The recent G7 Summit held in Kananaskis, Canada, has raised eyebrows worldwide, especially among young people concerned about our global future. Instead of showcasing unity and decisive action, the summit exposed deep divisions among some of the world’s most powerful leaders at a time when collective action is crucial.
One of the standout moments was the unpredictable behavior of U.S. President Donald Trump. His inconsistent statements and sudden departure from the summit—citing “something important”—left many questioning the United States’ commitment to international cooperation. Reports indicate that President Trump resisted supporting a joint statement addressing the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, highlighting disagreements within the group.
The joint statement that was eventually released fell short of expectations. While it affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense and pointed to Iran as a source of regional instability, it lacked concrete plans or strategies to ease the conflict. For many, it seemed like the leaders were avoiding the tough conversations needed to bring about real change.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended the summit hoping for strong support amid ongoing challenges. While Canada announced a significant aid package, broader efforts to rally unified backing for Ukraine were reportedly hindered by U.S. resistance. This was a disappointment for those who expected the G7 to present a cohesive front on key international issues.
Interestingly, the summit didn’t end with a unified message. Instead, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney issued his own statement, signaling that the leaders couldn’t fully agree behind closed doors. This rare move underscored the growing rifts within the group.
Although the G7 tackled important topics like climate change, artificial intelligence, and global inequality, many of the statements lacked clear goals or plans. For young people across the Global South, who are often most affected by these issues, the summit’s lack of decisive action feels particularly concerning.
The world is facing significant challenges that require united leadership and bold solutions. As global citizens, especially the youth, we have to wonder: If the world’s most influential leaders can’t come together now, what does that mean for our shared future?
