G7 Summit: What Zelenskyy Brings Back
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has cut short his visit to Canada, where he participated in the G7 summit, following a wave of deadly Russian missile and drone strikes on Kyiv.
During his time in Kananaskis, Zelenskyy held a series of high-level meetings focused on coordinating efforts for a just and lasting peace, bolstering Ukraine’s air defense, and securing long-term military and financial support, The Gaze reports.
Meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer
In a significant encounter with British PM Keir Starmer, Zelenskyy underscored Ukraine’s urgent need for additional air defense systems and interceptors.
The leaders discussed sanction packages targeting Russia’s energy sector, banking system, shadow fleet, and military-industrial complex.
They also explored joint arms production initiatives within the “coalition of the willing.”
Coordination with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte
In his meeting with Mark Rutte, Zelenskyy outlined Ukraine’s expectations ahead of the NATO summit in The Hague.
Key priorities included strengthening the alliance’s commitment to Ukraine, expanding air defense capabilities, and ensuring that the summit’s final communiqué reflects a path toward long-term security guarantees.
Strategic Conversation with Mark Carney
On the sidelines of the G7 summit, Zelenskyy also met with Canadian PM Mark Carney.
They discussed Ukraine’s post-war recovery strategy, the role of sustainable financing, and ways to mobilize private capital for reconstruction projects.
Zelenskyy welcomed a new sanctions package against Russia, as well as Canada’s pledge of nearly $1.5 billion in military assistance to Ukraine, which includes drones, helicopters, and ammunition.
No Meeting with Trump or U.S. Arms Commitment
Zelenskyy departed the G7 summit in Canada without a bilateral meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and without securing additional American weapons.
Trump’s early departure to address the spiraling Israel-Iran crisis, coupled with Washington’s resistance to a unified G7 statement on Ukraine, signaled a troubling shift in Western cohesion.
Zelenskyy has urged G7 leaders to press Trump to use his influence to end the war.
Japan’s Enduring Support: Talks with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba
Prime Minister Ishiba reaffirmed Japan’s unwavering support, highlighting $12 billion in aid already provided and a recent $3.3 billion package funded through interest on frozen Russian assets.
Both leaders called for tighter sanctions on Russia and discussed bilateral defense-industrial cooperation, including investment in Ukrainian drone manufacturing.
World Bank Support for Economic Stability and Recovery
In a meeting with World Bank President Ajay Banga, Zelenskyy acknowledged the institution’s crucial role in stabilizing Ukraine’s economy and supporting war-related damage assessments.
Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in energy sector reform, veteran reintegration, and donor coordination.
Despite the shortened visit, Zelenskyy’s presence at the G7 summit solidified international backing for Ukraine’s defense and recovery, reinforcing key alliances as Russia’s war against Ukraine continues.