Pentagon withdraws from Canada-U.S. defence board

Let's be clear about the relationship as it stands right now.

The Canada -U .S.relationship is facing yet another challenge with the Trump administration pulling back from a government working group dedicated to North American defense.

My initial reaction is stupid foolishness.Once again the Americans want to talk to themselves instead of talking to other people.

The announcement came on social media.Canada has failed to make credible progress on its defense commitments, said a senior U .S.official.And so the U .S.

is pausing the permanent joint board on defense, adding, we can no longer avoid the gaps between rhetoric and reality.The post also includes a link to the prime minister's pointed critique of Trump's disruptive foreign policy.

We are in the midst of a rupture, not a transition.

The board was first launched by Prime Minister Mackenzie King and President Franklin D Roosevelt.

It was formed as a bilateral between Canada and the U .S.and during the Second World War its purpose was to develop coordinated defense for North America against the Axis.

In modern times officials held top -secret discussions about Arctic security strategy and the modernization of NORAD.Planning that will now become harder according to the former Canadian co -chair of the group.

I'm disappointed.I think it's short -sighted, I think it's foolish, but I'm not surprised.

In response, Canada's defence minister says Ottawa is remaining ready to come to the table for constructive discussions, pointing out that Canada has increased defence spending, meeting NATO's 2 % target ahead of schedule, and that Canada is on track to reach 5 % by 2035.Even with the board suspended, defense cooperation between Canada and the U .

S.continues on as planned.Certainly it's symbolic and its cancellation is going to rile feathers in Canada.But I think we'll have to see long term just how much it actually changes the level and cadence of communication.

The last known meeting of this group was November 2024.suggesting it hasn't met since Trump returned to office.

Okay Katie, help us out here.What more do we know about why this and why now?

There is plenty of speculation, Adrienne.Could it be a shot at Canada to gain leverage in trade talks?Is the U .S.angry that Canada is reviewing its purchase of American fighter jets?Or is the Trump administration frustrated that Canada isn't moving fast enough with defense spending?

Experts say all three could be valid.

All right, that is Katie Simpson in Washington.Thanks, Katie.