In a stunning move on January 22, 2026, President Donald Trump declared that Canada is no longer welcome to join his newly formed Board of Peace.
On Thursday, January 22, 2026, Trump announced via a statement on Truth Social that Canada’s invitation to the Board of Peace had been rescinded. The decision was communicated directly to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, following Trump’s unveiling of the board during a speech and signing ceremony at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Leaders from Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Central and Southeast Asia joined Trump on stage for the event.
The announcement came after Trump’s remarks on Wednesday about the United States needing to control Greenland for a large-scale “Golden Dome” missile defense system, which he said would also protect Canada. He argued that Canada relies heavily on U.S. security. Trump also noted Carney’s recent comments, suggesting the prime minister lacked gratitude for American support.
The issue has sparked debate over international alliances and the role of gratitude in diplomatic relations. While Trump’s decision to exclude Canada may seem abrupt, it reflects a broader frustration with allies who appear to take U.S. protection for granted, as Fox News reports.
Trump’s statement on Truth Social was direct and unapologetic. “Dear Prime Minister Carney: Please let this Letter serve to represent that the Board of Peace is withdrawing its invitation to you regarding Canada’s joining, what will be, the most prestigious Board of Leaders ever assembled, at any time,” he wrote. That’s a bold line in the sand, and it signals that participation in this elite group isn’t a given—it’s earned.
Carney, for his part, didn’t name Trump in his earlier remarks but painted a grim picture of global dynamics. He warned that the rules-based international order is crumbling as certain nations wield economic and security leverage to pressure allies. That’s a thinly veiled jab, and it’s no surprise it didn’t sit well with the White House.
Speaking in Davos, Trump doubled down on his vision for the “Golden Dome” system. “We're building a Golden Dome that's going to, just by its very nature, going to be defending Canada. Canada gets a lot of freebies from us, by the way. They should be grateful also,” he said.
But gratitude seems in short supply, at least in Trump’s view. He pointed out that Carney’s recent statements lacked appreciation for U.S. efforts, a sentiment that clearly fueled the decision to pull Canada’s seat at the table. If allies won’t acknowledge shared burdens, why offer them a spot on a prestigious panel?
Carney’s rhetoric about “middle powers” needing a “wake-up call” hints at a push for independence from stronger nations. That’s a noble idea, but in a world of real threats, can countries like Canada afford to downplay the security umbrella provided by the U.S.? It’s a risky stance when global stability is on the line.
Meanwhile, Trump is moving forward with an impressive lineup for the Board of Peace, which he will chair. Notable figures include his son-in-law Jared Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, and billionaire Marc Rowan. It’s a mix of political, diplomatic, and business heavyweights.
The board’s international reach is equally striking, with invitations extended to nations like Russia, Belarus, France, Germany, Vietnam, Finland, Ukraine, Ireland, Greece, Israel, and China. That’s a diverse coalition, and it shows an ambition to tackle global issues with a wide range of perspectives.
Yet Canada’s exclusion raises questions about North American unity. Is this a temporary snub, or a sign of deeper rifts in a historically close partnership? The answer may hinge on whether Carney shifts tone in future statements.
Carney’s broader argument for diversification and collective action among smaller nations isn’t without merit. He urged respect for sovereignty, a principle that resonates with many who worry about overreach by larger powers. Still, dismissing the benefits of close ties with the U.S. might be a misstep.
The Board of Peace could have been a platform for Canada to voice those concerns directly. By alienating Trump with critical remarks, Carney may have cost his country a seat at a table that promises to shape international dialogue. It’s a gamble that could backfire if tensions escalate.
As this story unfolds, the balance between national pride and practical alliances will be tested. Trump’s hardline approach prioritizes loyalty and appreciation, while Carney seems to advocate for a more independent path. Only time will tell if this diplomatic dust-up reshapes North American relations for the long haul.
