Trade Tensions Overshadow Agreement on Ukraine, Exposing Deep Divisions Among Allies

G7 Meeting Overshadowed by Trade Tensions

The G7 meeting in La Malbaie, Canada, was overshadowed by escalating trade tensions between the United States and its allies.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio: Denied the existence of a trade war, claiming the U.S. was merely "resetting" its trade relations.

Accused the Trump administration of engaging in a trade war against Canada and Europe.

President Donald Trump: Mocked Canada, saying it "only works as a state" and that the U.S. "doesn't need anything they have."

Responded angrily, stating that Canada would "never, ever" become part of the United States.

Rubio: Claimed the tariffs were not hostile and were part of a broader trade policy reset.

Expressed surprise and disappointment over Trump's "nasty" comments about the EU.

G7 nations: Issued a joint statement supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity and warning Russia to accept a ceasefire.

Denied any shift in U.S. policy towards Russia.

Rubio: Reported a "positive and productive engagement" between Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Declined to speculate on next steps in ceasefire negotiations, citing Witkoff's return to the U.S.

The G7 meeting highlighted the growing rift between the U.S. and its allies on trade and foreign policy. While there was agreement on the need for a ceasefire in Ukraine, tensions remain high over Trump's tariffs and rhetoric.