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Alberta Independence: U.S. Eyes “Natural Partner” in Oil-Rich Province

Henry
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Alberta Independence: U.S. Eyes “Natural Partner” in Oil-Rich Province

U.S. Treasury Secretary hints Alberta could thrive independently, sparking debate as separatists push for a referendum on leaving Canada.

U.S. Official Backs Alberta as “Natural Partner”

Alberta has never been just another Canadian province. And now, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has made headlines by suggesting that an independent Alberta could be a “natural partner” for the United States. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on the right-wing Real America’s Voice network, Bessent highlighted Alberta’s massive oil reserves and hinted at the province’s growing desire for sovereignty.

“Alberta has a wealth of natural resources, but they won’t let them build a pipeline to the Pacific,” he said. “I think we should let them come down into the U.S. The Albertans are very independent people. There’s even talk of a referendum on whether they want to stay in Canada.”

Ottawa Pushes Back

Canadian officials were quick to respond. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne underscored the recent agreement between Ottawa and Alberta, aimed at supporting pipeline development to the Pacific.

“Albertans want to work with Canadians on energy projects. We’re a proud nation, and we will continue developing our resources together,” Champagne said. His message was clear: Alberta’s future remains firmly tied to Canada, not the U.S.

Right-Wing U.S. Support Grows

Bessent is the latest high-profile U.S. conservative to entertain the idea of Alberta independence. Figures aligned with former President Donald Trump have repeatedly suggested Alberta could serve as a “gateway” to North American resources.

Conservative author Brandon Weichert, appearing on Steve Bannon’s podcast, described Alberta as “the linchpin” in Trump’s North American ambitions. Similarly, Republican Rep. Andy Ogles claimed Albertans might prefer joining the U.S., citing shared economic and cultural values.

Even Trump himself has toyed publicly with the idea of making Canada the 51st U.S. state, with Alberta frequently mentioned as the focal point.

Alberta Separatists Push for a Referendum

The Alberta independence movement is moving forward with plans to collect signatures for a referendum on provincial sovereignty. Organizers need roughly 177,000 signatures by May 2, including 10% from eligible voters in the last provincial election.

Premier Danielle Smith, however, has made her stance clear: while she supports giving Albertans a voice in their future, the majority are not interested in leaving Canada. “Alberta wants to expand pipelines and trade with the U.S., but most Albertans do not want to become an American state,” said Smith’s spokesperson, Sam Blackett.

Global Trade and Sovereignty in Focus

The debate over Alberta’s independence also touches broader economic and geopolitical concerns. Canada’s Artificial Intelligence Minister, Evan Solomon, emphasized the importance of Ottawa’s trade diversification strategy to maintain national sovereignty. Meanwhile, Bessent criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent WEF speech, claiming he was hiding a “globalist” agenda while promoting Canadian energy resources abroad.

The tension highlights a delicate balancing act: Alberta’s energy wealth makes it a tempting partner for foreign powers, but Canadian leaders remain committed to keeping the province—and the country—intact.

Canada Shivers as Record Cold and Snow Slam the Nation

Henry
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0
Canada Shivers as Record Cold and Snow Slam the Nation

A brutal polar vortex blankets Canada with record-breaking cold, heavy snow, and widespread power outages, leaving cities scrambling to protect residents.

Polar Vortex Grips Canada With Extreme Cold

Canada is shivering under a powerful polar vortex this week, as icy winds sweep across the Prairies and Eastern provinces. From Saskatchewan’s record-breaking low temperatures to Atlantic Canada’s snow-laden streets, the country is facing a widespread winter assault that has left many scrambling for warmth and safety.

Environment Canada warns that pedestrians and commuters need to bundle up, as wind chills make temperatures feel dangerously low, sometimes as extreme as –46 °C in Saskatoon. Meteorologists stress that frostbite can strike within minutes under these harsh conditions.

Atlantic Canada Braces for Heavy Snow

The Maritimes are preparing for a long-duration snowstorm, with snow, wind, and blowing flurries expected from Sunday night into Monday night, tapering off Tuesday. Nova Scotia could see 25–40 cm of snow, while southern New Brunswick may get 15–25 cm, with some areas near the Fundy coast possibly reaching 30 cm.

