Doug Ford backs away from Trump war of words as tariff tensions rise

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has softened his rhetoric towards US President Donald Trump, saying Canada and the United States should lower tensions as their trade dispute escalates.

Speaking to CNN on Tuesday, Ford said it was better to bring the temperature down between the neighbouring countries and focus on reaching a trade agreement.

The premier said he wants a deal that lowers the cost of living for people on both sides of the border, arguing that tariffs will not achieve that goal.

His comments mark a shift from Monday, when Ford attacked Trump as tensions rose following the collapse of Canada-US trade negotiations.

Trump responded by attacking Ford, calling him the less charismatic and less intelligent brother of the late former Toronto mayor Rob Ford.

The latest exchange comes after trade negotiations between Washington and Ottawa broke down last week.

Prime Minister Mark Carney said the Trump administration had sought unacceptable measures, including restrictions on Canada's ability to negotiate trade agreements with other countries.

Trump further fuelled tensions on Tuesday by suggesting the name of Lake Ontario could be changed to Lake America.