G7 Backs Ukraine: US Blocks Joint Statement
- KANANASKIS, Canada — Despite the absence of President donald Trump, Group of seven leaders convened Tuesday and promised greater backing for Ukraine.
- Trump, initially scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President volodymyr Zelensky at the summit, departed early due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.
- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed Zelensky and announced Can$2 billion ($1.47 billion) in military assistance for Ukraine, including drones and helicopters.
G7 Leaders Pledge Ukraine support; US Plays mediation Role
KANANASKIS, Canada — Despite the absence of President donald Trump, Group of seven leaders convened Tuesday and promised greater backing for Ukraine. This commitment comes as the United States opted to block a unified G7 statement aimed at pressuring Russia, which continues to escalate its attacks.
Trump, initially scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President volodymyr Zelensky at the summit, departed early due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. Zelensky later met with the remaining G7 leaders at a remote lodge in the Canadian Rockies. The meeting occurred hours after a deadly Russian bombardment struck Kyiv, resulting in at least 10 fatalities.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed Zelensky and announced Can$2 billion ($1.47 billion) in military assistance for Ukraine, including drones and helicopters. however, a unified G7 statement on Ukraine was not possible because, according to a Canadian official speaking anonymously, “the Americans wanted to water it down.”
The United States, according to the official, objected to specific language in the proposed statement, emphasizing its desire to preserve its role as a mediator with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
What’s next
The G7 nations will continue individual efforts to support Ukraine, while the U.S. is expected to pursue its mediation role with Russia, navigating a complex geopolitical landscape.
Related reading