Meanwhile, Toronto faces its own winter challenge. The Greater Toronto Area anticipates up to 40 cm of snow, with temperatures dropping to –8 °C and feeling like –21 °C in the biting wind. The city has opened warming centres and increased shelter capacity, but advocates warn that available spaces are still far below the growing need for homeless residents.

Prairies Hit Hard With Record-Breaking Cold

Saskatchewan towns have shattered cold-weather records, prompting an orange warning from Environment Canada. Brad Vrolijk, a meteorologist, emphasizes the danger: “Skin can freeze in under a couple of minutes. Add even a light wind, and it becomes very hazardous.”

Saskatoon has escalated its winter emergency response, with officials urging residents to stay indoors and dress in layers to avoid frostbite.

Power Outages Leave Thousands in the Dark

Quebec residents are also feeling the storm’s bite as thousands lost power during the cold snap. In Côte Saint-Luc, an emergency shelter has opened, and Hydro-Québec reports that some customers may not see power restored until Monday.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, ice buildup forced the Bay d’Espoir power plant to shut down for the first time since 1967. Crews successfully removed ice, but power warnings remain, with rotating outages possible.

B.C. Enjoys Unseasonable Warmth

In stark contrast, Metro Vancouver is experiencing one of the warmest Januaries on record. Mild temperatures have coaxed early blooms of crocuses, daffodils, and cherry blossoms in Victoria and Vancouver. Climate scientist Andrew Weaver notes that flowers are “everywhere by the water” as residents soak in the unseasonably warm weather.

Canada’s winter extremes this week highlight the nation’s vast climate swings—from Arctic blasts freezing the Prairies to Pacific warmth awakening spring blooms. Residents are urged to stay alert, conserve energy, and check on neighbors, especially those most vulnerable to the cold.

Northern Ontario Faces Bone-Chilling Wind Chills Near -40°C

Henry
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0
Northern Ontario Faces Bone-Chilling Wind Chills Near -40°C

Northern Ontario braces for extreme cold this weekend as wind chills approach -40°C. Experts warn residents to bundle up and limit outdoor exposure.

Bitter Cold Grips Northern Ontario

Northern Ontario is plunging into record-setting cold, with wind chills in some areas approaching a staggering –40°C. Early Saturday morning, residents woke to an icy landscape as frigid air swept across the region, making even brief outdoor trips risky.

In Muskoka–Huntsville, wind chill readings hovered around –28°C, while Barrie-area residents are expected to feel temperatures near –30°C, according to Environment Canada.

Early Morning Hours Pose the Biggest Risk

Forecasters say the most dangerous cold will hit during the early morning hours, with similar extreme conditions expected again Saturday night. Anyone venturing outside is urged to take extra precautions, especially during these peak-cold periods.

Health Risks of Extreme Cold

Extreme cold isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. Health officials warn that frostbite and hypothermia can develop within minutes. Signs to watch for include:

  • Shortness of breath or chest pain

  • Muscle pain or weakness

  • Numbness or color changes in fingers and toes

Experts stress the importance of staying indoors whenever possible and ensuring exposed skin is fully covered.

Safety Tips for Residents

Environment Canada urges residents to:

  • Bundle up in multiple warm layers

  • Limit outdoor activity

  • Check on elderly family, friends, and neighbors

  • Ensure pets are indoors during extreme cold

For those who must work outdoors, taking frequent warm-up breaks is essential to prevent cold-related injuries. As the agency bluntly warns: “If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet, too.”

Weekend Outlook

The chill isn’t letting up soon. Bone-chilling wind chills and icy temperatures are expected to linger throughout the weekend, making safety precautions more critical than ever. Staying informed and prepared could make all the difference in weathering this Arctic blast.

Canada Ramps Up Arctic Security Amid Greenland Tensions

Henry
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0
Canada Ramps Up Arctic Security Amid Greenland Tensions

Canada strengthens Arctic presence as climate change, global tensions, and Greenland threats highlight urgent need for northern infrastructure investment.

Canadian Troops Brave Extreme Arctic to Secure North

YELLOWKNIFE — Just steps from Yellowknife Airport, behind a plain grey fence, sits a key outpost of Joint Task Force North (JTFN), one of Canada’s six regional military task forces. Here, soldiers train in some of the harshest conditions on Earth, preparing for missions that cover nearly half of Canada’s land mass and most of its coastline.

