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What if the U.S. invaded Canada?
Feb 18, 2025
Howard Coombs, Director of the Queen’s Centre for International Defence Policy and a retired Canadian Armed Forces member, discusses provocative ideas about U.S.-Canada relations. He explores the possibility of a U.S. invasion and the complex military dynamics at play. Coombs analyzes both historical and modern tactics, emphasizing Canada’s vulnerabilities to economic warfare. He also considers the potential for Canadian resistance against overwhelming military power and the urgent need for Canada to reassess its defense strategy to protect its sovereignty.
26:45
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Quick takeaways
- A theoretical U.S. invasion of Canada would prioritize minimizing infrastructure damage and civilian casualties based on historical military strategies.
- Economic warfare is a growing reality, with Canada needing to enhance its industrial independence to resist U.S. influence and pressures.
Deep dives
Theoretical U.S. Military Invasion
A potential military invasion of Canada by the United States is considered highly unlikely, given the current political climate and historical context. Past instances of U.S. invasions, such as during the American Revolution and the War of 1812, highlight longstanding tensions between both nations. Although there’s a significant military disparity, with the U.S. forces vastly outnumbering Canadian troops, the operational strategies would likely prioritize minimizing infrastructure damage and civilian casualties. Historical war plans, like the 1920s War Plan Red, illustrate how U.S. objectives may involve isolating key Canadian cities to disrupt governance and communication.
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