Europe – mackaycartoons

Friday March 28, 2025

March 28, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday March 28, 2025 (also, The Toronto Star)

Canada’s EV shift: Beyond U.S. trade ties

February 5, 2025

As the North American auto sector faces unprecedented challenges, spurred in large part by former President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policies, Canada finds itself at a crossroads. Trump’s strategy to fortify a domesticated American auto industry has sent ripples across borders, prompting Canada to reconsider its economic alliances and environmental commitments. In light of these developments, it may be time for Canada to chart a new course, embracing a green future that welcomes electric vehicles (EVs) from Europe and even China.

News: Carney calls Trump’s tariffs on vehicles ‘a direct attack’ on Canada and its auto workers

February 7, 2025

Trump’s approach to the auto industry, characterized by protectionism and high tariffs, has created an unstable environment for Canadian automakers. With tariffs on steel, aluminum, and electric vehicles, Canada faces increasing costs and competitive disadvantages, threatening the viability of its auto sector. The U.S. administration’s focus on bringing manufacturing back to American soil has left Canada with dwindling options and a pressing need to diversify its economic partnerships.

In this context, the opportunity to rethink Canada’s green future is both timely and necessary. The global shift towards sustainable transportation presents a chance for Canada to align its policies with environmental goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting cleaner energy. Electric vehicles are at the forefront of this movement, and international manufacturers offer promising alternatives.

February 5, 2025

European EVs: Europe has long been a leader in environmental regulations and innovation, producing high-quality electric vehicles that meet stringent standards. By strengthening ties with European automakers, Canada can benefit from advanced technology and sustainable practices, positioning itself as a leader in the green transition.

Chinese EVs: China, with its rapid advancements in electric vehicle technology, presents another viable option. Companies like BYD have made significant strides, offering affordable, environmentally friendly vehicles that could significantly boost EV adoption in Canada. Despite political tensions, the economic and environmental benefits of engaging with Chinese manufacturers are compelling.

News: China wants more trade with Canada, envoy says amid U.S. tariffs

Friday February 7, 2025

It is clear that maintaining the status quo with the U.S. is no longer sustainable for Canada’s auto industry. The need to pursue independent economic policies that prioritize Canada’s interests has never been more apparent. By reconsidering tariffs and fostering partnerships with Europe and China, Canada can secure its place in the global green economy.

This strategic realignment would not only support Canada’s environmental objectives but also provide consumers with more choices and competitive pricing. Allowing more affordable EVs into the Canadian market would accelerate the transition from gasoline vehicles, reducing emissions and promoting sustainability.

Analysis: Should Canada ease its 100% tariff on electric vehicles from China amid trade war with U.S.?

December 19, 2024

As Canada stands at the precipice of change, the decision to embrace a new path is not just an economic necessity but an opportunity to lead in the fight against climate change. By welcoming European and Chinese electric vehicles, Canada can redefine its future, ensuring a resilient and sustainable auto industry that aligns with its environmental values. In this pivotal moment, Canada has the chance to set a precedent for innovation and collaboration, paving the way for a truly green future.

A Green Lining?

As I sat down to sketch this editorial cartoon, I can’t help but feel like I’m venturing into risky, perhaps even crazy, territory. Our usual product is cynicism, and there’s plenty of that to go around with the grim prospect of Trump’s trade tariffs threatening to decimate the Canadian auto sector. Trump’s intentions seem clear, telegraphed with the precision of a maestro conducting an orchestra of chaos. But as I contemplate the future, a flicker of opportunity emerges – in tandem with the silver lining that’s rallied Canadians around the flag.

Before the Biden administration pressured Canada into imposing tariffs on Chinese-built EVs, there was an intriguing development. The President of Ford Canada couldn’t hide his admiration for a Chinese model. According to Car and Driver, Ford CEO Jim Farley, in a surprising confession, revealed that he had been driving a Xiaomi SU7, imported from Shanghai, and he didn’t want to give it up. His words, a radical acknowledgment of the competitive threat posed by Chinese automakers like Xiaomi and BYD, resonate in this new reality.

