US President Donald Trump has unexpectedly departed the G7 summit ahead of schedule, raising uncertainty over a planned meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The White House confirmed the early exit late on Monday evening, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt citing the deteriorating situation in the Middle East as the reason. The announcement came just moments after Albanese told reporters he was looking forward to his discussion with President Trump.
“President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer,” Ms Leavitt posted on social media.
“Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State.”
It remains unclear whether there will be time to reschedule the meeting before Trump returns to Washington.
Prime Minister Albanese had just concluded a press conference in Calgary and was en route when the announcement was made. Earlier, he shared that he had sought advice from figures including US Ambassador Kevin Rudd and golfer Greg Norman in preparation for the meeting.
“I always prep seriously for meetings where I’m representing Australia,” Albanese said, adding that he had been looking forward to the meeting.
The cancelled encounter came shortly after President Trump appeared to endorse the AUKUS security pact while standing alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Starmer reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to the agreement, declaring, “We’re proceeding with it.” Trump responded warmly, saying the two nations were “long-time partners and allies and friends.”
The future of AUKUS is currently under review by the US Department of Defense.
Source: The Daily Telegraph
