In a stunning diplomatic move, President Donald Trump is demanding at least half ownership of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, a critical infrastructure project that Canada has fully funded. The .7 billion bridge, set to open soon, represents one of the most important border crossings between the two nations.

The demand has sparked outrage in Canada, where taxpayers have borne the entire cost of construction. Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed he had a tense conversation with Trump about the issue, though the White House appears to be maintaining its position despite Canadian objections.

The bridge, named after hockey legend Gordie Howe, has been under construction for years and is expected to handle thousands of vehicles daily, facilitating billions of dollars in trade. Trump's threat to block its opening has raised concerns about economic disruption.

Trade experts warn that any delay in the bridge opening could impact businesses on both sides of the border, particularly in the automotive and manufacturing sectors that rely on just-in-time supply chains crossing the Canada-US border.

For Gen Z Canadians, the dispute represents a dramatic shift in the historically friendly relationship between the two countries, with many questioning whether traditional alliances can survive the Trump era.