Canada Rejects Calls to Reinstate Russia in the G7 Amid U.S. Tariff Tensions

At an international security conference in Munich, Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly made it clear that Canada was not considering any discussions about readmitting Russia into the G7. Addressing questions about the possibility raised by U.S. President Donald Trump, Joly stated unequivocally that the idea had not been put on the table and that Canada’s stance against such a move remains unchanged. This firm position comes in the wake of Russia’s suspension from the group following its actions in Ukraine in 2014, which led to the annexation of Crimea, an act widely condemned by G7 nations.

Joly also touched on the implications of recent U.S. tariff threats as part of a broader trade debate at the conference. She recalled how Canada had countered initial threats by imposing retaliatory tariffs, a move that not only impacted U.S. markets but also bolstered domestic support for the Liberal government. The Canadian minister emphasized that these tariffs, which could potentially jeopardize hundreds of thousands of jobs, are seen as an existential threat to the nation. She urged European allies to learn from Canada’s experience, suggesting that similar measures might be on the horizon for other countries if such unilateral actions are pursued by the U.S.

In addition to trade concerns, Joly reaffirmed the G7’s commitment to ensuring that Ukraine and its European counterparts have a meaningful role in any future peace talks aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine. The minister’s discussions in Munich showcased Canada’s proactive diplomatic approach during its presidency of the foreign ministers’ meeting, signaling a dedication to international cooperation and a strong stance against adversarial economic policies.

The conversation also extended to political ramifications in North America, highlighting the domestic response to U.S. trade policies. Comments from U.S. Senator Andy Kim during a panel discussion pointed to growing American unease with tariffs that are expected to affect domestic prices, further underscoring the political vulnerability of such measures. The overall tone of the discussions painted a picture of a politically charged environment where economic decisions impact both international alliances and internal national sentiment.