- Trump offers free ‘Golden Dome’ to Canada if it joins as 51st U.S. state, otherwise Canada must pay $61 billion to participate.
- Canada wants to join the missile defense system but firmly rejects giving up its independence.
- Experts question the project’s timeline and cost, while Canada and the U.S. already cooperate through NORAD.
Donald Trump made a big announcement about Canada and his new missile defense project. He said Canada can join the “Golden Dome” system for free, but only if it becomes part of the United States. Trump has often said he wants Canada to become the 51st U.S. state. He repeated that idea again, offering Canada full access to the defense plan at no cost—if it gives up its independence. If not, Trump said, the price tag will be $61 billion. He shared this message on his Truth Social platform, adding that Canada seems to be considering the deal.
Canada Wants Defense System But Rejects Becoming a U.S. State
Canada has shown interest in the Golden Dome plan. The country wants protection from growing global threats, and it wants to stay involved in North American defense. Even with Trump’s offer of free access through statehood, Prime Minister Mark Carney made it clear: Canada will not give up its sovereignty. He met with Trump earlier this month and spoke openly. He said Canada is “never for sale.” Even though the two leaders managed to smooth over some earlier issues about trade tariffs, the topic of statehood still causes friction. Canada wants to join the defense talks but won’t agree to becoming a U.S. state.
Trump Says Golden Dome Will Cost $175 Billion by 2029
Trump unveiled his Golden Dome defense project last week. He said the plan will protect America from many types of enemy missiles and other weapons. Trump believes the system will be ready by 2029 and will cost about $175 billion. He claims it will be the best missile defense the world has ever seen. The system will cover North America and guard against attacks from land, air, or sea. Trump believes it will keep the U.S. safe for generations. He wants U.S. allies to join, but only on his terms.
Experts Say Trump May Underestimate the Real Costs
Many defense experts have doubts about Trump’s plan. Some say building the Golden Dome will take much longer and cost far more than he promises. They point to the massive technical challenges involved. Others believe the political side will also slow progress, especially if allies like Canada refuse to follow U.S. demands such as Trump offering free involvement only under certain conditions. The technology needed to track and stop every possible missile threat would be complex. The system may also need global support and strong partnerships, which could take years to build.
Canada and the U.S. Already Work Together in NORAD
Canada and the United States already have a strong defense relationship. Both countries work together through NORAD, which stands for North American Aerospace Defense Command. NORAD tracks possible threats from the air and space. It helps both countries respond quickly if danger appears. This long-standing partnership shows that Canada is serious about defense. The Golden Dome would be something new, with Trump offering free access but it would involve bigger spending and a new defense system. Trump’s idea goes beyond current agreements and adds pressure for Canada to take a side.
Canada Remains Silent on Trump’s Statehood Offer
As of now, Canada has not given an official answer to Trump’s latest comments. The government has not replied publicly to the offer of free access in exchange for becoming a U.S. state. Prime Minister Carney has stayed firm on the issue of independence. He confirmed that Canada took part in talks about the defense system. But he never suggested Canada would give up its national identity. Canadian officials may continue defense discussions, but they will likely demand respect for Canada’s sovereignty.
Tensions May Grow Between the U.S. and Canada
Trump’s statehood proposal could raise more tension between the two countries. Canada wants strong defense ties but does not want to lose control over its decisions. Trump’s message suggests that independent sovereignty and freedom come with a price. This could push Canadian leaders to look for other defense options or stronger partnerships with allies like NATO. Meanwhile, Trump may continue to push for U.S. control over major defense plans. The debate over the Golden Dome shows how national pride and politics can affect even the most important security issues.