KANANASKIS, CANADA | June 17, 2025 — The 2025 G7 Summit took a dramatic turn on Tuesday as U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly left the high-profile gathering a day ahead of schedule. His early exit came amid escalating Middle East tensions between Israel and Iran, leaving fellow leaders scrambling to maintain diplomatic unity.
But before jetting out of the snowy peaks of Alberta, Trump made headlines by inking a landmark trade pact with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer — slashing U.S. tariffs on British automobile and aerospace imports. The move is being touted as a major win for post-Brexit Britain and a bold geopolitical play by Trump as election season nears in the U.S.
🕊️ G7 Calls for Peace Amid War Fears
Despite uncertainty over whether Trump would support a common stance, all seven nations ultimately released a joint declaration urging calm in the Israel-Iran conflict, and pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza. The document calls for “immediate humanitarian access, protection of civilians, and de-escalation on all sides.”
International observers say Trump’s endorsement of the peace language — even as he left — was a surprise diplomatic gesture, especially given his earlier hesitation.
🔥 What Sparked Trump’s Exit?
According to insiders, Trump was briefed on military escalations near Tehran and potential Israeli retaliation overnight. Citing “national security imperatives,” he left the summit hours before a scheduled climate session and bilateral meetings with Japan and Germany.
“It’s a matter of top strategic priority,” said a White House official, hinting that the President may soon convene an emergency security council in Washington.
🤝 UK Strikes Gold with Tariff Deal
While global headlines focused on war fears, trade watchers celebrated the Trump-Starmer deal, which cuts U.S. import duties on Jaguar-Land Rover vehicles, Rolls-Royce jet parts, and more. Experts suggest this could generate billions in bilateral trade and is seen as the UK’s first major post-Brexit economic win on the global stage.
Starmer hailed it as “a pivotal moment that opens new doors for British industry.”
🧊 Atmosphere Among Leaders: Frosty, But Focused
Sources from inside the summit describe a tense but focused environment, especially between the U.S. and EU delegates. French President Emmanuel Macron reportedly had a heated off-record conversation with Trump over Middle East policy, while Japan’s PM urged greater collective pressure on Iran.
📍 What’s Next?
- G7 nations to convene again virtually next week to monitor the Middle East crisis.
- The U.S. may introduce new defense policies affecting NATO and Gulf partnerships.
- The UK’s trade deal may become a blueprint for similar EU-U.S. renegotiations.