Arctic – mackaycartoons

Wednesday April 23, 2025

April 22, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 23, 2025

Canada’s Quiet Resolve in Strengthening Defence Amid Global Uncertainty

March 1, 2024

In the ever-shifting landscape of global politics, where alliances are tested and national interests recalibrated, Canada finds itself at a pivotal juncture. Recent events and political shifts have underscored a growing realization among NATO member countries, including Canada, that bolstering military capabilities is not just a response to external pressures, but a strategic necessity for a world where traditional security assurances can no longer be taken for granted.

The backdrop to this realization is a United States led by President Donald Trump, whose rhetoric and actions have raised concerns about America’s commitment to global security frameworks established post-World War II. Trump’s calls for NATO allies to increase defence spending to five percent of GDP, though seemingly about shared burden, mask a deeper unease about the U.S.’s role as a reliable security partner. Trump’s annexation rhetoric concerning Canada and Greenland, while alarming, reflects an unpredictable approach to international relations that has left many allies wary.

News: Trump wants NATO to spend 5% on defence. What do Canada party leaders say?

January 12, 2022

Canada, traditionally seen as a steadfast partner within NATO, has faced criticism for not meeting the alliance’s defence spending target of two percent of GDP. Yet, there’s a nuanced understanding emerging among Canadian political leaders. Both Liberal Leader Mark Carney and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre have now committed to reaching the two percent target by 2030, aligning their strategies to ensure Canada’s sovereignty and security in an increasingly unstable world. This alignment signifies a shared recognition of the importance of enhancing military capabilities amidst global uncertainties.

This decision reflects a pragmatic approach to defence policy. Canada recognizes that in a world where the U.S. might retreat from its role as a global security guarantor, it must step up to ensure its own defence readiness. The focus is on modernizing the military, securing the Arctic, and investing in cutting-edge technologies like AI and quantum computing, all while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

News: Mark Carney unveils a plan to Trump-proof Canada

July 12, 2018

Canada’s resolve to meet NATO commitments “on its own terms” is emblematic of a broader trend among NATO members. Many countries are recalibrating their defence policies not just due to external pressures from the U.S., but because of the realization that global threats are multifaceted. The unpredictability of a U.S. administration dismissive of trade and military alliances only adds to the urgency.

In this context, Canada’s approach is both sensible and strategic. It is about strengthening defence capabilities while fostering unity and consensus among political leaders. The decision to bolster military spending is not about succumbing to external demands but about safeguarding national interests in a changing global order.

As Canada moves forward, the focus should remain on maintaining a balanced approach that prioritizes security, economic stability, and diplomatic engagement. By doing so, Canada can navigate the complexities of international relations with resilience and resolve, ensuring its place as a respected and reliable partner on the world stage.

PPs 2% Promise

I’ve been closely following Pierre Poilievre’s approach to Canada’s NATO obligations, and his recent commitment to the 2% GDP defence target by 2030 has caught my attention. Until last week’s debate, Poilievre hadn’t specified a timeline, often critiquing the Liberals’ fluctuating target dates between 2028 and 2034 over the past couple of years without presenting his own. Now, it turns out his target aligns precisely with the Liberals’ plan, even as countries worldwide are exceeding the 2% benchmark.

Interestingly, Poilievre’s decision to announce this commitment late in the campaign suggests strategic timing. It’s likely not a stance that would be met with overwhelming enthusiasm, especially within his own party, where it could be quite polarizing. Let’s face it, bolstering defence—even amid increased threats—isn’t high on the average voter’s priority list, particularly with the cost of living crisis intensifying as Trump ramps up tariffs.

This revelation suggests that Poilievre might not be as hawkish as many believed. His mealy mouthed attitude toward supporting Ukraine’s struggle against Putin tyranny is a chief indicator of this for another day. While he shares Trump’s scepticism towards international agreements and multilateralism, evidenced by his rare mention of the Paris Accord, his reticence on NATO commitments raises questions. Nevertheless, he acknowledges the need to strengthen Canada’s military, including against potential U.S. threats.

Historically, Canada’s Conservative Party has championed robust military and defence policies. Yet, in the era of Donald Trump, who demands a 5% GDP commitment to NATO, one might expect Canadian conservatives to follow suit. Instead, Poilievre’s proposal mirrors the Liberals’, aiming for 2030, which I find both intriguing and somewhat lacking.

While I often see parallels between Canadian conservatives and Trump’s Republicans, this divergence is significant. The traditional hawks within Canada’s Conservative Party appear to have less influence, a point worth noting. When it comes to defence, the differences between Canada’s two major parties offered to voters are strikingly similar.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 23, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

PPs 2% Promise https://youtu.be/7QXYW_dp024

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Saturday March 29, 2025

March 29, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 29, 2025 (also, The Toronto Star)

Featured in The Daily Cartoonist

Arctic Ambitions: A New Era of American Expansionism

March 1, 2025

In an era where the world’s geopolitical landscape is ever-evolving, the spectre of American expansionism has reemerged in a form reminiscent of a bygone age. The recent developments surrounding the U.S. interest in Greenland, fuelled by President Donald Trump’s ambitions, have brought to light a narrative that harks back to the days of imperialism and territorial conquest.

