Sean Boynton, Global News

Trump said Tuesday that Canada will have to pay US$61 billion to be part of his “Golden Dome” space-based missile defence plan — but would pay nothing if it becomes part of the US a message he claimed to have “told Canada” himself.

The social media post came hours after King Charles III delivered the speech from the throne in Canada’s Parliament, which particularly focused on asserting Canada’s sovereignty and included plans for bolstering national defence.

“I told Canada, which very much wants to be part of our fabulous Golden Dome System, that it will cost $61 Billion Dollars if they remain a separate, but unequal, Nation, but will cost ZERO DOLLARS if they become our cherished 51st State,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “They are considering the offer!”