Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is pushing for an unprecedented move that could bring Canada closer to the European Union, proposing that his country become the bloc’s first-ever associate member. But the proposal has exposed differences within Europe, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz favouring a closer partnership without full membership. Carney is pressing ahead, insisting that Canada wants the deepest possible relationship with the EU, short of accession. Is this the beginning of a major political showdown between Carney and Merz? Meanwhile, Canada has pledged €500 million towards Ukraine financing, adding another major dimension to its growing European role.