President Donald Trump issued a stark warning on Monday, declaring his intention to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which connects Detroit and Windsor, Ontario. The president’s comments reflect ongoing tensions between the United States and Canada over various economic issues as the relationship between the neighboring countries continues to strain.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that he would “not allow” the bridge to open until the U.S. is “fully compensated for everything we have given them,” and until Canada treats the United States with “Fairness and Respect.” The bridge, which has been a significant infrastructure project, is nearly complete and expected to debut later this year after undergoing a testing period.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge, a 1.5-mile span costing over $4 billion, is funded, built, operated, and maintained by Canada, but is set to be jointly owned by the government of Canada and the state of Michigan, based on a 2012 agreement. Trump’s assertion that Canada owns both sides and constructed the bridge with minimal U.S. input is inaccurate. The agreement mandates that iron and steel used in the construction must be sourced from either the U.S. or Canada, ensuring no preferential treatment.
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens voiced his disbelief at Trump’s statements, asserting that U.S. steel was indeed used during the bridge’s construction on the Michigan side of the river. Moreover, Trump’s comments come in the wake of prior criticisms he has levied against Canada, especially after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent advocacy for middle powers to unite against global superpowers like the U.S.
This is not the first clash between Trump and Canada. He has recently threatened a 50% tariff on Canadian aircraft and proposed a 100% tariff on Canadian goods if the country forms a trade deal with China. These threats coincide with Canada’s new strategic partnership with China, which includes easing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and providing China access to Canadian agricultural products.
The president also expressed frustration over Ontario’s decision to remove American alcoholic products from its provincial liquor store shelves, an action taken in response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.
Despite Trump’s harsh rhetoric, support for the Gordie Howe International Bridge exists, as indicated by state officials like Senator Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat from Michigan. She warned that canceling the project could have severe consequences for Michigan’s economy, emphasizing that “Canada is our friend — not our enemy.”
While the bridge represents a vital economic link between the U.S. and Canada, Trump’s approach suggests a need for fresh negotiations to strengthen ties and address shared economic interests, rather than escalating tensions. Such discussions could pave the way for a more collaborative and productive relationship in the future.