Ukraine’s President Zelensky visited Hiroshima to meet with G7 leaders and discuss diplomatic efforts and securing access to US fighter jets. Zelensky’s visit is significant as it is his furthest from Kyiv since Russia’s invasion began 15 months ago. The visit offers a chance to confer with allies and other powers such as India and Brazil. Zelensky secured a “historic” White House decision allowing Kyiv to acquire F-16 fighter jets, which is the most sophisticated material yet supplied by the West. The jets offer an upgrade from Ukraine’s ageing Soviet-era fleet and are a potent symbol of Western support for Ukraine.
Zelensky’s plan for a peace process contingent on Russian withdrawals was discussed during his visit. He also sought to woo powers like India and Brazil, which have not condemned Moscow’s war. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Zelensky for the first time since the war began and offered some measure of support. Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also planned to speak to Zelensky, despite previously accusing the West of “encouraging the war.”
The G7 leaders also took aim at China, denouncing efforts to “weaponise” trade and supply chains, saying they would “fail and face consequences.” The grouping warned China against its “militarisation” in the South China Sea and urged Beijing to press Russia to end its invasion of Ukraine. The G7 insisted, however, that it still seeks “constructive and stable relations” with China.
