Canada's border security package welcome but comes late, Republican senator says

Senator James Risch, chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, stated during a press conference at the Halifax International Security Forum that Canada’s $1.3 billion investment in border security, though overdue, is a positive step. 

This security initiative, announced in response to the threat of 25% tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump, is aimed at curbing the illegal flow of migrants and drugs across the border. Trump, who refrained from imposing the tariffs on his first day back in the White House, has continued to warn that these measures could be implemented starting in February. 

David McGuinty, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety, emphasized that Canada is working to address U.S. concerns about the border through diplomacy and practical actions. According to him, the Canada-U.S. border, the longest undefended border in the world, is a priority for both nations to maintain its security. 

Canada’s border security program includes enhanced surveillance in provinces such as Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Manitoba. These provinces have deployed additional protective forces and are focused on identifying suspicious activities in border areas. 

Meanwhile, Canadian officials have expressed concern about the illegal flow of firearms and individuals from the U.S. to Canada. Mélanie Joly, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, is set to meet with U.S. officials in Washington to discuss this issue. 

While the number of illegal border crossings between Canada and the U.S. is far lower than those at the U.S.-Mexico border, the issue has still caught the attention of U.S. Republicans. Analysts believe Trump’s tariff threats are part of a broader strategy to pressure Canada and Mexico ahead of the 2026 review of the trilateral trade agreement. 

Senator Risch also urged Canada to strengthen its economic and defense commitments in alignment with shared interests with the U.S. He mentioned that Trump wants NATO member states to increase their minimum defense spending to 5% of GDP, a figure that exceeds NATO’s current standard and even U.S. defense expenditures. 

According to Risch, close relations and bilateral cooperation between Canada and the U.S. should continue based on mutual respect, but Canada has fallen behind in some areas and needs to address this.