OTTAWA — Canada has strongly criticized U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after a social-media post targeting two Canadian cadets triggered widespread condemnation and added another flashpoint to already strained Canada-U.S. relations.

Defence Minister David McGuinty said Tuesday that Hegseth’s post was “below the dignity of the office he holds.” The post showed two young women in uniform at a Canadian Cadet Training Centre in Vernon, B.C., accompanied by the words “this is real.”

The post was widely interpreted as disparaging the appearance and military role of the cadets. Canadian officials pushed back, emphasizing that the Cadet Program is a youth development program, not a combat organization, and that participants are not being prepared for military service.

British Columbia Premier David Eby also criticized the post, calling it an embarrassment and questioning the decision to target young Canadians who volunteer in a longstanding program.

The controversy comes as Canada and the United States remain locked in a serious trade and diplomatic dispute following the collapse of bilateral negotiations. Despite the political tensions, McGuinty said military-to-military cooperation between the two countries continues.

The latest dispute is adding another layer to an already difficult Canada-U.S. relationship, with Canadian officials increasingly emphasizing national defence independence and stronger partnerships with other allies.