G7 Ministers Increase Pressure on China Over Russia

The Group of Seven (G7) countries are poised to intensify diplomatic pressure on China regarding its alleged military support for Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as revealed in a draft communique from their meeting in Italy. The G7 ministers are expected to take 'appropriate measures' against actors in China and other nations that assist Russia's military efforts. This marks a stronger stance compared to the previous meeting in April, where the G7 merely called for China to cease its support. The communique also reaffirms the G7's commitment to Ukraine and includes plans to restrict Russian revenues from energy and commodities through actions against its 'shadow fleet' of tankers. These discussions occur amid concerns about China's role in the conflict and before the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has been critical of U.S. involvement in Ukraine. The final wording of the communique could still change before its official release.