U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday (February 9, 2026) threatened to stop the opening of the new $4.6 billion bridge connecting Detroit in the United States and Windsor in Ontario, Canada. His comments mark the latest escalation in trade tensions between the two countries.
The bridge, known as the Gordie Howe International Bridge, is a major infrastructure project designed to improve trade and travel between the U.S. and Canada. It is expected to ease traffic, speed up the movement of goods, and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
However, Mr. Trump criticised Canada’s ownership of the bridge and raised several trade-related issues. He pointed out that some Canadian stores do not stock certain American alcoholic beverages. He also objected to Canada’s tariffs on U.S. dairy products and its ongoing trade talks with China.
In a post on social media, Mr. Trump said he would not allow the bridge to open unless the United States is “fully compensated” for what he described as support and benefits given to Canada. He also demanded that Canada treat the U.S. with “fairness and respect.”
The President added that negotiations would begin immediately. He suggested that the U.S. should possibly own at least half of the bridge because of its importance to both countries.
The remarks have added uncertainty to the future of the project, which had been seen as a symbol of cooperation between the two neighbours. Trade experts say blocking the bridge could affect businesses and cross-border trade, as thousands of trucks and travellers use the route every day.
Officials from both sides are expected to discuss the issue further to avoid disruption and maintain smooth relations between the two countries.