Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday June 18, 2025
Published also in The Toronto Star, and on Politico Europe.
Trump’s G7 Exit: Same Play, Different Day
Donald Trump’s early exit from the 2025 G7 Summit in Kananaskis serves as a reminder that this tendency is not new. It resurrects questions about the United States’ engagement in global affairs under his leadership, highlighting a pattern of ambiguity that has characterized Trump’s presidency and its impact on international relations.
June 9, 2018
From his abrupt departure during the 2018 Canadian-hosted summit to leaving the recent G7 meeting, Trump’s actions often puzzle observers and allies alike. The official reason for his hasty exit—the escalating Middle East conflict—contrasts sharply with his stated disinterest in negotiating peace, leaving the international community in a state of uncertainty about America’s role in the crisis between Iran and Israel.
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The summit in Kananaskis, hosted by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, aimed to address pressing global challenges, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sought international support for tougher measures against Russia, amidst Trump’s approval of limited military aid to Ukraine. However, Trump’s absence from direct discussions with Zelenskyy underscores a missed opportunity for reaffirming U.S. commitment to Ukraine, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
This behaviour reflects a broader dilemma within U.S. foreign policy under Trump, fluctuating between the “America First” mantra that propelled him to power and the nation’s historic role as a leader in global affairs. The inconsistency creates an impression of a schizophrenic foreign policy, dictated by Trump’s immediate priorities and whims rather than a coherent strategy.
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Trade remained another contentious issue, with unresolved discussions, particularly between the U.S. and Japan, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy. Japan sought relief from U.S. auto tariffs, while Canada and the U.S. worked towards finalizing a trade agreement within a month. Yet, Trump’s focus on domestic and Middle Eastern issues overshadowed potential agreements, leaving allies questioning the reliability of U.S. commitments.
For some leaders, Trump’s early exit might be a relief. It provides the remaining G6 an opportunity to engage in critical discussions without the unpredictability that often accompanies Trump’s presence. This “adults in the room” scenario allows other world leaders to address pressing security challenges and explore strategies to fill the void left by America’s inconsistent participation.
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Reader comments echo this sentiment, critiquing Trump’s erratic behaviour and its negative impact on U.S. soft power. His approach, often seen as self-centred and disruptive, challenges traditional alliances and complicates diplomatic efforts. It leaves allies questioning the reliability of U.S. commitments and pondering their own strategies to navigate an uncertain geopolitical landscape.
As the world watches, the broader implications of Trump’s actions remain to be seen. The G7 Summit’s outcome, in the absence of U.S. leadership, may well reflect new alliances and strategies, redefining global cooperation in an era where traditional roles are increasingly blurred. Whether this signals a temporary shift or a longer-term realignment remains an open question, driven by the unpredictable nature of Trump’s presidency.