While politicians play the wait-and-see game with Trump, wondering if his tariff brinkmanship is mere leverage or a harbinger of “Liberation Day” on April 2nd, the consequences loom large. If Trump’s gambit unfolds as feared, the carnage will be swift and severe, leaving American car sales in Canada in tatters. They’ll become costly relics, fossil-fuelled dinosaurs in an era that increasingly favours electric innovation.

It’s hard to imagine this scenario just months ago, but here we are. The idea of embracing Chinese EVs doesn’t seem so far-fetched anymore. They’re electric, highly rated, and affordable. In contrast, our closest ally has turned adversarial, seemingly intent on causing harm. The notion of leaning into a new partnership, once unthinkable, now seems like a reasonable course of action in a world reshaped by Trump’s unpredictable maneuvers.

As I draw, I embrace the riskiness of these thoughts. Maybe it’s crazy, but in the unfolding new reality that Trump is orchestrating, it doesn’t seem so outlandish after all.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for March 27, 2025, below! 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. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Letter to the Editor, The Toronto Star, Thursday April 3, 2025

Exhaust-pipe dreams – Canada’s EV shift, Mar. 31

Thursday April 3, 2025

Cartoonist Graeme MacKay nailed it. The North American auto sector doesn’t care about EVs — except to the extent that EVs threaten their lucrative business of keeping internal combustion engines running. In this, it has found common cause with the fossil fuel industry, which also stands to lose out as the public increasingly recognizes the superiority of EVs.

We see evidence for the North American auto sector’s duplicity in its move to change its rapid-charging standard from the global Combined Charging System to Tesla’s previously proprietary plug, a move that makes no sense except as a tactic to dissuade people from purchasing EVs. Yet it does provide an opening for the Canadian government to fight back in U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war, by insisting that all EVs made in Canada use CCS and that all new EVs sold in Canada be compatible with CCS.

Of course, that would require a federal government that’s willing to stand up to corporate interests, so it won’t happen.

Gary Dale, Toronto

Thursday March 13, 2025

March 13, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 13, 2025

Tariff Turmoil: When Protectionism Backfires

March 3, 2018

The tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on aluminum and steel imports were meant to protect American industry and jobs, but they might end up harming the consumers and workers they were supposed to help. As countries like Canada respond with their own tariffs, the economic impact could isolate the U.S. and destabilize its economy.

These tariffs act like a hidden tax, raising the cost of materials essential for many products. As businesses face higher costs, they pass these expenses on to consumers, resulting in higher prices for everyday items. For American families already dealing with rising living costs, this adds an extra financial burden instead of the relief promised.

News: Canada to impose retaliatory tariffs on $29.8-billion worth of U.S. steel

October 31, 2013

Moreover, these tariffs put American jobs at risk, especially in industries that depend on international trade. In places like Hamilton, where steel and aluminum production are key, the effects are significant. Canadian producers lose access to the U.S. market, and American manufacturers relying on Canadian materials face challenges, threatening jobs and economic stability.

The market has reacted with uncertainty, reflecting fears of a recession. Economists warn that unclear trade policies might stifle investment and slow economic growth, undoing recent progress. The panic in the markets highlights the fragility of a strategy lacking coherence and foresight.

As other countries impose retaliatory tariffs, the risk of isolation grows. Trade wars rarely have winners, and escalating tensions can strain diplomatic relations and reduce global cooperation. In an interconnected world, pursuing protectionism might leave the U.S. at a disadvantage, missing opportunities for collaboration and growth.

News: Europe retaliates against Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminum

March 5, 2025

The current U.S. trade policy under President Trump seems misguided. Instead of helping American consumers and workers, it risks harming economic prosperity. Policymakers need to rethink their approach, engaging with trading partners and developing strategies that focus on innovation and competitiveness.

Trump’s tariff measures could bring pain to consumers and industries across North America. As these effects unfold, a more balanced approach to trade is needed. By fostering cooperation and understanding the realities of a global economy, the U.S. can work towards a future where prosperity is shared, fulfilling the promises made to the American people.

