G7 Leaders Call for Prompt Russian Troop Withdrawal and Renewed Peace Efforts in Ukraine
G7 leaders met this Saturday and urged China to apply pressure on Moscow for an immediate, complete, and unconditional withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, as they called for an end to the war in the region. The final joint statement from the Hiroshima summit emphasized that Russia must cease its military aggression and pull back its forces without delay.
In addition, the seven nations encouraged China to back a peace framework that is comprehensive, just, and enduring. The plan should respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and align with the core principles of the United Nations Charter. The statement highlighted the need for direct dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv to advance any lasting peace.
China’s proposed peace framework was described as somewhat vague by observers, with some noting that it indirectly supports Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty while avoiding explicit condemnation of Russia’s annexations in four Ukrainian regions or the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy presented his own peace plan, outlining conditions for ending the war that include the full restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and the establishment of security guarantees through an international agreement for the future. The G7 pledged unwavering support for Zelenskiy’s terms and reiterated a repeated commitment: to stand with Ukraine for as long as needed to achieve an inclusive, just, and lasting peace.
Beyond the China discussion, the joint statement stressed Ukraine’s strategic role and raised concerns about Iran’s involvement in the conflict. Iran’s transfer of armed drones to Russia, used to attack civilian targets and critical infrastructure such as power grids, was singled out as a destabilizing factor in the war effort. This concern underscores the broader aim of curbing external support that sustains Moscow’s aggression.
In response, the G7 announced a new round of sanctions designed to pressure Russia financially and impede its ability to fund the invasion. The measures were led by the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, with other members of the group coordinating as part of a broader package. Germany, France, and Italy were preparing further steps within a 27-country framework, while Japan indicated it would announce similar actions soon. The coordinated move seeks to tighten economic pressure on Moscow while maintaining united international resolve against aggression.
The emphasis throughout the gathering was on a peaceful resolution that preserves Ukraine’s sovereignty and guarantees future security arrangements. The leaders stressed that any credible peace must arise from direct negotiation and be grounded in international law, with accountability for violations and a clear path to rebuilding affected communities. The message conveyed a clear expectation that Russia should withdraw and cease its military activities, enabling Ukraine to recover and chart its own path forward under the protection of international norms and alliances. [Source: Hiroshima Summit Communiqué, G7 Secretariat]