Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered an unequivocal message to U.S. President Donald Trump during their first Oval Office meeting on May 6, 2025: Canada is “not for sale” and “will never be for sale.” This direct rebuff came in response to Trump’s repeated suggestions that Canada could become the 51st state of the United States-a notion Trump described as a “wonderful marriage” between the two countries2347.
Key Details from the Meeting
Firm Rejection of Annexation: Carney told Trump, “As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale,” likening Canada to iconic, non-purchasable sites like the Oval Office and Buckingham Palace. He added, “Having met with the owners of Canada over the course of the campaign in the last several months, it’s not for sale. It won’t be for sale, ever”247.
Trump’s Persistence: Despite Carney’s stance, Trump responded, “Never say never,” and reiterated his belief that Canada would benefit from joining the U.S., citing potential tax reductions, free military support, and improved healthcare347.
Political Context: The meeting took place amid heightened tensions over U.S.-imposed tariffs on Canadian products and Trump’s public threats regarding Canadian sovereignty. Carney’s Liberal Party had recently staged a political comeback, in part by rallying against Trump’s annexation rhetoric38.
Focus on Partnership: Carney emphasized that the real opportunity lay in strengthening the partnership between the two countries, rather than any form of union or sale. He said, “The opportunity is in the partnership and what we can build together”48.
Tariffs and Negotiations: The leaders discussed ongoing trade disputes, with Carney arguing that U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods were counterproductive. No immediate decisions were made on lifting tariffs, and both sides acknowledged the complexity of the negotiations ahead8.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s message was clear and consistent: Canada is not, and will never be, for sale to the United States. While President Trump continued to float the idea of annexation, Carney firmly rejected it, instead advocating for a strong, sovereign partnership between the two nations
