Recent reports that representatives linked to Alberta’s separatist movement held meetings with U.S. officials have ignited political controversy across Canada, raising concerns about foreign involvement in the country’s internal affairs.

According to multiple media investigations, members of the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP) — a group advocating for Alberta’s independence — met with staff from the U.S. State Department in a series of discussions beginning in 2025 and continuing into early 2026. The talks reportedly focused on how Washington might respond if the oil-rich province were to pursue sovereignty.

Separatist organizers argue that federal energy regulations, taxation, and environmental policies have disproportionately harmed Alberta’s economy, long driven by oil and gas exports. As part of their campaign, activists are attempting to gather roughly 177,000 signatures — the legal threshold required to trigger a citizen-led referendum on independence.

Some participants in the U.S. meetings floated economic proposals, including expanded pipeline infrastructure to American refineries and potential financial mechanisms to stabilize an independent Alberta’s economy. However, U.S. officials have publicly characterized the contacts as routine engagement with civil society groups, stressing that no formal commitments were made.

Canadian leaders reacted sharply. Federal and provincial officials warned that any foreign dialogue supporting secession would be viewed as interference in Canadian sovereignty. Critics — including several provincial premiers — described the outreach as irresponsible and potentially destabilizing to national unity.

Despite the political uproar, public support for Alberta independence remains limited. Polling indicates that fewer than one in five Albertans currently favor leaving Canada, underscoring the movement’s fringe status.

Analysts note that Western alienation — long rooted in economic and political grievances — continues to fuel separatist rhetoric. Yet constitutional barriers, economic uncertainty, and low voter backing make any near-term break from Canada highly unlikely.

For now, the controversy highlights strains in Canada–U.S. relations and the enduring volatility of regional politics within the Canadian federation.