On November 28, 2024, foreign ministers from the G7 nations convened in Fiuggi, Italy, to discuss pressing global issues in anticipation of Donald Trump's potential return to the U.S. presidency in January. The meeting aimed to prepare for possible conflicts that could arise if Trump implements his previously threatened import tariffs on Europe.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed concerns about Trump's influence on international relations, recalling the challenges faced during his first term. The G7 ministers reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the current international order, emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of protectionist policies.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, present at the G7 summit, reiterated the alliance's resolve to counter ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine. However, there were doubts about the sustainability of U.S. commitments under a Trump administration.
Josep Borrell, the outgoing head of EU foreign affairs, stressed the need for Europe to assert its strategic sovereignty and warned against the detrimental effects of a potential trade war. He highlighted the risks of escalating tariffs and counter-tariffs, which could lead to a significant global economic crisis.
In response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the G7 has pledged $50 billion in credit, primarily funded by frozen Russian assets in Europe. This financial commitment is seen as crucial, especially if U.S. support diminishes under Trump.
Concerns among G7 diplomats remain high regarding the implications of a U.S. withdrawal from its global commitments. Germany's budget for 2025 does not account for additional spending to cover potential shortfalls left by the U.S. withdrawal, further complicating the situation.
As the G7 ministers await Trump's policy direction, they emphasize the necessity of presenting a united front against his America-first doctrine. Baerbock's remarks at the summit underscored the importance of European unity in response to potential challenges ahead.