Donald Trump has urged Russia to ‘make a deal’ with Ukraine as the leaders of G7 countries meet on Tuesday and try to put the conflict back at the top of the agenda. European leaders are hoping to capture Trump’s attention for long enough to speak to him about Ukraine, with the US president’s focus more on the US-Israeli war against Iran. Nosheen Iqbal speaks to the Guardian’s Europe correspondent Jon Henley.
G7 Summit Focus
The G7 summit, gathering leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, is expected to address the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, Trump’s recent comments suggest a shift in priorities, emphasizing negotiations rather than continued military support.
European Leaders' Strategy
European officials are crafting a strategy to engage Trump on Ukraine, hoping to leverage his interest in deal-making. They aim to present a unified front, stressing the importance of transatlantic unity in countering Russian aggression.
Jon Henley, the Guardian’s Europe correspondent, notes that the challenge lies in convincing Trump that Ukraine’s stability is crucial for global security, especially as he focuses on Middle Eastern conflicts.
Trump’s Stance
Trump has repeatedly called for a swift end to the war, suggesting that Ukraine should concede territory for peace. His administration has signaled a potential reduction in aid, alarming European allies who fear a Russian victory.
Implications for Ukraine
If Trump shifts US policy, Ukraine could face increased pressure to negotiate on unfavorable terms. European leaders worry that without US support, Ukraine’s defense capabilities would weaken, potentially emboldening Russia.
The outcome of the G7 discussions may determine the future trajectory of the conflict, as European nations seek to balance their own security interests with the need to maintain a united front against Moscow.
