G7 Members, Excluding US, Reject Russia's Return to G8, Citing Lack of Consensus

G7 Stance on Russia's Reinstatement

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has confirmed that the majority of G7 member states are against the reintegration of Russia into the G8 format. Speaking at a press conference following the G20 summit in Johannesburg on November 23, 2025, Merz stated, 'I don't see any willingness among the six current G7 members who are not the United States, to readmit Russia into this group.' He underscored that any decision to revive the G8 would necessitate full consensus among all members, a consensus that currently does not exist.

This position was echoed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who previously indicated that there are no grounds for Russia's reinstatement. The G7, an informal bloc of industrialized democracies, operates on a principle where significant decisions, such as membership changes, typically require unanimous agreement.

US 'Peace Plan' and European Rejection

The discussion around Russia's return to the G8 stems from a proposed US 'peace plan' for Ukraine, which reportedly includes provisions for Russia's reintegration into the global economy and its readmission to the G8. This plan, which has been attributed to US President Donald Trump, suggests that Russia's exclusion from the group was a 'big mistake' and that its return could have prevented the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

However, European states have largely rejected the US proposal, with some characterizing it as a 'de facto capitulation' for Ukraine. The plan reportedly outlines significant concessions from Kyiv, including ceding territory and agreeing not to join NATO.

Historical Context of Russia's Exclusion

Russia was initially suspended from the G8 in March 2014, following its annexation of Crimea. The G7 nations, then known as the G8, cancelled the planned summit in Sochi, Russia, and reverted to the G7 format. Russia officially announced its permanent withdrawal from the G8 in January 2017. The G7 currently comprises Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

During his previous term, Donald Trump had also advocated for Russia's return to the G8, but faced resistance from European allies. The current firm stance from Germany and France highlights a continued lack of willingness among key European powers to allow Russia back into the exclusive forum, especially amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions and the conflict in Ukraine.