Here is a roundup of stories designed to bring you up to speed on current developments in Canada and beyond.

Carney to Observe NATO Arctic Drills in Norway

Prime Minister Mark Carney is visiting Norway today to observe NATO's Cold Response exercises, taking place in collaboration with the Norwegian prime minister. This biennial event involves about 25,000 troops from 14 different nations, all focused on enhancing NATO's military capabilities in the Arctic region. The exact number of Canadian Forces participating has not been disclosed by the Canadian Armed Forces.

Price Shocks from Iran War Could Give Canada Leverage in CUSMA Talks: Experts

As the war with Iran continues to disrupt global trade, many countries are facing soaring prices for essential commodities like oil and fertilizer. This ongoing situation may affect the upcoming trade negotiations, specifically the review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). Experts, including Fen Osler Hampson, a professor of international affairs at Carleton University, suggest that the U.S. may reassess its secure producers and suppliers in light of these market fluctuations. The strife has already led to spikes in crude oil and natural gas prices, especially after Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to military actions by the U.S. and Israel.

Canadians Opting for March Break Alternatives Amid Tensions in Cuba, Mexico

Travel agents across Canada report a shift in March break plans among Canadian travelers, who are increasingly considering alternative destinations. Political and economic instability in Cuba, violence in Mexico, and the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica are driving this change. In Cuba, a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by U.S. oil sanctions continues to unfold, while recent cartel violence in Puerto Vallarta has delayed Canadian tourists. Consequently, many travelers are either picking new countries for their vacations or opting to stay home.

Decision Expected on Alberta Teachers’ Back-to-Work Bill Injunction Hearing

Today, a judge is anticipated to announce a decision regarding a potential injunction against a bill that mandated Alberta's striking teachers to return to work last fall. A two-day hearing was conducted earlier this month. The Alberta Teachers' Association has indicated that a favorable ruling could legally enable the union to strike again, although Association president Jason Schilling clarified that such a decision would ultimately rest with the rank-and-file members.

B.C. Appointed Them to Map Old-Growth; Now They Say Province is Failing to Save It

A recently released document from former members of a British Columbia government panel designated to identify old-growth forests for protection expresses deep concerns regarding ongoing logging in these irreplaceable ecosystems. The panellists argued that the proposed logging deferrals were intended as temporary measures to allow for careful long-term planning. However, they assert that the B.C. government continues to approve logging in areas identified as critical for protection, leaving them disillusioned about the government's commitment to conserving these valuable natural resources.

Quebec's Masked Band Angine de Poitrine is Blowing Up

The ensemble known as Angine de Poitrine, hailing from Saguenay, Quebec, is garnering attention with their vibrant performances characterized by paper-mâché masks featuring oversized phallic noses and polka-dot costumes. Their unique sound—a whimsical blend that resembles an adventurous jam session—has captivated audiences and gone viral after their appearance at the Trans Musicales festival in Rennes, France, collecting over 2.8 million views. The duo, known by the names Klek and Khn de Poitrine, shrouds their identities in mystery and communicates in fantastical alien noises during interviews, further fueling public fascination.

This report was first published on March 13, 2026.