Donald Trump Reportedly Backed Off Canada Annexation Idea After Learning Role of King Charles III

A new book by British journalist Robert Hardman claims that U.S. President Donald Trump once entertained the idea of annexing parts of Canada — but may have backed away after learning about the country’s ties to the British monarchy.

The book, Elizabeth II: In Private. In Public. The Inside Story, explores Trump’s views on the late Queen Elizabeth II and her successor, King Charles III, while also detailing conversations between Hardman and Trump.

A surprising turning point

According to Hardman, Trump raised geopolitical ambitions — including acquiring Greenland — during a December conversation in Florida.

The journalist says he responded by warning that such moves could destabilize NATO and jokingly asked Trump to “leave Canada alone,” noting its long-standing alliance and ties to the monarchy.

That prompted Trump to ask whether Canada still recognizes King Charles as its head of state.

When told that it does, Hardman suggests Trump’s tone shifted — marking what he described as the closest thing to an acknowledgment that annexation was unlikely.

Views on Canada and its border

Hardman recounts Trump expressing frustration with the U.S.-Canada border, describing it as an arbitrary line.

He allegedly suggested the border could have been drawn further north, reflecting a long-standing view that much of Canada’s population lives close to the U.S.

However, Trump is also said to have acknowledged the complexity of dealing with Canada, especially given its history and governance structure.

Influence of the monarchy

The book suggests Trump’s well-known admiration for the British royal family — particularly Queen Elizabeth II — played a role in shaping his stance.

Hardman writes that Trump also holds respect for King Charles III, which may have discouraged further rhetoric about absorbing Canada.

Both the U.K. and Canadian governments have, at times, leaned on these royal connections in diplomatic contexts involving Trump.

Tone shifts in recent rhetoric

During his current term, Trump’s comments about Canada have reportedly become less aggressive.

Earlier suggestions of using “economic force” to absorb the country have given way to more rhetorical jabs — including referring to Canada’s prime minister as “Governor.”

One recent comment involved environmental concerns in the Great Lakes region, where Trump jokingly referred to Canada as if it were a U.S. state.

What the claims mean

The account is based on one journalist’s recollection and has not been independently verified.

Still, it offers a glimpse into how historical ties, diplomacy and even symbolic institutions like the monarchy can influence geopolitical thinking — even in unconventional ways.

Bottom line

While the idea of annexing Canada remains highly improbable, the book highlights how personal views, historical relationships and political symbolism can intersect in unexpected ways at the highest levels of global leadership.