This Friday, the mercury will drop to -30°C, feeling like -40°C with the windchill. Yet, the soldiers continue to test their skills, mastering snowmobiles and other two-stroke vehicles designed to handle the Arctic’s relentless cold.

“These vehicles may be tough to start in this weather, but they’re reliable,” explained Maj. Alexandre Munoz, a JTFN public affairs officer. “With pull cords, they can operate anywhere—critical in this environment.”

Global Tensions Spotlight Canada’s Arctic Readiness

Recent headlines have thrust the Arctic into the international spotlight. U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about Greenland sparked concerns about Arctic sovereignty, highlighting how thinly stretched Canada’s military presence remains compared to rivals like Russia, the United States, and even Norway, which operates 15 military bases in its Arctic territories.

Brendan Bell, CEO of Inuit-owned West Kitikmeot Resources Corp., stressed the urgency: “We can’t rely on others to protect our interests. If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu—and northerners feel like we’d be the main course.”

Bell and others are calling for more federal investment in northern infrastructure—not just for industry, but to strengthen national security.

Investment Key to Arctic Security

Canada’s fall budget pledged $1 billion over four years for Arctic development, funding deepwater ports, airstrips, and all-season roads.

Bell added, “We don’t have a choice. Canada has fallen behind both our allies and our adversaries. Investing in infrastructure isn’t optional—it’s essential to safeguard our sovereignty.”

Gaëlle Rivard Piché, executive director of the CDA Institute, echoed this, noting that Arctic security requires a “whole-of-society” approach, involving Indigenous communities, governments, and local stakeholders.

Persistent Presence: JTFN Expands

For JTFN, the focus is clear: a constant, visible presence across Canada’s northern frontier. “We’re increasing both the number of personnel and the operations each year,” said Munoz. “It’s about showing that Canada is in control of its Arctic and securing our territory for the future.”

With climate change opening new routes and resources, northern security and infrastructure have never been more critical. For Canada, the Arctic is no longer a remote frontier—it’s a strategic priority.

Wedding Arrest in Ireland: Couple Held After Row Escalates

Nicole
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0
Wedding Arrest in Ireland: Couple Held After Row Escalates

Wedding Celebration in Ireland Takes Unexpected Turn

A wedding reception in Ireland erupted into an unexpected confrontation this week when a guest was arrested following a heated dispute that unfolded at the event. What was meant to be a joyful day for the couple and their families quickly drew attention after local police were called to intervene.

Details of the Incident Emerge

According to authorities, the situation began as a disagreement between guests during the ceremony’s festivities. As tensions escalated, staff and attendees attempted to calm those involved, but the conflict grew in intensity. Local law enforcement was eventually summoned to restore order and assess the incident.

Once on scene, officers determined that the situation warranted an arrest, and one individual was taken into custody. Police have not released the name of the arrested person, but officials confirmed the action was related to public disturbance concerns stemming from the altercation.

Police Statement Highlights Safety Priority

In a brief statement, local law enforcement emphasized their focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of all wedding guests. Officers reiterated that while celebrations and gatherings bring people together, disputes that threaten public peace are taken seriously and require appropriate response.

Authorities also noted that the arrest does not appear to involve any serious injury to other attendees, and there is no ongoing threat connected to the event.

Community Reaction and Aftermath

News of the arrest spread quickly through social media and local community groups, with many expressing surprise that a wedding could take such an abrupt turn. Some commenters highlighted the importance of conflict resolution at large events, while others shared their own stories of wedding mishaps going sideways.

Friends and family of the couple, however, seem determined to focus on the positive, emphasizing that the core celebration — the union of the newlyweds — remains at the heart of the occasion.

Police Continue Review of the Case

Although the arrested individual has been taken into custody, police say their investigation is ongoing. Officers are reviewing statements from witnesses and gathering information that may clarify how the dispute escalated and what charges, if any, will be pursued.

Law enforcement officials urge anyone who was present and has relevant information to contact the local station to assist with their ongoing review.