Trump hits Home

I would have loved to draw something on that bizarre car salesman promo Donald Trump staged on the South Lawn of the White House for his billionaire buddy Elon Musk’s struggling company, Tesla. But instead, I found myself compelled to reflect on the more serious story of how Trump’s actions have hit home here in Hamilton. His tariffs on aluminum and steel, which were supposed to protect American industries, are now threatening to raise consumer prices and jeopardize jobs right here in our steel city—ground zero for Canada’s domestic production.

Canada is responding with its own tariffs, and the economic ripples are being felt across North America, hitting Hamilton especially hard.

No other President in my lifetime has impacted me, my family, and my city so personally. Trump’s poor handling of the pandemic, including the prolonged land border closures, directly affected us. Although intended to protect public health, these closures strained our healthcare services and took a toll on our local economy.

Donald Trump feigns outrage at Doug Ford’s threats to cut off Ontario electricity to American consumers, calling it a horrible way to treat people. Meanwhile, I live in Hamilton, where the lights are about to go out on thousands of livelihoods due to a trade war the President is determined to wage, weakening his nation’s once-closest ally.

Through my cartoons, I aim to highlight these real, personal impacts, hoping to spark the change we need for a more sensible approach. Americans, the world is counting on you to end the carnage!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Saturday May 14, 2022

May 14, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday May 14, 2022

Finland Nato: Russia threatens to retaliate over membership move

April 12, 2022

A foreign ministry statement said the move would seriously damage bilateral relations, as well as security and stability in northern Europe.

Earlier, Finland’s president and PM called for the country to apply for Nato membership “without delay”.

It comes amid a surge in public support for Nato membership following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Finland shares a 1,300-km (810-mile) border with Russia. Until now, it has stayed out of Nato to avoid antagonising its eastern neighbour.

Finland will formally announce its decision on Sunday after it has been considered by parliament and other senior political figures.

Sweden has said it will announce a similar decision on the same day.

Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said he expects the process of giving Sweden and Finland membership to happen “quite quickly”.

May 3, 2022

The White House said the US would back a Nato application from both countries if they apply.

The Russian statement (in Russian) described Finland’s move as “a radical change in the country’s foreign policy”.

“Finland’s accession to Nato will cause serious damage to bilateral Russian-Finnish relations and the maintaining of stability and security in the Northern European region,” it said.

“Russia will be forced to take retaliatory steps, both of a military-technical and other nature, in order to neutralise the threats to its national security that arise from this.”

However, Moscow has not specified what steps it plans to take.

Russia’s deputy UN representative Dmitry Polyansky said Sweden and Finland would become possible targets for Russia if they become Nato members, according to Russian news agency Ria.

Russian officials were responding to a joint statement by Finnish President Sauli Niinisto and Prime Minister Sanna Marin, which said the two leaders expected a decision on Nato membership in the next few days.

“Nato membership would strengthen Finland’s security,” it said. “As a member of Nato, Finland would strengthen the entire defence alliance. Finland must apply for Nato membership without delay.”

Speaking to journalists later, Mr Niinisto responded to Russian concerns and blamed the move on Moscow’s invasion.

An opinion poll last week put support in Finland for joining Nato at 76%, with 12% against, a big swing towards membership since before the invasion.

Finland and the USSR were on opposing sides in World War Two, with the Finns famously fending off a Soviet invasion in 1939-40. (BBC)

Tuesday May 3, 2022

May 3, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday May 3, 2022

Pulling back from wider war in Europe

August 15, 2008

As bad as the war in Ukraine has already been, it may soon get a lot worse.

So far, the death and destruction has been confined to Ukraine itself. It’s a tragedy for the Ukrainian people, but the conflict has at least been contained.

But what if it spills over into other parts of Europe, or turns into a direct confrontation between NATO and Russia? Or more directly, between the United States and Russia? That would be far more dangerous.

This is not idle speculation.

