military – mackaycartoons

Tuesday June 10 2025

June 10, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday June 10 2025

Canada’s Bold Move: Strengthening Defense Amid Global Pressures

May 7, 2025

This week, Canada has taken a significant step in shaping its defence strategy as Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a $9 billion investment in military spending, with a commitment to meet NATO’s 2% GDP target this year. This decision reflects Canada’s dedication to strengthening its military capabilities in response to rising global tensions, particularly from countries like Russia and China, which have been expanding their military power. These challenges necessitate a robust defence posture from Canada.

News: Carney to announce Canada’s defence spending will hit NATO’s target of 2% of GDP this fiscal year, sources say

At the same time, Canada’s move is influenced by ongoing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been vocal about NATO allies increasing their defence budgets. Trump’s focus on military might is evident not only on the world stage but also at home, with his use of the National Guard to address protests and the upcoming military parade for his birthday. These actions highlight the expectation that allies like Canada share the burden of defence spending.

January 16, 2020

Interestingly, the pressure from Trump seems to echo the tactics used by leaders like Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping, who often wield their influence through displays of strength. For Canada, aligning with these demands means finding a balance between meeting international obligations and looking after national interests. Carney’s investment is not just a reaction to outside pressures; it’s a strategic move to ensure that Canada remains a capable and committed player on the global stage.

News: NATO to back 5% spending target in June, Secretary-General says

By focusing on enhancing military readiness and boosting the Canadian defence industry, Carney’s government aims to secure Canada’s future while maintaining its independence. This includes reforms in military procurement and the use of domestic resources like Canadian steel and aluminum, reducing reliance on the U.S., and strengthening ties with European allies.

As Canada takes this path, it’s important to support policies that reflect our values and commitment to security. This investment in defence will help ensure that Canada remains respected and influential in a world where power displays are on the rise.

A few thoughts about where we stand with our international security commitments. It’s no secret that Canada has been lagging in this area for a while now.

Our self-defence capabilities have weakened to the point where it’s hard to see how we can be a credible force in helping defend others when we can barely defend ourselves.

That said, I’m looking at Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent commitments with a lot of hope. I’m cautiously optimistic about this new leadership and what it could mean for our defence posture. It’s definitely about results at this point, and I’m hoping Carney can deliver.

It’s interesting timing, isn’t it? Just ahead of the G7 meeting we’re hosting and right before the big NATO summit where talk of spending is heating up from 2% to 5%. And let’s not forget, it’s Trump’s birthday week, culminating in that over-the-top military parade. It feels like we’re all putting on a bit of a show right now.

Friday May 30 2025

May 30, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday May 30 2025

Published in the Toronto Star.

Canada’s Sovereignty is Not for Sale: Rejecting Trump’s 51st State Rhetoric

April 30, 2025

In the latest saga of U.S.-Canada relations, President Donald Trump’s proposal for Canada to join the Golden Dome missile defence system has rekindled an age-old narrative that Canada could become the 51st state of the United States. This rhetoric, used as a bargaining chip to pressure Canada into a costly defence scheme, is not only disrespectful but fundamentally undermines the sovereignty of our nation.

Trump’s proposition—demanding that Canada pay a hefty US$61 billion for participation in the Golden Dome unless we concede to annexation—has been aptly described by Canadian UN Ambassador Bob Rae as akin to a “protection racket.” This comparison highlights the absurdity of the offer: pay an exorbitant fee for defence collaboration or lose our national identity. Such a proposal is not only offensive but also dismissive of Canada’s autonomy and history as a sovereign nation.

News: Senior Canadian diplomat calls Trump’s latest pitch to join missile defence system a ‘protection racket’

April 2, 2025

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s refusal to engage in public negotiations over this matter is a wise move, emphasizing that Canada is “not for sale” and “won’t be for sale, ever.” The rhetoric of annexation not only echoes historical overreach but also disregards the reality of Canada as a proud, independent country.

