Trump Threatens to Block Opening of US Canada Bridge
U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, a major new link between Michigan and Ontario, unless Washington is “fully compensated” by Canada.
The bridge, which spans the Detroit River, is expected to open in early 2026 after formal testing and approvals. Construction began in 2018 and has cost an estimated 6.4 billion Canadian dollars. The project is being funded by the Canadian government but will be publicly owned by both Canada and Michigan.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed Canada controls both sides of the bridge and insisted the United States should own “at least half of this asset.” He accused Ottawa of taking advantage of America and vowed not to allow the bridge to open until compensation is paid.
It is unclear how Trump could block the opening, but he said negotiations would begin immediately. His comments revive long standing tensions over the project, which has faced opposition from the Moroun family, owners of the nearby Ambassador Bridge. They previously argued the new crossing would undermine their toll revenues.
Trump’s latest remarks also touched on wider trade disputes. He criticized Canadian tariffs on U.S. dairy products and warned that a recent trade deal between Canada and China could harm Canadian industries. In a colorful aside, he even suggested the agreement could lead to the end of ice hockey in Canada and the elimination of the Stanley Cup.
The Gordie Howe Bridge has been described by both U.S. and Canadian officials as a vital economic link, expected to ease congestion and strengthen trade between the two countries. During Trump’s first term, he and then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a joint statement supporting the project.
Mali’s Windsor Detroit Bridge Authority, which is wholly owned by the Canadian government, has not yet responded to Trump’s latest comments. Neither the Ontario premier’s office nor the mayor of Detroit has issued a statement.
Despite the controversy, the bridge remains on track to open in 2026. Analysts say Trump’s threats may complicate final approvals but note that the project has strong backing from both governments and is seen as critical to North American trade.
