G7 foreign ministers meet in Canada amid US tensions

Top diplomats from the Group of Seven (G7) are meeting in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, as relations between the U.S. and its traditional allies face strain over defense spending, trade, and international conflicts.

Key highlights from the summit: Attendance: G7 foreign ministers from the U.S., Canada, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan are meeting. Canada has also invited ministers from Australia, Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, South Korea, South Africa, and Ukraine.

Focus Areas: Middle East: Advancing long-term peace and stability, particularly supporting a Gaza ceasefire and future reconstruction plans.

Russia-Ukraine War: Discussion with Ukraine’s foreign minister and support for energy infrastructure ahead of winter. The U.K. pledged £13 million to help repair power, heating, and water systems.

Defense Spending: U.S. pressure on NATO allies to spend 5% of GDP on defense. Canada and Italy lag behind; Canada aims to reach 5% by 2035.

Trade Tensions: Ongoing U.S.-Canada trade disputes, including tariffs and past controversies over provincial advertising campaigns. Canadian PM Mark Carney has apologized, and trade talks may resume.

Critical Minerals & Energy Security: Canada is promoting its 34 critical minerals for defense and technology applications.

Statements from leaders: Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand: Emphasized the need to maintain relations across a “range of issues,” despite trade pressures.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio: Focused on prioritizing U.S. safety and security while addressing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, maritime security, and supply chain resiliency.

Context: The meeting comes amid frictions between the U.S. and allies over President Donald Trump’s approach to global conflicts and trade policy, including demands for NATO defense spending and recognition of Palestinian statehood by some G7 members.

The two-day summit will also cover Arctic security, Haiti, and energy and critical minerals for national security.

This meeting underscores Canada’s role as host amid complex geopolitical dynamics, balancing U.S. pressures with G7 and non-G7 partnerships.