Trump Threatens 100% Tariffs if Canada Finalizes China Trade Deal

Willy
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0
Trump Threatens 100% Tariffs if Canada Finalizes China Trade Deal

WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a sharp warning to Canada, threatening to impose sweeping 100 per cent tariffs on all Canadian goods if Ottawa moves forward with a trade agreement involving China.

In a post shared Saturday on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said Canada would face severe consequences if it becomes a conduit for Chinese goods entering the United States.

“If Prime Minister Mark Carney thinks he is going to make Canada a ‘drop-off port’ for China to send goods and products into the U.S., he is sorely mistaken,” Trump wrote.

“If Canada makes a deal with China, it will immediately be hit with a 100% tariff against all Canadian goods and products coming into the USA.”

The comments mark a significant escalation in rhetoric as trade tensions rise amid growing global scrutiny of China’s manufacturing dominance and export practices.

Trade tensions already high

Trump’s warning comes as Canada explores broader trade options amid shifting global supply chains and increased pressure to diversify economic partnerships. While Canadian officials have not publicly confirmed the details of any new trade agreement with China, recent discussions around easing tariffs and expanding trade quotas have drawn sharp reactions from Washington.

The former and current U.S. president has repeatedly accused China of exploiting international trade systems and has vowed to block what he calls “backdoor access” to U.S. markets through allied countries.

During his previous term, Trump imposed aggressive tariffs on Chinese imports, triggering a prolonged trade war that reshaped global commerce and supply routes. His latest remarks suggest a similar approach toward close U.S. allies if they are perceived to undermine American trade policy.

Canada’s economic exposure

Canada is one of the United States’ largest trading partners, with hundreds of billions of dollars in goods crossing the border annually. A blanket 100 per cent tariff would have sweeping implications for key Canadian industries, including automotive manufacturing, agriculture, energy, and consumer goods.

Trade experts warn that such tariffs would disrupt integrated North American supply chains built under agreements like the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), potentially raising prices for consumers on both sides of the border.

Political pressure mounts

Trump’s comments also inject new uncertainty into Canada-U.S. relations at a time when cooperation on security, immigration, and economic stability remains critical. The statement places additional pressure on the Canadian government to clarify its trade posture amid an increasingly polarized global trade environment.

So far, Prime Minister Carney’s office has not responded publicly to Trump’s remarks. Canadian officials have previously emphasized the country’s commitment to rules-based trade while maintaining strong economic ties with the United States.

What comes next

It remains unclear whether Trump’s threat reflects an imminent policy decision or a negotiating tactic as discussions around global trade intensify. However, analysts note that Trump has frequently used tariff threats to influence diplomatic and economic outcomes.

The situation is expected to evolve quickly, with further responses anticipated from Canadian officials and U.S. trade representatives in the coming days.

This is a developing story. More details will be reported as they become available.

Cold Warning in Effect as Polar Vortex Brings Extreme Cold and Heavy Snow

Willy
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0
Cold Warning in Effect as Polar Vortex Brings Extreme Cold and Heavy Snow

A cold warning is in effect this weekend as a powerful polar vortex settles over the region, delivering the coldest air of the season along with significant snowfall expected Sunday.

Environment Canada says wind chill values could dip below minus 30, creating dangerous conditions for anyone spending time outdoors. Officials warn that prolonged exposure to extreme cold increases the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, particularly affecting fingers, toes, ears, and the face.

Health experts caution that extreme cold can also trigger symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle weakness, and numbness, urging residents to limit outdoor activity and dress in layers if travel is unavoidable.

Heavy Snow Expected Sunday

In addition to the bitter cold, a special weather statement has been issued for Sunday as a snow system moves into the area. Snowfall totals could reach between 10 and 20 centimetres by Sunday night, with reduced visibility and slippery road conditions likely.

Forecasters say snow will begin late Saturday night and intensify Sunday morning, with periods of heavy snow and localized blowing snow expected throughout the day. Gusty northeast winds could further worsen driving conditions.

Weekend Forecast Highlights

  • Saturday: Sunny in the morning, becoming a mix of sun and cloud. High near -14°C. Morning wind chills near -31, improving slightly in the afternoon. Risk of frostbite.

  • Saturday Night: Cloudy with snow developing overnight. Around 2 cm expected. Low near -15°C.

