'Canada can do what it wants on the F-35,' says U.S. ambassador, who says debate does 'irritate' him

'It would be nice if Canada made a commitment,' Hoesktra said. 'But if they want to go through another review, they can go through another review'

OTTAWA — While U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra says Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government is free to do as it wants with its review of purchasing the F-35, he says the debate is nevertheless irritating.

Carney ordered a review of its F-35 purchase back in March, shortly after becoming prime minister, with his then-defence minister saying Carney had done so to ensure it was the best option.

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It came as the country was in the early stages of dealing with a trade war with U.S. President Donald Trump, with emotions running high over his repeated comments about wanting Canada to become its “51st state.” Concerns also