NATO – 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

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Saturday March 1, 2025

March 1, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 1, 2025

Also Published in the Toronto Star. Also, the Daily Cartoonist.

The Oval Office Clash and America’s Troubling Shift in Foreign Policy

February 27, 2025

The recent explosive meeting in the Oval Office between President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has laid bare a troubling shift in U.S. foreign policy. The disgraceful behaviour displayed by Trump and Vance not only confirms a departure from traditional American values but also signals a realignment with authoritarianism and financial interests over democratic principles.

Historically, the United States has been regarded as the leader of the free world, championing democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. However, the confrontation with Zelenskyy reveals a stark departure from these ideals. Trump’s demand for gratitude and his ultimatum to Zelenskyy, alongside Vance’s aggressive lecturing, highlight an administration more interested in transactional diplomacy than principled leadership.

News: Trump, Vance shout at Zelenskyy in combative Oval Office meeting

February 21, 2025

This meeting, intended to finalize a minerals deal, devolved into a shouting match that resembled a scripted wrestling show, complete with public posturing and choreographed chaos. Such theatrics might be expected from a WWE event, but in the context of international diplomacy, they are both extraordinary and alarming. The behaviour of Trump and Vance, with its lack of decorum and respect, was not just a diplomatic faux pas; it was a deliberate display of bullying that undermines America’s standing on the global stage.

The comparison of this spectacle to a fixed wrestling match is not far-fetched. The meeting’s dynamics, with Vance’s sudden attack on Zelenskyy triggering Trump’s tirade, seemed orchestrated to humiliate the Ukrainian leader and assert dominance. This aligns disturbingly with the tactics of a narcissist, where manipulation and coercion replace genuine dialogue and negotiation.

January 21, 2025

Beyond the embarrassing display, the geopolitical implications are profound. The administration’s stance appears increasingly aligned with Vladimir Putin’s interests. Trump’s praise of Putin, coupled with his skepticism of Ukraine, suggests a pivot towards accommodating Russian narratives. This shift raises questions about the integrity of U.S. foreign policy and its commitment to supporting allies like Ukraine, who are fighting for their survival against aggression.

Furthermore, the administration’s focus on economic deals over strategic alliances indicates a prioritization of financial gain over moral leadership. This transactional approach, where everything is reduced to a negotiation chip, erodes the very foundation of alliances and partnerships built on shared values and mutual respect.

News: Tempers flare before Zelensky abruptly departs the White House without signing a minerals deal

October 26, 2024

In light of these developments, the perception of the United States as a beacon of democracy is under threat. The world watched in dismay as Trump and Vance’s conduct betrayed the principles America once stood for. The incident not only damages U.S.-Ukraine relations but also emboldens adversaries like Russia, who seek to exploit divisions within the Western alliance.

As the dust settles from this diplomatic debacle, it is crucial for American leaders and citizens alike to reflect on the country’s direction. The path towards aligning with tyranny and prioritizing the mighty dollar over democratic ideals is a perilous one. It is time for a recommitment to the values that have long defined American leadership on the world stage, ensuring that the United States remains a champion of freedom, not a supporter of authoritarianism.

Reflections on a Diplomatic Debacle

As I settled into my Chinese takeout lunch today, the news of the extraordinary and disgraceful Oval Office meeting broke, overshadowing the earlier event where UK Labour leader Keir Starmer had lavished flattery upon President Trump. Starmer had outdone even President Macron by presenting a personal letter from King Charles, inviting Trump for an unprecedented second state visit. This diplomatic maneuver, though noteworthy, was quickly eclipsed by the chaotic spectacle that unfolded with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In my latest editorial cartoon, I aimed to capture the essence of this debacle. The meeting, intended as a diplomatic engagement, devolved into a performance reminiscent of a WWE match. President Zelenskyy, a leader who has emerged as a symbol of resilience and freedom since Trump and Vance’s inauguration, was treated with shocking disrespect. The hosts, Trump and Vance, behaved as though they were managing a drive-thru restaurant rather than conducting a serious diplomatic dialogue.

