Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on Thursday that the United States administration must respect Canadian sovereignty amid reports that Alberta separatist advocates have held several meetings with US State Department personnel. The Financial Times reported that officials met with the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP), a group advocating for a provincial referendum on leaving the Canadian federation. Carney, an Albertan himself, confirmed addressing the issue directly with President Donald Trump, emphasizing a pivot back to cooperative bilateral matters.
These engagements reportedly occurred at least three times in Washington since April, prompting apprehension in Ottawa following Trump’s inauguration for a second term in January. This follows recent comments by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who praised Alberta’s resource wealth and “independent” character while suggesting its energy exports should flow south to the US. Bessent also referenced rumors regarding a potential separation referendum during an interview with Real America’s Voice.
Leaders of the APP, according to reports, are seeking a follow-up meeting next month to discuss a potential $500 billion credit line to stabilize Alberta’s finances should an independence vote be triggered. Alberta’s long-standing separatist movement is rooted in resource management disputes, with many residents feeling Ottawa’s environmental and pipeline policies stifle economic development. The province contributes 15% of Canada’s GDP while generating over 80% of its oil production.
Reactions from other provincial leaders underscore the sensitivity of the issue within Canada. British Columbia Premier David Eby characterized the reported lobbying efforts toward a foreign power as “treason,” criticizing the seeking of assistance to divide the country. Conversely, Ontario Premier Doug Ford called for national unity, referencing potential separatist referendums in both Alberta and Quebec as threats to national cohesion.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has maintained a stance of not demonizing citizens open to separation due to “legitimate grievances” with federal policy, maintaining a supportive relationship with the former US president. The APP is actively campaigning for a vote under citizen-initiative rules, asserting that provincial control over resources and taxation would benefit Alberta economically, though the viability of full independence remains debated.
This diplomatic friction occurs as US-Canada relations remain strained over trade, following Carney’s recent warning at the World Economic Forum in Davos regarding US actions contributing to a “rupture” in global order. Furthermore, President Trump’s stated expansionist ambitions have previously included suggestions of incorporating Canada into the US, underscoring geopolitical concerns for Ottawa.
While Ipsos polling indicates roughly three in ten Albertans support initiating the separation process, a significant portion view this support as symbolic dissatisfaction rather than a firm commitment to independence. Any formal referendum result would necessitate a review by the federal government under the Clarity Act before any secession negotiations could commence regarding assets and borders.
