58a3679d87fe.html

Living in Canada’s steel capital, Trump’s 50% tariff on our steel is a real blow, impacting both businesses and everyday lives. Normally, I’d capture this in a cartoon, but a recent trip out west left me short on time.

Trump’s awkward remarks to the Liberian President highlighted his ignorance, echoing the kind of erratic and, frankly, stupid trade policies we’ve seen from him. Prime Minister Mark Carney is addressing this lunacy by diversifying our trade ties and investing in our steel workers’ skills and tech upgrades, making sure we’re not overly dependent on the U.S.

Carney’s approach to fair trade, including strategic tariffs, aims to shield Canadian interests and could lead to better cooperation in North America’s steel market. While Trump seems focused on quick wins, Carney is thinking about the long haul, emphasizing stability and growth.

In these uncertain times, innovation and collaboration are key. Here in Canada’s steel heartland, we’re ready to tackle these challenges head-on.

If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for July 17, 2025, below! Oh, these notes register hardly any traffic. Kindly click like it if you do, it’ll encourage me to post more!

– The Graeme Gallery

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Saturday July 12, 2025

July 10, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday July 12, 2025

The Great Lakes at Risk

In the delicate balance of preserving our planet’s natural resources, the Great Lakes stand as a vital beacon of life and sustainability. Spanning 1,200 miles from Minnesota to central New York, these lakes hold 20% of the world’s fresh surface water and provide drinking water to more than 40 million people. They support a thriving ecosystem of 3,500 species and are central to a $750 billion annual economy. Yet, under the Trump administration, these treasures are under unprecedented threat.

Analysis: Cataclysmic’: environmentalists fear effects of Trump cuts on Great Lakes

The recent article from The Guardian paints a sobering picture of the current administration’s disregard for environmental stewardship. Proposed budget cuts to the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other key federal agencies threaten to undermine decades of progress in protecting the Great Lakes. Moreover, the administration’s inclination to withdraw from international agreements with Canada raises alarming questions about the future of these vital waters.

The Trump administration’s rhetoric and actions reveal a troubling willingness to prioritize short-term economic gains over long-term environmental sustainability. The proposed diversion of Great Lakes water to other parts of the United States, if pursued, could have disastrous consequences for both ecological balance and international relations.

The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement and other binational treaties with Canada are more than mere formalities; they are commitments to stewardship, cooperation, and shared responsibility. They represent a promise to future generations that these waters will remain pristine and abundant.

Graeme Gallery: Donald Trump: Dirtiest U.S. President Ever

State governments and regional organizations have admirably stepped in to fill some gaps left by federal funding cuts, but their efforts alone cannot replace the comprehensive support and enforcement capabilities of the federal government. Without a strong federal commitment, the risks of pollution, invasive species, and water-level fluctuations could escalate, threatening the very fabric of life in the region.

Silence and inaction are not options. The Great Lakes are not just a regional concern; they are a national treasure and an international responsibility. We must demand that the Trump administration uphold its obligations under international agreements and prioritize the health and sustainability of the Great Lakes.

To protect these precious waters, we need bipartisan support, increased public awareness, and unwavering advocacy. The Great Lakes are our Yellowstone, our Grand Canyon—a wonder of the world that demands our respect, care, and vigilance. It’s time to stand up for the Great Lakes and ensure that they remain a thriving legacy for generations to come.

No newsletter this week

Sorry folks, but there’ll be no cartoon review from the past week. Perhaps it’ll come next Saturday.

I’m on a Canadian-places-I’ve-never-been-to-before trip and this weekend I’m in Winnipeg, Manitoba. For Canadians like me who have spent lots of travel time and expenditure exploring the U.S. – and I’ve been to a lot of places in the U.S. in recent years from San Francisco to Phoenix and Miami, Dallas, Nashville, Chicago and Philadelphia to name a few – I’m devoting now and the next 3 and a half years to explore my own country.

Take a wild guess why.

I flew over the Great Lakes yesterday, making it the perfect opportunity to revisit the subject of the master of diversion and his water diversion scheme. Cartoon in the Hamilton Spectator: https://www.thespec.com/opinion/editorial-cartoons/trump-contemplates-ending-great-lakes-agreements/article_57fc83a0-fb2b-5d3e-bf03-38f3a08e1586.html

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Thursday July 10, 2025

July 10, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday July 10, 2025

Trump’s Dance with Putin Hits a Discordant Note

June 3 2025

As missiles tore into Ukraine’s western regions this week and over 700 drones—many of them decoys—filled the skies in Russia’s largest single-night assault of the war, an equally surreal moment took shape in Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump, now in his second term, said he was “not happy” with Vladimir Putin. Days after halting vital weapons shipments to Ukraine, Trump then suggested the U.S. would need to send more.