The notion of annexing Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark, seems almost anachronistic in today’s global order. Yet, it is a reality unfolding before our eyes, driven by strategic interests in the Arctic’s abundant resources and its pivotal location. This new chapter of American expansionism challenges not only international norms but also the trust and alliances that the United States has cultivated over decades.

News: JD Vance, his wife to tour U.S. military base in Greenland after diplomatic spat over uninvited visit

March 6, 2025

The diplomatic debacle surrounding Vice President J.D. Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance’s visit to Greenland highlights the broader implications of this expansionist agenda. The strong local opposition, reflected in protests and refusals to engage with the U.S. delegation, underscores the importance of respecting sovereignty and the voices of local populations. The trip, initially intended as a cultural and diplomatic engagement, was reduced to a brief visit to a military base, symbolizing the isolation and unwelcomeness of American overtures.

The strategic interests in Greenland—its oil, gas, and mineral wealth—make it a coveted prize for any nation. However, the pursuit of such gains under the guise of national security risks alienating America’s allies and eroding the trust built over generations. The parallels to the Monroe Doctrine and Teddy Roosevelt’s gunboat diplomacy are stark, yet this iteration lacks the subtlety of “walking softly.” Instead, it wields a “big stick” that could isolate the U.S. on the world stage.

Opinion: Putin nods to Trump plans to seize Greenland

August 1, 2024

In a twist reminiscent of James Gillray’s famous cartoon “Plumb Pudding in Danger,” Russian President Vladimir Putin’s reaction to Trump’s Greenland ambitions is notably accepting, as if part of a predetermined exchange. It evokes a scenario where territorial aspirations are casually traded, with whispers of “you can have Ukraine if I can have Greenland.” As these geopolitical machinations unfold, one can’t help but imagine a sequel: “and if all goes well, Vlad, I’ll let you take Europe if I can have Canada.” These are the crazy times in which we live, where world leaders appear to carve up the globe with alarming nonchalance.

Opinion: So many souvenirs for JD Vance to take home from Greenland: oil, gas, minerals – and that’s just the start

As nations strategize against this new reality, the U.S. risks becoming friendless and isolated, cashing in the trust it once held as an honest broker. The actions of one man, Donald Trump, threaten to redefine America’s image and its relationships, casting long shadows over its diplomatic legacy.

In this unfolding drama, Greenland stands not just as a potential trophy of expansion but as a symbol of the mistrust and uncertainty facing a world grappling with the resurgence of imperial ambitions. The challenge for the U.S. is to navigate these waters with respect for international norms, lest it finds itself adrift in a sea of its own making.

Add VANCE to Greenland

Today, Usha Vance, along with J.D. Vance, visited Greenland. What was supposed to be a diplomatic and warm visit turned into just a stop at a U.S. Army base. Unfortunately, Usha still had to go on this altered trip.

This happened against the backdrop of a phone call between Mark Carney and Donald Trump. It was their first call, and while such calls usually happen quickly to extend congratulations, Trump didn’t follow the norm. Surprisingly, the call was cordial and uneventful, which is notable given the current tense climate.

In contrast, previous calls with Trudeau ended in heated exchanges, with Trump later making rude comments about Canada. However, today’s call had none of that drama. Despite this, Trump is unpredictable and could still make disrespectful remarks elsewhere.

In the call, it was confirmed that tariffs are coming on April 2, labeled “liberation day,” but thankfully, there was no mention of annexing Canada. However, for Greenland, we stand with its people and Denmark against Trump’s aggressive stance.

The visit to Greenland highlights the unpredictable nature of Trump’s diplomacy and the challenges that come with it.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for March 29, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Thursday August 22, 2019

August 29, 2019 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday August 22, 2019

Trump cancels meeting with Danish leader over Greenland no-sale

U.S. President Donald Trump said he would be putting off a planned meeting with Denmark’s prime minister because she did not want to talk about a possible U.S. purchase of the island of Greenland.

November 14, 2017

“Denmark is a very special country with incredible people, but based on Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen’s comments, that she would have no interest in discussing the purchase of Greenland, I will be postponing our meeting scheduled in two weeks for another time,” Trump said in a Twitter post on Tuesday night.

“The Prime Minister was able to save a great deal of expense and effort for both the United States and Denmark by being so direct. I thank her for that and look forward to rescheduling sometime in the future!” the president wrote.

Trump had been scheduled to make a state visit to Denmark on Sept. 2 on the invitation of Queen Margrethe II.

Hours before the trip was called off, Carla Sands, the U.S. ambassador to Denmark, tweeted that the Scandinavian country was “ready for the POTUS @realDonaldTrump visit! Partner, ally, friend.”

May 24, 2017

Earlier this week, the president told reporters that buying Greenland, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark but has extensive home rule, would be “a large real estate deal” that could ease a financial burden on Denmark.

