Former US President Offers Free Access if Canada Becomes 51st State
In a bold and controversial statement, former US President Donald Trump has demanded $61 billion from Canada to be part of his proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system — unless, he says, Canada chooses to become the 51st state of the United States.
“Canada can join for free—but only if they become our cherished 51st State,” Trump posted on social media this Tuesday.
Trump’s remarks have sparked debate and criticism, both politically and diplomatically. His comments come shortly after he introduced the ambitious Golden Dome project, a proposed space-based missile defense shield aimed at neutralizing threats from ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, and advanced cruise missiles.
A Massive Project with a Massive Price Tag
The “Golden Dome” missile defense system is designed to offer a futuristic shield in space, but its feasibility remains in question. Despite Trump’s confidence that the project will be fully operational by the end of his term, many experts have cast doubt on whether such a system can be built, tested, and deployed in such a short timeline.
The $61 billion price tag Trump mentioned would presumably cover Canada’s share of costs to participate in the system. Trump framed the offer as a choice: pay the amount or join the U.S. union, which he said would come at no financial cost.
Diplomatic Ripples Across the Border
While Trump’s statement seems to blur the lines between diplomacy and satire, the message has generated wide attention and potential unease. The idea of Canada becoming the 51st state — even if said in jest — treads into sensitive political territory.
“They are considering the offer!” Trump concluded, adding a layer of ambiguity to whether any discussions with Canada are actually taking place.
Experts Question the Tech and the Talk
Defense analysts and policy experts are skeptical about both the Golden Dome’s technical feasibility and the tone of Trump’s message. Questions are being raised about how realistic the space-based shield is, and whether Canada was formally approached with this “offer.”
While Trump is known for his off-the-cuff remarks and hyperbole, this statement has nevertheless stirred a serious conversation around international relations, defense partnerships, and North American diplomacy.
Conclusion
The Golden Dome missile defense system may still be in its conceptual stage, but Trump’s $61 billion demand to Canada has already made headlines globally. Whether Canada chooses to pay, ignore the proposal, or respond at all — remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: this remark has again put Trump at the center of the geopolitical spotlight.