US President Donald Trump has sparked a massive diplomatic row by claiming that China will "eat" Canada within a single year. This explosive statement comes as tensions escalate between Trump and Canadian Prime Minister. Mark Carney over trade policies and the ambitious US 'Golden Dome' missile defense project. Trump expressed deep anger, stating that Canada is prioritizing its relationship with China over its long-standing alliance with the United States, thereby posing a threat to North American security.
The China Trade Deal Friction
The primary trigger for Trump's outburst appears to be PM Mark Carney's recent visit to China, while during this trip, Canada signed significant trade agreements, most notably reducing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) from 100% to just 6. 1%. In return, China slashed tariffs on Canadian agricultural products from 84% to 15%. Trump views this move as a betrayal, especially since Carney had previously labeled China a major security threat, while the shift in Canada's stance has led Trump to believe that Canada is becoming too dependent on Beijing.
Carney's Defiant Speech at Davos
Adding fuel to the fire was Mark Carney's speech at the World Economic Forum regarding the 'New World Order. ' Carney criticized the dominance of superpowers, suggesting that international rules are. Often manipulated to favor the strong while smaller nations are forced to comply. Trump responded sharply in Davos, asserting that Canada should be grateful for the various "free benefits" provided by the US. He reminded Carney that Canada's security and existence are heavily supported by American resources.
'Canada is Not for Sale'
Responding to Trump's remarks, Mark Carney addressed his nation from Quebec. City, stating firmly that "Canada isn't alive because of the US. " He emphasized that Canada's success is built on the hard work of its own citizens. Carney also revisited Trump's past suggestion of making Canada the 51st US state, comparing Canada to Buckingham Palace—a place that's simply "not for sale. " Following this defiant stance, Trump reportedly withdrew Canada's invitation to. The Gaza Board of Peace, signaling a further breakdown in relations.
The $175 Billion Golden Dome Project
At the heart of the military dispute is Trump's 'Golden Dome' project, a massive missile defense system inspired by Israel's Iron Dome, while estimated to cost $175 billion, the project involves launching over 1,200 satellites into space. This network aims to detect and intercept enemy missiles in outer space before they can reach Earth, while trump claims the system will be operational by 2029 and is essential for protecting the US from threats posed by Russia and China. Canada's skepticism and opposition to this project have deeply frustrated the Trump administration.
The Greenland Connection
The dispute also extends to Greenland, which Trump considers vital for the Golden Dome's infrastructure. Carney has previously warned Trump that the US can't decide. Greenland's future, as that right belongs solely to Denmark and Greenland. Trump has now tasked Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to oversee the project's progress and report directly to him. As both leaders refuse to back down, the future of the US-Canada partnership remains uncertain.
