G7 leaders meet in France with Trump tariff threat looming

Leaders of the Group of Seven wealthy nations convened in France on Monday, facing a backdrop of unease among allies due to President Donald Trump's tariff threats and questions surrounding the US commitment to the established global order. The summit in Evian-les-Bains, running from June 15-17, will tackle several critical issues, including the next steps following a preliminary deal between the US and Iran to end their conflict.

Discussions will also focus on finding common ground regarding the war in Ukraine, addressing global economic imbalances, and diversifying the sourcing of critical minerals away from China's dominance. Trump's arrival comes at a time when global leaders are increasingly wary of US actions, which have previously disrupted the Middle East, global trade, and diplomacy, raising doubts about the US commitment to the post-war international system it helped create. French officials expressed relief at securing his presence after he departed last year's summit early.

Underscoring the prevailing tensions, Trump warned in an interview that the US would impose 100% tariffs on French wine if Paris did not eliminate its digital tax on American tech companies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to attend a working session, seeking increased military funding as Russian advances in Ukraine have slowed. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the recent attacks would only strengthen Ukraine's resolve to work towards a ceasefire and peace, a goal Russia has so far refused.

Details of the US-Iran deal are also a key focus, with a memorandum of understanding expected to be signed. The agreement reportedly includes the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to the US blockade of Iranian ports. However, France and Britain have been working on a military plan to help open the Strait, contingent on Tehran's approval, which has not yet been secured. The summit aims to foster cooperation on these complex global challenges.

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This attack only strengthens our determination to do everything, with our allies and partners, to work towards a ceasefire that Russia stubbornly refuses, then to peace. We will work on it at the G7.