US pauses joint defense effort with Canada that dates to WWII
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- The U.S. Pentagon announced it is pausing participation on the Permanent Joint Board on Defense with Canada, citing Canada's failure to make credible progress on defense commitments.
- This move reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Canada, fueled by disputes over military spending, tariffs, trade agreements, and strained relations between President Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
- Canada and other NATO allies have increased defense spending since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with Canada aiming to meet the 2% GDP defense spending target this year and NATO pledging 5% by 2035.
- The board, established in 1940, has historically played a key role in North American continental defense, including advising on NORAD and early warning systems during the Cold War.
- The decision signals a broader weakening of U.S. ties with traditional Western allies during Trump's second term, drawing criticism from some U.S. lawmakers who warn it could harm the U.S.-Canada alliance.