US pauses water-sharing negotiations with Canada over Columbia River

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1. The United States has halted discussions with Canada over the Columbia River Treaty as tensions escalate with Donald Trump’s aggressive rhetoric regarding Canada, which includes threats to revise existing agreements and even contemplate annexation. The treaty, established in 1964 after significant flood destruction in the region, governs flood control, hydropower, and water sharing along the Columbia River, which provides crucial hydroelectric power to both countries. Under its terms, Canada manages the river’s flow to meet the US’s hydropower needs and mitigate flooding, while the US compensates Canada for additional hydroelectric benefits. Despite reaching an in-principle deal under President Biden prior to the treaty’s looming expiration, negotiations stalled amid Trump’s confrontational stance and unresolved final details, leaving only a short-term interim agreement in place. British Columbia’s government, facing domestic and Indigenous concerns over the treaty’s impact on rights and environmental protections, has vowed a vigorous defense during upcoming public information sessions and continued negotiations.

2. the river originates in Canada. If the US pulls out of water agreements with Canada, it would appear to me that Canada substantial leverage here?

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