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U.S. Pressures Canada on F-35 Purchase Amid Trade Tensions

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra warned that American airspace interventions would rise if Canada does not buy 88 F-35 jets.
Hoekstra said switching to Gripen jets would lack interoperability with U.S. forces and would necessitate changes to the NORAD agreement.
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Canada’s deals with China and threatened tariffs, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney reaffirmed Canada will not pursue a China free trade agreement.

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Story summary

U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra warned that American airspace interventions would rise if Canada does not buy 88 F-35 jets.
Hoekstra said switching to Gripen jets would lack interoperability with U.S. forces and would necessitate changes to the NORAD agreement.
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Canada’s deals with China and threatened tariffs, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney reaffirmed Canada will not pursue a China free trade agreement.