Canadian leader Mark Carney has adopted a firm position regarding United States involvement in Canadian domestic matters, publicly stating his expectation that Washington must respect Canada’s sovereignty after learning of meetings between American officials and Alberta separatists. During Thursday’s press conference following provincial leader consultations, Carney emphasized that he has been unwaveringly clear about this principle in all communications with President Donald Trump.
The situation developed after the Financial Times published findings revealing encounters between Alberta independence proponents and US government representatives. The State Department verified these meetings took place but sought to characterize them as ordinary civil society interactions where no formal agreements were reached. Despite these clarifications, the disclosure has aggravated already tense relations between the two countries and raised fundamental questions about the appropriate boundaries of diplomatic engagement.
Alberta’s separatist movement is currently in campaign mode, collecting signatures needed to hold a sovereignty referendum before year’s end. Premier Danielle Smith shared that approximately 30% of the province’s population currently supports independence. She blamed the alienation on Justin Trudeau’s previous administration, describing a decade of federal policies that she claims targeted Alberta unfairly. Smith acknowledged that federal-provincial dynamics have improved under Carney’s leadership.
Movement leader Jeff Rath has openly discussed his organization’s Washington connections, confirming to the Globe and Mail that his group has secured access to the highest levels of American government and intends to continue these discussions with another visit in February. Rath welcomed encouraging words from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who described Alberta as a natural partner. British Columbia Premier David Eby responded with severe criticism, characterizing the separatists’ behavior as treasonous.
The separatist phenomenon is not confined to Alberta. Quebec’s upcoming October provincial elections could result in the sovereigntist Parti Quebecois forming government, with leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon having promised an independence referendum. Ontario Premier Doug Ford warned this would be disastrous for Canada, though Quebec Premier François Legault insisted only Quebecers can make that decision. Legault provided some reassurance by noting minimal support for both a referendum and separation in Quebec.