Canadian ambassador rebuts Trump’s ‘Golden Dome’ claim, says ties are in 'change’

WASHINGTON, DC: Canadian Ambassador to the US Kirsten Hillman pushed back against Donald Trump's Arctic defense claims during a Face the Nation, while acknowledging that US-Canada relations are “in the middle of a change.” 

The interview took a turn when host Margaret Brennan cited Trump's post claiming Canada voted against his “Golden Dome” missile defense project to favor China.

Ambassador confused by Golden Dome claim

Hillman appeared surprised by the claim and, when asked about the vote Trump referenced, she replied, “No, I’m afraid I don’t.” 

She emphasized that Canada remains deeply committed to Arctic security, with Ottawa investing over $80 billion in new defense systems over the next five years.

 A key element of that plan, she said, is “over-the-horizon radar” designed to detect threats entering the Arctic. 

Hillman described the effort as complementary to US security, not a rejection of it. “We work with the Americans and other allies to maximize the benefits,” she said, stressing interoperability over the “Golden Dome” concept. 

Relations in middle of change

Looking broadly, Hillman acknowledged that long-standing assumptions underpinning the bilateral relationship are being tested. “We’re not in the middle of a divorce, but we are in the middle of a change. There’s no question about it,” she told Brennan.

She noted that core principles, including integrated supply chains and mutual strategic reliance, are now under pressure. While expressing confidence that both sides will “make it through,” Hillman conceded it is a “complicated time.” Her comments come as US tariffs on steel, aluminum, and lumber weigh on Canadian industries, forcing companies to adjust and, in some cases, shed jobs.

Surgical approach to Beijing trade deal

Hillman also defended Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent “strategic partnership” with China, which the Trump administration has criticized as undermining American unity. She described the deal as “very focused and surgical,” amid at easing punitive tariffs on Canadian agricultural exports.

She dismissed claims that the agreement would open the floodgates to Chinese vehicles or technology, noting auto imports remain capped at 2023 levels, largely Teslas. “This isn’t a revolutionary new thing,” she argued, likening the move to the US administration’s own efforts to reopen markets for soybean farmers last October.

Military respect despite president's comments

Tensions also arose over historical military cooperation. When asked about Trump’s claim that NATO allies “stayed a little back” in Afghanistan, Hillman declined to engage in political debate.

She highlighted Canada’s record, noting that 158 Canadian soldiers were killed in the conflict. “I know that your American armed forces are deeply respectful and deeply appreciative of having stood side by side with Canadians,” she said.

The interview concluded with Hillman dismissing US Treasury officials' remarks suggesting Alberta should secede, calling it “wise counsel” for American leaders to leave Canada’s domestic politics to Canadians.