Washington D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump is threatening to block the opening of a newly constructed international bridge connecting the United States and Canada, demanding ownership concessions and citing trade imbalances. The dispute, which escalated on February 9, 2026, underscores the increasingly strained relationship between the two countries and raises concerns about cross-border infrastructure projects.
Trump, via his social media platform Truth Social, stated he will not allow the Gordie Howe International Bridge to open until the U.S. Receives “complete compensation” and holds at least a 50% stake in the project. He alleges Canada has been “extremely unfair” to the U.S. For decades and has “taken advantage” of the country. This development could significantly impact trade and travel between the U.S. And Canada.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge, which began construction in 2018, connects Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan, and was originally slated to open in September 2026. The Canadian government fully funded the $6.4 billion CAD project, with plans to recoup costs through future tolls, which will be shared with the state of Michigan once expenses are covered.
Canadian officials have strongly condemned Trump’s actions. Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens criticized the U.S. President for disregarding the mutual benefits of the bridge, stating, “It’s just crazy. It’s not good for our country, and it’s not good for his country either.” He also refuted Trump’s claim that the bridge’s construction did not utilize American products, asserting that U.S. Steel was “strictly used” on the American side of the project.
Candace Lyne, Chair and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, issued a statement calling any attempt to obstruct or block the bridge “self-sabotage,” regardless of whether it’s a genuine action or a tactic to create uncertainty. Wen Wei Po reports that the move has sparked widespread criticism from Canadian business and political leaders.
The dispute comes amid growing tensions between the U.S. And Canada, with Trump also expressing dissatisfaction with Canada’s economic ties to China. St Headline reports that Trump warned that continued economic alignment between Canada and China could lead to further retaliatory tariffs.
According to the China Times, Trump is demanding compensation before allowing the bridge to open, a move that has raised concerns about the future of cross-border infrastructure projects. Hong Kong 01 notes the situation is considered particularly unusual by British media.
