“Trump says Canada will pay $61bn for Golden Dome”

United States President Donald Trump has made a bold offer to Canada, proposing that it can join his “Golden Dome” missile defense system for $61 billion if it remains a separate nation. However, Trump added a twist, stating that Canada can participate in the system for free if it becomes the 51st state of the United States. According to Trump, “I told Canada it will cost $61 Billion Dollars if they remain a separate Nation, but will cost ZERO DOLLARS if they become our 51st State.” He further claimed that Canada is “considering the offer”.

This proposal has sparked controversy and debate about US-Canada relations, sovereignty, and Trump’s vision for national security. The Golden Dome system, modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome, aims to protect against ballistic missiles and is estimated to cost $175 billion. Trump’s administration has requested $25 billion in initial funding for the project.

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney has steered clear of Trump’s proposal to join America, instead focusing on securing the Golden Dome for Canada through partnership. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Canada is in talks to partner with the US on the Golden Dome missile defense plan. Trump mentioned that Canada has expressed interest in joining the system, stating, “Canada has called us and they want to be a part of it. They want protection. We help Canada do the best we can.”

The proposal has drawn criticism from China, North Korea, and Russia, which claim that the Golden Dome will create a “space arms race”. Experts argue that cooperation between the US and Canada is in both nations’ interests, but Trump’s terms may hinder progress. The integration of the Golden Dome with NORAD, a US-Canada defense partnership, complicates matters, as Canada’s Arctic sensors need upgrades.

Key Perspectives:

• US Perspective: Trump’s proposal aligns with his campaign promise to bolster national security, showcasing his commitment to protecting the country from external threats.
• Canadian Perspective: Canada faces a dilemma, weighing the benefits of joining the Golden Dome system against potential sovereignty concerns and the hefty price tag of $61 billion.
• Global Perspective: The international community is watching closely, with some nations expressing concerns about the implications of Trump’s proposal on global security and the potential for an arms race.