As Ukrainians put up fierce resistance to the invaders, bolstered by political support and a flood of weaponry from the West, it looks like the war will drag on. The possibility of a deal to end the fighting, a lively possibility a few weeks ago, has faded.

April 28, 2022

And the longer the conflict lasts, the greater is the risk it will spread. Not necessarily because either side has a grand design for major conflict, but by a series of escalations and miscalculations. We know from Europe’s bloody history that this is how small wars become big ones.

Once again, the danger of escalation is coming mostly from Russia. This past week, it cut off shipments of natural gas to Poland and Bulgaria and ramped up warnings about its nuclear capability.

It also looks like Moscow may be eyeing the tiny former Soviet republic of Moldova, squeezed between Ukraine and Romania, as its next target. Russia already has troops there, and a Russian general has publicly said his country intends to take over all of southern Ukraine and then link up with Moldova, the justification being to end “oppression of the Russian-speaking population.”

Behind all that, it seems, is deep frustration within the Russian military over its setbacks against Ukrainian forces and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s strategy of abandoning the goal of controlling the entire country in favour of a more limited campaign to dominate the east and south.

February 23, 2022

“Russia’s military believes that limiting the war’s initial goals is a serious error,” Russian journalists Andrei Soldatov and Irina Borogan write for the Center for European Policy Analysis in Washington, D.C. “They now argue that Russia is not fighting Ukraine, but NATO.”

All of which suggests that behind the facade of unity behind Putin, Russia’s military and security apparatus is seriously divided, with a powerful faction arguing in favour of expanding the war, not ending it. They’re pushing for even more aggressive action in Ukraine itself, as well as a push beyond its borders.

On the other side, western allies are escalating their support for Ukraine. More sanctions, more troops in the region (Britain announced 8,000 more last week), and more heavy weaponry.

Some have read much into the statement by U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin that Washington wants “to see Russia weakened to the degree that it can’t do the kinds of things that it has done in invading Ukraine.”

Marvellous Maps

For them, that reveals a hidden “real reason” why the U.S. (and presumably Canada, France, Germany et al) are backing Ukraine. This, however, ignores the fact that Russia brought the alliance against it entirely on itself with its unprovoked aggression. And what decent person, in the end, doesn’t want to see Putin rendered incapable of inflicting similar violence on others?

Regardless of the rights and wrongs, the prospect of a wider war is horrifying. Right now there’s a consensus in the West around supporting Ukraine. But there’s no consensus around pursuing a broader campaign against Russia as such.

The danger, however, is that we may find ourselves on that road without quite realizing it.

While there’s still time, the world needs to find a way to back away from the brink. (Hamilton Spectator Editorial)

Thursday April 13, 2022

April 14, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 13, 2022

Will War Make Europe’s Switch to Clean Energy Even Harder?

At the Siemens Gamesa factory in Aalborg, Denmark, where the next generation of offshore wind turbines is being built, workers are on their hands and knees inside a shallow, canoe-shaped pod that stretches the length of a football field. It is a mold used to produce one half of a single propeller blade. Guided by laser markings, the crew is lining the sides with panels of balsa wood.

November 10, 2021

The gargantuan blades offer a glimpse of the energy future that Europe is racing toward with sudden urgency. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia — the European Union’s largest supplier of natural gas and oil — has spurred governments to accelerate plans to reduce their dependence on climate-changing fossil fuels. Armed conflict has prompted policymaking pledges that the more distant threat of an uninhabitable planet has not.

Smoothly managing Europe’s energy switch was always going to be difficult. Now, as economies stagger back from the second year of the pandemic, Russia’s attack on Ukraine grinds on and energy prices soar, the painful trade-offs have crystallized like never before.

Moving investments away from oil, gas and coal to sustainable sources like wind and solar, limiting and taxing carbon emissions, and building a new energy infrastructure to transmit electricity are crucial to weaning Europe off fossil fuels. But they are all likely to raise costs during the transition, an extremely difficult pill for the public and politicians to swallow.