Carney Says Canada Prepared for Extreme Risk of U.S. Military Action

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has confirmed that his government considered the possibility of U.S.-led military action against Canada, describing it as an “extreme tail risk” that responsible leaders must be prepared to assess. Carney made the comments during a recent interview with The New York Times, while declining to provide details about any specific preparations.

The disclosure comes amid heightened tensions between Ottawa and Washington. President Donald Trump has repeatedly spoken about Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state, although he previously ruled out using military force to achieve annexation and instead discussed economic pressure.

Carney has also pursued a strategy aimed at reducing Canada’s economic and technological dependence on the United States. His government has explored diversifying suppliers and strengthening relationships with other international partners, including Europe.

Despite the growing disagreements, Carney said he continues to communicate with Trump. The Canadian leader has framed the military scenario as a highly unlikely contingency rather than a prediction of imminent conflict.

The revelation nevertheless underscores how significantly the relationship between the two longtime allies has changed. With trade tensions, sovereignty concerns, and efforts to diversify Canada’s partnerships all unfolding simultaneously, Ottawa is preparing for a broader range of risks while seeking to preserve its longstanding ties with Washington.