A far-right Canadian group, the Alberta Prosperity Project, has reportedly met with U.S. officials from the State and Treasury departments to discuss plans for Alberta to secede from Canada and possibly join the United States. The group is aiming to hold a legally binding referendum on Alberta’s independence later this year.

During the meetings, the separatists discussed potential plans including switching to U.S. currency and establishing a new military force. A fourth meeting is reportedly planned to explore how a transition might work if the referendum favors separation. Dennis Modry, co-founder of the group, said the meetings indicated U.S. support for Alberta becoming a sovereign country.

The discussions have sparked outrage in Canada, with many citizens calling the talks “treasonous.” Canadian officials, including former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, have previously warned that U.S. interest in absorbing Canada is a real concern, especially regarding Alberta’s oil resources.

U.S. officials have downplayed the meetings, clarifying that they involved lower-level staff and produced no commitments. Former diplomats have criticized the talks as “irresponsible,” warning that engagement with separatist groups could undermine both U.S. and Canadian interests, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has emphasized the need to respect Canadian sovereignty.