President Joe Biden will attend the Group of Seven (G-7) summit in Italy, facing a complex political landscape both internationally and domestically. This could potentially be his last G-7 summit as President. Originally, Biden aimed to reestablish America's global leadership after Donald Trump’s presidency. John Kirby, National Security Council spokesman, emphasized that Biden’s leadership role remains strong.
However, European allies are apprehensive due to Biden’s ongoing political battle with Trump. Trump’s past critical stance on NATO and his comments about Russia have added to these concerns. Biden’s visit comes at a time of significant political shifts in Europe, with far-right parties making gains in recent European Parliament elections, and French President Emmanuel Macron dissolving Parliament for snap elections.
In Italy, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will host the summit at a luxury resort in the Puglia region. Recent European election results have bolstered Meloni’s position, enhancing her profile both domestically and internationally. During this summit, various global concerns will be addressed, including the war in Ukraine, where the G-7 aims to approve a $50 billion loan to Ukraine using profits from frozen Russian assets.
The U.S. has also lifted a ban on providing weapons to Ukraine’s Azov Brigade, a unit with controversial far-right origins but crucial in defending Mariupol. This decision aligns with broader U.S. commitments, such as sending another Patriot missile system to Ukraine, a move President Biden has approved.
Domestically, Biden faces challenges, notably his son Hunter Biden’s recent legal troubles involving gun-purchasing paperwork. This personal issue coincides with Biden's international responsibilities, adding another layer of complexity to his trip.
As the G-7 summit proceeds, key agenda items will highlight differences in global policies between Biden and Trump, while American and European leaders continue to navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape.