Trump's Ultimatum: Block the Gordie Howe Bridge Until Fair Compensation

Wed Feb 11 2026 00:29:09 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a bold statement, former President Donald Trump has threatened to impede the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting the US and Canada unless the US receives full compensation for its contributions to its northern neighbor. This development raises concerns over diplomatic relations and trade agreements.

Donald Trump has publicly declared that he will block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge until the US is 'fully compensated' by Canada for past contributions. The bridge, which spans the Detroit River, is funded by Canada but will be owned by both nations. Trump's statements suggest a potential for renewed tensions over trade practices between the two countries. Formal opening is planned for early 2026, following extensive construction disputes over the project.

Former President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting the US and Canada until Washington is fully compensated for everything it has provided to its northern neighbor.

The bridge, which will link Ontario, Canada, to Michigan, USA, will remain unopened until Canada treats the United States with the Fairness and Respect that we deserve, Trump asserted on social media.

Although the construction of the bridge is funded by the Canadian government, it will be publicly owned by both Canada and Michigan. The exact details of how Trump could halt its opening remain unclear, but he indicated that negotiations would initiate immediately without further elaboration.

With a projected opening day expected in early 2026, contingent on passing formal tests and approvals, the bridge has been a contentious project between the two nations for over a decade, with an estimated construction cost of $6.4 billion CAD (£3.4 billion).

In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed that the US should possess at least one half of this asset, implying that Canada has undue control over the bridge's operations.

The bridge's development organization, the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, is fully owned by the Canadian government. Trump expressed his frustrations over perceived inequities, stating, I will not allow this bridge to open until the United States is fully compensated for everything we have given them. Furthermore, he highlighted several recent trade disputes, particularly criticizing Canadian tariffs on US dairy products.

The Amalco family, owners of the nearby Ambassador Bridge, have previously appealed to Trump to halt the construction of the new bridge, claiming it impinges on their exclusive ability to collect tolls. During Trump’s first term, he and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously acknowledged the bridge as a vital economic link between the two countries.

As this trade discourse heats up, Canadian authorities have yet to comment on the recent statements made by Trump, which may have implications for US-Canada relations moving forward.