Trump Threatens To Shut US-Canada Bridge, Wants 50% Ownership

According to Ireporter Online, President Donald Trump has threatened to prevent the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge between Detroit and Canada unless Ottawa cedes at least half ownership and meets other unspecified demands.

Trump voiced his complaints on social media Monday, asserting that the United States would receive nothing from the bridge despite its support for Canada. He also criticized the Canadian government for not using American steel in the project.

“We will start negotiations, IMMEDIATELY. With all that we have given them, we should own, perhaps, at least one half of this asset,” Trump wrote.

The bridge, named after hockey legend Gordie Howe, was scheduled to open in early 2026. Canada fully funded the project to reduce congestion at the Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Construction began in 2018.

Trump did not clarify how he intends to block the opening. The White House has not responded to inquiries, and the Canadian Embassy in Washington has remained silent.

The threat intensifies already tense relations between Washington and Ottawa, particularly as the United States-Mexico-Canada trade agreement faces review this year. Trump has reportedly been pressuring Canada ahead of these discussions, including threats of new tariffs.

Michigan politicians have expressed concern over Trump’s statements. Senator Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat, described the Canadian-funded project as a major economic benefit for the state. “You’ll be able to move cargo from Montreal to Miami without ever stopping at a street light,” she said, adding that threatening the bridge shows a disregard for Michigan’s interests.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s administration emphasized the joint ownership and economic benefits of the bridge. Press secretary Stacey LaRouche noted that the bridge, North America’s busiest trade crossing, supports Michigan workers and the state’s auto industry, highlighting bipartisan and international cooperation.

Detroit Representative Shri Thanedar called the idea of blocking the bridge “crazy” and warned that attacks on Canada could harm business and jobs. Democratic Representative Debbie Dingell affirmed her expectation to attend the bridge’s spring opening, citing its importance for jobs and the economy.

Former Republican Governor Rick Snyder originally negotiated the project with Canada to enhance regional trade and streamline commercial transport between the two countries.