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Trade, Tension as Trump Threatens US–Canada Bridge Opening
Trade, Tension as Trump Threatens US–Canada Bridge Opening
United States President, Donald Trump, has threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge linking the US and Canada, insisting that Washington must be “fully compensated” for what he claimed America had given to its northern neighbour.
Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, said the bridge would not be allowed to open until Canada treats the United States with what he described as “fairness and respect”.
He also argued that the US should own “at least one half” of the multibillion-dollar infrastructure, claiming that Canada controls both sides of the crossing.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge connects Ontario in Canada with the US state of Michigan and spans the Detroit River.
The project, estimated to cost about 6.4 billion Canadian dollars, is funded by the Canadian government and is being developed by the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, a Canadian federal Crown corporation.
The bridge is to be publicly owned by Canada and the state of Michigan.
Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, on Tuesday said he had a “positive” conversation with Trump on the issue.
Carney noted that he reminded the US president that Canada paid for the bridge and that it was constructed by both American and Canadian workers using steel sourced from the two countries.
He described the bridge as a strong example of cooperation between the two neighbours and expressed optimism that it would open as scheduled.
According to Carney, Trump suggested that the US ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra, a Michigan native, should help smooth discussions surrounding the project.
Trump’s threat has, however, drawn criticism from US lawmakers in Michigan, who warned of economic consequences.
Michigan Senator, Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat, said blocking the opening of the bridge would be “awful” for the state’s economy, warning that it could lead to higher costs for businesses, weaker supply chains and job losses.
Michigan Governor, Gretchen Whitmer, also rejected Trump’s position, saying the bridge would create jobs and strengthen trade in her state.
Her spokesperson described the project as a product of bipartisan and international cooperation.
Despite Trump’s claim that negotiations would begin immediately, it remains unclear how the US president could legally prevent the opening of the bridge, which is expected to begin operations later this year after final tests and approvals.
Construction began in 2018 after more than a decade of planning and diplomatic wrangling.
Trump also accused former President Barack Obama of allowing construction to begin without the use of US steel, an allegation denied by officials on the Canadian side.
The Mayor of Windsor, Ontario, Drew Dilkens, dismissed the claim, describing it as false and “insane”.
Late Afrobeat Pioneer, Fela Earns Historic Global Recognition.
Late Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has been inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, becoming the first Nigerian artist to receive the honor.
Naija News reports that the announcement marks another major global recognition for the iconic musician, decades after his passing.
Fela was inducted under the “Early Influence” category, alongside renowned global music figures such as Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons.
The list of inductees was unveiled in the United States during a live broadcast of the popular television show, American Idol.
Also recognized is Nigerian-born British singer, Sade Adu, who will be inducted in the “Performer” category.
She joins a lineup of global stars including Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan.
Despite stiff competition, several high-profile nominees failed to make the final list. These include Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink.
Organizers disclosed that over 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals participated in the voting process.
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
Fela’s latest recognition comes just months after he made history in January as the first African musician to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
The honor, coming nearly 30 years after his death, further cements his legacy as a global music icon and pioneer of Afrobeat.
It also follows the introduction of the Best African Performance category at the Grammy Awards two years ago, reflecting growing global recognition for African music.
Rihanna to Receive Edison Achievement Award for “Reshaping the World Through Innovation”
The Edison Achievement Awards ceremony will take place in Fort Myers, Florida on April 16. However, Rihanna won’t be making the trek as she is confirmed to accept virtually.
Rihanna is being singled out for her innovative skills.
The superstar singer and entrepreneur has been selected to receive an Edison Achievement Award, an honor doled out to recognize “individuals who are reshaping industries and the world through innovation.” The award is presented each year to groundbreakers “whose extraordinary contributions transcend expectations advancing human-centered design, accelerating meaningful change and redefining what’s possible within their fields.” Winners are plucked by a steering committee that zeroes in on recipients based on biography, impact and visionary practices.
The award ceremony will take place in Fort Myers, Florida on April 16. However, Rihanna won’t be making the trek as she is confirmed to accept virtually. Also set to be honored that night will be National Basketball Association commissioner Adam Silver.
“Rihanna has consistently pushed boundaries across music, beauty, fashion and philanthropy while setting new standards for creativity, inclusivity, and global influence,” said Frank Bonafilia, Edison Awards executive director. “She embodies the spirit of Thomas Edison, by using inclusive innovation as a catalyst for progress. We are honored to recognize her with this year’s award.”
In announcing the news, the Edison team cited Rihanna’s achievements in transforming the beauty industry with the launch of Fenty Beauty, hailed for its inclusive standards with the range of products, and building on that foundation and vision with an expansion that includes Fenty Skin, Fenty Hair and Savage X Fenty fashion line. In addition to her accomplishments in music, she also founded the Clara Lionel Foundation to give back.
Australia Gets Its First Female Army Chief, Susan Coyle.
Susan Coyle, currently chief of joint capabilities, is the first woman to be appointed head of any of the services in the Australian military.
Australia will get its first female chief of army, with the appointment of Lieutenant General Susan Coyle to the post. Coyle, currently chief of joint capabilities, is the first woman to be appointed head of any of the services in the Australian military.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the appointments of new military chiefs on Monday, ahead of the government unveiling its 2026 statement on defense strategy and investment later this week. The appointments commence in July.
The current Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, will become the new Chief of the Defence Force, replacing Admiral David Johnston.
Hammond has commanded submarines and the Australian fleet. He has been the Chief of the Navy since 2022. As the second naval officer in a row to serve as chief of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), his expertise is particularly relevant as Australia deals with the AUKUS agreement.
Coyle, who enlisted in the Army Reserves in 1987, has worked at the tactical, operational and strategic levels and in command roles. These include the commander of the Task Group Afghanistan and the commanding officer of the 17th Signal Regiment. She replaces Lieutenant General Stuart as Army Chief.
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