Canada Demands US Respect Sovereignty Amid Alberta Separatist Talks
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A growing diplomatic tension is brewing between Canada and the United States following reports of meetings between US State Department officials and leaders of the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP), a group advocating for the independence of alberta.canadian Prime minister Mark Carney publicly urged the US government to respect canadian sovereignty on Thursday, January 29, 2026, as the situation unfolds.
Alberta Independence Movement Gains Traction
The APP has been authorized to begin collecting signatures for a referendum seeking to establish alberta as an independent nation. While current polling data suggests the separatist movement is unlikely to succeed, the prospect of a fractured Canada has raised concerns in Ottawa. A vote on independence could potentially occur this autumn.
US Officials Meet with Separatist Leaders
According to a report in the Financial Times, leaders of the APP have held three meetings with officials from the US State Department since April 2025. These meetings occurred shortly after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent publicly expressed support for the region’s separatist ambitions.
“Alberta is a natural partner of the United states. They have great resources. Albertans are very independent people,” Bessent stated on the right-wing digital channel Real America’s Voice.
Canada Responds to US Engagement
Prime Minister carney addressed the issue alongside Canadian provincial leaders, including Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, a prominent advocate for the oil industry who has previously met with President Donald Trump in Florida. “I hope the US government respects Canadian sovereignty,” Carney stated in response to the Financial Times report.
A senior US State Department official acknowledged the meetings, stating, “The Department meets regularly with civil society representatives. As is usual in meetings of this nature, no commitments where made.”
Historical Context and Potential Implications
Unlike the long-standing and well-organized Quebec separatist movement, the push for Alberta independence is a relatively new phenomenon and has not previously presented a significant threat to Canadian unity. However, Alberta’s substantial oil reserves and strategic importance could make it a valuable ally for the United States, potentially explaining the interest shown by US officials.
The situation highlights the delicate balance of power in North America and the potential for external actors to influence internal political dynamics. The outcome of the Alberta referendum, and the continued involvement of the United States, will be closely watched by both Canadian and international observers.
Why: The diplomatic tension arose from reports of US State Department officials meeting with the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP), a group advocating for Alberta’s independence from Canada. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent publicly voiced support for Alberta’s separatist ambitions, further fueling the issue.
Who: Key players include Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Alberta Premier Danielle smith, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, leaders of the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP), and officials from the US State Department.
What: The core issue is the potential secession of Alberta from Canada,spurred by the APP’s efforts to collect signatures for a referendum. The US government’s engagement with the separatist group has prompted concerns about Canadian sovereignty.
How did it end? As of January 29, 2026, the situation remains unresolved. The US State Department acknowledged meetings but claimed no commitments were made. The APP is actively pursuing a referendum,
