Trump claims Canada ‘considering’ offer of free Golden Dome in exchange for becoming 51st state

U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines on Tuesday with his claim that Canada was considering giving up its statehood in exchange for protection by the proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system at no cost. Despite Canadian officials repeatedly stating that the country is not for sale, Trump insisted that they were contemplating his offer.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump declared, “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.” He added, “They are considering the offer!”

This bold statement comes after Trump’s recent threats to annex Canada, a proposition vehemently rejected by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and the country’s citizens. Carney, who won an election last month in part due to Canadians’ opposition to Trump’s desire to make Canada part of the U.S., firmly told Trump earlier this month that his country “won’t be for sale, ever.”

In a show of solidarity with Canada, King Charles III, recognized as Canada’s sovereign, delivered a speech before the Canadian Parliament rejecting Trump’s proposal. He emphasized Canada’s ability to protect itself and build alliances that serve its citizens by staying true to Canadian values.

As for the “Golden Dome,” Trump recently announced the selection of the architecture for the missile defense system, which aims to detect, track, and potentially intercept incoming ballistic missiles. The project is estimated to cost $175 billion to build and is expected to be operational within three years. Trump assured that Canada would be included in the safety net provided by the system.

Carney’s office confirmed ongoing discussions between the U.S. and Canada regarding security programs, including the “Golden Dome.” A spokesperson for Carney stated that the prime minister and his ministers are engaging in constructive talks with American counterparts to negotiate a comprehensive security and economic relationship. These discussions encompass strengthening initiatives like the Golden Dome and enhancing cooperation through programs like the North American Aerospace Defense Command.

Overall, despite Trump’s persistent efforts to sway Canada, the country remains steadfast in its commitment to sovereignty and independence. The rewritten article seamlessly integrates the original HTML tags, headlines, and key points while offering a fresh perspective on the unfolding events between the U.S. and Canada.