In a significant policy shift, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Monday that Canada will meet NATO’s military spending guideline of 2% of gross domestic product (GDP) by early next year, ahead of its previous timetable.
Carney emphasized the need for Canada to diversify its defense spending away from the United States, which he claimed is no longer the predominant global player it once was.
He noted that Canada’s military infrastructure and equipment have deteriorated, impacting the country’s readiness for military engagements.
“Only one of our four submarines is seaworthy, and less than half of our maritime fleet and land vehicles are operational,” Carney acknowledged.
He expressed concerns about Canada’s reliance on the U.S. for defense capabilities, which he deemed excessive.
Despite Canadian estimates placing military spending at 1.33% of GDP in 2023—still below NATO’s target—Carney’s government aims to shift its defense spending landscape significantly ahead of previously set expectations.
“Our goal is to protect Canadians, not to satisfy NATO accountants,” he asserted, emphasizing an independent approach to national security.
This announcement coincides with Canada preparing to host President Donald Trump and other leaders at the G7 summit in Alberta from June 15-17, shortly before the NATO summit in Europe, where allied nations are poised to enhance their military commitments.
Notably, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte indicated that many U.S. allies, including Canada, are in favor of ramping up defense spending to 5% of GDP, in line with President Trump’s demands.
Carney aims to overhaul Canada’s defense procurement strategy by fostering closer ties with the European Union (EU) to reduce military spending directed toward the United States.
He stated, “We should no longer send three quarters of our defense capital spending to America,” while outlining plans for new investments in submarines, aircraft, ships, armed vehicles, artillery, and advanced surveillance technologies.
Following its growing concerns over security reliance on the U.S., Canada has initiated talks with the EU to explore alternatives, particularly in defense equipment acquisitions like fighter jets.
Evaluating the option of procuring U.S. F-35 fighter jets, Carney’s government will consider whether European alternatives might serve Canada’s defense needs better.
Reflecting on historical alliances, Carney noted, “We stood shoulder to shoulder with the Americans throughout the Cold War and in the decades that followed,” recognizing the historic power dynamics of the U.S. as a major ally.
However, he argued that the current geopolitical landscape has shifted, leading to a reevaluation of Canada’s defense strategy.
With the U.S. descending from its previous height of global hegemony, Carney stated that the nation is now beginning to impose costs for access to its markets, reducing its collective security contributions.
He warned of a potential “new imperialism” that could arise in this shifting context, prompting middle powers to compete vigorously for representation and resources on the global stage.
As tensions rise and global dynamics evolve, Carney’s government has acknowledged a historical perspective where geographical isolation was considered a protective buffer for Canadians.
However, such a view is growing outdated, especially in light of recent global conflicts, including Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has prompted increased defense investments among European allies and Canada alike since early 2022.
image source from：https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2025-06-09/canada-plans-to-hit-nato-spending-target-early-and-reduce-us-defense-reliance-carney-says
