Key Takeaways:
- Canada’s new defense deal with the EU is being criticized as a PR move rather than a real strategy.
- The deal distracts from Canada’s major defense weaknesses, like outdated equipment and low recruitment.
- Critics say Canada needs to focus on its own military strength, not just sign agreements.
- The deal prioritizes symbolism over solving real security challenges.
- Canada’s real security threats are closer to home, in the Arctic and Pacific, not in Europe.
A Deal for Show, Not Substance
Mark Carney, Canada’s prime minister, has set July 1 as the deadline for a sweeping new defense deal with the European Union. He calls it a bold step for Canada to reclaim its role on the global stage. But beneath the fancy language and diplomatic ceremonies, critics say this deal is more about appearance than action.
The truth is, Canada’s military is in trouble. Its submarines are old and unreliable, its air force is stretched thin, and its navy lacks resources. Recruitment is at an all-time low, and Canada’s Arctic defense infrastructure is almost nonexistent. None of these problems are addressed by the new EU deal.
A Hollow Strategy
The deal is being rushed to coincide with Canada Day and a major NATO summit in Washington. Critics call it a “set piece” designed to look good on paper rather than solve real issues. Carney’s speeches sound strong and visionary, but they lack any real substance.
Canada’s military is not ready to defend itself, let alone support a major alliance. The country’s submarines, air force, and navy are all in poor shape. The Arctic, which is becoming increasingly important geopolitically, is almost entirely neglected.
The Problem with ‘Middle Power’ Mythology
Carney’s government is clinging to the idea of Canada as a “middle power.” This idea worked in the past when the world was more stable, and the U.S. protected its allies. But times have changed. Today’s world is more competitive, and countries need real strength, not just symbolic gestures.
Instead of focusing on Europe, Canada should prioritize its own security challenges. The Arctic is melting, and new powers are competing for influence in the region. The North Pacific is also becoming a hotspot for global power struggles. Yet Canada is acting like a bystander, attending summits but not taking real action.
The Real Work of Defense
If Carney were serious about defense, he’d focus on:
- Modernizing NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command).
- Building proper bases in the Arctic.
- Fixing shipbuilding timelines.
- Addressing the recruitment crisis.
Instead, he’s focusing on symbolic gestures, like this EU deal, to distract from the real issues. This deal allows the government to say, “We’re doing something,” while avoiding the hard work of rebuilding Canada’s military.
The EU: Not a Solution
The EU itself is not a strong, united defense force. Its members are divided on strategy, slow to act, and rely heavily on the U.S. for protection. Tying Canada’s fortunes to the EU is not a step forward; it’s a way to avoid the real work of being a serious ally.
The U.S., especially under a potential second Trump administration, won’t be impressed by empty gestures. They want to see real capabilities, not just signed agreements.
A Call for Leadership
Carney’s defenders argue that the deal is a step in the right direction. But a step isn’t enough when Canada is falling behind. The country needs a leader willing to tell the truth: Canada is no longer a meaningful middle power, and its current strategy is outdated and dangerous.
The world won’t be fooled by symbolic deals. Allies and adversaries alike will judge Canada by its ability to field real forces where it matters.
The Road Ahead
Canada needs more than just a defense deal with Europe. It needs a defense reckoning. The country must stop pretending to be a middle power and embrace its role as a nation with three critical frontiers: the Arctic, Atlantic, and Pacific.
Until Canada faces the truth and takes real action, no agreement, summit, or speech will change the fact that the country is not prepared for the challenges ahead. The world is moving forward, and Canada can’t afford to stand still.
The time for illusions is over. It’s time for a real defense strategy, not just another PR stunt.