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Canadian election frontrunner Mark Carney has pledged to significantly increase military spending by £17 billion, citing concerns over potential threats to Canadian sovereignty from the United States. The former Prime Minister emphasized the necessity for Canada to fortify its defenses in anticipation of future challenges, particularly following remarks from former US President Donald Trump suggesting annexation.
Carney’s Pledge for Increased Defence Spending
Prime Minister Carney, who assumed office last month after Justin Trudeau’s resignation, is widely projected to secure a majority in the upcoming Canadian election amidst escalating tensions with the US. Polls indicate a surge in support for his Liberal Party coinciding with Trump’s controversial statements about potentially making Canada the 51st US state and imposing trade tariffs.
Standing Firm Against US Rhetoric
In contrast to many global leaders, Carney has openly challenged Trump’s rhetoric, directly attributing the strained relations between the US and Canada to the former American President. Unveiling the Liberal Party manifesto, Carney reiterated his unwavering commitment to safeguarding Canadian autonomy.
“In this critical period, we must prepare for potential threats to our very sovereignty from America,” Carney declared during a speech in Ontario. “They covet our land, our resources, our water, our entire nation.”
“President Trump aims to weaken Canada so that America can control us, but that will never come to pass,” Carney asserted. “Canada is distinct from America, and always will be. We need a strategic plan to navigate this evolving reality.”
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Significant Boost to Military Budget
Carney announced plans to augment defence spending by $30.9 billion Canadian dollars, approximately £16.8 billion, over the next four years. This substantial investment will elevate Canada’s military spending, currently at 1.37 percent of GDP, well beyond the NATO target of two percent. While the White House has previously urged Western allies to allocate at least five percent of GDP to defense, this benchmark is considered unattainable for many nations.
Funding Strategy and Priorities
To offset the increased expenditure, Carney outlined measures to reduce spending within the federal public service by curtailing the reliance on external consultants.
Focus on Northern Defence and Geopolitical Concerns
A significant portion of the new funding will be directed towards strengthening Canada’s northern regions. This initiative aims to counter China’s growing influence in the Arctic, where it has been actively engaging with Indigenous communities. The plan addresses concerns about emerging shipping routes due to climate change, exploitation of critical minerals, and potential border infringements in the North. “The North faces significant dangers as nations seek to exploit new shipping routes opened by climate change, extract our strategic resources, and intrude on our borders,” the manifesto states. “We will ensure Canada remains strong, independent, and sovereign.”
Military Modernization and Equipment
Furthermore, half of the increased military spending is earmarked for acquiring new military equipment and weaponry for the Canadian Armed Forces. This includes submarines and icebreakers to safeguard coastlines against potential Russian or Chinese aggression, along with advanced drone technology. Carney has also committed to diversifying the sources from which Canada procures its military equipment.
Shifting Global Alliances and Economic Independence
Last week, Carney commented on the changing geopolitical landscape: “The objectives of the United States, once closely aligned with ours, have changed.” He further noted, “For too long, our military has been underfunded and excessively reliant on the United States.”
The Liberal Party manifesto also emphasizes reducing Canada’s economic dependence on the US by facilitating inter-provincial trade. Additionally, it proposes enhanced support for the agricultural sector and supply chain development within Ontario’s auto industry to protect jobs.
Election Momentum and Projections
Early voting in the Canadian election saw almost two million Canadians cast their ballots on Friday, suggesting a strong voter turnout. Election projections currently indicate a likely majority government for the Liberals, forecasting 196 seats, well above the 172 required. The Conservatives are projected to secure 122 seats. At the dissolution of Parliament, the Liberal Party, in power since 2015, held 153 seats.