Trump's Ultimatum: U.S.-Canada Bridge Opening at Risk

Wed Feb 11 2026 00:29:59 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Former President Donald Trump threatens to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, citing unfair treatment from Canada regarding trade agreements and compensation expectations.

Donald Trump has issued a statement suggesting he would prevent the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which connects Canada and the U.S., until he feels that the U.S. is compensated for its contributions and treated fairly by Canada. This bridge, funded by the Canadian government and expected to open in early 2026, has been a point of contention between the two nations for years. Trump's comments highlight ongoing trade tensions and frustrations with Canadian dairy tariffs and recent deals with China.

Former President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of a bridge connecting the US and Canada until Washington is fully compensated for everything it has given to its northern neighbour.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge, connecting the Canadian province of Ontario to the US state of Michigan, would not open until Ottawa treats the United States with the Fairness and Respect that we deserve, Trump wrote on social media.

The bridge's construction is being funded by the Canadian government and will be publicly owned by both Canada and Michigan.

Although it remains unclear how Trump could influence the opening of the bridge, he stated that negotiations would begin immediately without further elaboration.

Spanning the Detroit River, the bridge is anticipated to open to traffic pending formal tests and approvals in early 2026. Despite construction beginning in 2018, the project has been a source of contention for over a decade.

Estimated to have cost $6.4 billion CAD, Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with Canada’s treatment of the U.S., demanding at least half ownership of this asset and voicing concerns over tariffs on dairy products.

In a statement on his Truth Social platform, Trump appears determined to hold Canada accountable, stating: The Canadian Government expects me, as President of the United States, to PERMIT them to just 'take advantage of America!'' He reiterated that he would not allow the bridge to open without proper compensation for U.S. contributions.

The Moroun family, owners of the neighboring Ambassador Bridge, previously appealed to Trump during his first term to halt the construction of the Gordie Howe Bridge, claiming it infringed on their exclusive toll collection abilities. During a joint statement with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, both recognized the bridge as a vital economic link between the countries.

Trump has raised concerns about a recent trade agreement between Canada and China, claiming it would negatively impact Canada, even humorously suggesting it would end hockey in Canada.

As the situation unfolds, comments from Canada's bridge authority and local government officials remain forthcoming.