US Withdraws Board of Peace Invite as Trump–Canada Tensions Escalate
GG News Bureau
Washington 23rd January: Diplomatic relations between the United States and Canada hit a new low on Thursday after President Donald Trump withdrew Canada’s invitation to join his proposed “Board of Peace,” following a sharp public exchange with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The decision came just hours after Carney publicly rejected Trump’s claim at the World Economic Forum in Davos that “Canada lives because of the United States.” Speaking in Quebec City ahead of the start of a new parliamentary session, Carney pushed back firmly, underscoring Canada’s sovereignty while acknowledging the long-standing partnership between the two countries.
“Canada doesn’t live because of the United States,” Carney said in a nationally televised address. “Canada thrives because we are Canadian.” He added that while ties with Washington remain important, respect and equality are essential in maintaining that relationship.
Trump responded later in the day on his Truth Social platform, announcing that Canada’s invitation to join the “Board of Peace” — a self-styled billion-dollar initiative aimed at resolving global conflicts — had been withdrawn. In a message addressed directly to Carney, Trump said the board was rescinding its offer for Canada to participate.
A Canadian government source told Agence France-Presse that Ottawa had no intention of paying to be part of the body, though Carney had previously indicated he would consider joining if formally invited. The exchange reflects growing strain between the two allies, whose relationship has become increasingly tense since Trump returned to office nine months ago.
The confrontation follows Carney’s widely noted remarks in Davos earlier this week, where he warned of a “rupture” in the US-led, rules-based global order. Without mentioning Trump by name, Carney argued that middle powers like Canada could no longer assume that traditional alliances or quiet compliance would protect them from pressure by larger powers.
Trump appeared visibly irritated by the comments and mocked Carney during his own speech a day later. “I watched your prime minister yesterday. He wasn’t so grateful,” Trump said. “Canada lives because of the United States. Remember that, Mark.”
Beyond the rhetoric, the dispute carries significant economic and political implications. Canada remains deeply dependent on the US market, with more than three-quarters of its exports destined for its southern neighbor. Key industries such as automobiles, steel and aluminum have already felt the impact of Trump’s global tariffs, though the effects have been partially cushioned by Washington’s continued adherence to the North American free trade agreement.
That arrangement may soon face renewed pressure. Talks to revise the trade deal are expected to begin this year, and Trump has repeatedly claimed the US does not need Canadian products — a stance that could have far-reaching consequences for Canada’s economy.
Trump has also stirred controversy by repeatedly floating the idea of annexing Canada and recently shared a social media image depicting Canada, Greenland and Venezuela under the American flag.
Addressing Canadians on Thursday, Carney acknowledged the uncertain global climate. “The world is more divided,” he said. “Former alliances are being redefined — and in some cases, broken.”
Pointing to plans to increase defence spending and strengthen border security, Carney said Canada must protect its sovereignty while offering democratic leadership at a time of global instability. Canada, he added, has a responsibility “to be a beacon — an example to a world that’s at sea.”
