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From 15 to 17 June, the world’s leading economic powers are gathering in Évian-les-Bains for a G7 summit hosted by France and President Emmanuel Macron. The agenda promises discussion of thorny issues such as the resolution of international crises and economic disparities, as well as advances in artificial intelligence.
The Europeans in attendance (France, Italy, Germany) were keen to remind Donald Trump of the urgency of resolving the war in Ukraine, especially when the US president has just signed a peace agreement with Iran. The timing seemed right for renewed support from Washington, as Russia shows signs of exhaustion, and a number of countries, especially in the Baltic region, fear the Kremlin is becoming increasingly foolhardy.
Every effort has been made to accommodate the US president. The political agenda has been distorted to suit the tycoon’s taste, meaning no more talk of international aid, the debt crisis or the environment. On the closing night of the summit, Trump will be welcomed to a lavish dinner amidst the gilded splendour of the Palace of Versailles.
Trump, however, has not responded in kind, brandishing the threat of tariffs against France to protect American tech companies from the very first day of the summit. In Evian, two visions of diplomacy and international cooperation appear to be at odds.
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