U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited controversy by placing a US$61 billion price tag on Canada’s potential participation in his proposed “Golden Dome” missile defence initiative—reviving his contentious suggestion that Canada should become America’s 51st state to avoid the cost.
Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump declared that Canada would need to pay US$61 billion to join the program “as a separate, but unequal, Nation,” but claimed it would be free “if they become our cherished 51st State.” He further asserted that Canada is “considering” the offer, though no formal confirmation from Ottawa has been made.
Trump’s comments came on the same day that King Charles III delivered Canada’s Speech from the Throne, affirming the country’s independence and commitment to global defence partnerships. During the speech, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government pledged to pursue a stronger role in European security, particularly through a defence rearmament initiative known as “ReArm Europe.” Following the throne speech, Carney said Ottawa is aiming to finalize its participation in the European military build-up by July 1 as part of efforts to reduce reliance on the United States for weapons and defence support.
Trump’s post marks the first time since his May 6 meeting with Prime Minister Carney at the White House that he has publicly raised the idea of Canada becoming a U.S. state. This comment contradicts recent statements from U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra, who had claimed that the annexation narrative was finished. “If Canadians want to talk about it, that’s their choice — but Donald Trump and I are not,” Hoekstra told CBC News last week.
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office responded by reaffirming Canada’s sovereignty, emphasizing that Carney has made it clear in all conversations with Trump that Canada is and will remain an independent nation.
