Former U.S. President Donald Trump is once again making headlines—this time for an eye-catching proposal involving Canada and America’s defense system.

In a recent social media post on May 27, Trump suggested that Canada could avoid paying billions of dollars to join a U.S. missile defense program—if it agreed to become the 51st state of the United States.

According to Trump, Canada expressed interest in joining what he calls the “Golden Dome System,” a proposed missile defense network inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome. This advanced system would reportedly use space-based sensors and interceptors to protect the U.S. from global threats.

Trump claimed that if Canada stays independent, it would cost them $61 billion to participate. However, he said it would cost “zero dollars” if the country were to become an official U.S. state.

The Bigger Picture

Although the proposal sounds dramatic, it’s not the first time defense cooperation has been discussed between the two nations. Earlier this year, Canada’s former defense minister acknowledged that the missile system aligned with Canadian interests.

Still, Canada’s new Prime Minister Mark Carney has made it clear that the country is not for sale. In his first statements after taking office on April 28, he reinforced Canada’s sovereignty, echoing past leaders’ positions.

Political Theater or Real Policy?

Despite Trump’s claim that Canada is “reportedly considering the offer,” there’s been no official response from Canadian officials. Experts on both sides of the border are treating the idea more as political showmanship than a serious diplomatic plan.

While dramatic proposals are nothing new in Trump’s playbook, this one blends national defense, economics, and international relations into one eye-popping headline.

As for whether Canada would ever consider such a move? That remains firmly in the realm of speculation—for now.