US President Donald Trump is set to attend the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada next week, amidst ongoing tensions with fellow leaders over trade, climate change, and security.
Trump’s past interactions with the G7 have been marred by controversy, including a heated exchange with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in 2017. Merkel described the US relationship as “fraying” after Trump imposed tariffs on several G7 countries and threatened to annex Canada.
This year’s summit is expected to be just as volatile, with leaders discussing trade, climate change, migration, and energy security. However, the absence of a traditional joint communique may help reduce tensions.
In place of the usual statement, leaders will release standalone statements on various topics. The White House has said it expects working sessions to focus on these issues, although policy differences and personal attacks are likely to be present.
Trump’s “America First” approach has consistently clashed with that of other G7 nations, leading to clashes in previous summits. In 2018, an iconic photo captured the tensions between Trump and Merkel, with the German leader accusing the US president of being dishonest and weak.
Despite these challenges, some experts believe the G7 can still make a difference on key issues if leaders work together. However, building trust will be crucial, particularly given Trump’s history of undermining it through his words and actions.
As the summit approaches, it remains to be seen how Trump’s interactions with fellow leaders will play out. One thing is certain: the G7’s future will depend on the ability of its leaders to put aside their differences and work towards common goals.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/06/12/nx-s1-5407560/trump-g7-canada