‘Canada Will Have to Pay…’: Trump Unveils $175 Billion ‘Golden Dome’ Missile Defence Plan

Washington, D.C. – In a dramatic address that reignited debates over global defense spending and allied obligations, former U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled his ambitious $175 billion missile defense initiative, dubbed the "Golden Dome." The proposal envisions a comprehensive, next-generation missile shield over the United States and select allied territories — and Trump made it clear that nations such as Canada will be expected to "pay their fair share."

Speaking at a high-profile campaign event in Florida, Trump described the Golden Dome as “the most advanced missile defense system the world has ever seen.” He said it would protect North America from growing threats posed by hypersonic missiles, intercontinental ballistic weapons, and rogue state aggression, particularly pointing to China, North Korea, and Iran.

"This is about keeping America and our allies safe. But let me be clear — if you're under the Dome, you're paying for the Dome. Canada will have to pay. Europe will have to pay. No more free rides," Trump said, drawing applause from supporters and sharp reactions from international observers.

The Golden Dome, as outlined by Trump, would be modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome but with far broader coverage, integrating space-based sensors, AI-guided interceptors, and advanced satellite systems. While technical details remain limited, the concept includes a multi-layered defense architecture capable of neutralizing threats in space, the upper atmosphere, and during terminal phases of missile flight.

Canadian officials have not issued a formal response yet, but sources close to Ottawa suggest concern over the cost-sharing implications and potential political fallout. Defense analysts have also questioned the feasibility and funding mechanism of such a massive project, especially given the scale of Trump’s proposal.

“This is not a dome — it’s a fortress in the sky. If implemented, it would fundamentally alter the nature of missile defense and global military alliances,” said Dr. Karen Brooks, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council. “However, the political messaging around burden-sharing could strain U.S.-Canada relations, especially if demands are made without diplomatic consensus.”

NATO partners, too, are reportedly reviewing the implications of the announcement. In Brussels, early murmurs suggest that European nations may resist being compelled to participate financially without strategic clarity and guarantees of shared command over the system.

Critics within the U.S. have also raised alarm. Senator Bernie Sanders called the plan “a corporate giveaway to defense contractors under the guise of protection,” while others warned that it could escalate arms races rather than enhance deterrence.

Still, Trump’s announcement has energized his base, which sees the plan as a bold step toward American strength and security in an increasingly uncertain world. As Trump seeks another term in the White House, the Golden Dome could become a cornerstone of his foreign policy platform.

With Canada now potentially on the hook, the coming weeks will reveal whether America’s neighbors and allies are ready to buy into Trump's vision — or push back against it.