Former President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting the US and Canada, expressing that the US must be fully compensated before it can open. He made these remarks on social media, indicating that the bridge will remain closed until Ottawa treats the United States with the fairness and respect it deserves. The bridge, which spans the Detroit River, is funded by the Canadian government and is set to be publicly owned by both nations.
Construction began in 2018, and the bridge is anticipated to open in early 2026, pending necessary tests and approvals. However, Trump's threat adds uncertainty as he suggests that negotiations will commence immediately, despite not clarifying how he could legally block the bridge's opening.
Trump, citing trade disputes such as high tariffs on dairy products from Canada, insists that the United States should maintain at least half ownership of the bridge. He commented that Canada is taking advantage of the US and added that a recent trade deal between Canada and China would endanger American interests.
Responses from Canadian officials regarding Trump's statements were not immediately available, but the ongoing political tensions over the bridge illustrate a complex relationship between the two neighboring countries.
Construction began in 2018, and the bridge is anticipated to open in early 2026, pending necessary tests and approvals. However, Trump's threat adds uncertainty as he suggests that negotiations will commence immediately, despite not clarifying how he could legally block the bridge's opening.
Trump, citing trade disputes such as high tariffs on dairy products from Canada, insists that the United States should maintain at least half ownership of the bridge. He commented that Canada is taking advantage of the US and added that a recent trade deal between Canada and China would endanger American interests.
Responses from Canadian officials regarding Trump's statements were not immediately available, but the ongoing political tensions over the bridge illustrate a complex relationship between the two neighboring countries.
