President Trump has stirred diplomatic waters by suggesting Canada could become the 51st U.S. state in exchange for free access to the newly announced “Golden Dome” missile defense system. The controversial offer would require Canada to pay $61 billion to remain independent but nothing if it joins the Union. What does Canada and America’s joining forces look like?
Trump’s Controversial Golden Dome Proposal
President Donald Trump has proposed an extraordinary deal to Canada: join the United States as its 51st state and receive free protection under America’s new “Golden Dome” missile defense system. The alternative would cost Canada $61 billion to maintain its independence while still benefiting from the protective shield, according to statements made by Trump in recent days.
“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 declared. He added confidently, “They are considering the offer!” despite immediate denials from Canadian officials.
Trump claims Canada ‘considering’ becoming 51st US state in exchange for Golden Dome protection https://t.co/ykdfvUgMi2 pic.twitter.com/Ye13YvcXc1
— New York Post (@nypost) May 27, 2025
Canadian and Royal Responses
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has firmly rejected Trump’s suggestion, stating unequivocally that “Canada wouldn’t ever be available for purchase.” Carney’s opposition to Trump’s annexation idea reportedly contributed to his recent electoral victory, indicating strong Canadian resistance to the concept.
King Charles III entered the diplomatic fray during his address to the Ottawa parliament, where he appeared to rebuke Trump’s overture without naming him directly. “Canada is facing challenges that, in our lifetimes, are unprecedented,” the monarch stated, adding that “Canadians can give themselves far more than any foreign power on any continent can ever take away.”
President Trump says he’ll waive Canada’s $61 billion price tag for the Golden Dome if they become the 51st state.
Says they are considering the offer.
Art of the deal🤣 pic.twitter.com/zQHVZnIRc4
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) May 27, 2025
The Golden Dome and Security Negotiations
The “Golden Dome” system represents a significant American investment in defense technology, with Trump announcing the $175 billion initiative that is expected to be operational within three years. Despite the public sparring, Carney’s office has confirmed that active discussions with the United States on security programs, including the Golden Dome, are indeed taking place.
The Canadian government is actively negotiating a new security and economic relationship with the United States, focusing on strengthening NORAD and related defense initiatives. This marks a potential shift in Trump’s approach to Canada compared to his previous relationship with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, which was characterized by tariffs on Canadian imports and occasional diplomatic tensions.
The Golden Dome proposal represents the latest chapter in the complex relationship between the two North American neighbors, combining elements of security cooperation with provocative rhetoric about sovereignty. While annexation remains highly unlikely, the discussions highlight the significant security and economic interdependence between the United States and Canada in an increasingly unstable global environment.