Canadian PM Warns of U.S. Efforts to 'Break' Canada Amid Alberta Separation Vote

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged the oil-rich province of Alberta not to begin a process toward separation, warning that the United States is attempting to destabilize Canada to gain influence.

Carney's remarks came as advance voting is underway in Alberta for a referendum scheduled for Monday. The vote will determine whether the province instructs its government to initiate the legal process for a future separation referendum. While not a direct vote on independence, the outcome could have significant implications for Canada's national unity.

"This referendum comes at the worst possible time," Carney stated at a pro-Canada rally in Calgary. "The world has become more dangerous and divided. Some outside our borders are working to break us so they can own us." While not explicitly naming the U.S. or President Donald Trump, Carney has previously alluded to such actions amid ongoing trade disputes and Trump's past suggestions of making Canada the 51st U.S. state.

Carney implored Albertans not to use the vote as a means to send a message to Ottawa, emphasizing the potential for deep division and uncertainty. "Don’t be fooled by the idea you can ‘send a message’ with your vote," he said. "This is not poker. A vote against Canada is a dangerous bluff that will lead to years of deep division and great uncertainty."

The Prime Minister, who grew up in Alberta, highlighted the interconnectedness of the province with the rest of Canada, referencing Albertans who work and have been educated across the country, and the national support during Alberta's wildfire seasons.

He acknowledged the real grievances that have fueled alienation in Alberta, recalling past sentiments that Ottawa did not recognize the province's resource ownership and that its energy contributions were seen as contrary to historical trends. Carney has sought to mend ties by supporting projects like the Pacific Link pipeline, which he stated would create jobs and reduce Canada's reliance on the United States. His comments on this were met with cheers, and he jested about potential accusations of election interference, referencing a warning from U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra.

Leaders of the pro-independence group "Let Alberta Decide" acknowledged Carney's influence but disputed his arguments. Tanya Clemens, co-chair of the group, called Carney's agreements with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith "pinky promises" that do not address long-standing issues with Ottawa. Keith Wilson, another leader, questioned Carney's assertion that global instability makes this a poor time for the vote and suggested Carney should seek to repeal federal measures that separatists claim have harmed Alberta, such as potential taxes on oil exports.

Premier Smith, who voted to remain in Canada, has expressed concern that support for separation remains high and stated that "Canada can still work," but requires changes. Political science professor Daniel Béland noted Carney's unusual popularity in Alberta for a Liberal prime minister, attributing some of it to a "Trump effect" that has rallied Canadians against perceived U.S. pressure.

The movement for Alberta's independence has gained traction, partly influenced by activism during the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 "Freedom Convoy." Activists see the current referendum as a way to gain leverage in negotiations with the federal government.

Advance voting continues through Saturday, with the final vote scheduled for Monday.