President Donald Trump claimed Tuesday that Canada is “considering” becoming the 51st U.S. state to gain free access to the U.S.-led “Golden Dome” missile defense system — a claim flatly rejected by Canadian officials.
Trump posted on Truth Social, “I told Canada… 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!”
The former president has been floating the idea of annexing Canada for months. Canadian leaders have repeatedly rebuffed him.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, who just secured reelection after campaigning against Trump’s statehood push, said earlier this month, “Canada won’t be for sale, ever.”
Even King Charles III, Canada’s ceremonial head of state, addressed the issue in Parliament on Tuesday. “Canadians can give themselves far more than any foreign power on any continent can ever take away,” he said.
Despite public denials, Carney’s office confirmed that talks are ongoing between U.S. and Canadian officials. These include discussions about security cooperation and missile defense.
Trump announced last week that the U.S. would build the “Golden Dome,” a $175 billion missile defense network that uses satellites to detect and intercept incoming threats. He promised it would be operational in three years.
He claimed Canada has already reached out about joining the initiative. “They want to have protection also,” Trump said.
Carney’s spokesperson acknowledged the talks, calling them “wide-ranging and constructive.” Strengthening NORAD and cooperation on the Golden Dome are reportedly part of the discussions.
Still, Canada insists its sovereignty isn’t on the table. Trump, however, added another jab: “Never say never.”