WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Donald Trump is offering Canada protection under his proposed ‘Golden Dome’ missile defense system, but there’s a catch: Pay for that protection or it could be free if they become the next US state.
On Tuesday, the President wrote on his Truth Social account that Canada is considering his offer. This was the message on this account: “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!”
Last week the President announced they want to move forward with creating a so-called Golden Dome. It would be like a missile defense system using satellites to detect, track, and intercept incoming ballistic missiles. The project could reportedly cost hundreds of billions of dollars.
“This design of the golden dome would integrate with our existing defense capabilities and should be fully operational before the end of my term,” Trump said during the announcement.
According to a Politico report, Canada would be a critical component for a project like this. The northern country could give the US valuable airspace for sensors to intercept or shoot down missiles that China and Russia are developing to fly over the north pole. According to other reports, Canadian officials are in discussions on security related issues with the US, including the golden dome and NORAD, but not giving up it’s independence.
The President has repeatedly stated he wants our northern neighbor to join the US. However, Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has repeatedly said that is not an option.
“It’s not for sale,” said Carney during a meeting with the President in the Oval Office in early May. “It won’t be for sale, ever.”
In a recent speech to Canada’s parliament, King Charles, who is the head of state in Canada, a member of the commonwealth, he showed support for Canada following Trump’s 51st statehood comments.
“Today Canada faces another critical moment,” said King Charles. “Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination and freedom are values which Canadians hold dear and ones which the government is determined to protect.”