Macron, Zelenskyy overheard discussing strategy for Trump at G7

Macron, hosting the summit, was heard asking Zelenskyy if he had a bilateral meeting with Trump. Zelenskyy indicated he needed to depart for a European Council summit in Brussels on June 18. The leaders also touched upon a G7 session focused on Ukraine that included Trump.

This interaction underscores a broader European strategy to manage Trump's involvement in international affairs, especially after his early departure from the previous year's G7 summit. Macron's efforts to keep Trump engaged include hosting him for a celebratory dinner at the Palace of Versailles.

Concerns among some European officials persist that Trump, following a potential deal with Iran, might seek to lead peace talks for Ukraine, potentially undermining the existing strategy of pressuring Russia and maintaining full support for Kyiv.