US President Donald Trump has proposed providing Canada with the advanced 'Golden Dome' missile defense system free of charge, contingent upon Canada becoming the United States' 51st state. This offer comes after Canada expressed interest in the defense program unveiled by Trump last week.
The 'Golden Dome' is a cutting-edge missile defense shield designed to counter next-generation aerial threats, including ballistic and cruise missiles. Trump announced the program would cost approximately $175 billion for the United States and estimated Canada would face a $61 billion expense if it opts to remain an independent nation.
On his social media platform Truth Social, President Trump stated: 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.
He added that Canada is actively considering the proposition.
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney has previously maintained a firm stance on protecting Canadian sovereignty, successfully countering Trump’s tariff policies and related pressures. However, Carney’s administration has since shown openness to negotiating a new security and economic arrangement with the United States, which includes the incorporation of the 'Golden Dome' system.
The White House emphasized the significance of this defense initiative and called on Congress to approve the comprehensive security bill, known as the One, Big, Beautiful Bill, to safeguard American interests.
This development signals potential shifts in North American defense cooperation and raises questions about sovereignty, national security, and bilateral relations between the US and Canada.
