G7 Shows United Support for Ukraine Despite US Withdrawal

The Group of Seven (G7) leaders expressed strong backing for Ukraine on Tuesday, even in the absence of US President Donald Trump, who abruptly left the summit due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. This departure prevented a formal joint declaration pressing Russia to cease hostilities against Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with the remaining G7 leaders at a secluded location in the Canadian Rockies shortly after one of the deadliest Russian missile strikes on Kyiv since the invasion began in February 2022. The assault resulted in the deaths of at least ten civilians.

Canada pledged a significant increase in military aid, including drones and helicopters, valued at approximately $1.47 billion. However, efforts to issue a unified G7 statement on Ukraine were hindered by US objections. According to a Canadian official, Washington sought to moderate the language in order to preserve diplomatic flexibility with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Despite the lack of a formal statement, the summit chair emphasized a collective commitment to explore every possible avenue for pressuring Russia, particularly through financial sanctions. Nevertheless, some leaders reportedly desired a more assertive stance.

Earlier in the summit, the G7 issued a unified message regarding the Middle East conflict, expressing support for Israel while urging overall de-escalation. This rare agreement contrasted with the US’s reluctance to support stronger language on Russia.

Britain and Canada announced new sanctions targeting Russia’s covert oil shipping fleet used to bypass international restrictions. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated these measures aim to cripple the financial resources fueling Russia’s ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, US lawmakers have proposed additional sanctions on Russia, but Trump has been hesitant to endorse them. Notably, he spoke with Putin by phone shortly before the summit began and has previously criticized Zelensky for a perceived lack of gratitude regarding US aid. Still, Trump has lately shown frustration over Putin’s refusal to consider a temporary ceasefire.

In emotional remarks to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Zelensky described the Russian strike as a tragic event that underscores the urgent need for continued international support. He reiterated his openness to peace negotiations and called for increased diplomatic and economic pressure on Moscow.

French President Emmanuel Macron accused Putin of exploiting global attention on the Middle East to intensify attacks on Ukraine, denouncing the strike as a sign of the Kremlin’s disregard for human life.

In Washington, the State Department condemned the Russian aggression and offered condolences to the victims' families.

The summit also addressed economic concerns, with discussions focusing on President Trump’s proposed overhaul of global trade. Trump, who left Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in his place, criticized the European Union for what he called unfair trade practices and threatened to impose broad tariffs on both allies and adversaries starting July 9, unless significant progress is made.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen maintained hope for a negotiated outcome, noting that talks were ongoing and intense.