Donald Trump has renewed his push for Canada to become the 51st State of the United States, just hours after King Charles III delivered a powerful speech to the Canadian Parliament.
In an apparent swipe at King Charles’ symbolic show of solidarity with Canada, Donald Trump took to Truth Social on Tuesday to stoke the flames for unification with North America under the Stars and Stripes.
Trump declared: “I told Canada, which very much wants to be part of our fabulous Golden Dome System, that it will cost $61 Billion Dollars if they remain a separate, but unequal, Nation, but will cost ZERO DOLLARS if they become our cherished 51st State. They are considering the offer!”.
The proclamation came just hours after King Charles had solemnly opened the Canadian Parliament, a move interpreted as a robust endorsement of the country’s sovereignty amidst mounting U.S. influence.
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The Royal couple’s visit was fleeting yet laden with significance, marked by a grand ceremonial procession and an address merging diplomatic tact with sincere warmth.
Though the bulk of the King’s half-hour speech was prepared by the Canadian government, Charles infused it with personal touchstones at the beginning and end, invoking an emotional tribute to Canada’s identity and stature on the world stage.
“It is with a sense of deep pride and pleasure that my wife and I join you here today, as we witness Canadians coming together in a renewed sense of national pride, unity, and hope,” Charles imparted.
“As I have said before, ‘Every time I come to Canada… a little more of Canada seeps into my bloodstream – and from there straight to my heart.’ I have always had the greatest admiration for Canada’s unique identity.”
Interpreted by many as a tacit endorsement of Canada’s sovereignty, the King added, “Today, Canada faces another critical moment. Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination, and freedom are values which Canadians hold dear, and ones which the Government is determined to protect.”
Delivering the government’s committed stance, Charles emphasised: “The Government will discharge its duty to protect Canadians and their sovereign rights, from wherever challenges may come at home or abroad.”
Wrapping up his speech in a decidedly Canadian manner, he invoked the words of the national anthem: “The True North is indeed strong and free!”
The grandeur of the Royal arrival paralleled his address. Throngs of people crowded the streets as 28 regal horses escorted the Royal cortege through Ottawa.
Amidst the procession, the King and Queen Consort made their way in the historic State landau that dates back 130 years, eliciting cheers and shouts of affection like “we love you King Charles” from enthusiastic spectators brandishing flags.
Greeted by Prime Minister Mark Carney and his wife Diana upon reaching the Senate, this was the King’s 20th official visit to Canada, with this occasion clearly signalling an unwavering show of support amidst escalating global tensions.
But can Charles’ meticulous diplomacy be sufficient to maintain amity with Washington?
Observers are already pondering if the King’s pointed remarks will rankle Trump’s entourage, especially after Charles offered Trump a special personal invitation for an unprecedented second state visit to the UK.
A Royal informant disclosed to ITV: “He is thoughtful, has mastery of that diplomatic tight rope and has become even more acutely aware of how to walk it since he acceded to the throne.”
The insider further remarked: “People will understand the King’s distinct, constitutional roles as Head of State for Canada and Head of State for the UK – and if anyone can fulfil those two separate roles adroitly, without favouring one over another, it’s him.”
As strains over tariffs and autonomy keep brewing between Ottawa and Washington, palace staff affirm that Charles is primed to ‘rise above’ any ‘regional challenges’ that may surface.
In the meantime, Canadians are measuring a significant American proposition against the solace brought by their King, who concluded his address with “heartfelt gratitude” for their reception and a strong reminder of Canada’s strength, unity, and freedom.