Trump Discusses Greenland and Canadian Security at Davos

President Donald Trump expressed his belief on Wednesday that Canada relies heavily on the security provided by the United States. He proposed that the U.S. should take control of Greenland to establish a significant missile defense system, which he dubbed the “Golden Dome,” aimed at protecting both the U.S. and Canada.

During his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, he stated, “We’re building the Golden Dome, and by its very nature, we’re going to be protecting Canada. And by the way, Canada is getting a lot of freebies from us. They should be grateful, too.” He seemed to imply that Canada has not shown enough appreciation, referencing a speech made by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney that took place the previous day.

Trump continued, expressing, “Canada lives because of the United States. Mark, the next time you speak, remember that,” suggesting that the Canadian leadership should acknowledge the benefits of American support.

As for the Golden Dome initiative, it’s uncertain whether Canada will be involved in the project’s development. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned that the Trump administration has extended an invitation to Canada to join in. He noted the strategic significance of Greenland and highlighted that, “It’s a Golden Dome plan to protect the United States, and they’ll bring Canada into it if they want to pay their share.”

The proposed missile defense system carries an estimated cost of about $175 billion and will utilize advanced technologies such as space-based sensors and interceptors. A report from the Congressional Budget Office has suggested that these space-based interceptors could end up costing between $161 billion and $542 billion over a span of 20 years.

In a related address, Prime Minister Carney remarked, without naming Trump, on the disintegration of the rules-based international order, emphasizing the pressure that “great powers” exert on their allies through their economic and security influence.

He urged that nations like Canada should take it as a “wake-up call” to reinforce their security through diversity, collective action, and respect for sovereignty. Carney also reiterated Canada’s backing for Greenland and Denmark’s right to determine the future of Greenland, opposing any form of territorial or economic pressure tied to security demands.