The leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations gathered at a summit in the Canadian Rockies on June 17, 2025, reaffirming their unwavering support for Ukraine as it faces intensified Russian aggression. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Kananaskis after one of the worst Russian bombardments of Kyiv since the onset of the war in February 2022, which tragically claimed the lives of at least 10 civilians.
Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada welcomed Zelensky, announcing a substantial military support package valued at Can$2 billion ($1.47 billion), which includes drones and helicopters. Carney stressed the necessity of showing “total solidarity with Ukraine” and joining forces with the UK to ramp up pressure on Russia.
“Maximum pressure against Russia is essential to ending this devastating war,” Carney emphasized.
Simultaneously, Britain announced new sanctions targeting Russia’s shadow fleet, a fleet of ships utilized to bypass international sanctions on Russian oil sales. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer articulated that these measures are designed to undermine President Vladimir Putin’s military campaign.
“These sanctions strike at the heart of Putin’s war machine, choking off his ability to continue his barbaric war in Ukraine,” Starmer said.
Trump’s Abrupt Exit and US Hesitation
The summit, initially expected to include US President Donald Trump in crucial talks with Zelensky, took an unexpected turn when Trump abruptly left the proceedings early to return to Washington over the escalating Israel-Iran conflict. Trump’s departure raised questions regarding the level of commitment the United States would bring to resolving the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
While Trump had previously been vocal in his criticism of Zelensky, accusing him of ingratitude over US aid, the US president has also expressed disappointment over Putin’s dismissal of a ceasefire proposal. Trump, however, has been cautious about imposing further sanctions on Russia, citing the importance of maintaining diplomatic ties with Moscow.
“We are ready for peace negotiations — unconditional ceasefire. For this, we need pressure,” Zelensky told Carney, his voice heavy with emotion.
French President Emmanuel Macron sharply criticized Putin’s actions, accusing the Russian leader of taking advantage of the global focus on the Middle East to intensify the assault on Ukraine.
“It shows the complete cynicism of President Putin,” Macron stated, reflecting widespread European condemnation of Russia’s actions.
The Dynamics of G7 Relations
This G7 summit marks the first since Trump’s return to power, raising concerns over the future of long-standing international alliances. Despite Trump’s early departure, the summit continued with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent representing the United States. As tensions continue to rise on the global stage, the summit also focused on global trade and the potential overhaul of existing trade structures, an agenda Trump has repeatedly pushed for.
“I’ve made it clear: We’re either going to make a good deal, or they’ll just pay whatever we say they will pay,” Trump remarked in his departure, referring to trade negotiations with the European Union.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen remained hopeful that negotiations with the US would reach a satisfactory conclusion, even as trade talks continue to face intense scrutiny.
Challenges and Uncertainty in Trade Talks
Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba shared his concerns about Trump’s trade policies, particularly as the US president presses for sweeping tariffs that may affect Japan’s automotive exports.
“We have not reached an agreement on the package as a whole,” Ishiba said, indicating ongoing tension as nations navigate the complexities of Trump’s trade agenda.
The G7, comprising Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States, continues to hold crucial discussions on balancing international trade agreements while supporting Ukraine’s war effort.
A Divided Global Stage
While the G7 nations have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine, the absence of US leadership and Trump’s complicated relationship with Russia add uncertainty to future international efforts. As the world waits for further developments, the strength of the G7’s resolve will be tested in the face of both internal and external geopolitical challenges.