Former President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, connecting the US and Canada, until Washington is 'fully compensated for everything' it has extended to its northern neighbor.
According to Trump, the opening of the bridge will be contingent on Canada treating the United States with 'Fairness and Respect.' This statement, made via social media, has set the stage for potential negotiations between the two nations.
The bridge—a pivotal project spanning the Detroit River—has been financed primarily by the Canadian government but is designed to be publicly owned by both the Canadian and Michigan governments upon completion.
It is not currently clear how Trump could practically impede the bridge's opening, especially given that the construction has been ongoing since 2018. The bridge is expected to open to traffic after necessary tests and approvals in early 2026.
In a recent statement, Trump also emphasized that the US should possess 'at least one half' of the bridge asset and criticized the Canadian government for its perceived exploitation of American generosity.
Transforming the bridge conflict into a focal point of US-Canada relations, Trump's claims come amid ongoing debates over trade tariffs between the two countries, particularly regarding dairy products. Trump's outspoken stance could hinder progress on the bridge project and mark a significant chapter in US-Canadian diplomatic relations.
