The annual G7 summit, a key gathering of leaders from some of the world’s wealthiest democracies, has evolved significantly from its once predictable roots. This year’s meeting took place in Puglia, Italy, against a Mediterranean backdrop, drawing leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, the UK, the European Council, and the European Commission. Special guests included Pope Francis and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The summit’s setting and the traditional ‘family photo’ often reveal underlying tensions among the leaders, particularly in times of political turmoil. This year saw significant political challenges, with far-right movements gaining ground in recent European Parliament elections, notably affecting France and Germany.

Past summits have displayed visible tensions, such as the 2018 G7 meeting in Canada, where US President Donald Trump’s early departure and refusal to sign a joint communique underscored strained relations. In contrast, previous summits like the one in 2015 showcased a more collegial atmosphere.

The 2024 summit arrived amidst escalating conflict in Ukraine. Recently, a Russian soldier, Oleg Vesnin, recorded a heartfelt appeal to fellow Russians not to enlist, illustrating the dire conditions on the front lines. The video highlighted the boost in Ukrainian defenses, partly due to Western military support, which has notably strengthened regions like Kharkiv and Donbas.

Ukraine, supported by new Western weapons, continues to resist Russian forces despite suffering significant casualties and infrastructure damage. The G7 summit included discussions on further military aid and strategic economic sanctions against Russia, aiming to bolster Ukraine’s defenses and deter foreign support for Moscow.

The leaders also focused on enhancing air defenses for Ukraine, combatting climate change, regulating Artificial Intelligence, and addressing global migration and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The ongoing war and political instability provided a somber backdrop, reflecting the complex global challenges faced by the G7 nations.