Nationwide — Trump has threatened to block the new bridge connecting the United States and Canada, demanding full compensation and fair treatment for the United States. The $4.7 billion project could face delays if a deal isn’t reached.
The bridge, under construction since 2018, is set to open early this year with six lanes connecting Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan. Canada financed the project entirely, while Michigan holds partial ownership. Officials say the bridge is vital for trade, tourism, and travel between the two countries.
In a social media post, Trump criticized Canada for not giving the U.S. “fairness and respect”, saying the U.S. should benefit from the bridge’s revenue. “With all that we have given them, we should own, perhaps, at least one half of this asset. The revenues generated because of the U.S. Market will be astronomical,” Trump said in the post.
Trump then called for immediate negotiations and suggested the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra, help guide discussions, according to ABC News.
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he spoke with Trump to explain that Canada covered the construction costs and that ownership is already shared with Michigan. He emphasized the cooperation between Canadian and American workers and steel suppliers. He called the conversation “positive” and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to opening the bridge.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford added that once Canada recoups its costs through tolls, Michigan will officially own half the bridge. Ford emphasized that keeping the bridge open benefits both economies and expressed confidence the project will proceed despite Trump’s threats.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump wants more American-made materials used and a share of the economic benefits before allowing the bridge to open. Canadian and U.S. officials continue working to resolve the dispute while preparing for the bridge’s official launch.