U.S. suspends Canada-U.S. defence board amid rising tensions over military spending
The U.S. has suspended the Canada-U.S. Permanent Joint Board on Defence, a move that reduces the number of annual meetings between the two nations. The decision follows ongoing tensions over military spending and defence commitments. Officials in Ottawa have downplayed the impact, but the suspension signals growing friction ahead of trade negotiations. The board was established in 1940 under the Ogdensburg Agreement to coordinate mutual defence along the Atlantic coast. Over its first five years, it met 42 times and oversaw key projects, including the construction of Arctic radars and the creation of Norad. Recently, however, its activity has slowed, with the last meeting held in late 2024.
Washington’s suspension appears aimed at pressuring Canada to finalise the purchase of F-35 fighter jets. The U.S. also seeks leverage before upcoming free trade discussions. Elbridge Colby, an adviser to U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, criticised Canada’s defence spending in a tweet, urging a shift from 'rhetoric to hard power' and greater investment in shared security.
Prime Minister Mark Carney dismissed concerns about the suspension, pointing to Canada’s $40 billion Norad investment and Arctic defence funding. He also highlighted NATO spending targets, military purchases, and supply chain resilience as proof of Canada’s commitment. Yet the move reflects broader distrust, with the U.S. pushing for influence and Canada resisting. The suspension cuts two annual meetings from the schedule, though its long-term effects remain unclear. Canada’s defence spending and trade policies will likely face further scrutiny from Washington. For now, both sides continue to navigate a strained but essential partnership.
