Carney Pledges Increased Military Spending in Canada if He Wins Election

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Mark Carney pledged to make significant investments in Canada’s military if his Liberal Party secures victory in the upcoming general election on April 28. His promise comes in response to repeated criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has often claimed that Canada does not allocate enough funds for defense, even going so far as to suggest annexation.
“Our sovereignty is facing unprecedented threats. The world is becoming more divided and dangerous, and this plan will ensure that Canada remains strong both domestically and internationally,” Carney stated during a televised address at a shipyard in Halifax. “We are safeguarding our borders, sovereignty, resources, land, and way of life,” he added.
Although Carney did not specify the exact amount of funding, he outlined plans to acquire new submarines and heavy icebreakers, as well as to modernize Canada’s outdated military procurement process. He also revealed intentions to revamp recruitment efforts to attract more military personnel, and promised a pay increase for all active service members, though further details were not disclosed.
Under pressure from successive U.S. administrations, Canada had already committed to a significant boost in defense spending last year, with plans to meet NATO defense targets by 2030. Polls suggest the Liberals are likely to win more seats than the Conservative opposition, but may fall short of securing a majority government.