Trump Arrives at G7 Amid Trade Tensions and Annexation Concerns
The G7 summit in Canada faces a storm of controversy as Donald Trump arrives, raising eyebrows due to past rhetoric about annexation and his ongoing trade disputes with key allies. This meeting will test the waters of global cooperation.
Tensions Escalate Before the Summit
Trump‘s past suggestions of making Canada a U.S. state have angered Canadians and Prime Minister Mark Carney. The host of the summit has committed to challenging the former U.S. president’s policies.
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Carney has decided to forego the customary joint statement at the summit’s conclusion, a move mirroring Emmanuel Macron‘s action at the 2019 French G7.
Summit Dynamics and Potential Disruptions
Trump has a history of disrupting these summits, as seen during the 2017 meeting in Italy and the 2018 Quebec summit. At the latter, he called Justin Trudeau “dishonest” and “weak.”
“Anything could happen. The Canadians would be crazy not to anticipate something. We can’t tell. That’s Trump stock and trade. He likes to keep everyone guessing,”
—Robert Bothwell, University of Toronto professor
Canadian authorities expect large protests, but access to the summit venue will be heavily restricted. The World Bank has downgraded its global economic growth forecast for this year, citing rising trade barriers (World Bank, 2024).
Key Players and Potential Outcomes
Volodymyr Zelenskyy will attend and is expected to meet Trump. Other world leaders will also engage Trump in both group settings and bilateral talks, navigating a complex diplomatic landscape.
Among the summit’s newcomers are German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mexican president, will be present and anticipates a first in-person meeting with Trump.
Narendra Modi, the Indian Prime Minister, has been invited despite allegations of his government’s involvement in violence in Canada. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was also invited, but will not attend.
Trade and Security Concerns
Trade tensions remain a significant issue, with the United States running trade deficits with most G7 nations. Trump has imposed import tariffs on almost every country globally, further impacting the world economy.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte will attend. He has stated that most U.S. allies in the alliance support Trump‘s demand for increased defense spending.
Carney has indicated that Canada would meet NATO’s current 2% target, but may not support 5%.
The meeting in Kananaskis, Alberta, will be a test for global cooperation, as leaders navigate complex trade issues and differing visions for the future.