The latest roundup of stories from The Canadian Press highlights significant developments in the ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States, alongside environmental concerns and sporting achievements.

Architects Say Trump’s Tariffs ‘Blow a Complete Hole’ in Continental Trade Agreement

The architects of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) have expressed serious concerns regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's recent trade policies, stating that his trade war has effectively undermined the continental trade pact. Both Canada’s chief negotiator, Steve Verheul, and Mexico’s chief negotiator, Ken Smith Ramos, emphasized that the imposition of 25 percent tariffs, along with a 10 percent levy on Canadian energy exports, essentially suspends the agreement. Trump followed through on his threats on March 4, 2025, implementing comprehensive economic tariffs on both Canada and Mexico. Verheul and Ramos assert that meaningful talks regarding the trade agreement cannot proceed while there is a looming threat of severe tariffs.

Provinces Use Liquor Leverage in Trade War

In response to the tariffs, several Canadian provinces have decided to leverage their control over alcoholic beverages to signal the adverse impacts of trade wars. According to supply-chain management expert Samuel Roscoe from the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business, the decision by Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Alberta, and Yukon to remove U.S. liquor from their shelves is a strategic move to capture the attention of American companies. The provinces aim to demonstrate that tariffs are detrimental to both sides of the border, escalating the tension in the ongoing trade war initiated by President Trump.

Here’s What Else We’re Watching...

Cyanide-Contaminated Mine Water May Have Leaked

In a concerning environmental update, the Yukon government has reported an unauthorized discharge of cyanide-impacted water from the site of last summer’s mine disaster near Mayo. On February 17, 2025, a pipe leak was identified at the Eagle Gold mine, managed by a court-appointed receiver overseeing cleanup efforts. Initially, there were indications that the contaminated water had not escaped from a lined containment area, leading to a delayed report. However, officials now estimate that approximately 150,000 liters of contaminated water may have been released into the surrounding environment, raising alarms about the potential ecological impact.

Third Earthquake Felt in Victoria, B.C.

Residents of Victoria, British Columbia, experienced their third earthquake in less than two weeks as another tremor was reported on March 6, 2025. Earthquakes Canada confirmed that a magnitude 3.9 earthquake occurred approximately 58 kilometers south of Victoria at 4:18 p.m. While the tremor was categorized as "lightly felt" in Victoria, there have been no reports of damage. This series of seismic events includes a more significant 4.7-magnitude earthquake recorded on February 21 that garnered widespread attention across major population centers, including Victoria and Vancouver.

Gushue, McEwen, Jacobs Secure Playoff Berths at Montana’s Brier

In the realm of sports, three-time defending champion Brad Gushue continues his impressive performance at the Montana’s Brier curling championship. His team from St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, remains unbeaten with a record of 7-0, securing the first playoff berth after a narrow 7-6 win against Alberta's Kevin Koe on March 6, 2025. Following Gushue’s victory, other teams also clinched playoff spots: Mike McEwen from Saskatchewan earned a place with a 7-2 defeat of Rylan Kleiter, and Alberta's Brad Jacobs (6-0) joined the playoff lineup after a significant 11-5 victory over Ontario's Sam Mooibroek.

This report encapsulates key developments affecting trade, environmental issues, and sports, showcasing the multifaceted issues currently at play across Canada.