Carney signals shift on U.S. ties, defence spending in Montreal speech

Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a closing address at the Liberal Party’s national convention in Montreal on Saturday, outlining a tougher position on Canada–U.S. relations and a planned shift in defence spending.

According to remarks made during the convention, Carney said Canada would move away from past defence procurement patterns in which a significant portion of spending flowed to the United States. He told party members that future investments would be directed more toward domestic capacity. The statement drew a standing ovation from attendees.

Carney’s comments come as Canada prepares for discussions with the United States related to the CUSMA, amid ongoing trade tensions between the two countries. He said Canada’s historically close economic and defence ties with the U.S. have also created vulnerabilities.

The prime minister cautioned that the path forward would not be easy but said Canada could emerge stronger by adapting to shifting global conditions. He also urged political leaders to work beyond partisan lines in response to international changes.