Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has confirmed he factored in the remote possibility of a US military incursion when assessing national risks. When questioned directly about whether he seriously considers such a threat, Carney stated he takes responsibility for monitoring what he called "extreme tail risks." He explained that those in leadership positions have a duty to remain vigilant about improbable yet high-impact events, describing this approach as simply part of sound risk management.
Pressed further on the topic, particularly in light of repeated statements by President Donald Trump about making Canada the 51st US state, Carney remarked that an invasion is "not the baseline scenario," but added that failing to prepare for it would be irresponsible. During a wide-ranging discussion, the Prime Minister outlined several initiatives Canada is pursuing to reduce its economic and strategic reliance on the United States. This dependency is now viewed as a vulnerability by Carney and other Canadian officials, given the tariffs and other trade measures imposed by Washington.
As an example, Carney indicated that Canada will look to lessen its dependence on satellite broadband services provided by Elon Musk's SpaceX. "There is no question that we will gradually reduce our reliance on Starlink," he said. However, he also acknowledged that certain aspects of the bilateral relationship are deeply intertwined and difficult to unravel. Carney argued that dismantling the closely linked automotive supply chains between the two nations would make little sense, and he cautioned against using Canadian energy and food exports as bargaining chips in negotiations.
Looking ahead, Carney expressed an expectation that global demand for alternatives to the US dollar will rise, partly due to the Trump administration's "coercive" tactics against trading partners. He asserted that a global financial system entirely dependent on the dollar is not sustainable, and that a multipolar system featuring multiple reserve currencies would offer "greater flexibility." Despite the strains in the relationship, Carney told the publication that he speaks with Trump "frequently," noting they have communicated "several times" since trade talks broke down in August.