Foreign ministers from G7 nations have come together in a show of unity, reaching an agreement on a joint statement that reaffirms support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity while warning Russia to follow Kyiv’s lead in accepting a ceasefire – or risk facing further sanctions.
The meeting, held in the town of La Malbaie in Quebec, took place over two days against a backdrop of weeks of diplomatic tension, particularly concerning US policies on trade, security, and Ukraine.
Yet despite the challenges, the G7 ministers managed to present a united front on Friday, dispelling fears that divisions could be exploited by Russia or China.
"I think we're on track to have a strong statement. I'm confident that can be the case," Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly said just before the ministers approved the final text.
"When it comes to different issues, Ukraine and the Middle East, we've had productive discussions, and the goal was to reinforce G7 solidarity".
The Group of Seven – comprising Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States along with the European Union – demonstrated its cohesion in the final communiqué, reaffirming its "unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence".
Putin’s reaction to Ukraine ceasefire proposals deepen G7 rifts over US strategy
'Security assurances'
France reportedly played a key role in ensuring strong wording on Ukraine, particularly in emphasising the need for credible security assurances.
While earlier drafts of the statement had included language about security "guarantees", the final document opted for "assurances", striking a balance that all G7 members could support.
However, the group sent a clear message to Moscow: unless Russia agrees to a ceasefire under equal terms, it will face additional sanctions, including tighter controls on oil pricing.
Macron hosts European military chiefs to discuss Ukraine security guarantees
Washington, which had pushed for firmer language on China, ultimately saw its concerns reflected in the final statement.
The G7 reaffirmed its opposition to any "unilateral attempts to change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait by force or coercion," a stance welcomed by Taiwan.
The discussions also covered the Middle East, with France advocating for a diplomatic approach to regional stability.
The final text avoided explicitly mentioning a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, but instead underscored "the imperative of a political horizon for the Palestinian people, achieved through a negotiated solution that meets the legitimate needs and aspirations of both peoples".
(With newswires)
