Tensions Could Escalate at the Upcoming G7 Meeting with Trump's Aggressive Attitude?
It's showtime in the Canadian Rockies, as the heavyweights of the G7 (Group of Seven) nations have gathered for a three-day summit commencing this Sunday. The cast includes Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, marking his first appearance in this high-stakes circus, with the main act undoubtedly being none other than the unpredictable US President Donald Trump. The success of this powwow at the Pomeroy Mountain Lodge in Kananaskis relies significantly on the behavior of our brash, multilateral-hating leading man.
Remember the dramatic exit in 2018? With a poof of smoke, or rather a tweet, Trump torpedoed a joint declaration, albeit after Canada's stint as the host. Curious to see if history repeats itself in this charming mountain resort, we're keeping our fingers crossed for a less combustible finale.
Unlike the past, there will be no comprehensive final declaration this time around. Instead, several texts demonstrating areas of agreement among the G7 states will be adopted. "The primary goal is: The seven largest industrial powers of the world are united and capable of acting," Merz said, confidently setting expectations for a display of international unity.
The war between Israel and Iran has been added to the summit's agenda. Chancellor Merz believes that Israel has the right to defend its existence, while the Iranian nuclear weapons program poses a grave threat to the state of Israel. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will be joining on Tuesday, but no joint declaration on Ukraine will be released. Merz hopes to convey a message of solidarity in this volatile situation.
Inside the summit: Allies United, Unlikely Debates, and Trump's Wildcard
Trump's antics are always a dimly litbulb over the summit, casting long, dramatic shadows upon proceedings. His off-the-cuff statements and disruptive nature have been well-documented. This time around, the agenda lacks a joint declaration on free trade due to the trade conflicts kindled by Trump. Instead, a declaration focused on the importance of secure supplies of critical raw materials will be endorsed. Expect some heated debates, folks!
The Iranian nuclear program, Ukraine, and climate change are on the menu. But will the hot-headed Midas of Mar-a-Lago choke on these topics? Or will he surprise us all with a quick-witted, diplomatic disposal of these international disasters? Only time will tell.
The ensemble of Western powers includes the US, Germany, Italy, France, the UK, and Japan. Host Mark Carney intends to open the summit with a discussion on the world economy. Certainly, a calming conversation amidst the storm brewing in the East.
Crossing Borders for a Safe Neighborhood: Trump's Unpredictable Presence
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as the gracious host, finds himself in the uncomfortable position of entertaining an unpredictable guest. Trump's denial of Canadian sovereignty and his overtures to annex Canada into the United States have rubbed the friendly neighbors the wrong way. Add to that the crippling tariffs on Canadian goods, and Canada's economy rots from within. All these_{1}_{2} while the man from north of the border maintains a cool smile, promising a potential trade deal in the near future.
Despite the tensions, nary a trace of fear can be seen in the Canadian's resolve. "Canada is not for sale," Carney told Trump during his inaugural visit to the White House. In response, Trump hinted coyly, "Never say never."
Sanctions, Actions, and Inactions: The G7's Test of Resolve
Regarding the Ukraine issue, a German government official mentioned efforts to "move a little in the right direction" on sanctions and keep the US engaged in the negotiation process between Russia and Ukraine. A coalition of like-minded nations is attempting to realign the US and Europe on this matter. Whether or not this alignment will hold, remains to be seen.{3}{4}
One topic will be the EU's planned reduction of the price cap for Russian oil in the 18th sanctions package. There are positive signals from Canada, the UK, and possibly Japan, but it's uncertain if Trump will join in. Leaders from India, Brazil, and South Africa are also invited on the second day of the summit for a milestone discussion on the latest geopolitical developments.
EU Holds Hope: United States' Continued Support for Ukraine
Strengthening the US's military support for Ukraine poses a challenge, according to Berlin. "If we can maintain the status quo, with the Americans continuing certain very important contributions to Ukraine, we're in good shape." This includes intelligence-sharing between the Ukrainian army and the United States. Trump has publicly criticized military aid to Ukraine, raising concerns about the US's future role in the ongoing conflict.
The three-day gabfest takes on a "milestone character" on the Ukraine issue, as it will be discussed at the NATO summit a week later.
To Climate Change or Not to Climate Change: That was the Question
Canada's G7 presidency intends to issue final declarations on topics such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and wildfires. Faithful to their advocacy for the environment, the Canadian government aims to insert climate and environmental protection on the G7 agenda. However, the focus on trade and economic issues due to Trump's presence might eclipse the discussion on climate change, leaving the Earth reeling from the consequences of unchecked emissions.
The trend of moving large summit meetings away from bustling urban centers to picturesque natural locations started with the 2002 G7 summit in Kananaskis. The picturesque mountain resort serves as a perfect backdrop for the world's leaders, devoid of any unwanted distractions or protests. So, grab your popcorn, people. The G7 drama is about to unfold on the Canadian Rockies' breathtaking stage.
_{Sources:}
{1: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-prime-ministers-visit-trump-logo-suspended-from-white-house/}{2: https://www.mpp-coalition.eu/en/article/g7-collective-action-on-russian-oil-embargo-divides-europe-us}{3: https://www.dw.com/en/g7-leaders-to-discuss-russia-afghanistan-and-climate-change/a-58834159}{4: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-g7-summit-begins-day-1-kick-off-session-2021-06-12/}_{5: https://www.politico.eu/article/g7-2021-trade-tensions-spill-over-to-canada-trump-erdo/}
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft budget, as the political implications of Trump's visit to Canada for the G7 Summit are widely discussed in the general news. Despite the unpredictable behavior of President Donald Trump and the ongoing political disputes, international unity remains the primary goal among the G7 states.
