The Gordie Howe Bridge dispute intensified this week after US President Donald Trump threatened to block the opening of the new Canada US crossing unless Washington receives what he called full compensation.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Tuesday he had spoken directly with Trump and expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved, although he did not disclose details of the conversation.
The $4.7 billion bridge, which links Ontario with the US state of Michigan, is scheduled to open later this year after construction that began in 2018.
Carney confirms call with Trump over bridge
Speaking to reporters in Ottawa, Carney said he had spoken to Trump earlier in the day.
“Regarding the bridge, the situation is going to be resolved,” Carney stated.
He clarified that Canada financed the construction of the bridge and that ownership is shared between the government of Canada and the state of Michigan.
According to a factsheet from the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, the project was fully funded by Canada and will be jointly owned by Canada and Michigan authorities.
Carney also rejected claims that the project excluded US participation. He said the construction involved both Canadian and American steel and workers.
Key facts about the project include:
• Construction began in 2018
• Total cost stands at $4.7 billion
• The bridge is expected to open in 2026
• It is jointly owned by Canada and the state of Michigan
Trump demands US ownership stake
President Trump said Monday that the United States should own “at least half” of the Gordie Howe International Bridge and warned he would not allow it to open otherwise.
“I will not allow this bridge to open until the United States is fully compensated,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, adding that negotiations should begin immediately.
The White House defended the position, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt describing it as part of Trump’s policy of putting American interests first. She said the president objected to Canada controlling what crosses the bridge and owning land on both sides.
Trump also criticized Canada’s trade policies, referencing Prime Minister Carney’s recent preliminary trade deal with China. Washington had earlier threatened to impose 100 percent tariffs on Canada following Carney’s visit to Beijing last month.
In a separate claim on social media, Trump alleged that China would end ice hockey in Canada as a consequence of the trade deal. He did not provide details on how this would occur.
H2: Broader US Canada trade tensions
The dispute comes amid renewed trade tensions between the two countries. Since returning to office in January 2025, Trump has repeatedly criticized Canada over trade arrangements and previously suggested annexing the country, though he has recently reduced such statements.
Carney, speaking at the Davos forum last month, warned that the US led global governance system was experiencing what he described as a rupture, in remarks widely interpreted as a reference to Washington’s changing policies.
The Gordie Howe Bridge, named after the late Canadian born National Hockey League star who played for the Detroit Red Wings, was originally presented as a symbol of cross border cooperation between the two countries.
Its future opening now depends on ongoing discussions between Ottawa and Washington.
Conclusion:
While tensions have escalated publicly, Canadian officials maintain that the bridge project complies with existing agreements. Both governments are expected to continue negotiations in the coming weeks to prevent further disruption to one of North America’s key infrastructure projects.