To many observers, it was a whiplash moment—one that left allies wondering whether the man who has long praised autocrats might finally be taking a moral stance. But after years of watching Trump’s unpredictable and contradictory dealings with Russia’s president, few are ready to believe this signals a meaningful change.

News: How the long-running Trump-Putin bromance is still not delivering

February 27, 2025

Trump’s fascination with Putin has long been a matter of concern—not just in the U.S., but for all Western allies. From his first campaign through his presidency and into this second term, Trump has repeatedly cast Putin in a favourable light. He questioned the findings of his own intelligence community, downplayed election interference, and often portrayed Russia’s aggression as something other than what it is: calculated, criminal, and destructive.

The human cost of that delusion is clearer than ever. Ukraine has spent three years under relentless assault, and this latest drone barrage—targeting supply corridors and civilian areas alike—is part of a wider Russian strategy to break the country’s will before Western weapons can arrive. The aim isn’t military victory alone. It’s terror.

While Ukrainian forces shot down hundreds of drones, the sheer scale of the attack reveals how emboldened Russia has become. This isn’t a miscalculation or an act of desperation. It’s a statement. And so far, the response from Trump’s White House has wavered between ambiguity and performative outrage.

December 10, 2024

To hear Trump say he’s “not happy” with Putin after years of adulation is something. But what exactly? Does this signal an overdue pivot in American policy—or is it just another tactical feint designed to buy time or please one audience while signalling something else to another?

History suggests caution. Trump’s actions rarely align with his rhetoric. One day he praises Zelensky’s courage; the next he undermines NATO. One week he suspends weapons shipments; the next he promises to send more. In the face of an authoritarian threat like Putin’s Russia, such inconsistency isn’t strategy—it’s peril.

Analysis: Has the Trump-Putin bromance finally run its course?

Even worse, there’s a pattern: every time Trump publicly criticizes Putin, the Kremlin seems to lash out more brutally. It’s as if Moscow views these rare rebukes not as deterrents but as invitations to escalate, to test Western resolve. With each fresh assault on Ukrainian soil, Putin appears to be saying, your president may talk, but we know he won’t act.

For those of us watching from outside the U.S.—from democracies that still place value on alliances, accountability, and the rule of law—it’s a bleak view. We are forced to wonder whether the world’s most powerful democracy has tethered its moral compass to the whims of one deeply erratic man.

News: Russia launches another record drone attack at Ukraine

October 26, 2024

Ukraine doesn’t need platitudes. It needs principled, sustained support. The international community—including the European Court of Human Rights, which this week formally held Russia responsible for grave violations—has made it clear that Putin’s war is not just unjust, it is criminal. He will not stop on his own. His aim is attrition—military, political, psychological.

If Trump truly wants peace, he must stop treating Putin like a misunderstood peer and start treating him like the war criminal he is. Words alone are no longer enough. The stakes are too high, and the cost in human lives too steep.

As drones strike deeper into Ukrainian cities and Russia readies its next wave, the question isn’t whether Trump is displeased. It’s whether he will finally act like a president of consequence—or remain a spectator in a theatre of atrocities.

The world cannot afford to wait much longer to find out.

Endless Bromance

Over the years, we’ve witnessed the tumultuous and often puzzling relationship between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. It’s been a saga filled with speculation, headlines, and countless debates. And yet, here we are again, contemplating whether their so-called “bromance” is finally over. Spoiler alert: it’s not.

Let’s be real. This relationship has always been shrouded in mystery, with moments that leave us scratching our heads. One minute Trump is praising Putin, the next he’s issuing a mild rebuke, only to return to admiration shortly after. It’s like watching a soap opera, with each episode more confusing than the last.

The truth is, there’s more beneath the surface than meets the eye. Many argue, and not without reason, that Putin has something on Trump. Whether it’s political leverage, personal secrets, or something else entirely, the Russian leader has managed to maneuver Trump with an ease that should concern us all. For years, Trump has been as malleable as putty in Putin’s hands, bending and shaping to fit whatever narrative suits Moscow best.

So, while some may hope that recent tensions signal the end of this “bromance,” history tells us otherwise. It’s an on-again, off-again affair, a strategic dance where the steps are dictated by Moscow’s whims and Washington’s unpredictable responses.

