Canada and the US still need one another
The Hill
by Dov Zakheim, opinion contributorFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump has taken an unexpected stance on cross-border infrastructure projects, announcing on his Truth Social platform that he will block the opening of the $4.7 billion Gord Downie-Win Perry (Gordon Howe) Bridge between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, unless the U.S. secures ownership of half the asset. This move has sparked a diplomatic standoff, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasizing that Canada fully funded the bridge’s construction. The dispute highlights growing tensions over trade and infrastructure collaboration between the two nations.
The Gord Downie-Win Perry Bridge is a critical piece of cross-border infrastructure designed to ease congestion on the Detroit-Windsor corridor, one of North America's busiest trade routes. Originally scheduled to open in 2025, the bridge has faced delays and now faces an uncertain future due to Trump’s demands. Canadian officials argue that the project was funded entirely by Canada under a decades-long agreement with the U.S., which typically splits costs for such joint initiatives. However, Trump’s insistence on owning half of the asset raises questions about whether the bridge will ever be completed.
This situation underscores broader concerns about U.S.-Canada relations and trade. The White House’s demand for control over the bridge could strain diplomatic ties and set a precedent for future negotiations. Observers note that such disputes are unlikely to resolve quickly, especially with political tensions already high over issues like tariffs, energy policies, and border security. For readers interested in politics, this story highlights the delicate balance of mutual dependence and competing interests between two neighbors who rely heavily on each other economically.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/13/2026