Brian Crombie Radio Hour - Epi 1342 - Can Canada-US Defence Ties Survive Donald Trump? with Philippe Lagassé

Brian interviews Philippe Lagassé. Phillipe is Associate Professor and the Barton Chair at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs. Lagassé’s research focuses on defence policy and procurement, and on the roles of Parliament, the Crown, and executive power in Westminster states, notably in the areas of foreign and military affairs. Philippe Lagassé talks about his article: “Can Canada-U.S. defence ties survive Trump?!” He says: “Both the Liberals and the Conservatives agree that Canada must meet NATO’s 2 per cent of GDP defence spending target. We believe this is critically important, but this new spending cannot be devoted to doubling down on Canada’s role as a junior partner of the United States military. Rather, we must use these extra dollars to build a more independent voice in the world by reorienting ourselves away from our present overwhelming military dependence on the U.S. The political message to our defence establishment must be clear; there will be extra money, lots of it even, but it must be spent on capabilities that will advance Canadian strategic autonomy or foster stronger partnerships with allies other than the United States.”