G7 Tensions Rise as U.S. Blocks Ukraine, Russia Sanctions Language

The U.S. is pushing back against G7 allies over language on Russia’s war in Ukraine, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized Washington’s efforts to broker peace. The Group of Seven foreign ministers—representing the U.S., Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan—are set to meet in La Malbaie, Quebec, from March 12-14.

While the G7 has consistently backed Ukraine since Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, tensions have escalated as President Donald Trump’s administration strengthens ties with Moscow. According to G7 diplomats, Canada initially sought a joint statement addressing Ukraine, the Middle East, China, and Russia’s shadow fleet—a network of vessels bypassing Western sanctions.

However, the U.S. opposes references to sanctions and the war in Ukraine while advocating for stronger language on China. Rubio, en route to Saudi Arabia for talks, stated that aggressive rhetoric could hinder diplomatic negotiations. “Antagonistic language makes it harder to bring parties to the table,” he said.

The U.S. has already diverged from allies at the UN and WTO by refusing to condemn Russia’s invasion. Additionally, Washington is blocking a proposed separate statement targeting Russia’s shadow fleet, which moves oil, arms, and grain despite sanctions.

Diplomats warn that reaching a compromise remains difficult, with the best-case scenario being two statements. “Even what the Canadians thought was easy is not,” said a G7 diplomat. Talks are ongoing to bridge differences ahead of the summit.

With the U.S. stance threatening unity among G7 members, the upcoming meeting will be crucial in shaping Western policy on Ukraine, Russia, and China.