Key facts
- G7 leaders are holding summit talks in France.
- The agenda includes discussions on the war in Ukraine and the Middle East crisis.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is attending the summit.
- The summit follows a U.S. agreement to end its war with Iran.
- Russia recently attacked Ukrainian cities with drones and missiles.
- Leaders from Egypt, Qatar, and the UAE will join Middle East discussions.
Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations have commenced their summit in France, with a packed agenda focusing on the ongoing war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is present at the summit at the invitation of host France.
The discussions on Ukraine occur in the wake of U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of an agreement to conclude the 3 1/2-month-old U.S. war against Iran, an event that has recently overshadowed the conflict in Ukraine. Trump stated he had productive conversations with both Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin, indicating a shift in focus towards the Ukraine war now that the Iran conflict is resolved.
French President Emmanuel Macron intends to advocate for continued U.S. support for Ukraine and increased pressure on Russia to facilitate a peace agreement. This comes after Russia launched a significant barrage of drones and missiles targeting major Ukrainian cities, resulting in casualties and damage.
Tuesday's agenda also includes a session dedicated to "ending crises and ensuring stability in the Middle East," with leaders from Egypt, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates expected to participate. Trump has expressed frustration over the lack of progress in resolving the Ukraine-Russia conflict. The recent attacks on Ukraine followed separate phone calls between Zelenskyy, Putin, and Trump on his 80th birthday, suggesting ongoing U.S. diplomatic engagement.
Macron emphasized the need for a negotiation involving both Ukraine and Russia, with European and American presence. While Trump had previously claimed he could end the war within 24 hours of taking office, he has since acknowledged the complexity of the situation. Ukraine's pursuit of EU membership as a security guarantee is noted, though NATO membership remains a point of contention with the Trump administration.
Disagreements have surfaced between Trump and European leaders over his decision-making regarding the Iran war. Despite these tensions, the G7 summit is expected to maintain a measured tone as allies seek progress that could alleviate the economic impact of rising oil prices. Trump expressed optimism about developments in the Middle East and a potential drop in oil prices.