In the end, the real question isn’t whether the bromance is over. It’s whether we’ll finally see leadership that prioritizes national and global interests over personal ones. Until then, we should remain cautious, critical, and ever watchful. Because in the world of international relations, appearances can be deceiving, and alliances are rarely what they seem.

If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for July 10, 2025, below! Oh, these notes register hardly any traffic. Kindly click like it if you do, it’ll encourage me to post more!

Wednesday June 25, 2025

June 25, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday June 25, 2025

Canada’s Defence Dilemma: Spending, Strategy, and Sovereignty

June 10 2025

This year’s NATO summit, now underway in the Netherlands, marks a pivotal moment in the alliance’s history. As leaders from the 32-member North Atlantic Treaty Organization gather, the focus is on redefining defence commitments in response to an increasingly complex global security environment. For Canada, this summit is especially significant, as it coincides with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s efforts to reshape the nation’s defence strategy and strengthen ties with European partners.

In recent years, the landscape of international defence and security has become increasingly challenging. Canada’s position within NATO, long criticized for its lagging defence spending, is now at the forefront of national and international discourse. With Carney’s recent efforts to cement closer defence ties with the European Union and NATO, a new chapter in our defence strategy is unfolding. Yet, this path is fraught with challenges and opportunities that demand careful navigation.

News: Carney to sign defence pacts with EU and NATO as Middle East conflict takes centre stage

November 20, 2024

However, the reliability of the U.S. as an ally has come into question. Under Trump’s leadership, the divergence in values and priorities, particularly regarding Russia’s actions in Ukraine, has strained the traditional fabric of NATO’s unity. The once-unquestioned bond of shared democratic values now appears frayed, challenging the alliance’s cohesion.

Carney’s determination to revitalize Canada’s defence posture is a commendable and overdue initiative. For too long, Canada has been criticized as a “laggard,” relying heavily on the security umbrella provided by allies, particularly the United States. This new commitment to defence spending, as outlined in recent articles, is a crucial step towards restoring our standing on the global stage and ensuring our sovereignty and security.

Yet, achieving the 5% GDP target presents significant fiscal challenges, particularly for social-democratic governments that prioritize social services. The balance between enhancing defence capabilities and maintaining social welfare programs is delicate. The potential trade-offs must be carefully considered to avoid undermining the social fabric that many Canadians hold dear.

As NATO members strive to meet new spending targets, it is imperative that military procurement be diversified. Relying solely on American defence industries not only perpetuates dependency but also overlooks the capabilities of other NATO countries. By engaging with a broader range of suppliers, NATO can foster innovation, competition, and economic growth across the alliance.

News: Rutte says Trump committed to NATO if Europe and Canada hit military spending targets

April 23, 2025

The recent escalating military activity between the U.S. and Iran, marked by U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, adds another layer of complexity to the global security environment. This development has shifted international focus and underscores the volatile nature of regional conflicts that can have far-reaching implications for global alliances and defence strategies.

Carney’s leadership style, akin to that of a corporate CEO, brings a refreshing approach to political governance. His organized, goal-oriented strategy, as noted by readers, offers hope for tangible progress in Canada’s defence strategy. However, turning words into action will require adept negotiation, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment.

As Canada embarks on this journey to redefine its defence strategy, the road ahead will be challenging. The commitment to increased defence spending, while necessary, must be balanced with the values and priorities that define us as a nation. May this moment mark the beginning of a new era in which Canada stands strong, proud, and prepared to contribute meaningfully to global security. Best of luck to Prime Minister Carney as he navigates this complex landscape, turning aspirations into reality.

Spending, Strategy, and Sovereignty

So, Trump’s call for allies to up their game isn’t really new; past Presidents have done it too. It’s fair enough for the U.S. to ask for more effort from everyone else, especially since they’ve been doing a lot of the heavy lifting. But here’s the catch: America doesn’t feel like the reliable partner it once was, especially with their stance on Russia and Ukraine. It’s tough to maintain an alliance when the core values aren’t as aligned as they used to be.

Every NATO country needs to step up. The U.S. has carried the weight for a long time. But they shouldn’t expect to monopolize defence contracts. Plenty of countries can contribute their own military equipment and arms.

Reaching the 5% GDP target for defence spending will be a heavy lift, especially for social-democratic governments in Europe and Canada. It might mean cuts to social services, which isn’t ideal. On the bright side, Mark Carney’s push to revamp Canada’s defence is a huge positive, even if it’s overdue. Previous governments let our defence status slide, but hopefully, this is a step toward improving Canada’s standing globally. Wishing Carney all the best in turning these plans into action—he’s going to need it!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/H5XWDy-I7Go

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Tuesday June 24, 2025

June 24, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday June 24, 2025

The Complexities of Trump’s Bold Strike on Iran

June 19, 2025

The recent U.S. military strikes on Iran, ordered by President Donald Trump, signify a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern geopolitics and global security. While the action resonates with a sense of boldness and strategic calculation, it also opens a Pandora’s box of uncertainties and potential repercussions.

