Kirsten Hillman to Resign as Canada's U.S. Ambassador Ahead of Key USMCA Review

Ambassador Hillman Announces Departure

Kirsten Hillman, Canada's ambassador to the United States, has announced her decision to step down from her role, effective in the new year. The announcement was made on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, marking the end of a significant tenure in Washington, D.C. Hillman stated that her resignation was 'the right time to put a team in place that will see the CUSMA review through to its conclusion,' referring to the upcoming review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), also known as CUSMA in Canada.

Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged Hillman's contributions, stating that she 'has resolutely defended Canadian values and interests' during a transformative period in the Canada-U.S. relationship and 'prepared the foundations for Canada in the upcoming review' of the agreement.

A Tenure Defined by Trade and Diplomacy

Hillman was officially appointed as Canada's ambassador to the U.S. in March 2020, becoming the first woman to hold the influential post. She had served in Washington for over eight years, including six as ambassador, and previously as deputy ambassador starting in 2017. Her career as a diplomat and trade lawyer saw her play a critical role in the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which led to the creation of the USMCA. During her time as ambassador, she navigated the bilateral relationship through various challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and stalled trade talks between Canada and the U.S.

The Critical 2026 USMCA Review

Hillman's departure is particularly notable given its timing, preceding the crucial 2026 review of the USMCA. This review, scheduled to commence in July 2026, is a mandatory six-year assessment of the trade agreement by Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The process is considered a high-stakes negotiation, with each country expected to address grievances, seek concessions, and defend core economic interests. The review will determine whether the agreement is extended, revised, or risks expiration in 2036, and is seen as a defining test for North American economic integration and global competitiveness.

The Canadian government is now expected to appoint a successor who will lead the country's efforts during these vital trade discussions. Reports suggest that Mark Wiseman, a financier and close associate of Prime Minister Carney, is being considered for the role.