Pentagon defends Pete Hegseth’s X post targeting Canadian cadets
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is facing criticism from Canadian officials after posting a disparaging photo of Canadian cadets on social media. The incident adds to growing diplomatic tensions between the two nations following recent trade disputes.
Why it matters
The incident highlights deteriorating diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Canada, potentially impacting long-standing military cooperation.
Defence Minister David McGuinty says a recent social media post by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth that targeted two Canadian cadets was “below the dignity of the office he holds.”
McGuinty’s comments echo those of Prime Minister Mark Carney , who had also said that the message was “beneath their office.”
The post comes amid increased tensions between Canada and the United States after trade talks broke down last month.
Speaking to reporter on Tuesday afternoon, McGuinty said that despite the “performative nature” of U.S. President Donald Trump’s cabinet secretaries, military cooperation between the two countries continues.
On Monday Hegseth, a former Fox News personality, posted a photo from the Cadet Training Centre in Vernon, B.C. showing two young women in uniform with the caption “this is real.”
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