Trump’s Sudden Exit from G7 Leaves Ukraine in a Lurch: No Meeting with Zelenskyy Sparks Concerns

Ukrainian leaders are feeling frustrated with former President Donald Trump’s focus on issues other than Ukraine, particularly after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveled all the way to the G7 summit in Canada. Trump left for home just before their planned meeting, prioritizing tensions between Israel and Iran instead. This move disappointed many Ukrainian officials who were hopeful for support.

The situation worsened when the U.S. blocked a joint statement about Ukraine, claiming it could harm negotiations with Russia. Instead, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will include some mentions of the war in his own summary. Some Ukrainian officials are now questioning whether Zelenskyy’s presence at the upcoming NATO summit is even worthwhile, especially if Trump wouldn’t attend.

An anonymous official voiced the frustration, noting that Ukraine often finds itself at the mercy of global events and Trump’s fluctuating attention. The situation led to a major attack in Ukraine around the time Zelenskyy was preparing for the summit. He had hoped to discuss military assistance, including potential U.S. arms sales, during these meetings to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

Zelenskyy aimed to secure a deal for $30 billion to $50 billion in U.S. weapons, focusing on air defense systems. In the backdrop, questions around the U.S.’s arms support lingered. Trump has historically suggested that additional military aid could prolong conflict, showing a complicated stance on foreign aid.

One of Zelenskyy’s key objectives was to discuss reducing the oil price cap on Russian oil to limit Russia’s revenue. With debates on this issue ongoing, the rising oil prices due to the Iranian crisis might impact these discussions. The European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, acknowledged that the immediate need to lower the oil cap had eased.

While the summit discussions unfolded, other world leaders voiced their viewpoints. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pushed for stronger sanctions, targeting Russian oil tankers to diminish Russia’s energy funds. Experts agree that tightening sanctions could apply additional pressure on Russia, which has faced substantial financial losses. A report noted that Russia’s economy has been shrinking significantly; its sovereign wealth fund is projected to run out of money by the following year if current trends continue.

In a recent statement, the EU foreign affairs chief, Kaja Kallas, emphasized the importance of sustained pressure on Russia. Noting the significant economic hits they’ve faced, she pointed to a decline in Russian oil exports by up to 30% following previous sanctions. As the conflict drags on, the international community remains focused on finding ways to bring about peace while supporting Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty.

For more updates on this ongoing situation, you can refer to trusted sources like The Guardian and other news outlets monitoring the developments closely.

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