President Donald Trump has claimed that Canada could become the 51st state of the United States in order to receive free coverage under his proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system.
The defense initiative, projected to cost $175 billion, aims to shield North America from potential missile threats. Trump stated that Canada would either need to pay $61 billion to join the system or consider statehood to gain protection without cost.
Canadian officials swiftly rejected the idea. Prime Minister Mark Carney reaffirmed Canada’s sovereignty, declaring the country was “not for sale.” Ambassador Bob Rae criticized the proposal, calling it a “protection racket,” and stressed that Canada has no intention of relinquishing its independence.
Polls show overwhelming opposition among Canadians to the idea of joining the U.S. as a state. Meanwhile, international observers have raised questions about how the plan could impact global strategic stability.
Despite firm denials from Canadian leadership, Trump insists the offer is under consideration, adding another layer of tension to cross-border political dialogue.