Monarch praises Canadian values in veiled response to Trump’s threats to make Canada the 51st state

In a speech laden with symbolism and subtle defiance, King Charles addressed Canada’s parliament on Tuesday, delivering a passionate defense of Canadian sovereignty in what many interpreted as a direct response to US President Donald Trump’s inflammatory remarks about annexing Canada.

Marking the first time since 1957 that a monarch has opened a Canadian parliamentary session, Charles used the historic platform to praise the country he said he loved “so much”, while reinforcing the core values Canadians hold dear. “The True North is indeed strong and free,” he declared, invoking the national anthem with deliberate emphasis as Trump’s comments continued to reverberate across the border.

Though he never mentioned Trump by name, the undertone of the speech was unmistakable. “Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination and freedom are values which Canadians hold dear,” said the king. “By staying true to Canadian values, this country can build new alliances and a new economy that serves all Canadians.”

The king referenced ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilise relations with the US, stating: “The prime minister and the president of the United States have begun defining a new economic and security relationship… founded on mutual respect.” It was a marked contrast to Trump’s recent campaign rhetoric, in which he labelled Canada a “natural extension of America” and suggested it should become the 51st state.

King Charles, on his 20th visit to Canada, was accompanied by Queen Camilla. He reflected on his mother Queen Elizabeth II’s 1957 speech to parliament, noting how her call for global cooperation still resonates. “Canada has continued to set an example to the world in her conduct and values, as a force for good,” he said.

The king’s remarks came amid shifting Canadian attitudes towards the monarchy. While an Ipsos poll in 2023 showed nearly 70% of Canadians favoured a diminished role for the royals, new data released this week indicated that support has risen — with only 56% now favouring a reduced role. Analysts attribute this swing in part to growing Canadian discomfort with the increasingly erratic tone of US politics under Trump.

Not everyone in parliament welcomed the monarch’s presence. The separatist Bloc Québécois boycotted the event entirely. Leader Yves-François Blanchet blasted the government for inviting what he described as a “foreign king” to open parliament. “There is a complete inconsistency,” he said, accusing Prime Minister Mark Carney of indulging personal monarchist sympathies at the expense of Quebec’s identity.

Yet outside the political halls, Indigenous representatives embraced the royal visit. The king was welcomed in Ottawa by leaders of the Inuit, Métis and First Nations communities, who underscored the historic relationship between their peoples and the Crown.

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak called the visit “a meaningful reminder” of the enduring nation-to-nation relationship that predates Canadian confederation. “We are allies with a sacred perpetual relationship that cannot be broken,” she said. “The British Crown and First Nations are foundational to the creation of Canada.”

As the applause rang out in the Senate chamber and the monarch’s words reverberated through the halls of power, it was clear this was no ceremonial address. King Charles had stepped into a geopolitical storm — and delivered a message of quiet resolve.