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Premiers Split on Using Potash as a Trade Weapon — What It Means for Your Grocery Bill

  Published August 31, 2026 Canada's premiers can't agree on how far to take the trade war with the United States — and this week, the fight is over a grey mineral mined almost 2,000 kilometres from Ottawa: potash. The disagreement matters well beyond provincial politics. Potash is the "P" and "K" of fertilizer economics — a key ingredient in the blends that grow the wheat, canola, and corn that eventually show up as bread, canola oil, and everything fed to livestock. Canada supplies about 85% of the potash the U.S. uses, which is exactly why some premiers see it as leverage — and why others are warning that pulling that lever could backfire on the very provinces pushing for it. Ford wants to pull the lever. Moe and Smith are warning not to. Ontario Premier Doug Ford is pushing for the toughest response available, including resource-based leverage. Saskatchewan's Scott Moe and Alberta's Danielle Smith are pumping the brakes, warning that squeezing po...

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Russia's Role in Stalling Peace Efforts in Ukraine

European foreign ministers convened at a NATO meeting in Brussels, collectively accusing Russia of obstructing U.S.-led peace initiatives aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The ministers urged the Trump administration to adopt a firmer stance against Moscow, citing concerns over Russian President Vladimir Putin's commitment to peace.

Despite U.S. President Donald Trump's promise to bring a swift end to the three-year war, recent developments have cast doubt on Putin's intentions. Moscow rejected a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in March, even as Ukraine expressed willingness to cooperate. Instead, the warring sides agreed to a limited pause in attacks on energy infrastructure, which both parties accused each other of violating.

British Foreign Minister David Lammy criticized Putin for "dragging his feet" and continuing to bombard Ukraine's civilian population and energy supplies. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock described Putin's negotiation efforts as "empty promises," while French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for a definitive response from Moscow to the ceasefire proposal.

Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly suggested imposing a deadline for Russia to respond, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The ministers' collective stance reflects growing frustration with Russia's perceived lack of commitment to peace and a call for stronger international pressure.

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