Beyond the Umbrella

Thursday May 29, 2025

Posted to MacKaycartoons.net: Friday May 30, 2025 - Canada firmly rejects Trump’s rhetoric of annexation as it seeks diversified defence partnerships with Europe, emphasizing sovereignty and strategic autonomy.

These are indeed interesting times for Canada, as the nation begins to recognize the importance of strengthening its defence capabilities. This was a central promise made to voters when they entrusted the newly led Liberal party with governance. Amidst the tense dynamics between Canada and the U.S., Trump’s questioning of Canadian sovereignty has unexpectedly served as a catalyst. It has prompted Canada to take its defence more seriously, encouraging us to step out from under the U.S. security umbrella and arm ourselves independently. Canadians seem to have accepted this reality, understanding that while we bolster our defences, there might be sacrifices in social spending elsewhere—but that’s a topic for another cartoon.

Friday March 1, 2024 – More than a year ago, Canada’s Liberal government had not prioritized defence spending, focusing on its political standing during declining popularity, but escalating global tensions have since pressured Canada to balance domestic social investments with meeting NATO commitments.

In today’s cartoon, the scene unfolds at an arms Expo. On one side, European vendors display traditional military gear—jets, tanks, missiles—all in the familiar army green. On the opposite side, Trump’s “Golden Dome” gleams ostentatiously, with a sign that reads, “Just $61B or Become a State and It’s FREE*,” complete with a cheeky nod to terms and conditions. The humour lies in the absurdity of Trump’s offer and the fanciful price tag seemingly pulled from his bum.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010 – After Canada lost its bid for a UN Security Council seat to Portugal, the Conservative government blamed Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff for undermining their campaign, while Ignatieff criticized the government’s foreign policy, calling the loss a “sad day” and dismissing their blame as “ridiculous.”

What brings satisfaction is seeing Mark Carney adeptly handle this situation. Unlike his predecessor, he confidently asserts that Canada’s sovereignty empowers us to seek partnerships beyond the U.S., enhancing our defence strategy with new allies. The longstanding post-war security guarantee from the U.S. is essentially over, and while this means Canada is cut loose, it also liberates us from over-reliance on the U.S. military-industrial complex. This shift allows Canada to forge its own path in defence, enriched by diverse collaborations.

Substack is an invaluable platform for me, especially given the uncertainties that come with being a staff editorial cartoonist. While I remain optimistic about my future, I am acutely aware of the unfortunate layoffs and newspaper closures that have impacted many talented colleagues in our field. Please enjoy the animated making-of clip my May 30, 2025 editorial cartoon and thank you for your continued support!