On Tuesday, the U.S. President Donald Trump made a startling assertion, claiming that Canada’s government is “considering” an offer to become a U.S. state in return for a spot in a new defense arrangement.
Trump announced the launch of the “Golden Dome” missile defense system on May 20, a project his administration estimates will cost $175 billion and be completed within three years. According to a statement on his Truth Social account, Trump emphasized that Canada is eager to join this ambitious defense effort, outlining a supposed proposal extended to the neighboring nation.
“I told Canada, which very much wants to be part of our fabulous Golden Dome System, that it will cost $61 Billion Dollars if they remain a separate, but unequal, Nation, but will cost ZERO DOLLARS if they become our cherished 51st State. They are considering the offer!” wrote Trump on his Truth Social platform.
Both the office of Canada’s Prime Minister and the White House declined to respond immediately regarding Trump’s claim.
There appears to be little evidence to support the idea that Canadian leaders are eager to accept Trump’s offer. The recent electoral victory of Prime Minister Mark Carney has largely been credited to his consistent opposition to Trump’s recurring suggestions that Canada be incorporated as America’s 51st state.
Prime Minister Carney has repeatedly and unequivocally dismissed the possibility of Canada relinquishing its sovereignty. In a meeting with Trump earlier this month, he reportedly told the U.S. president that Canada would “never” be for sale.
Meanwhile, King Charles III underscored Canada’s distinct national identity and autonomy during a major parliamentary address in Ottawa on Tuesday—a move widely seen as a direct response to President Trump’s remarks about “taking over” Canada.
