Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred fresh controversy by demanding that Canada pay $61 billion to join his proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense initiative—unless the country opts to join the United States as its 51st state, in which case participation would be free.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Canada was eager to join what he described as a “fabulous” missile shield modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome. However, he made it clear that unless Canada accepts statehood, it would have to foot the bill.
“They very much want to be part of our Golden Dome System,” Trump wrote. “It’s ZERO DOLLARS if they become our cherished 51st State. They are considering the offer!”
The remarks came shortly after King Charles III addressed Canada’s Parliament in a rare speech, emphasizing Canadian sovereignty amid global instability. The timing highlighted the contrast between the king’s message and Trump’s overt pressure campaign.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has not yet officially responded to Trump’s latest statements, but he previously confirmed that high-level discussions on the defense project have been ongoing.
Speaking to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Carney reiterated his government's intent to join the European-led ReArm initiative by July 1, signaling a move to reduce reliance on U.S. defense infrastructure.
The Golden Dome, which Trump envisions as a continental shield against missile threats, is projected to cost $175 billion and be completed by the end of 2029. Skepticism has mounted among defense analysts, who question both the feasibility of the project’s timeline and the proposed budget. Critics also point out the scale and complexity of adapting a short-range system like Israel’s Iron Dome—designed for a small territory—to cover the entirety of the United States.
Trump is seeking an initial $25 billion in funding for the program via his so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill,” which recently passed the Republican-controlled House. The bill dramatically increases military and border enforcement spending while slashing social welfare programs such as Medicaid and food assistance.
The proposal to weaponise space as part of the Golden Dome has drawn harsh rebukes from global powers. China condemned the plan as destabilizing, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning accusing the U.S. of violating global norms and sparking an arms race. North Korea and Russia echoed those concerns, warning that the initiative could escalate tensions and lead to the militarization of outer space.
Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, criticized the missile shield as a threat to global strategic stability. She warned that the system’s development could be a precursor to preemptive strike capabilities and turn space into an active combat zone.
While Trump pushes ahead with his ambitious defense vision, international opposition and logistical challenges continue to mount, raising questions about the project’s long-term viability—and its impact on U.S. alliances and global security norms.
