Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that Canada is moving toward meeting NATO's defense spending target of 2% of GDP, as the alliance faces renewed pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking on the margins of a one-day NATO summit in Turkiye, Carney said the shift is already underway, though he did not provide a specific timeline for reaching the benchmark.
Summit Focus on Ukraine and U.S. Relations
The summit, held in Istanbul, also addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine and the future of transatlantic relations. Carney met with allied leaders to discuss collective security and Canada's role in supporting Kyiv. The prime minister emphasized that Canada remains committed to aiding Ukraine while balancing domestic defense investments.
Trump has long criticized NATO members, including Canada, for failing to meet the 2% spending goal. His administration has threatened to reduce U.S. security guarantees for allies not meeting the target. Carney's comments suggest a shift in Canada's position, which has historically fallen short of the commitment.
Bombardier Benefits from Submarine Deal
In a related development, Canadian aerospace firm Bombardier is expected to benefit from Canada's selection of a preferred submarine bidder. The deal, announced during the summit, highlights economic spin-offs from defense procurement. According to CTV News, the choice of TKMS as the preferred bidder for Canada's submarine program will boost domestic industry.
TKMS CEO stated that the real work begins now, signaling a long-term partnership with Canadian firms. The submarine program is part of Canada's broader effort to modernize its military capabilities amid growing geopolitical tensions.
Domestic Political Moves
Back in Ottawa, Carney made headlines by appointing a former Conservative MP to the Senate, scrapping the non-partisan criteria introduced by his predecessor. The move drew criticism from opposition parties, who accused the prime minister of politicizing the upper chamber. Carney defended the appointment, arguing that the Senate benefits from diverse perspectives.
The prime minister also faced questions about looming bail and sentencing reforms, which the federal government insists will improve public safety. Critics argue the changes may be insufficient to address rising crime rates.
Climate and Weather Events
Meanwhile, extreme weather continued to affect Canadians. A Manitoba strawberry farm was devastated by unprecedented rainfall, with the owner stating, 'We've never seen rain like this.' The storm also caused flooding in southwestern Manitoba and parts of Ontario, leading to evacuations and property damage.
In Calgary, the Stampede faced scorching heat, with officials urging attendees to seek relief. The city spent $7.8 million on a late winter storm cleanup, according to a recent report.
Other Notable News
In health, former patients of a Brantford dentist are being urged to get tested for blood-borne infections. A controversial AI 'actress' named Tilly Norwood landed her first starring role, drawing criticism from industry figures. And a B.C. man was ordered to pay $300,000 to a securities regulator for defrauding investors.
Police in Montreal are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Regina, while a Durham police recruit was killed in a collision near the Ontario Police College. In Halifax, radio station 95.7 NewsRadio was taken off the air, described as a 'difficult but necessary decision.'
