Trump returns to ’51st state’ rhetoric in speech to U.S. military officialsBy Canadian Press on September 30, 2025. WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump returned to his “51st state” rhetoric about Canada while giving an unprecedented speech to top military leaders today. Trump told the assembly that “Canada called” a few weeks ago to ask to be part of the missile defence shield. Trump also claimed Canada is having a hard time because tariffs are bringing business to the United States. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 30, 2025.