Mark Carney delivered a speech heard round the world — now what? Artwork

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Mark Carney delivered a speech heard round the world — now what?

January 22, 2026 • Village Media Inc.

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By this point, you’ve likely seen the speech. Or at least parts of it.

Prime Minister Mark Carney told the World Economic Forum on Monday that the rules-based global order is officially dead, and that “middle powers” like Canada must find a different path forward.

“We know the old order is not coming back. We shouldn't mourn it. Nostalgia is not a strategy,” Carney said. “But we believe that from the fracture, we can build something better, stronger, more just.”

The prime minister did not mention Donald Trump by name, but the message was clear.

“The powerful have their power,” Carney said. “But we have something too — the capacity to stop pretending, to name reality, to build our strength at home and to act together. That is Canada's path. We choose it openly and confidently.”

Although many praised the prime minister’s honesty, not everyone was impressed. Some political opponents say they’re worried his comments will trigger President Trump’s “wrath” at a time when trade negotiations still hang in the balance (Trump, for his part, responded to Carney’s speech by saying Canada “lives because of the United States.”)

The prime minister delivered another address today, speaking directly to Canadians in advance of a cabinet retreat in Quebec City. He reiterated that staying true to Canada’s core values will be key to maintaining our sovereignty.

Joining us on Closer Look to talk about Carney’s high-stakes comments — and what comes next — is Peter Donolo, a political strategist who worked for years as the director of communications for former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien.

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