Ontario Premier Urges Resilience Amid Trump's Bridge Controversy
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has issued a firm call to Canadians, urging them to "not buckle" in response to former U.S. President Donald Trump's recent threats regarding the Gordie Howe International Bridge. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Ford emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong stance while navigating the ongoing diplomatic tensions.
Ford's Message of Strength and Diplomacy
"This is not the time to roll over and let President Trump take advantage of us," Ford declared. He countered Trump's assertions that Canada has taken advantage of the United States, stating, "It's the other way around." Despite the rhetoric, Ford expressed a desire for a robust relationship with America, highlighting, "We want a strong relationship with our closest friend, and we're going to continue moving forward. But you've got to ignore all the rhetoric."
Ford further elaborated on his position, saying, "Let's not waver. Let's not buckle to President Trump's threats. Let's be strong as we have been. Let's continue to be strong. Negotiate through strength, not weakness. And we need to move forward." He criticized Trump's approach, noting, "It's unfortunate he's taken this approach to hurt his own people. He's hurting the American people and the American economy."
Trump's Social Media Claims and Falsehoods
The controversy stems from Trump's posts on his Truth Social account, where he threatened to delay the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge. He falsely claimed that no American steel or workers were used in its construction and demanded that the U.S. own "at least one half of this asset." Trump asserted, "I won't allow the bridge, under construction since Oct. 2018, to open until the United States is fully compensated for everything we have given them."
However, these statements contradict the established facts. The bridge, a critical infrastructure project connecting Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan, is publicly funded by Canada at an estimated cost of $6.4 billion, with repayment planned through vehicle tolls. Contrary to Trump's claims, the bridge is jointly owned by Canada and the state of Michigan.
Clarifications from Canadian Officials
Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the situation, revealing that he had spoken with Trump to explain the mutual benefits and factual details of the bridge project. Carney clarified that construction involved both U.S. workers and U.S. steel, directly refuting Trump's allegations.
Ford supported this, labeling Trump's claims as "not truthful." He provided specific details, stating, "The bridge has 75 per cent Canadian steel, because we're paying for it. Twenty-five per cent was U.S. steel and concrete. Then the interchange going on from the Michigan side, it was all American workers, all American steel, all American concrete. So again, there's fiction, what President Trump says, and then there's true facts that people can look up and see exactly where we stand."
Background on the Gordie Howe International Bridge
The Gordie Howe International Bridge has been under construction since October 2018 and represents a significant binational effort to enhance trade and connectivity between Canada and the United States. Its completion is eagerly anticipated, with officials highlighting its economic and strategic importance for both nations.
As the situation unfolds, Ford's remarks underscore a broader call for resilience and fact-based dialogue in international relations, particularly amid heightened political tensions. The incident reflects ongoing challenges in Canada-U.S. relations, with Canadian leaders advocating for cooperation while standing firm on national interests.
