Politics Trump would like to expand G7 round to include Russia again
US President Donald Trump has spoken out in favor of Russia returning to the group of leading Western economic nations (G7). "I would love to have them back," said the Republican in response to a question from a journalist at the White House in Washington. The ejection was a "mistake". It was not about whether you like Russia or not, Trump continued.
13.02.2025, 21:12
SDA
The discussion format of the seven major industrialized nations has existed since 1975. Russia was accepted as a full member of the group in 2002 - during Schröder's chancellorship - which was called the G8 for twelve years. In 2014, however, Russia was excluded again due to the annexation of the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea shortly before a summit meeting planned in Sochi, Russia. Since then, the format has continued as the G7.
Trump: It would be helpful if Russia were part of the group
Trump said it was quite possible that the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine would not have happened if the G8 had still existed. Moscow invaded the neighboring country in February 2022. "I think it would have been very helpful and would still be helpful if Russia was part of the group."
When asked whether the Ukrainians would have a seat at the negotiating table in planned talks to end the Russian war of aggression, Trump said they would be "part of it". In addition to Ukraine and Russia, "a lot of people" would be involved. He knew that the Ukrainian head of state Volodymyr Selensky wanted to negotiate "a deal". This also applies to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin.
