The Impressive TimesWashington, Feb,14 ,2025: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his support for Russia’s return to the Group of Eight (G8), criticizing the decision to expel Moscow nearly a decade ago. Speaking to reporters inside the Oval Office, Trump called the removal of Russia a strategic blunder that could have been avoided.
“I’d love to have them back. I think it was a mistake to remove them,” Trump stated, emphasizing that Russia’s participation in global decision-making was crucial. He further suggested that if Russia had remained in the G8, geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Ukraine, might have been different.
The G8, which included Russia alongside the Group of Seven (G7) nations, ceased to exist in March 2014 after then-President Barack Obama led efforts to suspend Russia’s membership following its annexation of Crimea. The move was supported by other G7 nations—Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States. Since then, the G7 has continued to function without Russia.
Trump argued that Russian President Vladimir Putin would welcome a return to the G8 and that the initial decision to remove Russia had long-term consequences. “Obama and a few others made a mistake by pushing Russia out. If it had remained the G8, the Ukraine situation might have been different,” Trump remarked.
Trump’s comments reignite a debate over Russia’s role in global politics and its strained relations with Western nations. While some analysts believe reintegrating Russia into the G8 could promote diplomatic engagement, others argue that Russia’s actions in Ukraine and ongoing tensions with NATO make its return unlikely.
During his presidency, Trump repeatedly advocated for Russia’s inclusion in major global forums, often clashing with U.S. allies on the issue. His latest remarks come at a time when international relations remain fragile, with the war in Ukraine continuing to shape global diplomatic policies.
The White House has not officially responded to Trump’s comments, but the Biden administration has maintained a firm stance against Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Meanwhile, European leaders remain skeptical about restoring Russia’s position in the G8, citing ongoing geopolitical concerns.
As discussions on global governance evolve, Trump’s remarks underscore the enduring debate over how world powers should engage with Russia in the current political landscape. Whether or not his proposal gains traction remains uncertain, but it adds another dimension to the ongoing conversation about international diplomacy and security.
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