Trump threatens to make Canada the 51st state amid G7 chaos
- Leaders gathered in Canada for a G7 summit focused on urgent international crises and economic policies.
- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized Canada’s sovereignty amid Trump's controversial remarks.
- The summit showcased international unity in addressing territorial integrity and the need for collaborative trade agreements.
In Kananaskis, Alberta, leaders from major economic powers gathered for a Group of Seven summit amid rising tensions involving Israel and Iran, coupled with President Donald Trump's ongoing trade disputes. The meeting was significant as it marked Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's leadership amid criticism of Trump’s aggressive stance on international relations, particularly regarding Canada and Greenland. Attendees were prepared for extensive discussions around de-escalation and international economics, anticipating a focus on trade agreements and tariffs. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer underscored the importance of addressing the Israel-Iran conflict, indicating that he had previously engaged in talks with Trump and other leaders to find resolution pathways. Despite the heavy atmosphere, the summit was also a platform for each leader to express their stance on trade, as discussions about potential new agreements highlighted Trump’s assertion that existing deals could be adjusted with simple notifications. The summit environment stressed the separation of national agendas despite shared economic interests. The backdrop of the summit was further complicated by Trump’s provocative remarks suggesting Canada might be folded into the United States as its 51st state, an assertion met with international concern. Prime Minister Starmer, emphasizing Canadian sovereignty, confirmed his discussions with Trump about these remarks but avoided detailing the exact contents of their conversations. Starmer reaffirmed Canada’s status as an independent, sovereign nation, highlighting national integrity amidst external pressures. French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Greenland also came as a significant event, signaling European disapproval of any notion of the territory being sold or co-opted. Macron's warning was resonant at this summit as he sought to represent strong European sentiments about Greenland while reinforcing solidarity among attendees concerning territorial integrity in the international political landscape. This summit, thus, stands pivotal not only for immediate economic discussions but also for establishing a collective response to Trump’s controversial proposition regarding Canada and Greenland.