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Six leaders from a group of seven — or G7 — discussed the Russian war in Ukraine and the Israeli-Iran conflict. However, they were unable to achieve important agreements on these and many other pressing issues.
President Donald Trump concluded the summit, which was forced to show how a coalition of wealthy nations could impact global policies, despite being too early.
During Tuesday’s final session, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was accompanied by Ukrainian President Voldy Mir Zelensky and NATO Chief Mark Latte, along with leaders from Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Japan.
“We need support from our allies. I’m here,” Zelensky added, “We’re ready for peace negotiations, an unconditional ceasefire. I think that’s very important. But we need pressure for this.”
The remaining leaders agreed to collaboratively try to combat what is called non-market policies that could endanger global access to critical minerals.
They also pledged to limit the shortcomings of artificial intelligence regarding employment and the environment, while embracing the potential of a “technological revolution.”
There was agreement on various other issues, but despite the intention of the Summit to demonstrate solidarity on major global issues, no collective statements regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have been made.
Zelensky was scheduled to meet with Trump as world leaders were convened at Canadian Rocky Mountain Resort in Kananaskis, but that meeting was cancelled after Trump chose to leave the summit early Tuesday, citing Middle Eastern escalation.
Furthermore, the United States had previously signed an agreement to give the United States access to Ukraine’s wide range of mineral resources.
A senior Canadian official who explained to reporters at the summit said Washington opposed the joint statement on Ukraine in his efforts to promote negotiations with Russia.
With Trump’s absence, the remaining six leaders held extensive sessions in Ukraine. The individual leaders, lacking unanimity, met with Zelensky and reassured their continued support for Kiev and their commitment to ensuring his country dodges Russia.
The summit was heavily veiled by the potential for a showdown between Israel and Iran over the latter nuclear programme. Israel launched an air bombing campaign targeting Iran, and Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned against the US and other powers pushing for Iran’s change of government, suggesting that it could destabilize the larger Middle East. Netanyahu previously urged Iranians to use Israeli strikes as a way to overthrow the government.
“I think the biggest mistake today is pursuing a change of regime in Iran through military measures, because it leads to confusion,” Macron said.
Before leaving, Trump joined other leaders, saying Iran “cannot have nuclear weapons” and called for the “elimination of hostilities in the Middle East, including the Gaza ceasefire.”
Additional sources •AP
