Trump Administration Officials Held Secret Meetings with Alberta Separatist Group
Officials from the Trump administration have reportedly engaged in three clandestine meetings with leaders of the Alberta Prosperity Project, a far-right Canadian separatist movement, since last April. These meetings took place in Washington and have raised significant diplomatic eyebrows given the sensitive nature of the discussions.
Details of the Covert Encounters
The Alberta Prosperity Project, which advocates for the independence of the oil-rich western province of Alberta, claims to have met with "very, very senior people" within the U.S. government. According to reports, the group planned to request a substantial $500 billion credit facility to support its separatist ambitions. This staggering figure underscores the scale of their economic aspirations and the potential implications for regional stability.
Official Denials and Diplomatic Tensions
Both the White House and the State Department have firmly denied making any commitments to the Alberta Prosperity Project. A spokesperson explicitly stated that no support or other pledges were conveyed during these encounters. However, the meetings coincide with a period of heightened tensions between the United States and Canada. Recent remarks by a U.S. Treasury Secretary regarding Alberta's independence, coupled with threats from a prominent U.S. political figure concerning tariffs and Canadian sovereignty, have further strained bilateral relations.
Domestic Opposition in Alberta
Despite the separatist group's efforts to garner international backing, domestic support for independence appears limited. An Alberta government spokesperson emphasised that most Albertans are not interested in independence. This sentiment is reinforced by a counter-petition against separation, which garnered significantly more signatures than pro-independence initiatives, highlighting a strong current of opposition within the province itself.
Broader Implications for US-Canada Relations
The revelation of these secret meetings adds a complex layer to the already delicate relationship between the two North American neighbours. While the Trump administration has distanced itself from any formal support, the mere occurrence of such high-level discussions with a separatist group could be interpreted as a provocative diplomatic manoeuvre. It raises questions about the future of cross-border cooperation, particularly in areas such as trade, energy, and regional security.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing scrutiny from both sides of the border. As diplomatic channels continue to navigate these sensitive issues, the broader impact on US-Canada relations and Alberta's political landscape will be closely monitored by policymakers and analysts alike.