Frederiksen had ruled out any sale. Danish officials have been adamant about no-sale since reports emerged last week that Trump had directed advisers and lawyers to review a possible deal.

“Greenland isn’t for sale, Greenland isn’t Danish, Greenland is Greenlandic,” she said Sunday during a visit to Greenland, according to local newspaper Sermitsiaq. “I keep trying to hope that this isn’t something that was seriously meant.” (Toronto Star)

Wednesday May 8, 2019

May 15, 2019 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday May 8, 2019

Mike Pompeo rejects Canada’s claims to Northwest Passage as ‘illegitimate

January 27, 2006

Mike Pompeo, the US secretary of state, has rejected Canada’s claims to the Northwest Passage as “illegitimate”, in a high-profile foreign policy speech that prompted frustration and surprise among experts and government officials.

Delegates from Arctic nations – Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and the US – had gathered in Finland to discuss balancing climate change with resource development in the region.

“No one denies Russia has significant Arctic interests,” Pompeo told delegates of the Arctic Council on Monday. “We recognize that Russia is not the only nation making illegitimate claims: the US has a long contested feud with Canada over sovereign claims through the Northwest Passage.”

April 1, 1999

The Arctic route linking the Atlantic and the Pacific offers a potential shortcut between Europe and China. Although the passage remains ice-bound for much of the year, it has become increasingly usable because of global warming and the retreat of Arctic sea ice.

While the United States has long maintained that the route, often blocked by sea ice, lies in international waters, Canada has argued the waters pass through sovereign territory.

Foreign affairs minister Chrystia Freeland dismissed Pompeo’s remarks after a meeting with her American counterpart.

“Canada is very clear about the Northwest Passage being Canadian. There is both a very strong and geographic connection with Canada,” Freeland told reporters.

Michael Byers, a professor of political science at the University of British Columbia and author of International Law and the Arctic, said Pompeo’s remarks were consistent with US policy. But he said the “belligerent” speech contained numerous,“factual mistakes and logical inconsistencies”.

July 26, 2007

Byers said: “He talked about Chinese investments in infrastructure in the Canadian Arctic, [but] there are none. That was a straight-out factual misstatement.”

Pompeo also came in for criticism for enthusing about the “abundance” of resources available for extracting in the Arctic as climate change causing ice to retreat. “Steady reductions in sea ice are opening new passageways and new opportunities for trade, that can potentially slashing the time it takes for ships to travel between Asia and the West by as much as 20 days,” he said.

The real NW passage expedition

The council meeting ended without a joint final statement from council members, after the US delegation balked at the inclusion of the phrase “climate change”.It marked the first time the Arctic Council had failed to produce a declaration since 1996.

“I actually celebrate the fact that the seven other countries stood up to the Trump administration” said Byers. “We’re talking about about six close allies of the United States – four of them Nato partners – drawing a line in the snow saying you cannot have a declaration without acknowledging the crisis of climate change.” (Source: The Guardian)

Tuesday February 12, 2019

February 19, 2019 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday February 12, 2019

Why Canada needs to make the Arctic a national priority

July 26, 2007

You may not know this, but Canada’s Arctic makes up nearly 40 per cent of our country’s land. Based on that alone, you would think that our federal government would prioritize the protection, careful development and stewardship of the far north.

But you’d be wrong. If northern development and affairs are priorities with the Trudeau government, it’s not obvious from the outside. In fact, a growing number of international experts are voicing concern that Canada is falling behind in terms of coherent policy and ambition of our northern territory.

Scandinavian countries aren’t making the same mistake. Neither are Russia and China, both of whom have robust and ambitious goals and are taking actions that should concern Canadians.

Russia, for example, is remilitarizing its far north in order to improve its access to Arctic territories. There is new military hardware, improved communication infrastructure. Industry, surface and marine transport and offshore resource development have seen massive investment. Russia is also expanding its icebreaker fleet to improve shipping lane access.

April 1, 1999

China last year released a white paper about the Arctic. Its stated policy goals are to “understand, protect, develop and participate in the governance of the Arctic, so as to safeguard the common interests of all countries and the international community in the Arctic, and promote sustainable development of the Arctic.”

This issue isn’t new. But it’s getting more urgent for a couple of reasons. One is climate change. With ice receding shipping channels are getting bigger and more accessible and commercial interests are getting more pressing. The other is Russia’s ambitious push to restore its place in the world order — to levels it hasn’t enjoyed since the days of the USSR — and the place Arctic development and ownership play in that.

Then there is Finland, and other Nordic countries, where northern development has always been more of a priority than in Canada. At the University of Oulu, on the edge of the Arctic Circle, Finns are testing a 5G network to study and develop communication technology and innovation. And in 2016, the Finnish government launched the Aurora project, referred to as an “Arctic intelligent transport test ecosystem” to facilitate testing of autonomous vehicle technology in harsh conditions on northern roads. (Continued: Hamilton Spectator Editorial)