The Blubber

On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Canada would need to pay US$61 billion to participate in his space-based missile defense initiative, dubbed the “Golden Dome” — but said the cost would be zero if Canada opted to join the United States as its 51st state. Trump claimed he delivered this message to Canada directly.

The announcement came shortly after King Charles III addressed Canada’s Parliament with a speech from the throne that emphasized Canadian sovereignty and outlined plans to strengthen national defense.

“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,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “They are considering the offer!”

Global News has contacted the Prime Minister’s Office for comment and asked the White House how Trump arrived at the US$61 billion figure but has not received a response yet.

Trump introduced his proposed US$175-billion “Golden Dome” defense system last week, claiming Canada was eager to join but would need to contribute its "fair share."

Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged that his government was in discussions with the Trump administration about the Golden Dome project, though he emphasized it was one of several defense options Canada was evaluating in collaboration with allies.

Carney did not specify how much Canada might be prepared to invest in the project.

The Liberal government has pledged to increase defense spending by over $30 billion over the next four years as part of its platform. Ahead of the election, Carney announced a $6-billion investment in Arctic radar systems, which experts say could support continental missile defense efforts.

Tuesday’s speech from the throne also confirmed Canada’s intention to join the European Union’s ReArm Europe initiative, aimed at ramping up military production and reducing reliance on U.S. defense systems.