The Trump administration held secret meetings with separatists from Alberta, who want the province's independence, amid tensions with Ottawa.

The Trump administration held secret discussions with leaders of the Alberta Prosperity Project, a group of separatists aspiring for the independence of the oil-rich province of Alberta. The meetings took place three times with officials from the U.S. State Department, and the separatists intend to request a $500 billion credit facility to support the province in the event of a referendum for independence. Although U.S. officials stated that no commitments were made, the discussions highlight the deterioration of relations between the U.S. and Canada.

While the separatist leaders seek support, some experts believe that their movement is marginal and that there is no real interest from the U.S. in supporting Alberta's independence. The Canadian-Albertan Premier, Danielle Smith, emphasized that the majority of residents do not wish to become part of the U.S. The separatists' campaign aligns with populist and nationalist themes, but meetings with U.S. officials raise concerns about foreign interference in Canadian internal affairs.