G7 allies maintain unity despite Trump's tariffs and Canada's sharp remarks

Top diplomats from the Group of 7 (G7) industrialized nations gathered in La Malbaie, Quebec for a two-day meeting to discuss key global issues. While they managed to present a united front on important matters like the Ukraine conflict and Middle East tensions, the meeting was overshadowed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial trade policies and comments about Canada.

Agreement on Ukraine peace plan

Despite tensions over trade, G7 diplomats, including those from the U.S., Canada, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan, agreed on a final joint statement. This statement supported a U.S.-led proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia.

The statement reaffirmed the G7's support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. It called on Russia to agree to a ceasefire on equal terms and to fully implement it. If Russia refuses, the G7 discussed the possibility of imposing more sanctions and providing additional support to Ukraine.

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the meeting showed unity despite differences. "We have found common ground," he stated, praising the collective effort.

The proposed ceasefire was a key focus of the meeting. Ukraine accepted the U.S. proposal, and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed in principle but asked for more clarity on the terms before finalizing the agreement. The G7 statement emphasized that the ceasefire must be respected and that Ukraine should have security guarantees to prevent future aggression.

However, Trump’s suggestion to bring Russia back into the G7 (restoring it to the G8) raised concerns among the other members. Russia was removed from the G8 after its annexation of Crimea in 2014.

The unity on Ukraine contrasted with the underlying tensions over Trump’s trade policies. Trump had imposed high tariffs on steel and aluminum from G7 countries, leading to strong criticism from allies.

Canada was especially vocal about Trump’s trade measures. Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly described her discussion with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio as "frank," implying a tense conversation. Joly told Rubio that Canada's sovereignty is non-negotiable, particularly after Trump joked that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state.

"I made it clear that Canada’s sovereignty is not up for debate," Joly said. "You are here, you respect us, you respect our sovereignty, you respect our people. Period."

Rubio tried to downplay Trump’s remarks, suggesting they were not meant seriously. However, Joly insisted that Canadians found the comments offensive and said they created anxiety among the population.

Japan and other G7 members also expressed concerns about Trump's tariffs. Japanese diplomats appealed to Rubio to reduce the impact of U.S. trade measures on their economy, but Trump remained firm.

Joly emphasized that Canada would continue to pressure the U.S. on trade while looking for alternative economic options. She warned that Trump's tariffs would ultimately hurt American businesses and workers as well.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock supported Canada and posted a message of solidarity on social media, saying, "We’ve got your back, @melaniejoly. #Canada #Solidarity."

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Middle East and global issues

The G7 statement also addressed the Middle East, although it avoided directly supporting a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Instead, it acknowledged the need for Palestinians to have a “political horizon” to fulfill their aspirations.

The group discussed growing tensions in the South China Sea, where China’s military activities have alarmed neighboring countries and global powers. The G7 agreed on the need to ensure free navigation and avoid military confrontations in the region.

In Africa, the G7 focused on providing more humanitarian aid and security support to conflict-affected areas. The diplomats also discussed economic measures to promote stability and development in Africa.

Friday’s sessions were shortened because Joly had to leave early to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Mark Carney as Canada's new Prime Minister. Despite the disruptions, the G7 managed to maintain a united front on key issues, especially regarding Ukraine and global security.

Trump’s trade policies, however, remain a major point of contention. The tariffs have strained relations with key allies, and Trump’s suggestion to include Russia in future G7 meetings has divided member countries.

The success of the Ukraine ceasefire plan will depend on how both Ukraine and Russia respond in the coming weeks. The G7's ability to maintain unity despite ongoing trade disputes and political tensions will be crucial for its future as a powerful diplomatic group.