Can G7 Become G8 or G9 Again? Trump’s Suggestion Sparks Debate
Donald Trump’s remarks on Russia and China at the G7 summit raise big questions for world leaders.
Aryan K 
Kananaskis (Alberta) [Canada], June 17: At the G7 summit held in Canada’s Kananaskis, US President Donald Trump made a surprising demand. He said the G7 should add Russia and China to become G8 or even G9. According to Trump, removing Russia earlier was a wrong step. These words have made other world leaders pause, as both countries follow very different political systems from current G7 members.
Why Russia Was Removed From G8 Earlier
Russia was earlier a part of the G8 group until 2014. That year, Russia took control of Crimea, which belonged to Ukraine. Due to this, many countries disagreed with Russia’s actions. So, it was removed from the group. Back then, leaders like Barack Obama and Stephen Harper strongly opposed Russia’s move. Since then, Russia has not been invited back to this group of major democratic countries.
Trump Says War Could Have Been Avoided
Trump believes that if Russia had not been removed, the war in Ukraine may never have happened. He said, “I think there wouldn’t be a war if Russia was inside the group.” He also mentioned that Russian leader Vladimir Putin used to talk to him but now avoids talking to others. These comments sparked reactions, especially since Trump plans to meet Ukraine’s president soon.
What About China? Should It Be Invited Too?
When asked if China should be added, Trump replied, “It’s not a bad idea.” He said all major countries should be able to talk directly. China, being one of the biggest economies, often remains outside such Western-led groups. But it plays a big role in world politics. Adding China would be a big change and might make the group more complicated.
Other G7 Leaders Yet to Agree
So far, the other members of the G7 — including France, Canada, Italy, and Japan — have not agreed with Trump’s idea. They continue to believe the group should consist of countries with similar beliefs in freedom and democracy. Many leaders think that adding Russia and China could create more problems instead of solving them. The future of this powerful group now feels uncertain.