As the world faces escalating global threats, Canada recognizes the need to bolster its defence capabilities. The government has already committed to increasing defence spending, aiming to reach NATO’s target of 2% of GDP by 2030. However, the beneficiaries of this defence investment are shifting. Canada is looking eastward, toward Europe, rather than southward to the U.S., as it considers joining the ReArm Europe initiative. This strategic pivot is not merely a snub to the U.S. military-industrial complex; it is a calculated decision to diversify our defence partnerships and strengthen our domestic military industry.

ReArm Europe offers Canada the opportunity to collaborate with European allies, buying military equipment at competitive prices and providing a new market for Canadian defence products. This move allows Canada to reduce its reliance on the United States, which currently receives 75% of our defence procurement spending. By investing in non-traditional partners, Canada is not only enhancing its military capabilities but also asserting its economic independence and strategic autonomy.

News: Golden Dome? ReArm Europe? Canada negotiating military relationships amid trade war, sovereignty concerns

April 23, 2025

Moreover, public sentiment reflects a growing disillusionment with Trump’s tactics. Many Canadians, as seen in reader comments, are frustrated with the idea of being coerced into a defence arrangement under the guise of annexation or economic pressure. The rhetoric of becoming a 51st state is not only unrealistic but also dismissive of Canada’s rich heritage and commitment to sovereign equality, principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.

Canada’s path forward involves strengthening our defence through diversified partnerships and robust domestic investment. While we recognize the importance of collaboration with allies, it must be on terms that respect our sovereignty and strategic interests. Trump’s rhetoric is a reminder of the necessity to stand firm in our national identity and reject any proposals that compromise our independence. Canada’s future will be defined by partnerships that respect mutual interests, not by yielding to outdated and disrespectful notions of annexation.

Canada’s Defence Awakening: Beyond the Umbrella – Friday May 30, 2025

Posted to Substack

These are indeed interesting times for Canada, as the nation begins to recognize the importance of strengthening its defence capabilities. This was a central promise made to voters when they entrusted the newly led Liberal party with governance. Amidst the tense dynamics between Canada and the U.S., Trump’s questioning of Canadian sovereignty has unexpectedly served as a catalyst. It has prompted Canada to take its defence more seriously, encouraging us to step out from under the U.S. security umbrella and arm ourselves independently. Canadians seem to have accepted this reality, understanding that while we bolster our defences, there might be sacrifices in social spending elsewhere—but that’s a topic for another cartoon.

Friday March 1, 2024 – More than a year ago, Canada’s Liberal government had not prioritized defence spending, focusing on its political standing during declining popularity, but escalating global tensions have since pressured Canada to balance domestic social investments with meeting NATO commitments.

In today’s cartoon, the scene unfolds at an arms Expo. On one side, European vendors display traditional military gear—jets, tanks, missiles—all in the familiar army green. On the opposite side, Trump’s “Golden Dome” gleams ostentatiously, with a sign that reads, “Just $61B or Become a State and It’s FREE*,” complete with a cheeky nod to terms and conditions. The humour lies in the absurdity of Trump’s offer and the fanciful price tag seemingly pulled from his bum.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010 – After Canada lost its bid for a UN Security Council seat to Portugal, the Conservative government blamed Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff for undermining their campaign, while Ignatieff criticized the government’s foreign policy, calling the loss a “sad day” and dismissing their blame as “ridiculous.”

What brings satisfaction is seeing Mark Carney adeptly handle this situation. Unlike his predecessor, he confidently asserts that Canada’s sovereignty empowers us to seek partnerships beyond the U.S., enhancing our defence strategy with new allies. The longstanding post-war security guarantee from the U.S. is essentially over, and while this means Canada is cut loose, it also liberates us from over-reliance on the U.S. military-industrial complex. This shift allows Canada to forge its own path in defence, enriched by diverse collaborations.

