US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that Canada is thinking about his offer to become the 51st state of the United States, in return for free access to his proposed $175 billion “Golden Dome” missile defense system.
Trump on his social media platform, Truth Social, said that Canada would have to pay $61 billion to access the system if it stays an independent country. But if it joined the US as a state, the system would be provided at no cost. “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,” Trump wrote. He further added, “They are considering the offer!”
So far, Canadian officials have not made any public comment about Trump’s statement or the suggestion of statehood.
Trump has been constantly pushing Canada to become part of the United States but Canada has rejected these pushes every time. Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, recently won the federal election after staunchly campaigning against Trump’s influence. He has focused on protecting Canada’s independence and keeping control of its own land and policies.
Last week, Trump revealed details of a massive missile defense plan called the Golden Dome. The program, estimated to cost $175 billion, would be the first time the US places weapons in space. Trump said he expects the system to be fully working before his term ends in 2029. He also claimed it would be able to stop missiles, even those launched from space.
Earlier this month, the Congressional Budget Office said parts of the Golden Dome system might end up costing as much as $542 billion over the next two decades. Trump has asked Congress to approve an initial $25 billion to start the project.
King Charles III backs Canada
King Charles III addressed Canada’s Parliament on Tuesday, warning that the country is facing serious and unusual challenges in a world that is more dangerous and unstable than it has been since World War II, reported Reuters. His speech was seen as a string message of support for Canada’s independence, following repeated suggestions by Trump that the US should annex the country.
Trump’s ongoing comments about Canada joining the United States prompted Prime Minister Mark Carney to invite the King to open the new session of Parliament, reported Reuters. As Canada’s head of state and a symbolic leader within the Commonwealth, Charles used the occasion to reaffirm Canada’s sovereignty.
Speaking in French, the King highlighted the growing fears among Canadians due to global instability and rapid changes. He stressed that Canada remains strong and free, emphasizing the importance of unity and national identity during uncertain times.
It was later on the same day that Trump posted the message that said if Canada agreed to become the 51st US state, it could join his planned Golden Dome missile defense program at no cost.
