US President donald trump has recently made a shocking proposal. He said that if canada agrees to become the 51st state of America, then it can be included in America's new missile defense system "Golden Dome" for free. Otherwise, canada will have to pay 61 billion dollars for this.
trump wrote on his social media platform
"Canada wants to join this wonderful 'Golden Dome System'. If it remains an independent but unequal nation, it will have to spend 61 billion dollars. But if it becomes America's beloved 51st state, it will not have to pay a single dollar. They are considering it!"
Canada's response
Canada's prime minister Mark Carney admitted that discussions are going on between Washington and Ottawa regarding the "Golden Dome" plan. He said, "It is important for canada to strengthen its security, so it is natural to consider such plans." However, during a visit to the white house this month, he categorically stated that "Canada has never been for sale." He categorically ruled out any possibility of becoming part of the US.
Even though the talk of statehood has been rejected, defense cooperation between the two countries continues. Shared schemes like NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command), which has been active since the 1950s, are proof of this.
Old tensions and new complications
The relationship between the US and canada has been tense many times in recent years. During Trump's tenure, there was also a rift between the two countries over trade differences and tariffs. trump has said many times before that canada should join the US.
On the other hand, canada is constantly working towards strengthening its military capabilities. In 2022, it made a big announcement of 38.6 billion Canadian dollars (about 28 billion US dollars) for the modernization of NORAD, so that it remains an ally but does not compromise its sovereignty. Now the "Golden Dome" program is further complicating this partnership..jpg)
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