G7 ministers meet as Europe seeks greater say in Ukraine peace talks
Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) leading industrialized nations are meeting in Paris to ensure Europe's participation in US efforts to end Russia's war on Ukraine and discuss potential US military action against Iran.
The two-day gathering in Paris brings together leading diplomats from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States. It coincides with US-mediated talks between Moscow and Kyiv scheduled to begin Tuesday in Abu Dhabi.
European governments are concerned the US might be pushing Ukraine toward a settlement favoring Russia. President Trump has indicated a "very big" deal is in progress, suggesting Ukraine could emerge with altered borders.
Europe's insistence on participation
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot affirmed that "Europeans will be represented and France will participate" in the Abu Dhabi talks. European leaders have long insisted any peace deal must include their participation and not compromise Ukraine's sovereignty.
No deal affecting the European security architecture could be done without the Europeans.
Security guarantees and US strategy
Particular attention focuses on US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who will attend both days of the G7 meeting, unlike previously. Rubio suggested progress on security guarantees for Ukraine and wider European region.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has expressed doubts about proposals for a new European security framework, arguing such debates should follow rather than precede efforts to end the war.
Iran tensions on the agenda
G7 ministers will also discuss US tensions with Iran, as Trump has not ruled out additional military strikes. European governments seek diplomatic resolution, particularly regarding shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy route.
Trump recently suggested Iranian officials are keen to reach an agreement, keeping negotiations possible. The Paris gathering is among France's final major diplomatic events as G7 president, with the US set to assume the rotating presidency in 2027.
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