War Department pauses joint defense board with Canada

The Department of War on Monday announced a pause in the operations of the Permanent Joint Board on Defense with Canada, citing Ottawa's failure to meet its defense commitments.

"A strong Canada that prioritizes hard power over rhetoric benefits us all," Under Secretary of War Elbridge Colby posted on X. "Unfortunately, Canada has failed to make credible progress on its defense commitments. DoW is pausing the Permanent Joint Board on Defense to reassess how this forum benefits shared North American defense."

The move comes as the Trump administration ramps up its pressure on other NATO allies to increase their defense spending and to support the U.S. in the ongoing Iran war.

Throughout the conflict, Trump administration officials and the president himself have repeatedly questioned the value of NATO. With respect to Canada, moreover, Trump's tacit encouragement of Alberta separatists and ongoing trade rows between the two countries have contributed to tense relations.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent for Just the News. Follow him on X.