Mark Carney has said he held a “positive” conversation with Donald Trump after the US president threatened to block the Gordie Howe International Bridge, reminding him that Canada paid for the structure and that ownership is shared.
In a lengthy social media post, Trump falsely claimed the $4.6bn bridge, due to open in early 2026, had “virtually no US content” and that Canada owns both ends. He also made a bizarre assertion that increased trade with China would include a ban on Canadians playing ice hockey.
Speaking to reporters, Carney downplayed the comments, saying the “situation will be resolved”. He explained: “I told Mr Trump that Canada paid for the construction … that the ownership is shared between Michigan and Canada, and that US steel and US workers were also involved.”
Trump blamed his predecessor Barack Obama for “stupidly” approving the project, but former Conservative MP Jeff Watson noted construction began during Trump’s first term. Windsor mayor Drew Dilkens called the post “insane”.
Trump has focused his second term on grievances against Canada, including tariffs on steel, aluminium and automobiles. Ontario pulled US spirits from government-run liquor stores, and Premier Doug Ford said he would “double down if we have to”.
Trump’s tirade reflects concern over Carney’s plans to increase trade with China. Canadians mocked his claim that China would terminate ice hockey. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce warned that blocking bridges is “self-defeating”.
