Background on the Missile Defense System
Canada has been engaging in “high-level” discussions with the United States regarding a possible membership in the “Golden Shield” missile defense system proposed by President Donald Trump, according to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Trump’s Missile Defense Plan
President Trump announced on Tuesday that the U.S. will build an anti-missile shield based on Israel’s “Iron Dome” model. He promised that the system will be operational by the end of his term and estimated it would cost around $175 billion.
Canada’s Potential Involvement
“We are aware that, should we decide to do so, we have the capability to complete the Golden Shield with collaborative investments (with the U.S.). This is something we are studying and has been discussed at high levels,” Carney stated during a press conference.
International Reactions
Russia and China have previously criticized the project since Trump signed a decree in late January to develop the shield.
Russia’s Perspective: Moscow considered it a plan “comparable to Ronald Reagan’s ‘Star Wars’ during the Cold War.”
China’s Stance: On Wednesday, Beijing added that the project “undermines global stability.”
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Who is Mark Carney? A: Mark Carney is the current Prime Minister of Canada, who confirmed the country’s discussions with the U.S. about joining the missile defense system.
- Q: What is the “Golden Shield” missile defense system? A: It’s a proposed anti-missile defense system by President Trump, modeled after Israel’s “Iron Dome” and intended to protect against ballistic missile attacks.
- Q: Why have Russia and China criticized the project? A: Both countries view the system as destabilizing and akin to Cold War-era missile defense initiatives, which they believe could spark an arms race.
