World Report

Venezuela accuses the U.S. of piracy after troops seize an oil tanker, escalating tensions amid allegations of human rights violations by the National Guard. Heavy rains in B.C. prompt evacuation orders due to flooding risks. The Canadian military speeds up plans to replace aging assault rifles, while Prince Edward Island sells off U.S. liquor to benefit food banks. Meanwhile, beef prices continue to soar due to supply issues and soaring demand.

The Bank of Canada is expected to hold interest rates steady despite economic challenges. Alberta's government passes controversial legislation around pronouns and youth care. In a tragic event, a building collapse in Morocco claims at least 19 lives. Meanwhile, Australian kids are now living without popular social media apps due to a groundbreaking ban. Celebrated author Robert Munsch discusses his decision regarding medical assistance in dying in an emotional final interview. Maria Corina Machado's Nobel Peace Prize acceptance will be handled by her daughter as she remains safe but unable to attend.

Devin Haru, a CBC News reporter, shares insights from his exclusive interview with swimmer Penny Oleksiak, who discusses her two-year suspension due to missed doping tests and the challenges ahead in her career. Salima Shivji, the CBC South Asia correspondent, reports on the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis along the Thailand-Cambodia border, highlighting the impact on displaced communities. The podcast also touches on Israel's contentious military conscription bill and potential changes to US healthcare subsidies.

Caroline Bargoot, a CBC News reporter focusing on travel and labor issues, discusses the looming strike by Air Transat pilots after a 72-hour notice. She highlights passenger reactions and the pilots' demand for pay parity. Katie Simpson, a CBC correspondent in Washington, analyzes President Trump's encouraging yet cautious remarks on Canada-U.S. trade relations, along with insights from his recent meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Carney. The podcast also touches on global issues, including Ukraine's leadership talks and Nigeria's release of kidnapped schoolchildren.

In Bethlehem, the Christmas tree lights up for the first time since the Gaza war, symbolizing hope. A tragic nightclub fire in Goa claims 25 lives, likely due to a gas explosion. Meanwhile, the U.S. envoy hints at a potential peace deal for Ukraine. In Benin, soldiers claim control after a tense announcement on state TV. Nigeria faces uncertainty as families await news from kidnappers two weeks after a school abduction. Somali Canadians voice their concerns over xenophobic remarks from a political figure, while the Vancouver Whitecaps face defeat in their first MLS championship.

Indigenous groups are celebrating the return of cultural objects from the Vatican. A new training program in Calgary focuses on carbon capture technology. In British Columbia, the search for a grizzly bear that attacked a school group has been called off. A memorial in Montreal commemorates the victims of the 1989 École Polytechnique shooting and highlights ongoing gender violence. Finally, the Vancouver Whitecaps are making history with their first MLS Cup appearance.

Jorge Barrera, a CBC reporter based in Mexico City, dives into the local protests surrounding the Azteca Stadium ahead of the World Cup. He highlights how the community is grappling with a water crisis, and how recent control over water resources has exacerbated tensions. The discussion also touches on the significance of these protests amidst the global attention on the soccer tournament. Barrera sheds light on the intersection of sports and social issues, making it a crucial topic in the context of the upcoming games.

Grocery prices in Canada are set to rise by 4-6% next year, affecting daily budgets. In a surprising move, Prime Minister Carney, President Trump, and President Sheinbaum will share the stage for the FIFA World Cup Draw despite ongoing trade tensions. High-stakes peace talks between Ukraine and U.S. envoys are taking place in Miami. In troubling news, recent Israeli airstrikes near Khan Yunis have resulted in civilian casualties. Meanwhile, Australia initiates a groundbreaking ban on social media access for those under 16, and a retiree falls victim to a clever deepfake scam in a shocking cryptocurrency theft.

Prime Minister Mark Carney is determined to overhaul the First Nations child welfare system after prolonged disputes. In Washington, public hearings are underway assessing the implications of the Canada-US-Mexico trade pact. Newfoundland and Labrador faces scrutiny for its hesitance to adopt a federal pharmacare initiative. Meanwhile, NATO underlines the urgency of supporting Ukraine against Russia. The search for the elusive Malaysian flight MH370 is set to resume, and a rare Mercedes-Benz linked to a Canadian fugitive has been seized. Actor Mike Smith is also set to face court regarding serious allegations.

Tensions rise as U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff meets Putin to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine. Mark Carney faces scrutiny from First Nations over a contentious pipeline agreement. Alberta's 'Forever Canadian' petition gains traction, aiming to squelch separatist talk. Premier Danielle Smith outlines a bill to challenge the federal gun buyback. A tragic fire in Hong Kong prompts calls for an independent inquiry. Meanwhile, some Dene nations propose renaming Great Slave Lake to honor Indigenous heritage. Illegal sales of nicotine pouches to youth spark alarming concerns across Canada.