Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of the Canadian-built $4.6bn Gordie Howe International Bridge unless Canada gives the US at least half ownership and meets other demands.
Al Jazeera reported that Trump said in a social media post the US should be “fully compensated” and called for immediate negotiations, arguing the country deserves fairness and respect. The bridge is scheduled to open in early 2026.
The bridge has been under construction since 2018 and was designated a US port of entry in January to reduce Ambassador Bridge congestion and improve cross-border trade.
Supporters say the bridge could cut crossing times by 20 minutes and save truckers about $2.3bn over 30 years.
Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin warned that cancelling it would hurt businesses, disrupt supply chains, and cost jobs on both sides of the border.
The dispute is part of broader US-Canada tensions during Trump’s second term, including threats of heavy tariffs on Canadian goods after Canada strengthened trade ties with China, as both countries prepare to renegotiate the USMCA trade deal.
