Trump Joke About Annexing Canada Draws Laughs from NFL Commish Roger Goodell, DC Mayor

President Donald Trump sparked laughter during an Oval Office event on Monday after being asked whether his interest in acquiring Canada had anything to do with making the United States larger than Russia.

The moment came during a joint announcement with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser, where Trump revealed that the 2027 NFL Draft would be held on the National Mall.

“I’m pleased to reveal that the 2027 NFL Draft — that’s a big thing — will be held right here in our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., on the National Mall,” Trump said. “It’s going to be incredible.”

While fielding questions from reporters following the announcement, a reporter referenced Trump’s frequent comments about wanting to expand U.S. territory and asked if his reported desire to annex Canada was tied to his goal of surpassing Russia, the largest country in the world by landmass.

“No, I never even thought of it that way,” Trump replied with a grin. “Although I am a real estate developer, I’ve never — I’ve never heard that question.”

The offhand remark prompted laughter from those in the room, including Goodell and Bowser, who both stood beside the president.

Trump did not elaborate further but appeared amused by the suggestion.

Since beginning his second term in January, Trump has expressed his desire to acquire Canada.

On NBC’s Meet the Press on Sunday, Trump told anchor Kristen Welker he had ruled out military force against the country’s neighbor. Asked about a call he had this past week with new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Welker pressed Trump on his expansionist agenda:

WELKER: You and I talked, and I asked you if you would rule out military force to take Greenland. And you said, no, you don’t rule out anything. Would you rule out military force to take Canada?

TRUMP: Well, I think we’re not going to ever get to that point. It could happen. Something could happen with Greenland. I’ll be honest, we need that for national and international security. But I think –

WELKER: But not with Canada?

TRUMP: It’s highly unlikely. I don’t see it with Canada. I just don’t see it, I have to be honest with you.

Watch above via Fox News.