Official White House photo by Shealah Craighead
Trump Offers Canada ‘Golden Dome’ Entry at $61 Billion
U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred controversy with his latest proposal regarding the U.S. missile defense initiative dubbed the “Golden Dome.” Trump stated that Canada could either pay a hefty sum of $61 billion to join the system or gain free access by becoming the 51st state of the United States. The remarks, delivered via his Truth Social platform, have sparked widespread reactions both diplomatically and politically.
The Golden Dome project is a massive defense endeavor aimed at shielding North America from missile threats, including intercontinental ballistic missiles and hypersonic weapons. With a projected cost of $175 billion, Trump claims the system will be operational by the end of his current term if re-elected. He framed the proposal to Canada as a choice between sovereignty and security under an American-led defense umbrella.
Canada’s Firm Response and Defense Priorities
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office quickly rebuffed Trump’s suggestion. The official statement affirmed that Canada is a “proudly independent country and intends to remain so.” The response underscores Ottawa’s firm stance on national sovereignty despite its close security ties with Washington.
Canada is already a key partner in the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), which includes coordination on ballistic missile warnings. Additionally, Canada is independently investing in a $4.2 billion advanced radar system in collaboration with Australia to strengthen Arctic surveillance and territorial security. These efforts signal that while Canada values its alliance with the U.S., it is also committed to maintaining a distinct defense posture.
Impact on US-Canada Relations
Trump’s proposal has reignited debates around U.S.-Canada relations and the future of continental defense cooperation. While Trump claims Canada is “considering” the offer, no Canadian official has confirmed any such discussion. Political observers view the move as part of Trump’s broader strategy to frame defense partnerships in purely transactional terms.
As the U.S. heads toward another election cycle, such bold assertions could influence diplomatic ties and shape conversations on how nations collaborate on high-cost, high-risk defense programs. Whether the Golden Dome materializes as envisioned, and whether Canada ever contemplates deeper integration into the U.S. security apparatus, remains to be seen. For now, Canada appears to be asserting its strategic autonomy while continuing to invest in regional security partnerships.