This event reflects a troubling shift in U.S. foreign policy, where theatrics and transactional diplomacy overshadow genuine leadership and support for democratic ideals. The cartoon serves as a visual critique of how the current administration’s actions have undermined America’s standing as the leader of the free world, with Zelenskyy stepping into that void as a beacon of courage and determination.

Through humour and satire, my cartoon aims to provoke thought and spark conversations about the values we hold dear and the direction we are heading. It is a call to recognize the importance of integrity, respect, and true leadership in our global interactions.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for March 1, 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

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, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday February 7, 2025 (and The Toronto Star)

Canada’s Defense Dilemma

February 5, 2025

Canada stands at a crucial moment, caught between longstanding commitments to global security and the pressing need to defend its own sovereignty. As tensions rise with our powerful neighbour, the United States, we can’t afford to be complacent about our defence spending any longer. It’s time for Canada to swiftly enhance its military capabilities, meet NATO commitments, and ensure our national security.

For years, Canadian governments have fallen short of the NATO spending target of 2% of GDP. This isn’t a new issue, and responsibility lies with both Liberal and Conservative administrations. The Russian invasion of Ukraine, especially the 2014 annexation of Crimea, should have been a wake-up call. Yet, despite global threats, Canada has lagged within NATO, prioritizing domestic social programs over military readiness.

Under Presidents Obama and Biden, the U.S. reminded Canada of its obligations. But with Donald Trump back in the presidency, the tone has changed dramatically. His frustration with NATO members who aren’t meeting their commitments is clear. His threats to pull the U.S. out of NATO and talk of annexing Canada as the 51st state are not just bluster; they demand action.

News: Mark Carney outlines vision for protecting Canada against American ‘aggression’ and spurring the economy

March 1, 2024

The Liberal Party has offered different timelines for meeting NATO commitments. Defense Minister Bill Blair aims for 2027, while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau initially set 2032. Leadership hopeful Mark Carney has proposed 2030. This inconsistency creates confusion at a critical time.

On the other hand, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre hasn’t provided a clear timeline for meeting the NATO target. While he criticizes the Liberal government’s defence spending as inadequate, his reluctance to set clear goals leaves a gap in strategic planning. At a time when decisive action is needed, ambiguity weakens Canada’s position on the global stage.

Canadians must recognize that enhancing our defences isn’t just a response to Trump’s provocations; it’s a long-overdue acknowledgment of our role on the global stage. The geopolitical landscape is shifting, with Russia’s aggression and China’s assertiveness challenging international order. Canada must contribute meaningfully to global security to fulfill NATO commitments and protect its own sovereignty.

News: NATO chief says European defence without US ‘will not work’

July 1, 2023

While it may be unpalatable to divert funds from social programs to defence spending, national security is paramount. Defending the Arctic, controlling the Northwest Passage, and reducing reliance on U.S. military assets are essential. Projects like the Gripen fighter and domestic military manufacturing are crucial steps toward self-reliance.

The era of relying on U.S. protection is over. Canada must strengthen ties with like-minded nations, invest in its military, and present a united political front. As one reader suggested, a united approach where MPs work together on national objectives is essential. This collective resolve will show the world that Canada is serious about its defence and sovereignty.

Canada must act swiftly to increase military spending, not only to meet NATO obligations but to protect our nation against evolving threats. The lack of clear leadership and commitment from political leaders is a disservice to Canadians. We must prioritize national security, strengthen our defence capabilities, and assert our sovereignty with confidence and resolve.

I’ve opted to steer away from the latest spectacles surrounding Trump, such as his outlandish proposal to transform Gaza into a luxury destination dubbed the “Riviera of the Middle East.” While it’s tempting to engage in the Mara-Gaza mockery of such ideas, I believe it’s more productive to address the urgent issues facing Canada, which I’ve strived to do in my latest cartoon. This cartoon is designed as another instance in my repertoire of far-out concepts that you’ll seldom find another editorial cartoonist exploring. It whimsically captures Canada’s precarious position between the pressures of Trump and Putin, emphasizing the need for increased defence spending—symbolized by the beaver pointing to bottles of “Horseradish Defence” and hot sauce labelled “Military Spending.”

