Fact Check: Canada is the USA’s strongest ally

Fact Check: "Canada is the USA’s strongest ally"

What We Know

The relationship between Canada and the United States is often described as one of the closest and most comprehensive alliances globally. According to the U.S. State Department, Canada is recognized as one of the U.S.'s closest allies, with extensive collaboration on various issues including defense, trade, and climate change. The two nations share the longest international border, measuring 5,525 miles, and engage in significant daily trade, amounting to approximately $2.7 billion in goods and services crossing the border each day (as noted in Wikipedia).

Historically, both countries have maintained a strong military partnership, particularly through organizations like NORAD and NATO, which underscores their military interoperability (Wikipedia). Moreover, the economic ties are profound, with Canada being the largest export market for over 30 U.S. states and a key partner in energy trade (U.S. State Department).

However, the relationship is not without its complexities. There have been instances of tension, particularly regarding trade disputes and differing foreign policy approaches. For example, Canada has often been reluctant to engage in U.S.-led military operations that lack UN sanction (Wikipedia).

Analysis

The claim that "Canada is the USA's strongest ally" is supported by numerous facts about the depth of their relationship, including economic interdependence and military cooperation. The U.S. State Department emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the U.S.-Canada partnership, which includes shared democratic values and collaborative efforts on global challenges. This sentiment is echoed in various sources, including Connect2Canada, which highlights the unique and enduring nature of their alliance.

However, the term "strongest ally" is subjective and can be interpreted in various ways. For instance, while Canada is indeed a close ally, other nations, such as the United Kingdom, also share a historically strong alliance with the U.S. The perception of Canada as the "strongest" ally may vary based on factors such as political climate, public opinion, and specific contexts of international relations. Recent polling indicates a decline in the perception of Canada as a close ally, with only 45% of respondents considering Canada a close ally as of March 2025, down from 62% in 2023 (AP-NORC).

Additionally, the complexities of the relationship, including historical anti-American sentiment in Canada and differing military policies, suggest that while Canada is a significant ally, it may not be the unequivocal "strongest" when compared to other nations.

Conclusion

The claim that "Canada is the USA’s strongest ally" is Partially True. While Canada is undoubtedly one of the closest allies of the United States, characterized by deep economic ties and military cooperation, the subjective nature of the term "strongest" complicates the assertion. The relationship is marked by both collaboration and occasional tension, and perceptions of the alliance can vary over time and context.

Fact Check: Canada is the USA’s strongest ally