Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern message to Canada: either join his proposed missile defense initiative or face an enormous financial demand.

On May 20, Trump unveiled his controversial Golden Dome defense system—an ambitious $175 billion (£130 billion) project designed to protect the U.S. from foreign missile threats.

While he touted it as a major step forward in national security, critics, particularly from China, have accused him of escalating global militarization and reviving Cold War tensions in space.

Despite the backlash, Trump claims Canada is eager to participate.Posting on Truth Social on May 27, the 78-year-old made unverified statements that Canada is “very much interested” in joining what he described as America’s “fabulous” Golden Dome initiative.However, he stated that if Canada wants in as an independent nation, it will have to pay a steep $61 billion fee.

In a provocative twist, Trump said the fee would be waived entirely—but only if Canada agrees to become the 51st U.S. state.

“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,” Trump wrote, adding, “They are considering the offer!”This bold statement came just as King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived in Canada, amid heightened tensions between Canada and the U.S. King Charles—Canada’s constitutional monarch—delivered a speech to Parliament, stressing the importance of Canadian sovereignty in turbulent global times.

“Canada is at a critical crossroads,” the King said, highlighting the nation’s commitment to democracy, self-governance, and the rule of law. He emphasized that while the global trade system is evolving, Canada remains committed to its values and alliances.

King Charles also referenced Prime Minister Mark Carney, noting the country’s efforts to redefine its economic and security ties with the U.S. in a way that respects Canadian independence while pursuing shared interests.

Carney, for his part, has previously dismissed Trump’s proposal in no uncertain terms, asserting that “Canada is not for sale—ever.”