G7 ministers meet as Europe seeks greater say in Ukraine peace talks
With Washington preparing negotiations with Moscow and Kyiv, European leaders fear Ukraine could face pressure to accept a bad deal. Iran tensions and the threat of renewed US strikes are also on the agenda.
Foreign ministers from the G7 nations are convening in Paris on Monday and Tuesday to discuss ways to involve Europe in US efforts to bring an end to Russia's war on Ukraine and to dissuade the US from escalating military actions against Iran. This summit brings together diplomats from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States. The timing of this meeting complements ongoing US-led talks between Russia and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi, set to commence on Tuesday.
Concerns are mounting in Europe over potential US pressure on Ukraine to accept a settlement that would favor Russia. US President Donald Trump suggested during a recent appearance on CBS that a "very big deal" was in the works, hinting that Ukraine's borders may change as a result. Trump also stated that the deal would involve all of Europe. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot affirmed that Europeans will be represented in the talks and that France will take part.
European leaders have consistently emphasized the importance of European participation in any agreement to end the conflict, asserting that Ukraine's sovereignty should not be compromised. When questioned about the US plans for a potential agreement, Barrot declined to disclose details but stressed that no deal impacting European security could take place without the involvement of Europeans.
During the Paris meeting, special attention will be given to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who will attend both days, unlike at the last G7 summit where he only participated for one day. Rubio expressed optimism about recent discussions leading to progress on security guarantees for Ukraine and the broader European region. Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, has also discussed US endeavors to establish a larger European security framework.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed skepticism towards proposals for a new European security framework, arguing that such discussions should follow the war's resolution rather than precede it. The European governments are advocating for a diplomatic solution rather than a resurgence of military actions. Global focus is particularly on restoring normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for international energy supplies, following recent tensions in the region.
The Paris gathering marks one of the final major diplomatic events during France's G7 presidency. Following the summit, the United States is set to assume the group's rotating presidency in 2027.
Written by urgent.news from DW English (Top Stories)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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