George Clooney calls out Pete Hegseth for mocking Canadian military cadets

Canadian officials have strongly condemned a recent social media post by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, which appears to mock members of Canada’s cadet youth program. The image, which Hegseth shared on social media, depicts a young cadet receiving an award from her instructor. Hegseth captioned the post "this is real," seemingly disparaging Canada’s military by mocking the cadet’s appearance. Canadian Defence Minister David McGuinty called Hegseth’s post "below the dignity of the office."

Canada and the US are currently embroiled in a trade dispute that has escalated into a war of words. The Trump administration has frequently accused Canada of relying on American military might for its defense. The White House has urged the Biden administration to cease posting memes, making disparaging remarks, and attempting to appear tough in order to resume trade discussions.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney asserted that any trade negotiations would only resume once the Americans stop engaging in such behavior and start being serious about engaging in meaningful discussions.

The Pentagon has stated that Hegseth's post speaks for itself, while the national cadet program, overseen by the military and designed to provide leadership and skills training to youth aged 12 to 18, has strongly condemned any online harassment or mockery of cadets’ achievements. The Army Cadet League of Canada, a civilian organization supporting the program, stated that directing derogatory commentary toward youth who are actively working to better themselves and serve their communities is unacceptable.

General Jennie Carignan, Canada’s top military commander, is in contact with the cadets involved and will consult with them regarding their response. Conservative MP Scott Anderson posted a scathing rebuke of Hegseth, accusing him of setting aside his responsibility and decorum by insulting two female Canadian non-combatants before millions. He demanded that Hegseth be ashamed of himself. Pundits and some Canadians have accused the defence secretary of body-shaming Hegseth’s post.

The trade talks between Canada and the US broke down last month as both sides accused the other of making last-minute demands that derailed a preliminary agreement. The US has since imposed 50% tariffs on approximately $20 billion worth of Canadian imports, and Canada plans to retaliate with matching countermeasures next week. Both nations have traded insults, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford calling Trump a "loser," Trump attempting to rename Lake Ontario to Lake America, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy accusing Canada of not having a military.

Despite these tensions, the two countries have historically maintained strong defense partnerships and alliances, including when Canada supported the US in the war in Afghanistan. Canada has also increased its defense spending in recent months after falling short of NATO targets. Hegseth, a veteran, is facing pressure at home due to a series of high-profile military departures from the Pentagon and questions regarding the US's approach to the Iran war.