The sovereignty test is here

Trump’s second term as USA president could see a sovereignty test in some of USA’s neighbouring regions especially in Canada and Greenland. Resent comments of Trump and his national security advisor pick Mike Waltz about possible merger of Canada with USA and control over Greenland an island nation sparked the sovereignty debate. Although leaders of both these nations have rejected such comments and possibilities. Canada has long stood as a symbol of progressive governance, cultural inclusivity, and measured diplomacy—a nation that charts its own course beside its powerful southern neighbor. But in the wake of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation, Donald Trump’s audacious proposal for Canada to become the 51st state of the United States is more than a provocation. It is an existential challenge to Canadian sovereignty and a calculated attempt to exploit a moment of political transition.

Trudeau’s departure after nearly a decade in power has left Canada reflecting on both his successes and failures. From leading bold climate initiatives and renegotiating NAFTA to faltering on electoral reform and reconciliation with Indigenous people, Trudeau’s tenure was marked by ambition tempered by unfulfilled promises. His resignation presents a critical moment of introspection for Canadians: What kind of nation do they want to build in the years ahead?

Against this backdrop, Trump’s comments that a US-Canada merger would eliminate taxes and enhance protection from Russia and China come across as deeply opportunistic. More than just tone-deaf, they reveal a fundamental disregard for the values and identity that define Canada.

Canada is not simply an extension of the United States—it is a distinct entity with its own governance, culture, and priorities. Canadians pride themselves on universal healthcare, multiculturalism, and a more consensus-driven political culture. These values are the backbone of the nation’s identity, and they would be incompatible with Trump’s vision of a merger.

To propose such a union not only trivializes the differences between the two nations but also undermines the hard-won sovereignty Canadians have fought to preserve. Canada’s distinctiveness is not a flaw; it is a strength, and any suggestion of erasing it is an affront to the principles of self-determination and independence.

Trump’s remark immediately after Trudeau’s resignation adds insult to injury. Trudeau’s tenure was defined, in part, by his emphasis on Canada’s sovereignty—from renegotiating trade agreements to navigating the complexities of Arctic policy. Trump’s comment feels like an attempt to overshadow Trudeau’s legacy while Canada is in a moment of political recalibration.

But if Trump hoped to exploit a perceived vulnerability, he underestimated the resilience of the Canadian spirit. Canadians, far from being tempted by promises of tax relief or enhanced security, are likely to see such rhetoric as an affront to their independence and an attack on their values.

Trump’s remark carries implications far beyond Canada’s borders. It speaks to a growing trend of nationalist leaders seeking to expand their influence through rhetoric that undermines the sovereignty of other nations. In this context, Canada’s rejection of such a proposal shall become a global statement—a reaffirmation that sovereignty is not for sale, no matter how enticing the promises may seem.

Trudeau’s resignation offers Canada a chance to reflect on its successes and shortcomings and to choose a path forward. The next leader must address critical issues such as electoral reform, reconciliation, and climate action while navigating an increasingly polarized global order.

But perhaps most importantly, Canada must seize this moment to reaffirm its values in the face of challenges to its sovereignty. Trump’s remark is a reminder that national identity is not static—it must be continually nurtured and defended.

In an era of geopolitical brinkmanship, where sovereignty is often treated as a bargaining chip, Canada’s ability to stand firm will serve as a model for other nations. The world is watching, and Canada has the chance to show that its identity, its independence, and its values are not negotiable.

The sovereignty test is here. And Canada, ever resilient, is poised to pass it with flying colors.

Dr. Ashraf Zainabi is Teacher and Researcher.