G7 Summit Faces Mounting Global Crises, Trump’s Shadow Looms

Leaders of major global economies converge in the Canadian Rockies amidst escalating international tensions, particularly the widening conflict in the Middle East. Adding to the uncertainty, former U.S. President Donald Trump is poised to attend, threatening to disrupt the summit’s collaborative spirit.

Escalating Conflicts and Diplomatic Hurdles

The G7 summit in Banff, Alberta, will be heavily influenced by the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, with the focus on de-escalation strategies. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has conferred with Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to navigate the crisis.

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“We do have longstanding concerns about the nuclear program Iran has. We do recognize Israel’s right to self-defense, but I’m absolutely clear that this needs to de-escalate. There is a huge risk of escalation for the region and more widely,”

—Keir Starmer, British Prime Minister

The U.S. has seen a rise in antisemitic incidents, with the ADL reporting a 34% increase in 2023 (ADL Report).

The “Wild Card” Factor

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, as summit host, has decided to forgo a joint statement, signaling potential discord. The main concern stems from Trump‘s known tendency toward unilateral action, which threatens to overshadow the gathering’s goals.

French President Emmanuel Macron is making a symbolic stop in Greenland, adding a layer of complexity to the pre-summit dynamics. Macron, who is one of few leaders to have experience with Trump‘s first term, will likely aim to understand his approach to pressing issues.

Summit Dynamics and Potential Outcomes

The summit brings in leaders from India, Ukraine, Brazil, South Africa, South Korea, Australia, Mexico, and the UAE. Avoiding tariffs remains a primary objective for the diverse group. Former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien advises other leaders to remain composed, especially if Trump acts unpredictably.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to meet with Trump, rekindling a meeting that previously revealed the risks of navigating interactions with the former U.S. president. Starmer is also dealing with scrutiny for his approach to Trump, who has previously threatened to make Canada the 51st state.