Trump sows discord with Canada over fanciful ‘Golden Dome’ proposal
According to webangah News Agency, citing Reuters, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Canada must pay $61 billion to participate in his proposed space-based missile defense system.
Trump reignited controversy by repeating his suggestion to annex Canada as the 51st U.S. state, telling Ottawa: “If they accept this offer, they’ll get American protection for free.”
On his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote: “I told eager canada that joining our unbelievable Golden Dome system would cost them $61 billion if they remain a separate-but-unequal country! But becoming our 51st state? Zero dollars! They’re considering it!”
The president last week unveiled details of his ambitious plan for a missile shield protecting against ballistic, hypersonic and advanced cruise missiles – claiming full operational capability before his term ends.
The unproven technology would rely on space-based interceptors to destroy incoming missiles – particularly challenging for ballistic threats targeting the U.S.
Reuters reports the system would deploy hundreds of satellites equipped with advanced sensors and interceptors designed to neutralize missiles launched from nations like China,Iran,North Korea or Russia.
Trump estimates total costs at $175 billion, with Congress seeking initial approval for $25 billion. However, the Congressional Budget Office projects Washington would need $542 billion over 20 years for full deployment of orbital interceptors.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed last week that Ottawa is evaluating participation in trump’s Golden Dome initiative but declined to specify financial commitments, noting discussions remain preliminary.
