The Pentagon suspends the Canada-United States Permanent Joint Defense Commission established in 1940, “to evaluate whether this forum benefits shared North American defense,” said Deputy Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby.
The Trump administration announced on Monday the suspension of a joint cooperation body with Canada, accusing Ottawa of not contributing enough to the defense of the North American continent. Washington “suspends” its participation in the Canada-United States Permanent Joint Defense Commission, an organization established in 1940 that brings together military and civilian personnel from both countries to make recommendations to both governments, as announced by Deputy Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby.
“A strong Canada that prioritizes power over rhetoric is in everyone’s interest,” explained Mr. Colby. “Unfortunately, Canada has not made credible progress in its defense commitments.” Under these circumstances, the Pentagon suspends the commission “to evaluate whether this forum benefits shared North American defense,” he said.
In the crosshairs of President Donald Trump
Canada has been in the crosshairs of President Donald Trump, especially since his return to the White House in early 2025. The northern neighbor has been hit with tariffs, and the Republican billionaire has repeatedly referred to it as the “51st state” of the United States. Donald Trump also insists that NATO allies, including Canada, increase their defense spending.
“We have relied too much on our geography and others to protect us,” admitted Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in February, announcing plans to align Canada with NATO’s military spending goals (2% of GDP by the end of the year and 5% by 2035).
