On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Canada was “considering” relinquishing its statehood in exchange for inclusion in the “Golden Dome” missile defense system without any charges, even though Canadian authorities have consistently stated that their nation is not for sale.
“I informed Canada, which dearly wishes to join our extraordinary Golden Dome System, that it would incur a fee of $61 billion if they continue as a distinct, but unequal country, yet it would be free if they became our beloved 51st state,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
“They are considering the offer!” he claimed.
Trump has threatened in recent months to annex Canada, an idea fiercely rebuked by Canadian officials and their citizens.
U.S. President Donald Trump confers with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Oval Office of the White House, Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
Carney’s office said last week that there were “active discussions” between the U.S. and Canada on current and new security programs, including the “Golden Dome.”
“Canadians gave the prime minister a strong mandate to negotiate a comprehensive new security and economic relationship with the United States,” a spokesperson for Carney told BBC News.
“To that end, the prime minister and his ministers are having wide-ranging and constructive discussions with their American counterparts. These discussions naturally include strengthening [North American Aerospace Defense Command] and related initiatives such as the Golden Dome,” the spokesperson continued.
