The G7 summit 2025 is underway amid high drama and global uncertainty, with leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States gathering in the scenic town of Kananaskis, Alberta. This year’s summit, hosted by Canada and marking the first for new Prime Minister Mark Carney and returning U.S. President Donald Trump, is overshadowed by escalating crises, trade tensions, and a pressing question on everyone’s mind: As G7 leaders meet, allies ask: Is Trump with us or against us?
With the world’s attention split between the Russia-Ukraine war, the explosive Iran-Israel conflict, and Trump’s unpredictable trade policies, the G7 summit 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in recent memory. The summit officially began on June 15 and runs through June 17, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky set to join the discussions on June 17.
The Agenda: Global Crises and Trump’s Shadow
This year’s G7 summit 2025 is dominated by three major issues: support for Ukraine, the spiraling Iran-Israel conflict, and ongoing U.S. trade tensions with allies. The gathering is designed as a crisis response forum, but the usual unity is under strain. European leaders have called for unwavering support for Ukraine, with European Council President António Costa urging continued military and financial aid, long-term security guarantees, and increased sanctions on Russia. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed this, highlighting the need for more pressure on Russia and the importance of planning support for Ukraine beyond 2026.
But the mood is complicated by Trump’s return to the G7 stage. His recent trade tariffs, his suggestion that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state, and his unpredictable foreign policy have left allies wary. G7 summit to start amid Trump trade tensions and Iran-Israel crisis—this phrase captures the dual challenges facing the group. Trade remains a flashpoint, with Trump’s 90-day suspension of “reciprocal” tariffs in place for most allies, but Japan and the EU are racing to finalize agreements before the July 9 deadline.
Trump’s Stance: Disruptor or Deal-Maker?
Donald Trump’s presence at the G7 summit 2025 looms large. Allies are keenly aware of his history of disrupting past summits, notably walking out of the 2018 G7 in Canada after clashing with then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. This time, Trump’s approach is under even greater scrutiny. He has publicly mused about the need for Israel and Iran to “fight it out,” a stance that has raised eyebrows among G7 partners.
Trump Says Israel, Iran May Need to ‘Fight it Out’—this blunt rhetoric has added fuel to an already volatile situation. The recent escalation between Israel and Iran, including missile strikes on military and nuclear facilities, has made the Middle East crisis a top agenda item. Trump has also engaged in direct talks with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, but has signaled that the Israel-Iran conflict is his main focus.
Despite the tension, some analysts suggest Trump may seek a more constructive role, aiming to broker a deal between Israel and Iran. His recent social media posts and public statements have emphasized the need for a diplomatic resolution, but his unpredictability remains a wildcard. The question of whether Trump will align with G7 allies or pursue his own agenda is central to the summit’s outcome.
Ukraine, Sanctions, and the Quest for Unity
Support for Ukraine is a cornerstone of the G7 summit 2025, but even here, cracks are visible. While most leaders are united in their commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, Trump’s stance is less clear. He has been in talks with Putin and has not committed to new sanctions on Russia, raising concerns among European partners.
The European Union and its member states have mobilized about 150 billion euros for Ukraine, and sanctions have cut Russia’s oil and gas revenues by nearly 80% since the full-scale invasion. The G7 is now discussing additional pressure, with von der Leyen calling for the adoption of the EU’s 18th sanctions package. Zelensky’s participation is seen as crucial, and he has expressed willingness to agree to an unconditional ceasefire—though Putin has intensified attacks on Ukraine.
Trade Wars and Global Supply Chains
Trade tensions are another major theme at the G7 summit 2025. Trump’s aggressive tariff policies have strained relations with allies, though the U.K. has managed to finalize a trade agreement with the U.S. in May. Japan and the EU are still negotiating, with the threat of higher tariffs looming if deals are not reached by July 9.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is working to foster unity and collaboration on global supply chains for critical materials. The G7 finance ministers previously issued a joint statement pledging to monitor “nonmarket policies and practices” that disrupt global trade, a thinly veiled reference to China. Discussions about China’s military activities in the East and South China Seas, as well as its economic practices, are also expected.
The Human Element: Leaders and Personalities
The G7 summit 2025 is as much about personalities as it is about policy. Mark Carney, a former central banker, is navigating his first major international summit as prime minister. Trump’s return has injected drama and unpredictability, while leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron—now one of the few holdovers from Trump’s previous term—are trying to maintain stability.
The atmosphere is tense, but there is also a sense of urgency. The G7 was established to respond quickly to global crises, and this year’s challenges—ranging from war to trade to climate change—demand swift and coordinated action. The group’s ability to present a united front will be tested as never before.
Looking Ahead: What’s at Stake
The stakes at the G7 summit 2025 could not be higher. The world is watching to see if the group can overcome internal divisions and address the most pressing issues of our time. The outcome will shape global security, economic stability, and the future of international cooperation.
For ordinary citizens, the summit’s results will have real-world consequences—from the price of goods affected by tariffs to the risk of wider war in the Middle East and Europe. The ability of G7 leaders to find common ground, even amid deep disagreements, will determine whether the group remains relevant in an increasingly fractured world.
Key Takeaways from the G7 Summit 2025
- Support for Ukraine remains a top priority, but Trump’s stance on Russia is uncertain.
- The Iran-Israel conflict has taken center stage, with Trump’s unpredictable rhetoric adding to the tension.
- Trade tensions, especially between the U.S. and its allies, are a major source of friction.
- Unity is fragile, but the need for coordinated action is urgent.
- The G7’s ability to address global crises will be tested like never before.
As the G7 summit 2025 unfolds, stay informed about the latest developments and consider how global decisions impact your daily life. Engage with the news, discuss these issues with your community, and make your voice heard on the world stage.