**Trump Voices Support for Putin at G7 Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict**

In a recent gathering of G7 nations, Trump's remarks centered on Russia's exclusion from the bloc and its implications for the ongoing Ukraine war, reigniting debates on Moscow's role in global politics.

At a recent summit of the Group of 7 industrialized nations in Calgary, Alberta, former President Donald Trump expressed strong criticism regarding the exclusion of Russia from the bloc, a move made after Moscow's contentious annexation of Crimea in 2014. Instead of focusing on pressing global issues such as trade or conflicts in the Middle East, Trump opened his comments by asserting that had Russia not been expelled, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine might not be happening.

In his remarks, Trump directly blamed the decision to expel Russia on former leaders Barack Obama and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, misattributing the action to Trudeau when it was, in fact, his predecessor Stephen Harper's administration that took the decisive step. He stated, "I would say that was a mistake, because I think you wouldn’t have a war right now," reflecting his consistent support for a dialogue with Moscow.

This is not the first time Trump has made such comments. At a previous G7 meeting in Canada in 2018, he also called for reintegrating Russia into the group, provoking strong disapproval from allies. His remarks at the recent summit seemed to reiterate his belief that dialogue with Russia is essential, stating, "They should let Russia come back in. Because we should have Russia at the negotiating table."

Trump’s comments raise questions about U.S. foreign policy and its approach to relations with Russia, especially in light of the heightened tensions stemming from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. His insistence that including Putin in discussions could change the course of events stands in stark contrast to the views of many Western leaders, who see this as a retreat from the principles of international accountability and justice.

By revisiting this divisive issue at a G7 meeting, Trump continues to provoke discussions about the role of alliances in addressing global conflicts, with his detractors warning that such rhetoric undermines efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine.