Trump in Talks with Separatists, Canada PM Mark Carney Issues Stern Warning

Ottawa: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has issued a strong warning to U.S. President Donald Trump after reports surfaced that American officials met with separatist leaders from Alberta. The meetings, which reportedly took place several times in Washington since last spring, have raised serious concerns in Ottawa over external interference in Canada’s domestic politics.

Speaking alongside provincial premiers in Ottawa, Carney said, “I expect President Trump to respect Canada’s sovereignty. I have always been clear about this in my discussions with him. We focus on what we can work on together, and that is where our attention lies.” Carney emphasized that, according to his knowledge, Trump did not raise Alberta’s independence during these discussions.

The controversy erupted after British Columbia Premier David Eby accused a group of Alberta separatists of attempting to meet U.S. officials, framing it as an act of treason. Alberta, Canada’s primary energy-producing province, has long harbored separatist sentiments. Separatist leaders argue that Albertans pay disproportionately high taxes and lack adequate representation in the federal system, fueling calls for independence.

Reports in the Financial Times, citing sources familiar with the matter, confirmed that Alberta separatist leaders met U.S. officials three times since last spring. The Canadian government has been closely monitoring these interactions due to concerns over foreign influence and potential destabilization of domestic politics.

U.S. officials have sought to downplay the controversy. A White House representative told Axios, “Our officials regularly meet with various civil society groups. There is no need to exaggerate these interactions. No support or commitments were made during these meetings.”

The situation is further complicated by Donald Trump’s past remarks, including a controversial statement last year suggesting Canada could become the 51st U.S. state, which drew sharp objections from Ottawa. Given these recent developments, Canada is wary of any moves that could embolden separatist movements within its borders.

Alberta’s natural resources, particularly oil, have been a central factor in the independence debate, making the province a focal point of economic and political tension within Canada.