ISLAMABAD: The Group of Seven (G7) summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, was thrown into disarray after U.S. President Donald Trump left a day early, abandoning key meetings on Ukraine and trade.
Trump’s unexpected departure came as the world reels from simultaneous crises involving Iran, Israel, Russia, and Ukraine.
Despite the drama, G7 leaders are attempting to present a united front, asserting the group’s relevance in shaping global affairs.
Trump declined to participate in fresh sanctions against Russia, stating he would wait for Europe to act first.
Before leaving, he joined other leaders in a brief statement affirming that Iran must never possess nuclear weapons.
However, he diverged sharply on policy matters, particularly regarding Ukraine and economic sanctions.
Trump told media that Tehran should be “evacuated immediately,” fueling further speculation on U.S. intentions.
Tensions Rise Over Iran and Russia
As the summit opened, Israel had launched aerial strikes on Iran, which retaliated with missile and drone attacks.
Trump warned Iran to curb its nuclear ambitions “before it’s too late” and suggested Iranian leaders had already missed their chance to strike a deal.
He expressed that Iran “would like to talk” but hinted at possible consequences if they failed to act quickly.
Meanwhile, German and British officials pushed for a final communique to reaffirm that Iran must not gain access to nuclear-capable material.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and NATO Chief Mark Rutte were scheduled to join remaining leaders for further talks on the war.
G7 Tries to Regain Focus Without U.S. President
Prime Minister Mark Carney, UK’s Keir Starmer, and other G7 leaders pressed forward with plans to impose new tariffs on Russia.
Trump, however, refused to participate in the sanctions and emphasized economic burdens on the U.S.
He cited rising costs and criticized the 2014 expulsion of Russia from the G7 as a factor behind the war in Ukraine.
Trump’s focus remained on trade grievances, announcing steep tariffs on steel, aluminum, autos, and general imports.
Despite friction, he signed a trade framework with the UK, calling it “protection through friendship.”
The summit’s remaining leaders are now trying to salvage what they can without their most controversial member present.
