US Defense Secretary Hegseth Criticized for Body-Shaming Canadian Cadets

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth drew criticism on both sides of the border after a social‑media post on X appeared to mock Canada’s armed forces amid an ongoing trade dispute between the Trump administration and its northern neighbor. On Monday night the secretary shared a photograph showing two individuals in uniform beside a Canadian flag, captioned “this is real,” a message interpreted as a jab at the Canadian military. The post also included remarks that were perceived as body‑shaming female participants in a Canadian youth development program, prompting a swift backlash from Canadian officials, veterans’ groups and American commentators.

Despite the controversy, the image remained on Hegseth’s account as of Wednesday, fueling further debate over diplomatic decorum and the use of official platforms for political commentary. The incident underscores heightened tensions in U.S.–Canada relations, where trade disagreements have already strained cooperation, and highlights the sensitivity surrounding public statements about allied armed forces. Authorities in both countries have called for restraint and respectful discourse as the broader trade negotiations continue.