The American ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra, is observing the ongoing discussions in Ottawa around Canada’s defense budget, emphasizing that the U.S. will not dictate Canada’s spending decisions. In a recent interview with The Canadian Press, Hoekstra made it clear that the U.S. does not have expectations regarding Canada’s military expenditures. His remarks come on the heels of NATO defense ministers meeting to endorse new spending targets. Hoekstra reflected on the significance of the NATO alliance, especially in light of Canada’s contributions in military operations like Afghanistan, underscoring the principle of collective defense enshrined in the NATO treaty.
The ambassador refrained from directly addressing U.S. President Donald Trump’s previous claims about countries not meeting defense spending obligations. However, he acknowledged that Canada’s defense spending remains an “irritant” in U.S.-Canada relations. Currently, Canada has not met NATO’s established spending target of 2% of GDP, which has been a point of contention. Discussions between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Trump have focused on negotiating an economic and security deal following Canada’s recent elections, with defense funding expected to be central to these talks.
As of 2023, Canada’s defense spending reportedly increased to 1.33% of its GDP, up from about 1% in 2014, with projections suggesting it could reach 1.45% by 2024. A report by the Canadian Global Affairs Institute highlighted that Canada stands as the seventh-largest NATO spender and the 14th in the world, although it still struggles to meet NATO’s 2% goal. Carney has pledged to accelerate this timeline, with ambitions to meet the target by 2030, but detailed plans and funding are still forthcoming.
In the context of recent international discussions, NATO is working towards a new defense investment plan that proposes member countries allocate 3.5% of their GDP towards core defense and an additional 1.5% for related investments like infrastructure. This proposal arises amid concerns over diminishing American commitments and a proactive Russian stance. Both U.S. political parties have heightened calls for Canada to bolster its military capabilities, particularly regarding Arctic defense in light of changing geopolitical dynamics.
Hoekstra noted that U.S. discussions regarding defense technology, such as Trump’s “Golden Dome” missile-defense initiative, have implications for Canada. The president estimated a steep cost for Canada to participate in this project, though exact figures remain unconfirmed. Hoekstra expressed optimism about the potential for shared security interests, highlighting Canada’s role in ensuring the safety of both citizens and energy flows in Americas.
Despite external pressures and discussions about border security reforms, Hoekstra maintained that the U.S. is focused on constructive policies that benefit both nations. He indicated a desire to move beyond misunderstandings and uncertainties, acknowledging the complexity of contemporary diplomatic relations while recognizing that both nations share common interests. Former diplomat Colin Robertson emphasized that Hoekstra’s limited ability to diverge from Trump’s views showcases the challenging balancing act of effectively representing U.S. interests in the context of unique Canadian perspectives.
