Keir Starmer

Wednesday June 18, 2025

Trump's early departure from the G7 Summit raises questions about U.S. commitment to global affairs and leaves other leaders to navigate critical discussions without him.

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.

Opinion: Even when he’s smiling, Trump stands apart

The G7 summit in Kananaskis sees U.S. President Donald Trump as the focal point amidst critical discussions on trade and global stability, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney steering diplomatic efforts.

June 13, 2025

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.

Analysis: For G7 leaders, immense global challenges weigh on agenda overshadowed by Trump

Canada must confront U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s provocative meddling, including sovereignty-eroding rhetoric, damaging trade policies, and misogynistic attacks, with a coordinated and decisive response to reaffirm its independence and global standing.

December 19, 2024

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.

Opinion: The G7 is dead – time to move on to the G6

President Donald Trump's presence at the 2025 G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, is set to influence discussions on trade, climate, and global security.

June 12, 2025

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.

Boltin’ Donny Trump

At the 2025 G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Donald Trump’s early exit amidst rising tensions in the Middle East has raised serious concerns. His departure left important issues, like support for Ukraine, unaddressed.

While some leaders may have welcomed the break from his unpredictability, this pattern shows a lack of commitment to global cooperation. Why the rush home? Can’t he trust his team to handle things at home for just a few hours while he engages with world leaders?

The truth is, multilateralism isn’t Trump’s style. His “America First” approach often clashes with the teamwork necessary in today’s world. As tensions grow between Israel and Iran, we must ask: Is this the leadership we need?

We need leaders who focus on dialogue and understanding, not quick exits.

If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for June 18, 2025, below!

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– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Friday June 13, 2025

The G7 summit in Kananaskis sees U.S. President Donald Trump as the focal point amidst critical discussions on trade and global stability, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney steering diplomatic efforts.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday June 13, 2025

Published in the Toronto Star.

Summit Spectacle: Trump Takes Centre Stage in Kananaskis

May 24, 2017

As the world turns its gaze to the picturesque setting of Kananaskis, Alberta, for the G7 summit, one figure looms large over the proceedings: U.S. President Donald Trump. His return to the White House has reignited debates and discussions on the global stage, making him both a spectacle and a source of unpredictability. Trump embodies the drama and uncertainty that have become hallmarks of international summits. While some might argue that his unpredictability overshadows substantive discussion, it is precisely this unpredictability that lends the summit its dramatic tension. The world watches, curious to see if his penchant for bold declarations will translate into tangible agreements or merely more rhetoric.

In contrast, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney plays the role of a steady host, orchestrating the event with a focus on finding common ground amidst chaos. Carney’s strategy, as reported, avoids the traditional joint communiqué, opting instead for a G7 chair’s statement. This move suggests a pragmatic approach to diplomacy, one that acknowledges the complexities of reaching consensus in a group as diverse as the G7. By facilitating dialogue rather than dictating terms, Carney may well steer the summit towards meaningful outcomes.

News: Why there is hope of a Carney-Trump tariff breakthrough

The upcoming G7 summit in Italy, amidst discussions on pressing global issues, highlights the challenges posed by the rise of far-right regimes, prompting urgent calls for progressive solutions and international cooperation.

June 13, 2024

The agenda for this summit is as varied as it is pressing. Trade and tariffs are front and centre, with global economic growth stymied by ongoing trade tensions. There is hope that discussions between Carney and Trump might yield concessions, particularly in light of a draft economic and security agreement that hints at potential breakthroughs. However, skepticism remains. Beyond economics, the summit will tackle broader geopolitical issues, such as the conflict in Ukraine and China’s global influence. These discussions are crucial for international stability and cooperation.

Public opinion, as captured in reader comments, reflects a mix of hope and cynicism. While some doubt the summit’s potential for substantive outcomes, others see it as an opportunity for leaders to engage in crucial bilateral discussions. Many argue that the focus should extend beyond U.S. policies to encompass a wider range of global challenges, such as climate change and energy security.

News: We found out how Mark Carney hopes to smooth differences with Donald Trump at the G7 summit. Here’s what we know

June 15, 2021

As the G7 summit unfolds, it is poised to be a blend of spectacle and substance. Trump’s role as the star attraction adds an element of drama, but it is the collective efforts of leaders like Carney that may ultimately determine the summit’s success. In a world fraught with uncertainty, this gathering in the Canadian Rockies offers a stage for diplomacy, dialogue, and, hopefully, decisive action. Whether it will deliver on its promises or remain an exercise in political theatre is a question that only time will answer.