  • Sunday: Snow, at times heavy, with blowing snow possible. Snowfall amounts of 5 to 10 cm during the day, increasing by evening. High near -9°C.

  • Monday: Clearing skies. High around -9°C.

Travel and Safety Advisories

Officials recommend postponing non-essential travel during periods of heavy snow and extreme cold. Motorists are urged to drive with caution, reduce speed, and keep emergency supplies in their vehicles.

Residents are also encouraged to check on vulnerable individuals, including seniors and those without stable housing, as temperatures plunge.

Weather conditions are expected to remain colder than seasonal averages into next week, with additional chances of flurries in the forecast.

Air Canada Ordered to Pay Passenger Nearly $15,000 After Delay

Nicole
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0
Air Canada Ordered to Pay Passenger Nearly $15,000 After Delay

Canadian Court Rules Against Air Canada in Delay Dispute

A court in Ontario has ruled that Air Canada must pay nearly $15,000 to an Ottawa man after his travel plans were upended by a series of flight delays and cancellations. The decision follows a legal challenge the passenger pursued in small claims and later at the Ontario Superior Court, where judges backed his claim that Air Canada failed to meet its obligations.

Flight Disruptions Led to Extra Costs

The case stemmed from a disrupted trip the man took in the summer of 2022, when delays and cancellations forced him to buy new tickets to continue his journey. Rather than accept the airline’s initial handling, he took the unusual step of representing himself in court to seek compensation for the financial losses he suffered. The courts ultimately agreed that he was entitled to reimbursement.

Passenger Rights Under Canadian Rules

Under Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations, travellers are entitled to compensation when flights are delayed, cancelled or disrupted for reasons within the airline’s control and not related to safety, as long as minimum notification and timing conditions are met. Compensation amounts vary based on how late a passenger arrives at their destination after a disruption.

Industry Impact and Passenger Advocacy

Legal experts say the ruling reinforces passenger rights and could encourage more travellers to pursue claims when they feel compensation rules haven’t been applied fairly. Advocacy groups highlight this case as an example of how individuals can challenge major carriers, even without legal representation.

Airline Response and Future Claims

Air Canada has a process passengers can use to file compensation claims directly, and travellers unhappy with initial decisions can escalate disputes to the Canadian Transportation Agency or court. Cases like this may prompt airlines to take passenger entitlements under federal rules more seriously, particularly as enforcement and awareness of rights increases.

Targeted Burnaby Shooting Claims Life of Vancouver Man

Henry
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0
Targeted Burnaby Shooting Claims Life of Vancouver Man

28-year-old Vancouver man killed in Burnaby shooting linked to B.C. gang conflict; police seek witnesses and dashcam footage.

Vancouver Man Fatally Shot in Burnaby

Burnaby, B.C.—A 28-year-old man from Vancouver has died following a shocking evening shooting in Burnaby on Thursday, police confirm. Authorities say the killing appears to have been targeted and tied to gang activity in the province.

The victim, identified as Dilraj Singh Gill, was found critically injured near the 3700 block of Canada Way, close to Boundary Road, just before 5:30 p.m. PT. Despite rapid emergency response and life-saving efforts, Gill did not survive.

Car Fire Adds Mystery to Investigation

Shortly after the shooting, police discovered a burning vehicle a few blocks away on Buxton Street. Investigators believe this car is connected to the homicide, though details remain under review.

“The fact that this happened in a public area is deeply troubling,” said IHIT Sgt. Freda Fong, emphasizing the need for witnesses to come forward. “Community information will be crucial in holding those responsible accountable.”

Witnesses Recall Chaotic Scene

Local resident Zeeyad Popat described hearing loud bangs at home with his family, initially mistaking the noise for a rug being shaken. Moments later, it became clear they were gunshots. Popat also saw a masked individual leaving the scene before emergency crews arrived.

“It’s been a tough night,” Popat said. “Events like this shake the neighborhood and remind us how quickly tragedy can strike.”

Police Urge Public Assistance

Authorities stress that there is no ongoing threat to the public. They are urging anyone with information, including dashcam footage, to contact the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448).

As the investigation continues, police hope community cooperation will help bring clarity and justice to this targeted killing.