Canada faces significant challenges that require our immediate attention. With escalating tensions from Russia to the north and an unpredictable U.S. administration to the south, enhancing our military capabilities and ensuring national security has never been more critical. While meeting NATO commitments is important, we must also prioritize being prepared to defend our own nation.

Additionally, breaking down trade barriers between provinces is essential to foster a more united and robust domestic market. As highlighted in my cartoon yesterday, economic unity is vital for reducing reliance on volatile international markets.

Our political leaders have been vague about their military strategies, resulting in confusion about Canada’s defence plans. Canadians deserve clear and decisive action, especially during these uncertain times.

Though reallocating funds from social programs to defence is challenging, ensuring national safety must come first. A strong military foundation provides the stability needed for social programs to flourish.

Call me hawkish on this. I don’t care.

While it’s vital to remain informed about global issues, our primary focus should be on what’s best for Canada. We can express concern for international injustices, but our main priority should be protecting our sovereignty and addressing our domestic priorities with urgency.

In essence, while global distractions abound, Canadians must focus on the real challenges at hand. By strengthening our internal systems and preparing for external threats, we can secure a stable and prosperous future for Canada.

Please check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 7, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I release my post every Saturday morning summarizing the week through my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading here is a “note,” designed to help craft my weekly posts and display the animated versions of my daily cartoons. Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Wednesday November 27, 2024

November 27, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

November 10, 2016

Originally published Thursday November 10, 2016

When Donald Trump first became president in 2016, Canada found itself in an awkward spot. Justin Trudeau’s reaction was about as polite as you’d expect—lots of talk about shared values, working together, and keeping the relationship strong. Meanwhile, the rest of us watched nervously, wondering what Trump’s “America First” meant for Canada. At the time, I drew a cartoon that pretty much summed it up: Trump as a blazing sun, Trudeau melting under the heat, holding a beaver, with a bunch of dynamite and gas tanks around them labeled NAFTA, NATO, and the Paris Climate Accord. The punchline? Trump smirking and asking, “Aren’t you the one big on ‘Sunny Ways?’”

September 16, 2023

Fast forward to 2024, and here we are again. Trump’s back in the White House, and Trudeau’s still hanging on as Prime Minister. The same tensions from 2016 are back, and honestly, they feel even more intense now. Last time, there was a bit of a learning curve—no one quite knew what a Trump presidency would look like. Now we know, and it’s not exactly comforting.

Back then, Canada had to scramble to renegotiate NAFTA under Trump’s intense pressure, which ended up with us getting the USMCA—a deal that kept trade going but came with a few bruises. Trump pulled out of the Paris Climate Accord while Trudeau leaned hard into climate commitments, putting us on very different paths. And every time Trump talked about NATO or trade tariffs, you could almost feel Canada holding its breath.

Sound familiar? It should, because it’s all happening again. Trump’s second term is shaping up to bring more tariffs, more trade drama, and the same “America First” vibes. On the climate front, Trudeau’s government is trying to go full steam ahead on green policies, but Trump’s likely to double down on fossil fuels and shrug off global climate goals. And don’t even get me started on NATO—it’s probably only a matter of time before Trump starts questioning why the U.S. should bother at all.

August 5, 2022

The big difference this time is how much more divided everything feels. In 2016, there was at least a sense that the global order could hold up under the weight of Trump’s unpredictability. Now? The world feels shakier, and Canada’s position feels more vulnerable. Trudeau’s also been in power a long time, and whether or not he’s got the energy to take on another four years of Trump-style curveballs is a big question.

The other big curve ball is the reality that we are in all likelihood watching the end days of Justin Trudeau’s political career. How the relationship goes with a new captain at the helm in Pierre Poilievre is a huge unknown.

In 2016, Canadians were blindsided by Trump. In 2024, we know what’s coming, but that doesn’t make it any easier. The sunny ways Trudeau used to talk about seem like a distant memory, but if Canada got through the first round, maybe we can do it again. At the very least, we’ve had some practice melting under the heat.