**Trump Jokes About U.S.-Canada Merger During Meeting with Carney** U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines today by joking about a potential merger between the United States and Canada during a media event in the Oval Office. The lighthearted comment interrupted a serious discussion with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who was in Washington to address trade and security issues. The exchange began as Trump spoke about his recent peace plan for the Middle East, claiming, "Literally every country in the world has supported the plan." Carney, seated with his hands folded, responded affirmatively, saying, "Yep." Trump then shifted the conversation, stating, "But in the meantime we’ll spend some time and we’ll make some deals and we’ll do some things that are good for both of our countries. And Mark, it’s an honour to have you, thank you very much." Carney expressed gratitude for Trump's earlier hospitality, recalling a previous meeting. He remarked, "You kindly hosted me and some of my colleagues a few months ago and I said at the time you were — are — a transformative president." Carney continued, highlighting significant changes since their last meeting, including economic transformation, increased NATO defense spending, and efforts toward peace in regions like India and Pakistan. He noted, "And now — and I’m running out of time but this is in many respects the most important —" before Trump interjected. In a moment of levity, Trump quipped, "The merger of Canada and the United States. I’m only kidding." Carney, smiling and amid laughter, quickly responded, "No! That wasn’t where I was going." The meeting underscored ongoing discussions between the two leaders on various bilateral issues, including trade and security matters.