Alberta: U.S. President Donald Trump will return home Monday night from the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada due to the deadly Israel-Iran conflict, a White House spokesperson said, dashing hopes for South Korean President Lee Jae-myung to have his first in-person talks with Trump during the gathering.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump had a productive day at the G7 summit, even signing a significant trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Karoline Leavitt, a White House spokesperson, communicated on X that much had been accomplished, but due to the unfolding situation in the Middle East, Trump would be departing after a dinner with other Heads of State.
Standing alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during a group photo session, Trump expressed the necessity of his return. Carney noted his complete understanding of Trump's decision. "You probably see what I see and I have to be back as soon as I can," Trump conveyed to reporters, referencing the pool report. Despite his early departure, Trump acknowledged the progress achieved at the summit, stating, "I wish I could stay for tomorrow, but they understand."
Trump's decision to leave Alberta comes as the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies into its fifth day, raising concerns of a broader war in the Middle East. Participants in the G7 summit were eager to engage with Trump amid ongoing trade discussions between their nations and the Trump administration.