World leaders are convening in Alberta for the G7 Summit, where Dr. John J. Kirton, an international relations expert, is weighing in on the high stakes of this year's meeting. The summit will address pressing global issues such as ongoing conflicts and climate crises, with significant implications for Ukraine, Russia, and countries in the Global South.
https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-society/4004621-dr-john-j-kirton-director-of-the-g7-research-group-at-the-university-of-toronto.htmlIndia, the world's most populous nation and second-largest economy, has been invited to attend G7 summits since 2019, despite not being a member. Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar believes this brings benefits to the group, as it allows India to be part of discussions on global issues like China-Russia relations and trade with the US. Jaishankar expressed concerns about sanctions against Russia, stating they have little impact on policy behavior. He also plans to meet US President Donald Trump to push for a trade deal before tariffs resume in July. Despite tensions with China over their shared border, Jaishankar aims to forge a stable relationship and is prepared to be strong and firm when necessary.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40367824/india-a-voice-for-global-south-at-g7-says-foreign-ministerIndia's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has spoken to Taliban leader Amir Khan Muttaqi, thanking him for condemning a militant attack in Kashmir that killed 26 civilians. The conversation marked India's first discussion with the Islamic government since its return to power in 2021. India has been cautiously re-engaging with Kabul over the past two years, sending aid such as food, medicines, and vaccines, which was welcomed by the isolated Taliban.
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3314345/talking-taliban-why-india-and-pakistan-are-courting-afghanistans-rulers?module=top_story&pgtype=sectionFrench President Macron's efforts to build a coalition with European leaders and secure US security guarantees for Ukraine have been unsuccessful. Despite a warm Oval Office meeting with Trump in his first term, Macron's approach has failed to yield significant results, including the imposition of tariffs on the EU. Macron is scheduled to meet Trump at the G7 summit in Canada, where bilateral meetings are possible but not guaranteed. Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien advises leaders to ignore Trump if he acts out, while British Prime Minister Starmer faces criticism for failing to address Trump's desire to make Canada the 51st state. The war in Ukraine is expected to be a major topic of discussion at the summit, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attending and meeting with Trump.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/g7-leaders-gather-in-canada-for-summit-overshadowed-by-israel-iran-crisis-trade-wars/article69698224.eceFrench President Macron's upcoming visit to Greenland will focus on Arctic security and climate change, with discussions aimed at giving the island's association partnership with the EU a "new dimension". The trip comes as Denmark seeks to project hard power towards the US, having placed orders for French-made surface-to-air missiles. A recent poll found that 77% of French people disapprove of the US annexing Greenland, while 43% would support using French military power to prevent a US invasion. Macron's visit is seen as an opportunity for Denmark to strengthen its ties with France and project influence in the region.
https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2025/06/15/france-says-non-to-trumps-greenland-grab-as-macron-visits-the-arctic/180504Pakistan has responded to India's accusations by expelling Indian diplomats and cancelling visas for Indian nationals, while also closing its border crossing. In response, Pakistan denied involvement in the attack and offered to participate in a credible investigation. Pakistani Prime Minister Bilawal led a high-level delegation to Brussels, Washington, New York, and London to counter Indian propaganda. He warned that India's threat to stop water flow to Pakistan is a violation of the UN Charter and could lead to war if not addressed.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/609330-war-only-option-if-india-blocks-pakistans-water-says-bilawalUS President Donald Trump is facing pressure from influential Republicans to take a harder stance on the conflict between Israel and Iran, which has tested his promise to avoid foreign conflicts. Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the crisis before traveling to Canada for the Group of Seven summit, where he will discuss the Middle East issue with leaders from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the European Union. Some Republicans, including GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, and Sen. Rand Paul, have urged Trump to keep the US out of the conflict, while others, like Sen. Lindsey Graham, prefer diplomatic efforts but are willing to support military action if necessary.
https://thestar.com/news/world/united-states/trump-vetoed-israeli-plan-to-kill-irans-supreme-leader-us-official-tells-ap/article_87f1a8d6-caa1-5b7c-8ab0-ce6632c6dfbf.htmlThe 95 countries gathered at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice emphasized the need for a legally binding Global Plastics Treaty to address plastic pollution. The treaty aims to reduce primary plastic polymer production and consumption, phase out problematic products and chemicals, and implement effective measures with additional financing. The conference highlighted the devastating impact of plastics on marine life, including ocean acidification, which has crossed its "planetary boundary" five years ago and affects 60% of deeper waters and 40% of surface waters. Ocean ecosystems are threatened, impacting critical habitats for marine species, with major societal and economic implications.
https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/06/16/opinion/columns/nations-stand-up-for-global-plastics-treaty/2133678The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Philippines has launched its High-Level Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing the need for deliberate choices in AI design, use, and governance. Dr. Selva Ramachandran, UNDP Resident Representative, highlighted that making informed decisions can harness AI as a force for freedom, opportunity, and progress for all, not just a select few.
https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/06/16/expats-diplomats/undp-ai-can-steer-development-inclusive-growth-in-the-philippines/2133592