Trump Shadows Carney’s High-Stakes Sovereignty Talks

Henry
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0
Trump Shadows Carney’s High-Stakes Sovereignty Talks

Trump’s snub of PM Mark Carney collides with cabinet talks on sovereignty, trade, and security as Canada faces rising U.S. pressure.

Trump’s Presence Felt Inside Quebec’s Old Fortress

QUEBEC CITY — Even behind the thick stone walls of the Citadelle, Donald Trump felt impossible to ignore.

On Friday, Prime Minister Mark Carney gathered his cabinet inside the historic military fortress to prepare for the next parliamentary session. The focus was serious. The topics were heavy. Yet, once again, the United States dominated the conversation.

Although the meeting centered on Canada’s sovereignty, trade, and national security, Trump’s latest remarks quickly stole the spotlight. As a result, ministers found themselves responding to Washington instead of sticking to their agenda.

Cabinet Meets as Trump Drops Another Surprise

Earlier that morning, ministers arrived through fresh snow to meet with policy experts, including former high commissioner Nadir Patel. At the same time, they planned to explore artificial intelligence and future security threats.

However, overnight events changed the tone.

The night before, while ministers dined at a local Quebec City bistro, Trump made headlines. He announced that he had withdrawn Carney’s invitation to join his newly announced “Board of Peace.”

Notably, Trump posted the message himself on Truth Social. In his post, he framed the decision as final and personal.

Because of that, reporters pressed ministers for answers the moment they stepped outside.

A Board of Peace — With a Price Tag

According to government sources, Carney had cautiously accepted the invitation last week. However, concerns grew quickly.

Soon after, reports revealed that Trump planned to charge countries a US$1 billion membership fee. Then, even more troubling questions surfaced.

Specifically, Trump hinted that the board could replace the United Nations. When asked directly, he replied, “It might.”

As expected, alarm bells rang in Ottawa.

Afghanistan Comments Strike a Nerve

Meanwhile, tensions rose further after Trump falsely claimed NATO allies avoided frontline combat in Afghanistan.

Inside the Citadelle, a member of the Canadian Armed Forces watched coverage of the remarks on television. Nearby, portraits of fallen soldiers hung silently on the walls.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer quickly condemned the comments, calling them “insulting and appalling.” Consequently, the reaction echoed across allied capitals, including Ottawa.

Anand Stays Focused on Gaza Aid

Despite mounting pressure, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand refused to address Trump’s snub directly.

Instead, she redirected attention to Canada’s humanitarian role in Gaza.

“Our values are clear,” Anand said. She emphasized that Hamas must have no role in governing Palestine. Additionally, she called for demilitarization, a ceasefire, and long-term peace.

Moreover, she confirmed that Canada has committed roughly $400 million in humanitarian assistance. According to Anand, that commitment remains firm.

Davos Speech Deepens the Divide

Still, Trump’s decision did not happen in isolation.

Earlier this week, Carney delivered a widely praised speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos. There, he declared the old rules-based global order effectively over. He urged nations to stand up to bullies and unchecked power.

Although he named no leaders, Trump took it personally.

The following day, Trump told the Davos audience that Canada should be “grateful” to the United States. He went even further, claiming Canada “lives because of” its southern neighbor.

“Remember that, Mark,” Trump added.

Carney Fires Back at Home

Back in Quebec City, Carney adjusted his prepared remarks.

In a pointed response, he rejected Trump’s framing outright.

“Canada doesn’t live because of the United States,” Carney said. “Canada thrives because we are Canadian.”

That line landed strongly at home.

U.S. Officials Stoke Regional Tensions

Meanwhile, rhetoric escalated again.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent appeared on a right-wing podcast and praised Alberta’s resources. However, he falsely claimed Ottawa blocks pipeline development.

In reality, Alberta recently signed an agreement with the federal government to support a pipeline if private investors step forward.

Even so, Bessent suggested Alberta might be better off joining the United States. He even floated the idea of a referendum.

Unsurprisingly, those comments raised eyebrows across Canada.

Canada Pushes a Clear Message Forward

Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation Evan Solomon acknowledged the growing strain.

“This is a difficult world,” he said. He warned that some voices aim to deepen divisions. Nevertheless, he stressed that Canada must keep investing in its people and economy.

As ministers prepared to leave the Citadelle — a fortress originally built to resist American invasion — the symbolism felt heavy.

