Trump offers Canada free access to ‘Golden Dome’ if it becomes the 51st U.S. state

Washington, May 28, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump declared that Canada could have free access to the “Golden Dome” missile defense system if it agrees to become the 51st state of the Union. Otherwise, the neighboring country would have to contribute $61 billion to join the project, which is valued at $175 billion and expected to be completed within three years.

The proposal came after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney signaled interest in deepening defense ties with the European Union. Trump, who has expressed his desire to annex Canada, stated that the country “very much wants to be part of our fabulous Golden Dome System.”

Carney, however, categorically rejected the idea of joining the U.S., reiterating Canada’s sovereignty. “The Prime Minister has made it clear on every occasion, including in conversations with President Trump, that Canada is an independent and sovereign nation, and will remain so,” said his office.

The “Golden Dome” is an ambitious missile defense project inspired by Israel’s “Iron Dome” but with a global reach. It envisions space-based interceptors capable of protecting North America from modern threats such as hypersonic missiles and intercontinental ballistic missiles. However, experts question the initiative’s technical feasibility and high costs, which may exceed $542 billion over two decades.

Meanwhile, Canada continues its defense investments, including a $4.3 billion Arctic radar system in partnership with Australia. The country is also committed to modernizing NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command), allocating $28 billion over the next 20 years.

Trump’s proposal has heightened diplomatic tensions between the two countries. During a visit to the Canadian Parliament, King Charles III reaffirmed Canada’s sovereignty and emphasized the country’s commitment to democracy and self-determination at a time of global geopolitical instability.

Despite pressure from Washington, the Canadian government remains firm in its position and continues to explore international cooperation alternatives in security and defense.