DETROIT/WINDSOR — President Donald Trump has sparked a fresh international standoff, threatening to halt the opening of the nearly completed Gordie Howe International Bridge unless Canada agrees to surrender half-ownership of the $6.4 billion asset.
In a series of late-night Truth Social posts on February 9, 2026, the President claimed that the United States is being “taken advantage of” by its northern neighbor. Despite the bridge being a joint venture between Canada and the State of Michigan, Trump argued the U.S. should own “at least one half” of the project, citing the “astronomical” revenue it will generate from the U.S. market.
Fact-Checking the Dispute
The President’s claims have met immediate pushback from officials on both sides of the border, who pointed out several inaccuracies in his statements:
- Ownership: Trump claimed Canada “owns both sides.” In reality, the 2012 Crossing Agreement stipulates that the bridge is publicly owned by both the Government of Canada and the State of Michigan.
- Funding: Canada is paying the full upfront cost (approx. $6.4 billion) of the project. It will recoup these costs through tolls over several decades.
- Materials: While Trump alleged “virtually no U.S. content” was used, the project was built using both Canadian and American steel and labor, as required by the binational agreement.
Diplomatic Fallout
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the situation Tuesday morning, confirming he has spoken directly with the President to clarify these “misunderstandings.”
“I explained that Canada paid for the construction… and that ownership is shared between the state of Michigan and the government of Canada,” Carney told reporters. “The situation will be resolved.”
Despite Carney’s optimism, the threat has rattled local leaders. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer insisted the bridge would open “one way or another,” while Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens labeled the President’s ultimatum as “insane,” noting the bridge is a “gift” to the North American supply chain that cost American taxpayers nothing.
Why the Bridge Matters
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is the most significant infrastructure project in the region. Once open, it will:
- Provide a direct link between I-75 in Michigan and Highway 401 in Ontario.
- Relieve the century-old, privately-owned Ambassador Bridge, which currently handles 25% of all U.S.-Canada trade.
- Feature North America’s longest cable-stayed main span and a dedicated multi-use path for pedestrians and cyclists.
As the bridge enters its final “commissioning and testing” phase, its future now hinges on broader trade negotiations between the two nations, particularly as the CUSMA (USMCA) trade pact faces its mandatory review later this year.
