Photo Source: Seth Magaziner's X account
U.S: New bill seeks to block military action against Canada, Panama and Greenland
Babushahi Bureau
Washington, D.C (US), March 15, 2025 – A newly introduced bill in the U.S. House of Representatives aims to prevent federal funding for any American military action or territorial acquisition involving Canada, Panama, or Greenland—unless explicitly approved by Congress.
Titled the "No Invading Allies Act," the bill was introduced on Thursday by Representative Seth Magaziner of Rhode Island. It would require any U.S. president, including Donald Trump, to obtain congressional authorization before launching military action or annexation efforts unless an immediate national security threat justifies an emergency declaration.
Concerns Over Trump’s Expansionist Rhetoric
Magaziner’s office issued a statement emphasizing that while past presidents have been granted a 60-day window for military action without congressional approval, Trump's aggressive statements about territorial expansion make unchecked war powers dangerous.
"President Trump’s obsession with territorial expansion—especially his push for Canada to become the 51st U.S. state—raises serious concerns," the statement read. "We cannot allow any president to unilaterally launch conflicts for the sake of conquest."
Annexation and Tensions with Canada
Trump has long floated the idea of annexing Canada, a proposal that has sparked backlash across the border.
His administration’s economic pressure tactics, including a trade war against Canada, have led some Canadian officials to believe that destabilizing their economy is part of a broader strategy to push for annexation.
Greenland and Panama Also in Focus
The idea of purchasing Greenland from Denmark dates back to Trump’s first term, while his suggestions about taking control of the Panama Canal have caused diplomatic tensions with Panama. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has outright rejected the notion, calling it a threat to national sovereignty.
Will the Bill Pass?
The bill has gained support from eight Democratic lawmakers and has been referred to committees on foreign affairs and military oversight. However, experts believe its chances of becoming law are slim.
Political analyst Eric Hamm told CTV News, "Given the current political climate, bills like this are often more about making a statement than actually becoming law. Democrats don’t have the votes to pass it, but it sends a strong political message."
With the 2024 election bringing Trump back into power, debates over U.S. foreign policy and territorial ambitions are once again heating up. The "No Invading Allies Act" is likely to fuel further discussions about the limits of presidential power in matters of war and annexation.