Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): Prime Minister Mark Carney says his government has considered the possibility of U.S. military action against Canada, describing it as an “extreme tail risk” that had to be examined as part of responsible national security planning.
In an interview, Carney said such a scenario was not the expected outcome, but argued that governments have a responsibility to consider even highly unlikely risks.
“I think you have a responsibility in these roles to look at extreme tail risk,” Carney said, describing the assessment as part of normal risk management.
The comments come amid continuing tensions between Ottawa and Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly spoken about Canada becoming the “51st state,” while previously indicating that military force would not be used to pursue annexation.
Carney did not provide details about specific preparations or assessments. Canadian officials have previously examined hypothetical scenarios involving potential threats to Canada as part of broader defence and national security planning.
The prime minister has also emphasized strengthening Canada’s economic and strategic relationships with countries beyond the United States, including through increased cooperation with European and other international partners.
The remarks highlight the changing nature of Canada-U.S. relations and the growing focus in Ottawa on national security, economic resilience and strategic independence.
