Summary
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed intentions for Canada to join the European ReArm initiative by July, aiming to increase defense spending and reduce reliance on the US, where currently 75% of defense capital is spent. Amid rising global threats, specifically from Russia and China, Defense Minister David McGuinty emphasized the urgency to enhance military capacity, aligning with NATO’s proposed increase in defense spending to 5% of GDP. Carney reaffirmed Canada’s sovereignty amidst US President Trump’s remarks suggesting Canada consider becoming the 51st state, maintaining Canada’s independent status.