Trump dreams of his “Golden Dome” and demands $61 billion from Canada

Donald Trump posted a message on his Truth Social network, claiming that Canada will have to pay $61 billion to integrate what he calls “the fabulous Golden Dome system”, a defense system whose total cost would be $175 billion for the United States.

Trump used the post as an opportunity to revive his recurring rhetoric that Canada could one day become the 51st state of the United States.

In particular, Trump said, “I told Canada, which very much wants to be part of our fabulous Golden Dome System, that it will cost $61 Billion Dollars.”

The American president, who recently announced plans for a defense system inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome, specified that this cost would only apply “if they remain a separate, but unequal, Nation”.

Trump was quick to taunt Canada once again, saying that “will cost ZERO DOLLARS if they become our cherished 51st State”, adding that the country is reportedly currently considering the possibility. “They’re considering the offer!” he said.

Questioned on this subject in a CBC interview, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, after a spokesman had emphasized that Canada and the USA remain partners in North American defense, notably via NORAD, reaffirmed his desire to reduce Canada’s dependence on the US…

…stating that he is working to have the country join the ReArm Europe initiative, a commitment he hopes to formalize by Canada Day, July 1. During his visit to the White House, Carney declared that Canada would never become the 51st U.S. state, and that the country was not for sale.