Hot mics capture world leaders' chats between weighty topics at G7 summit
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- World leaders at the G7 summit engaged in informal conversations captured by "hot mics," discussing topics beyond global issues.
- Conversations included personal habits like smoking, sports, and lighthearted banter about gifts and events.
- Moments ranged from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni discussing quitting smoking to U.S. President Donald Trump's cryptic remarks about Greenland.
While the world's wealthiest democracies grappled with major global challenges at the G7 summit, unguarded moments captured by "hot mics" revealed a lighter side to the leaders' interactions. Beyond discussions on war and trade, microphones picked up candid exchanges on personal habits, sports, and even cryptic remarks.
Do you have a patch?
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shared that she had not smoked since May 1, a revelation met with congratulations from fellow leaders. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney inquired about nicotine patches, highlighting a personal health discussion among the heads of state. The ongoing World Cup also provided common ground, with French President Emmanuel Macron and others cheering for the French team, "Allez les bleus," and discussing recent football victories.
Allez les bleus
U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in various exchanges, including glowing remarks about UFC CEO Dana White after hosting an event at the White House. He also made a brief, enigmatic comment about "Greenland" while speaking with European Council President Antรณnio Costa, a remark that could echo past controversies regarding Trump's interest in acquiring the territory.
You understand? Greenland.
Gift-giving also featured in the summit's informal moments. Macron presented personalized bicycles to his counterparts to promote an upcoming cycling championship. Trump himself received a jersey for his birthday. These lighter exchanges offered a glimpse into the personal dynamics and off-the-cuff conversations that occur alongside the serious diplomatic negotiations.
He's left his watch here. We've got his watch.
Originally published by PBS NewsHour. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.