Friday May 24, 2024

As the UK election looms, the political challenges faced by Rishi Sunak offer strategic lessons for Justin Trudeau, highlighting the precarious nature of incumbency and the rising popularity of opposition leaders like Keir Starmer and Pierre Poilievre.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday May 24, 2024

The Precarious Tightrope of Incumbency: Lessons from the UK for Canada

The heightened rhetoric against undocumented immigrants by global leaders, including Canada's Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, underscores concerns about the potential impact on compassionate immigration policies, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach that prioritizes both economic interests and humanitarian considerations.

Tuesday December 19, 2023

As the United Kingdom braces for its election on July 4th, 2024, the political dynamics unfolding in Westminster offer a timely and instructive case study for Canadian politicians. Despite the differing ideological spectra of their governing parties—Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives in the UK and Justin Trudeau’s Liberals in Canada—both nations share parliamentary democracies grappling with similar societal challenges. These include public healthcare, housing, infrastructure, climate change, military commitments, and education.

News: Rishi Sunak announces UK general election for Thursday 4 July

October 20, 2022

Incumbency, often seen as a strategic advantage, has increasingly become a double-edged sword in modern politics. Leaders in both the UK and Canada are experiencing the harsh realities of this phenomenon. Rishi Sunak and Justin Trudeau, though ideologically distinct, face strikingly similar challenges as they navigate their respective political landscapes: economic pressures, public service strain, and the balancing act of climate and infrastructure commitments. Voters in both countries express growing discontent over the perceived failure of their governments to manage these issues effectively.

The popularity surges of leaders like Justin Trudeau and Pierre Poilievre highlight the perilous tendency of voters to invest unrealistic faith in political figures, underscoring the importance of maintaining critical analysis and skepticism in democratic engagement.

April 13, 2024

The upcoming UK election is not just a national event; it serves as a strategic lesson for Canadian political parties and leaders. The Conservative Party, led by Rishi Sunak, faces an uphill battle against a resurgent Labour Party under Keir Starmer. The parallels to Canada’s political landscape are compelling. Sunak’s approach to economic management and public services will be scrutinized and judged by a weary electorate. In Canada, Trudeau’s handling of similar issues will likely face the same scrutiny in the next election. The ability to present credible, effective policy solutions is paramount. Starmer’s rise in popularity highlights the importance of presenting a clear, alternative vision that resonates with voters’ needs and aspirations. Similarly, Pierre Poilievre’s popularity surge in Canada suggests a similar dynamic, where opposition leaders can capitalize on public discontent by offering a fresh perspective and robust policy alternatives.

Analysis: Another Canada 93? Tory Sunak critics fear extinction-level election result

September 7, 2022

The effectiveness of campaign strategies in the UK will be closely watched by Canadian political strategists. Sunak’s ability to navigate his party’s internal divisions, communicate his policy achievements, and address voter concerns will provide valuable insights. Likewise, Trudeau must carefully craft his campaign to address both his government’s achievements and the criticisms levelled against it.

The metaphorical tightrope that Rishi Sunak walks—balancing policy promises and public dissatisfaction while facing an angry electorate—mirrors the precarious position Justin Trudeau finds himself in. The circus-like atmosphere of modern politics, with its high stakes and ever-present risk of a misstep, underscores the perilous nature of incumbency. In the months leading up to the Canadian election, Trudeau’s Liberals can glean several strategic lessons from Sunak’s experience: engaging the electorate proactively, articulating a coherent and compelling vision for the future, and being flexible and responsive to the changing political landscape and voter sentiment can help navigate the complexities of modern election campaigns.

Analysis: Why Labour’s drawn to a Canadian conservative

July 13, 2022

As Canadians observe the UK’s election, it’s essential to recognize the shared political realities and the valuable lessons they offer. The challenges of incumbency, the importance of strategic campaigning, and the necessity of addressing voter concerns transcend national borders. For Trudeau, Sunak’s tightrope walk offers a vivid illustration of the stakes involved and the potential strategies to employ. In this interconnected world of politics, the fate of one leader can indeed serve as a strategic lesson for another, highlighting the universality of the democratic struggle and the enduring quest for effective governance. The rising popularity of Keir Starmer and Pierre Poilievre underscores this point, showing how opposition leaders can effectively harness public dissatisfaction to present themselves as credible alternatives and potential shoe-ins for the highest office.