Asger Risom
PM Carney says it’s “not smart” to rely so heavily on the U.S. as tensions escalate over defense spending and sovereignty
Canada is moving to distance itself from U.S. military dependency by seeking entry into Europe’s major rearmament initiative.
The announcement follows a sharp demand from Donald Trump for Canada to contribute $61 billion to a U.S.-led missile shield.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced this week that Canada aims to join ReArm Europe by July 1—a large-scale European defense investment initiative designed to reduce reliance on American protection. Speaking with Canadian broadcaster CBC, Carney argued the country must reassess where its defense dollars go.
“Seventy-five cents of every Canadian defense dollar goes to the United States. That is not smart,”
he said, in comments cited by HotNews.ro.
Trump ups pressure with missile shield proposal
The shift comes amid growing tension with Washington. On Tuesday, Trump posted on Truth Social that Canada’s participation in his proposed “Golden Dome” anti-missile shield would cost Ottawa $61 billion. However, he added that the price tag would be waived entirely if Canada were to become “the 51st state.”
It will cost ZERO DOLLARS if they become the 51st state we treasure.
In response, Carney’s office issued a statement reaffirming Canada’s independence:
The prime minister has been clear at every opportunity, including in conversations with President Trump: Canada is an independent, sovereign country, and it will remain so.
Europe focus grows amid Arctic concerns
Defense was also front and center in Canada’s Throne Speech this week, which was read by King Charles III during a ceremonial visit. The address pledged reconstruction, rearmament, and increased investment in Canada’s military, with a new focus on Arctic sovereignty.
Defense Minister David McGuinty echoed the urgency at a defense expo:
The global security environment is volatile and uncertain.
He pointed to Russia’s war in Ukraine and China’s assertiveness as drivers for Canada’s defense pivot. Future investments will prioritize Arctic capabilities and partnerships with European allies.
NATO spending goals and sovereignty debates
The move comes as NATO’s Secretary General, Mark Rutte, pushes for all member states—including Canada—to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP, up from the previous 2% target.
Rutte cited deepening military ties between Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran as reasons to prepare for prolonged confrontation.
Domestically, Carney’s government is facing pressure from both allies and industry leaders to boost military investment.
Business groups argue defense spending will not only meet NATO expectations but stimulate Canada’s economy through domestic tech and equipment procurement.
While Canada continues talks with Washington on potential involvement in the Golden Dome system, Carney’s latest remarks make it clear Ottawa is also looking eastward—to Europe—for a more balanced defense future.