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

Monday February 17, 2025

February 17, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoons by Graeme MacKay – Monday February 17, 2025

How Trump’s Policies Could Shake Up the World Order

July 12, 2018

Since World War II, the U.S. has been at the centre of a kind of global peace deal known as Pax Americana. The idea was simple: the U.S. would offer security to its allies, and in return, everyone would benefit from economic and cultural exchanges. This system has kept the world relatively stable for decades. But former President Donald Trump’s approach to foreign policy has started to disrupt this balance, putting long-standing alliances at risk.

January 12, 2022

Trump’s “America First” mindset often led to criticizing allies like Canada for not spending enough on defense. He even went so far as to suggest that Canada might as well become the 51st state, ignoring the deep-rooted partnership between the two countries. This kind of rhetoric overlooks the history of cooperation that has benefited everyone involved.

February 9, 2016

Over the years, the U.S. has sometimes put its interests first, even if it meant straining relationships with allies. Whether it’s imposing trade tariffs or making military decisions, America has acted independently when it saw fit. While this might have served short-term goals, it hasn’t always sat well with other countries.

One big factor in all this is the U.S. focus on its military-industrial complex. America spends a lot on defense, often at the expense of social programs like healthcare. Despite having the most expensive healthcare system globally, many Americans still struggle to get the care they need. Meanwhile, countries like Canada and those in Europe have been able to invest in universal healthcare and other social benefits, partly because of the security the U.S. provides.

Trump’s shift towards a more transactional approach with allies could push them to look elsewhere for partnerships. This could lead to new alliances forming, changing the balance of power in the world. A more fragmented global landscape would make international cooperation harder and the world less predictable.

November 14, 2017

In short, while “America First” might seem like a good deal for the U.S., it misses the bigger picture. By stepping away from the principles that have held the world together for so long, the U.S. risks losing its influence and creating a more unstable global environment. Future leaders need to remember the value of working together and aim to rebuild the collaborative spirit that has defined America’s role in the world for decades. Only through teamwork and respect can we keep the world a stable and prosperous place.

Friday February 7, 2025

February 7, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay – Friday February 7, 2025

The Art of the Steal: Trump’s Expansionist Playbook

January 11, 2025

The international community must take seriously the expansionist language and unilateral ambitions emerging from Donald Trump’s second term as President of the United States. His recent proclamations—suggesting U.S. control over Gaza, acquiring Greenland, and reclaiming the Panama Canal—signal a shift from isolationist nationalism to a brand of expansionism that disregards international norms and territorial sovereignty.

Trump’s expansionist rhetoric is not limited to territorial ambitions; it is reinforced by aggressive economic policies designed to strong-arm other nations into submission. His imposition of steep tariffs—such as the 25% levies threatened against Canada and Mexico, and increased tariffs on China—demonstrates a weaponization of trade that pressures allies and rivals alike. By using the immense economic power of the United States as leverage, Trump is effectively waging economic warfare, forcing other nations into compliance while undermining the principles of free and fair trade.

Analysis: ‘America First,’ then the world

February 5, 2025

History has shown that American expansionist rhetoric, when left unchecked, has often translated into real geopolitical shifts. From the annexation of Hawaii to the occupation of the Philippines, the United States has repeatedly expanded its reach under the justification of economic, security, or ideological imperatives. Trump’s statements, even if initially framed as bluster, have the potential to set dangerous precedents, embolden unilateral action, and destabilize global security.

Beyond territorial ambitions and economic coercion, Trump’s undermining of multilateral institutions—such as the United Nations, the International Criminal Court, and global climate accords—further weakens the mechanisms designed to prevent such expansionist tendencies from escalating into conflict. His posture toward Ukraine, signaling an openness to Russian territorial gains, raises additional alarms about a world order where might dictates right.

Governments and international organizations must not dismiss these statements as mere rhetoric. Diplomatic, economic, and strategic coalitions should be reinforced to deter any actions that would threaten sovereignty, human rights, or the stability of regions already under strain. The world has seen the consequences of unchecked imperial ambitions before—ignoring the warning signs today would be a failure of global leadership.

This editorial cartoon has been re-adapted from one published September 20, 2017.