Europe seeks to influence Trump's position on Ukraine at G7 summit, Politico reports
Photo: Donald Trump, President of the United States (Getty Images)
European leaders at the G7 summit plan to persuade US President Donald Trump that Ukraine is currently in a strong position, according to Politico.
Plans for Ukraine-related negotiations
Unnamed French officials told the outlet that the key topic of the summit will be the US-Israel war with Iran, as well as the situation around the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite this, participants will also address the issue of the Russia-Ukraine war.
Five French officials, in comments to Politico, said the goal is not so much to reach major agreements as to keep Trump engaged in discussions about the Russia-Ukraine war.
In particular, French President Emmanuel Macron, whose country is hosting the summit, plans to emphasize that Europe is taking on a major share of support for Ukraine. At the same time, a successful outcome of the leaders’ meeting would be one in which Trump does not begin to actively undermine Kyiv’s position.
"Europeans pay for almost 100 percent of aid to Ukraine. It’s important that other G7 partners, in particular the United States … at the very least, don’t degrade their position regarding Ukraine," a representative of Macron’s administration said.
They also plan to try to convince Trump that Ukraine currently has an advantage on the battlefield.
"Trump likes winners. Last year, Zelenskyy didn’t hold the cards. But the situation has changed," said an unnamed French diplomat.
He pointed to a €90 billion EU loan, difficulties of the Russian army on the front line, and Kyiv’s defense cooperation with Gulf countries.
Lavish reception
Politico noted that in an effort to maintain Trump’s goodwill, the French president has taken a number of diplomatic steps. In particular, the summit date was changed to accommodate the US leader’s birthday, and a formal dinner will be held for him at the Palace of Versailles after the official events conclude.
French officials told Politico that the two leaders now speak regularly by phone, indicating an improvement in relations after a prolonged period of tensions.
Diplomats note that Macron’s direct and ambitious style is well suited to dealing with Trump, as the two already have experience working together during his first presidential term.
Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz previously said that he plans to discuss the possibility of a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia with US President Donald Trump at the G7 summit.
