Washington:Former U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday stirred recent controversy by declaring that Canada may be part of his proposed “Golden Dome” missile protection system freed from cost—however provided that it agrees to develop into the 51st state of america. In any other case, he mentioned, the participation would value Ottawa a staggering $61 billion.
Posting on his social media platform Fact Social, Trump wrote:
“I instructed Canada, which very a lot needs to be a part of our fabulous Golden Dome System, that it’s going to value $61 Billion {Dollars} if they continue to be a separate, however unequal, Nation. However will value ZERO DOLLARS in the event that they develop into our cherished 51st State. They’re contemplating the provide!”
Thus far, there was no official response from the Canadian authorities to Trump’s remarks.
Trump unveiled his formidable Golden Dome missile protection plan final week, estimating a complete value of $175 billion and promising it will be absolutely operational by the top of his time period in 2029. The system is meant to defend the U.S. towards a variety of threats together with long-range missiles and superior aerial weapons.
Whereas Canada has expressed curiosity in taking part in this system, Prime Minister Mark Carney has made it clear that Canada won’t compromise on its sovereignty. Throughout a latest go to to the White Home, Carney dismissed Trump’s proposal for Canada to affix the U.S., stating firmly,
“Canada isn’t on the market.”
Regardless of this disagreement, each leaders reportedly eased tensions over latest U.S. tariffs on Canadian items throughout the identical go to.
Canada and america are already shut protection companions by way of the North American Aerospace Protection Command (NORAD), which oversees joint air protection for the continent. Nonetheless, Trump’s newest feedback seem more likely to additional pressure relations between the 2 allies.
Specialists stay skeptical concerning the feasibility of the Golden Dome initiative, warning that each the technical and political hurdles are immense, and the ultimate value may far exceed Trump’s estimate.