A secret visit by Alberta separatists to the United States has stirred strong reactions in Canada. British Columbia Premier David Eby called their move “treason” for seeking foreign help to break up Canada. The group met US officials, including during the Trump administration, hoping to gain support or recognition for Alberta’s independence. Political scientist André Lecours noted such foreign outreach is common in independence movements, but Alberta’s separatists differ because none are elected officials. Unlike Quebec’s past movements, Alberta has no partisan presence in its legislature and only 18% of Albertans support leaving Canada, according to polls. Prominent Alberta politicians, including former Prime Minister Stephen Harper and current Premier Danielle Smith, oppose independence. The separatists aim to gather nearly 178,000 signatures for a referendum by May. However, the US has shown interest, with figures like Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent talking about Alberta’s desire for sovereignty. This fuels fears in Ottawa about US interference in Canadian unity debates. Expert Lecours warns if Alberta or Quebec hold independence referendums, US support for Canadian unity may weaken, signaling a shift in diplomatic dynamics. Meanwhile, Quebec’s separatists continue their push, with the Parti Québécois expected to seek a third referendum this October.