President Trump made waves Tuesday with a bold claim that Canada might soon join the United States as its 51st state in return for inclusion in the American “Golden Dome” missile defense initiative.
The announcement came not long after King Charles III made subtle remarks during a speech to Canada’s parliament that appeared to push back against Trump’s ambitions to absorb the country into the U.S.
“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, 78, wrote on Truth Social.
“They are considering the offer!”
Earlier that day, King Charles, who serves as sovereign over Canada along with more than a dozen other nations, alluded to the political tension, warning that “Canada is facing challenges that, in our lifetimes, are unprecedented” and noted that “many Canadians are feeling anxious and worried about the drastically changing world around them.”
Trump began jokingly labeling Canada the 51st state last year and mockingly called Prime Minister Justin Trudeau a “governor.” He also introduced a 25% duty on Canadian steel, aluminum, vehicles, and other goods that fall outside of USMCA trade guidelines.
While his relationship with Trudeau was often tense, Trump has found more common ground with Trudeau’s successor, Mark Carney. Yet, even during their May 3 meeting at the White House, Trump made clear that the idea of Canada joining the Union was still alive in his mind.
“I say, ‘Never say never,’” Trump told Carney. “I’ve had many, many things that were not doable and ended up being doable.”
{Matzav.com}