Still, their message remained steady.

Canada stands on its own. And Canada intends to thrive.

Extreme Cold Forces School Closures and Bus Cancellations Across Manitoba

Olivia Willson
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0
Extreme Cold Forces School Closures and Bus Cancellations Across Manitoba

Extreme Cold Forces School Closures and Bus Cancellations Across Manitoba

Extreme cold weather disrupted schools and transportation across Manitoba on Friday.

Environment Canada issued an orange cold warning for much of southern Manitoba.
Wind chills dropped between minus 40 and minus 45 degrees Celsius.

The severe weather prompted widespread safety decisions by school divisions.

Multiple School Divisions Closed

Several school divisions cancelled classes due to dangerous conditions.
Officials cited extreme wind chills and travel risks.

The Seine River and Red River Valley school divisions closed all schools.
The Interlake region also suspended in-person classes.

Prairie Spirit, Prairie Rose, and Turtle Mountain divisions followed similar measures.
Rural divisions acted early due to long bus routes.

Administrators said student safety remained the top priority.
They encouraged families to monitor local announcements.

Widespread Bus Cancellations

Many school divisions cancelled bus service even if schools stayed open.

Beautiful Plains School Division stopped all bus routes for the day.
Officials said extreme cold made waiting outdoors unsafe.

In the Brandon area, rural bus services were cancelled.
Some buses within city limits continued to operate.

The Division scolaire franco-manitobaine cancelled buses at several locations.
Students were advised to attend classes only if travel was safe.

Dangerous Weather Conditions

The cold snap resulted from an Arctic air mass over the Prairies.
Strong winds worsened already frigid temperatures.

Road conditions became icy in several regions.
Visibility dropped at times due to blowing snow.

Officials warned frostbite could occur within minutes.
They advised residents to limit outdoor exposure.

Advice for Parents and Residents

School divisions asked parents to check early morning updates.
Weather policies vary depending on location and transport needs.

Environment Canada urged people to dress in layers.
Covering exposed skin remains essential in extreme cold.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
More closures or cancellations remain possible.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed.
Safety remains the primary concern during severe winter weather.

Alleged Drug Kingpin and Former Olympian Ryan Wedding Arrested

Olivia Willson
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0
Alleged Drug Kingpin and Former Olympian Ryan Wedding Arrested

Alleged Drug Kingpin and Former Olympian Ryan Wedding Arrested

Toronto – Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder, has been arrested, according to reports.

Authorities detained Wedding after a long international manhunt.
He had remained out of public view for months.

Wedding previously competed for Canada at the 2002 Winter Olympics.
He later became the focus of major drug trafficking investigations.

Allegations Against Wedding

U.S. prosecutors accuse Wedding of leading a large international cocaine network.

Investigators say the organisation moved drugs from South America.
Shipments allegedly travelled through Mexico into North America.

Authorities also link Wedding to multiple violent crimes.
These include murders connected to drug trafficking operations.

Prosecutors describe the organisation as highly structured and dangerous.
They say it operated across several countries.

Time on the Run

Wedding became one of the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives in 2025.

Authorities offered a reward of up to US$15 million.
The reward targeted information leading to his capture.

Investigators believe he used false identities.
They also say he moved frequently to avoid arrest.

Law enforcement agencies tracked his movements for over a year.
The effort involved cooperation across borders.

International Investigation

The FBI worked closely with Canadian and Mexican authorities.

Police carried out raids tied to Wedding’s network.
They seized luxury vehicles, motorcycles, and financial assets.

Officials estimate the seized property was worth millions of dollars.
They say the assets funded criminal operations.

Investigators believe Wedding received protection from criminal groups.
They have not confirmed all details publicly.

Arrest and Next Steps

Authorities have not released the exact arrest location.
Officials say more information will follow soon.

Wedding remains in custody pending legal proceedings.
He may face extradition to the United States.

If extradited, he could face drug trafficking and murder charges.
Convictions could lead to lengthy prison sentences.

Broader Impact

The arrest marks a major breakthrough for law enforcement.

Officials say it sends a strong message to organised crime networks.
They stress that international cooperation remains essential.

Investigators continue working on related cases.
More arrests may follow.

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