U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet with his counterparts from the Group of 7 industrialized democracies in Paris, with unresolved global crises and the future direction of U.S. foreign policy under a potential Donald Trump administration dominating the agenda. The two days of talks coincide with significant protests across Europe.
Key topics for discussion include the war in Ukraine, the conflict with Iran, energy security, and artificial intelligence. Allies are particularly interested in understanding how Trump might approach these issues following his party's substantial losses in recent midterm elections, which some attribute to unpopular policies, including aspects of the Iran conflict.
Rubio, speaking before his trip, noted that the nations he is meeting understand the complexities of American politics and have experienced governmental divisions themselves. He also addressed speculation about his own future, denying reports that he intends to leave the administration to prepare for a potential 2028 presidential run.
Discussions on Ukraine are expected to focus on postwar security guarantees. Rubio mentioned that some progress has been made regarding the potential post-conflict architecture for Europe, with further discussions potentially occurring in Abu Dhabi where envoys are meeting Ukrainian and Russian officials.
Regarding Iran, mediators have proposed an interim solution to end the deadlock that has contributed to soaring fuel prices and instability in key shipping lanes. However, Rubio stated that the sides are not close to a breakthrough, and while Trump prefers a diplomatic solution, current Iranian demands are deemed unacceptable. He anticipates allies will have many questions on this front.
The G7 meeting follows a larger diplomatic gathering in Atlanta hosted by Rubio for G20 foreign ministers, which reportedly yielded little consensus on major global issues. The G7, comprised of the world's major industrialized democracies, includes the U.S., Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan.
French hosts have invited Ukraine, Brazil, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia to participate in some sessions. Priorities for the hosts include Africa, China, Cuba, and Haiti, alongside artificial intelligence and support for Ukraine. The French Foreign Ministry has indicated that the G7 meeting will not produce a joint communiqué.
Historically, Trump and his administration have caused unease among G7 partners on issues such as support for Ukraine, NATO, and opposition to the International Criminal Court (ICC). While all G7 members except Japan are part of NATO, the U.S. has pursued actions against the ICC, which Rubio described as a response to the court's perceived overreach in investigating Americans. Rubio stated that allies are being informed that if they wish to avoid U.S. actions against the ICC, they should encourage the court to recognize its jurisdictional limitations concerning non-member states.