Canadian Prime Minister Carney Discusses Preparedness for U.S. Invasion Amid Trade Tensions

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that he prepared for the "extreme tail risk" of a U.S. invasion of Canada due to escalating trade tensions. Carney made these comments in an interview with The New York Times published on September 23, 2026, noting that he considered this possibility after President Donald Trump referred to Canada as the 51st state.</p><p>"I think you have a responsibility in these roles to look at extreme tail risk. That’s just risk management. That’s not a base case," Carney told the Times, emphasizing that it would be irresponsible not to consider such risks.</p><p>Trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada have intensified over the past year, with Trump imposing increased tariffs and Canada responding similarly. Carney acknowledged in a video statement earlier this month that Canada has become overly reliant on its economic relationship with the U.S. in recent decades.</p><p>He stated, "The past 40 years has been a period of deeper economic integration with the United States. Truth is, it was easy business, but it meant we relied too much on one economic partner. It’s clear that time is over." Carney added that the government's plan has focused on development and diversification rather than waiting for a return to previous economic conditions.</p><p>In a recent statement, Trump dismissed reports of Canada potentially joining the European Union as an associate member, threatening to impose heavy tariffs on Europe if he perceived such a move as hostile. "I think it's laughable," Trump said. "If they do that, if I think it's at all a hostile act, I will put very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe on many things."</p>