Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Joins G7 Leaders in Japan for Diplomatic Talks and Security Cooperation

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Japan on Saturday for diplomatic talks with the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations. This comes shortly after the United States and its allies announced a slew of new sanctions designed to impede Russia’s ability to prolong the war in Ukraine.

Host nation Japan said Zelenskyy’s inclusion stems from his “strong wish” to participate in talks with the bloc and the United States agreed to allow training on potent American-made fighter jets, laying the groundwork for their eventual transfer to Ukraine.

Upon his arrival at Hiroshima Airport, Zelenskyy was welcomed by officials and was whisked off to the summit where he met with several leaders including British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The visit is seen as a major push to bolster international support as Ukraine prepares for a major push to take back territory seized by Russia in the war that began in February last year. Zelenskyy tweeted upon his arrival, “Important meetings with partners and friends of Ukraine. Security and enhanced cooperation for our victory.”

The G7 summit is expected to focus on a range of issues, including the global economic recovery, climate change, and the coronavirus pandemic. It is the first time in two years that the leaders of the world’s most powerful democracies have gathered in person.