Trump Proposes Canada as 51st State to Dodge $61B Defense Cost—Canada Says “No Thanks”

In a headline-grabbing move, U.S. President Donald Trump proposed turning Canada into the 51st U.S. state, suggesting it would eliminate the country’s $61 billion contribution to the U.S.-led “Golden Dome” missile defense program.

The offer, announced via Trump’s Truth Social on May 28, 2025, came with a blunt message: “Remain a separate, unequal nation and pay up — or become our cherished 51st State and pay zero.” The statement sparked immediate backlash and debate across both nations.

During a recent Oval Office meeting, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney firmly rejected the proposal, comparing Canada to an unsellable piece of prime real estate. “We’re not for sale,” he declared, emphasizing partnership over absorption.

The Golden Dome system, unveiled by Trump on May 21, is a $175 billion initiative aimed at protecting the U.S. from evolving missile threats. Modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome, the system combines land, sea, and space-based technologies.

Canada remains open to defense collaboration but insists on maintaining its sovereignty. “Canada will remain an independent nation,” Carney’s spokesperson confirmed. Talks on strengthening NORAD and NATO contributions continue, but statehood? That’s off the table.