Join world leaders at the G7 summit in Italy as they tackle pressing global issues, including support for Ukraine, confronting China’s ambitions, and addressing challenges like migration and AI. Stay updated on key discussions and outcomes from this critical international gathering.

As the annual Group of Seven (G7) summit kicks off on June 13, world leaders are gathering in southern Italy with a packed agenda. With the war in Ukraine and China’s growing political and economic ambitions at the forefront, the summit is expected to test the resolve and unity of the participating nations.

Key Issues on the Agenda

Support for Ukraine

The G7 leaders are set to reaffirm their support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. A significant announcement is anticipated, with plans to issue $50 billion in loans to Ukraine. This financial package would be backed by interest from frozen Russian assets. However, officials caution that the plan’s complexity means any agreement will be preliminary, with legal and diplomatic hurdles to be addressed, particularly needing the endorsement of non-G7 European nations such as Belgium.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy will attend the summit for the second consecutive year, aiming to solidify a new long-term security accord with U.S. President Joe Biden. This accord is intended to send a clear message to Russia regarding the unwavering support of Ukraine by the coalition.

Confronting China’s Ambitions

China’s political and economic strategies are another critical focus. On the eve of the summit, President Biden expanded sanctions on Moscow, targeting Chinese companies supplying semiconductors to Russia. This move underscores the U.S. determination to counter China’s support for Russia and address concerns about its industrial over-capacity disrupting global markets.

The European Commission announced it would impose additional duties of up to 38.1% on imported Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) starting in July. This follows the U.S. decision to quadruple duties on Chinese EVs to 100%. Despite these measures, EU diplomats are wary of escalating tensions into a full-blown trade war with Beijing.

Domestic Challenges for Leaders

The summit’s timing is challenging for many leaders dealing with significant domestic issues. U.S. President Joe Biden, facing a re-election campaign, arrived in Italy shortly after his son Hunter Biden’s conviction for lying about his drug use to illegally purchase a gun. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is bracing for a likely defeat in the July 4 election. France and Germany’s leaders are grappling with political setbacks, and opinion polls are unfavorable for the Canadian and Japanese prime ministers.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the summit’s host, is in a comparatively strong position following a successful European election. However, achieving substantial outcomes from the summit remains a formidable challenge.

Broader Global Engagement

This year, the G7 has invited a wide range of global leaders and dignitaries to participate, including Pope Francis, who will deliver a keynote speech on the potential and risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI). Other invited leaders hail from major regional powers such as India, Brazil, Argentina, Turkey, Algeria, and Kenya.

Summit Logistics

The G7 summit is scheduled to run until June 15, although many leaders, including President Biden, are expected to depart on the evening of June 14. The final day will focus on bilateral meetings for the remaining leaders and a concluding news conference by Prime Minister Meloni.

As the G7 summit unfolds, the world watches closely, anticipating critical decisions and actions that will shape global policies and alliances in the face of ongoing and emerging challenges.