Syrian families wait their turn to register at the UNHCR centre in the northern city of Tripoli, Lebanon, March 6, 2013.Bilal Hussein/The Associated Press
A summary of what you need to know today, compiled by The Globe's news desk on March 6, 2013.
Number of Syrian refugees hits 1 million
More than 1 million Syrians have now fled the country, which is heading towards a "full-scale disaster," the United Nations is warning. Meanwhile, the World Food Program says it will run out of money to provide displaced Syrians with food unless Canada and other big donors help out, The Globe's Kim Mackrael reports.
Venezuelan vice-president to succeed Chavez
As Venezuelans begin a seven-day period of mourning for former president Hugo Chavez, vice-president Nicolas Maduro is taking over the reins of power while trying to build support. Mr. Maduro will run the country as interim president and will be the governing socialists' candidate in an election within a month.
Bolshoi dancer confesses to role in acid attack
Ballet dancer Pavel Dmitrichenko has confessed to ordering the acid attack that almost blinded the storied dance company's director, saying he was angry that his lover was kept out of leading roles. "I organized this attack, but not to the extent that it happened," he said, apparently meaning he did not intend the attack to go so far, according to Reuters.
Canada warns Palestinians of 'consequences'
Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird is warning that Palestinians will feel "consequences" from Canada if they pursue Israel at the International Criminal Court, The Canadian Press reports. The warning came as Ottawa decides whether to end Canadian humanitarian aid to the Palestinians when it expires at the end of this month.
Bank of Canada to release policy statement
Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney will release the central bank's latest policy decision this morning. Observers are split over whether he will lower interest rates.
Jill Mahoney