At a global football task force meeting, U.S. President Donald Trump reignited debate over one of the world’s most exclusive diplomatic clubs.
He launched a sharp criticism of the decision to eject Russia from what was once the Group of Eight (G8), now known as the G7.
The G7 brings together some of the world’s most industrialized powers: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Recall that Russia lost its seat in 2014 after its controversial takeover of Crimea. That year, the group chose Brussels over Moscow for its summit, marking a shift that still echoes today.
During the event, Trump pointed fingers at former President Barack Obama and ex-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, blaming them for Moscow’s expulsion.
“I don’t think I was really in politics at that point but I know President Obama didn’t like it and they voted Russia out,” he said.
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He described the move as “a foolish decision,” adding that perhaps the “ridiculous war” in Ukraine could’ve been avoided if Putin had still been part of the group and under pressure from its members.
“It (G8) was headed by Trudeau (who assumed office in November 2015) and Obama,” he stressed. “They were the ones that really fought hard to get Russia out.
“They threw them out. Because of that, maybe, millions of people are dying. The numbers are far greater than you think.”
When asked if Russia should be allowed back in, Trump didn’t hold back.
“No, I think it’s not good timing now.”
What does this tell us about Trump’s foreign policy views and his willingness to rewrite the past?