From a Western perspective, the theocratic regime in Iran has posed significant challenges since the overthrow of the Shah in 1979. Its hostile stance towards Israel and relentless pursuit of nuclear capabilities have long been sources of tension and anxiety. The desire to neutralize this threat is understandable, especially in light of recent successful military actions against Iran’s proxies, such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Assad regime.

News: Strikes on Iran mark an abrupt interventionist turn for Trump

September 28, 2024

These developments, coupled with Israel’s strategic missile attacks, set the stage for Trump’s audacious decision to directly target Iran’s nuclear facilities.

The strikes, involving precision bombings of key nuclear sites, were executed under conditions that appeared favourable for the U.S. The weakened state of Iran’s air defences and the element of surprise played to America’s advantage. Yet, as former Defence Secretary James Mattis wisely noted, “No war is over until the enemy says it’s over.” This aphorism underscores a fundamental truth: Iran, despite the severe blows to its nuclear program, retains agency and the capacity to retaliate.

The potential for escalation is palpable. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, known for their global reach, could activate sleeper cells in allied nations, including Canada, posing direct threats to American lives and those of its allies. Moreover, any disruption in the Persian Gulf could trigger significant hikes in global oil prices, affecting economies worldwide.

Analysis: Trump opens a war on three fronts with strikes on Iran

Tuesday October 7, 2024

While the strikes may temporarily set back Iran’s nuclear ambitions, they do not eliminate the underlying geopolitical tensions. The possibility of Iran turning to clandestine means to continue its nuclear pursuits cannot be dismissed. The path to meaningful negotiations may be fraught with resistance, particularly if Iran perceives these talks as coerced rather than collaborative.

Complicating this scenario is the erratic nature of the Trump administration. Characterized by a cadre of under-qualified yes men and sycophants, the administration’s decision-making process appears driven more by loyalty to a hot-headed President than by strategic acumen. Trump’s judgment, often perceived as impulsive and lacking in nuance, raises concerns about the wisdom and foresight of such a bold military manoeuvre. This environment of unchecked authority and questionable expertise further contributes to the unpredictability of the unfolding situation.

Moreover, Trump’s actions not only threaten the lives of innocents outside of Iran, who have yet to be threatened by Revolutionary Guard sleeper cells, but also endanger Iranians themselves. The Iranian population may face even more aggressive suppression by a desperate and paranoid regime, seeking to maintain control in the face of external threats and internal dissent.

News: U.S. strikes on Iran a chance to ‘reset’ negotiations, Trump administration says

Internationally, the strikes have drawn condemnation and concern. Allies and adversaries alike are watching closely, wary of the potential for further conflict. The global community understands that while the immediate military success is evident, the long-term implications remain uncertain.

Trump’s decisive military action against Iran is a double-edged sword. It demonstrates a willingness to confront a longstanding threat, yet it also invites a host of unknowns that could reshape global dynamics. The coming days and weeks will be critical in determining whether this bold move leads to lasting peace or further entanglement in the intricate web of Middle Eastern politics. The world holds its breath, hoping for the former but keenly aware of the risks inherent in the latter.

The Complexities of Trump’s Bold Strike on Iran

The recent U.S. military strikes on Iran, ordered by President Donald Trump, mark a significant moment in global security. While bold, this decision brings uncertainty and potential consequences.

Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and hostility toward Israel have been longstanding concerns. Recent actions against Iran’s allies and Israel’s strategic attacks set the stage for Trump’s direct strike on nuclear sites.

While Iran’s defences were weakened, the risk of retaliation remains high. Iran could activate sleeper cells in countries like Canada, posing new threats, and disrupt oil shipments, affecting global prices.

Inside Iran, citizens might face harsher repression as the regime clings to power. Meanwhile, Russia’s usual support for Iran is diminished due to Putin’s focus on Ukraine and his rapport with Trump.

The Trump administration’s unpredictable nature adds complexity, with decisions appearing more loyal to a hot-headed President than strategic. International reactions are mixed, with the world watching to see if this leads to peace or further conflict.

Trump’s actions show a willingness to confront threats but open the door to unknowns that could alter global dynamics, leaving the world to see if this bold move leads to peace or deeper involvement in conflict.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/UX3G42aw-Fs

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack