World Report January 5: Monday's top stories in 10 minutes
Jan 5, 2026
Willie Lowry, CBC's Washington correspondent, and Janice McGregor, Ottawa reporter, offer sharp insights into major political events. They discuss Nicolás Maduro's upcoming court appearance in New York for serious charges related to drug trafficking. Janice delves into Chrystia Freeland's controversial new role as economic adviser to Ukraine, raising potential conflicts of interest. The podcast also covers national security concerns stemming from budget cuts in Canada and a ruling against cyberbullies who targeted Brigitte Macron.
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U.S. Asserted Control Over Venezuela
- Donald Trump declared "The U.S. is in control of Venezuela," signaling direct U.S. influence in the crisis.
- He warned allies to align with Washington or face harsher consequences than Nicolás Maduro did.
Maduro's New York Court Appearance
- Nicolás Maduro and his wife were brought to a federal courthouse in New York to hear charges.
- Willie Lowry described the appearance as extraordinary but likely perfunctory, with bail unlikely.
Freeland's Dual Roles Raise Conflicts
- Ukraine appointed Chrystia Freeland as an economic development adviser while she remains a Canadian MP.
- Janice McGregor flagged potential conflicts of interest and timing issues given Freeland's planned move to the UK.