2025 G7 Summit Day 1 - Trump's Early Return, Intersection of Division and Restoration

Background of the 2025 G7 Summit

On June 16, 2025, world leaders gathered once again in the serene mountainous region of Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada. The 51st G7 Summit unfolded against a backdrop of turbulent international affairs, in stark contrast to the tranquil nature surrounding it. The protraction of the war in Ukraine, the escalating new military conflict risks in the Middle East, and the structural transition of global supply chains and energy systems became the central topics of discussion, heralding a turning point in the international order. Most importantly, this summit served as a practical test not only for policy coordination but also for the enduring viability of multilateralism and the sustainability of a Western-centered alliance.

Trump's early return and the escalation of conflict

On June 17, the second day of the meeting, U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to cut his schedule short and return to Washington early due to the potential for military conflict between Israel and Iran. He stated that "Tehran is a place that needs to be evacuated immediately," hinting at the possibility of military intervention, which has shocked the G7's collaborative framework. As a result, the adoption of a joint statement has effectively collapsed, shaking the very institutional foundation of the summit. Additionally, President Trump has mentioned the rejoining of Russia and China to the G7 from the early stages of the meeting, asserting that "the G7 should now expand to G9." However, French President Macron and German Chancellor Merz dismissed this idea, stating, "There can be no political solidarity with countries that engage in illegal invasions." This public clash between U.S. unilateralism and European normativity has continued outside the meeting venue as well. Such fractures suggest that the G7 has reached a state where it can no longer function as a strategic community. With the joint decision-making structure effectively paralyzed due to internal divisions, fundamental doubts have been raised regarding the G7's institutional credibility and its viability for future existence.

News on President Lee Jae-myung's diplomatic restoration

In such a chaotic atmosphere, this meeting has become a signal for the restoration of diplomacy for Korea. President Lee Jae-myung, who made his debut on the international stage just ten days after taking office, is carrying out his official schedule as the head of the invited country and advancing practical and strategic diplomatic activities. On the afternoon of June 16, upon arriving at Calgary International Airport in Canada with First Lady Kim Hye-kyung, President Lee emphasized the core value of diplomacy with the message that 'what is more important than approval ratings is the stability of governance and the trust of the nation.' His words contained a strong determination that Korea, which had been in a state of diplomatic silence for some time, would return to the center of the world order. Immediately after his arrival, President Lee held bilateral meetings with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. In particular, during the conversation with Australia, discussions were held on substantial cooperation in the resource and defense industries, and the President's mention that 'Korea is structurally dependent on Australia for key resources' clarified the direction of future relations between the two countries. This was a moment that revealed the essence of practical diplomacy.

Restoration of Multilateralism and Ongoing Conflicts

Although President Trump’s departure from the joint statement was unsuccessful, paradoxically, bilateral consultations with the host countries have gained more momentum. Partnerships with major middle powers such as South Korea, Australia, and India could serve as a foundation for new multilateral cooperation in areas such as climate, energy, technology, and supply chains. However, in regions where geopolitical conflicts, security threats, and political interests are intricately intertwined, deep fractures still exist. Countries have been unable to narrow their differences in positions regarding military support for Ukraine, responses to Iran, and strategies to counter China. This meeting opened the possibility for multilateralism again, but at the same time, it clearly revealed its structural limitations.

Conclusion: Significance of Kananaskees

The G7 summit held in Kananskis in 2025 was a historical site where division and restoration intersected. The early return of the United States and Europe's commitment to norms exposed the internal divisions of the G7, while the pragmatic diplomacy of middle powers like South Korea showed a new horizon of multilateral cooperation. President Lee Jae-myung, through this meeting, made it clear that he was aiming for practical diplomacy targeting real national interests, beyond just a return to the diplomatic stage. His diplomatic actions have produced meaningful results in terms of speed and concrete content, which will deeply influence the direction of South Korean diplomacy in the future. Multilateralism still remains a question mark. However, this meeting did not completely deny its possibilities. At a time when the world is being reshaped, existing frameworks are being tested and new formats are being sought. Kananskis in 2025 stands as a symbol on that border, and its echoes will be an important milestone reflecting the trajectory of future international politics.