The United States has halted participation in a key bilateral defense body with Canada, escalating pressure on Ottawa over its defense spending and a delayed review of its planned F-35 fighter jet purchase. The Pentagon confirmed it has paused involvement in the Permanent Joint Board on Defense, an advisory forum created in 1940 to coordinate continental defense issues between the two countries.
A Pentagon official, cited by Reuters, said the decision reflects growing concern that Canada has not taken the steps needed to be considered a credible security partner. Washington has repeatedly urged Ottawa to increase military spending and move forward on its review of the acquisition of Lockheed Martin F-35s for the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The move highlights U.S. frustration with the pace of Canadian defense modernization at a time of heightened focus on North American and Arctic security. The pause does not affect other core defense arrangements, but it underscores tensions within the broader defense relationship as Canada faces renewed scrutiny from its closest ally over both budget levels and its fighter replacement program.