If the diplomatic back and forth between one of the world’s true super powers and, well, us has left you wondering what the hell is happening and where does it go from here, you’re not alone. Since it began in early December, this saga has wound its way through extradition treaties, detentions, criminal charges and sentencing, trade threats, political posturing, retaliation and hints of cyber espionage before arriving at the bottom line: Canadian lives are at stake, and the government faces a tough technology decision that could decide both their fates and the future of our relationship with China.

Today, we bring you the straight goods: How did we get here? Was this a no-win situation for Canada from the start? Amid the noise and the statements and the op-eds, what do you actually need to know? Would Justin Trudeau’s opponents be doing anything differently than the Liberals right now? What does the future look like if Canada and China aren’t on speaking terms? Is there a lever Canada can use to pull this back, or has it gone too far already?

GUEST: Cormac Mac Sweeney, Parliament Hill reporter

(Note: Cormac Mac Sweeney's wife works for the Communications Security Establishment.)