Trump Warns China Will Wipe Out Ice Hockey in Canada Amid Bridge Dispute

In a striking declaration, President Donald Trump accused China of plotting to "wipe out ALL ice hockey" in Canada while threatening to halt the construction of a vital suspension bridge connecting the U.S. and Canada.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge, a 1.6-mile span over the Detroit River between Michigan and Ontario, has been in the works for decades, with officials from both nations collaborating on its development.

However, in a fervent post on Truth Social, Trump alleged that Canada is "exploiting America" and demanded part-ownership of the bridge, warning of consequences if his demands are not met.

"What does the United States of America get — Absolutely NOTHING!" he exclaimed.

He continued, "I will not allow this bridge to open until the United States is fully compensated for everything we have given them, and also, importantly, Canada treats the United States with the Fairness and Respect that we deserve."

Trump insisted on immediate negotiations, suggesting that given America's contributions, it should own at least half of the bridge.

His comments extended to Canada's pursuit of new trade agreements with China, which he claimed would "devour Canada." He ominously stated, "The first thing China will do is terminate ALL Ice Hockey being played in Canada, and permanently eliminate The Stanley Cup," without clarifying how such an outcome would occur.

Reactions from Michigan officials were swift. Governor Gretchen Whitmer's spokesperson emphasized that Canada financed the bridge's construction, which was built by union workers from both nations and will operate under a joint ownership agreement.

“It's going to open one way or another," the spokesperson asserted.

Senator Elissa Slotkin labeled the bridge an “incredibly important infrastructure project,” warning that any cancellation would inflict “serious” harm on Michigan’s economy. “With this threat, the President is punishing Michiganders for a trade war he started,” she remarked on social media.

Senator Gary Peters dismissed Trump's assertions as "completely backwards," noting that Michigan's economy is already deeply intertwined with Canada's and that residents have long advocated for a new bridge.

House member Debbie Dingell highlighted that the bridge was negotiated by a Republican governor and noted Trump's endorsement of the project in 2017. "We cannot forget Canada is our friend and ally. We have to stop these cheap shots... I look forward to the ribbon-cutting," she stated.

Named after legendary Detroit hockey player Gordon Howe, the bridge has been under construction since 2018 and is fully funded by the Canadian government, which plans to recover its investment through tolls.

This infrastructure project was expected to strengthen ties between two historic allies until Trump's tariffs and threats of annexation strained diplomatic relations.

At a recent speech in Davos, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney received applause for declaring that the traditional U.S.-led world order has ended and "is not coming back."

Trump's post also criticized Ontario's ban on U.S. liquor, which was removed from licensed stores last February by provincial order and has yet to be reinstated.