'Canada lives because of US, remember that:' Trump jabs Carney
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has claimed that Canada owes its existence to the US while delivering a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The comments were a response to PM Mark Carney, who had condemned coercion by great powers in his address. "I watched your prime minister yesterday. He wasn't so grateful—they should be grateful to the US, Canada," Trump said, referring to military protection provided by the US.
Trump
'Canada gets a lot of freebies from us'
In his address arguing for the US annexation of Greenland, Trump stated that the Danish territory is needed for his proposed "golden dome," a missile defense system capable of covering North America. Trump stated that the dome will protect Canada because of its geography and that the country is not appreciative enough that such a system is being developed. "Canada gets a lot of freebies from us. By the way, they should be grateful but they're not," Trump said.
Trump
The two leaders did not meet
He then went on to say that Canada should be thankful to the US, adding, "Canada lives because of the United States." "Remember that, Mark, the next time you make your statements," he said to Carney, who had left the summit before Trump delivered his remarks. The two leaders did not meet on the sidelines of the summit.
Policy shift
Carney's response to Trump's claims at Davos
In his speech, Carney hinted at a change in Canada's foreign policy. He said Canadians must be "principled and pragmatic" and diversify trading relationships. Without naming Trump, Carney spoke about "American hegemony" and economic integration as weapons. He warned allies to act together or risk being dominated by larger powers.
Local reaction
Ontario Premier responds to Trump's comments
Ontario Premier Doug Ford responded to Trump's remarks, saying, "You don't attack your closest friend, your closest neighbor and your number one customer in the world." He called Trump's behavior "typical" but "unacceptable." The president's comments came after he posted an altered image of the US flag over Canada and Greenland on social media.