Ahmed Mostafa
The synchronization of these two important events in 2024 has created a difficult situation for many Western governments. The G7 summit requires a high level of preparation, including resource allocation, security measures and logistical arrangements. At the same time, European Parliament elections require the attention and involvement of political parties, governments and citizens to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
The potential conflict between these two events has undermined the effectiveness of both. The success of the G7 summit depends on the full participation of G7 leaders, whose home countries’ electoral process has become fragmented. Similarly, the integrity of the European Parliament elections was jeopardized as governments were more focused on preparations for the G7 summit than on the electoral process.
Moreover, the simultaneous events have exacerbated existing tensions between the EU and some of its member states, particularly those led by populist or anti-EU governments. These tensions have undermined the EU’s unity and solidarity, de facto weakening its position in global politics and economic affairs. The majority of decisions are contradictory and undermine democracy and human rights.
The conflict between the G7 summit and the European Parliament elections could also have broader implications for Western democracies. The simultaneous events could create a political vacuum, where the focus on the G7 summit and the electoral process overshadows other pressing issues, such as climate change, human rights, and economic inequality.
G7 Summit coincided with the National Day of Russia
The G7 summit, which brought together the world’s leading industrialized democracies, coincided with the National Day of Russia, which Russia used to issue a stern warning to the G7 nations. Russia warned the G7 against providing Ukraine with any more offensive weapons, as the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine between Ukrainian and Russian forces has already resulted in thousands of deaths and displacement. Any further escalation of the conflict, particularly if it involves the use of more advanced weaponry, could have devastating consequences for the region and beyond.
The G7 nations alleged a responsibility to support Ukraine and help it defend itself against external aggression. While providing Ukraine with defensive weapons may not be the ideal solution, it may be necessary to help deter further Russian aggression and prevent the conflict from spiraling out of control. The Russian ambassador to Cairo, Barsenko, took advantage of the opportunity of the Russian National Day, last Wednesday, to emphasize three main points: the legitimacy of President Putin, the distrust in Western powers, and the world’s becoming multi-power.
Any decision to provide Ukraine with additional weapons must be made with caution and in consultation with international partners, and diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis must be accompanied by such decisions.
European Elections came to the favor of Russia
The European elections of June 2024 have highlighted the significant impact of Russia on European societies, particularly between citizens and their leaders. The alternative party (AfD) in Germany gained significant popularity, becoming the largest opposition party in the German Bundestag. This rise is linked to the party’s anti-EU stance and perceived alignment with Russian interests. The AfD has been accused of receiving funding from Russia and its leaders have been criticized for their ties to the Kremlin.
The failure of the West makes them always accuse Russia of exploiting divisions within European societies and exacerbating tensions between citizens and their leaders through disinformation campaigns, cyber attacks, and the cultivation of far-right and anti-establishment political movements. The European Union, a complex and often divisive political entity, has been particularly vulnerable due to its 27 member states with unique political, economic, and cultural traditions. This diversity has made it difficult for the EU to present a united front against external threats, creating opportunities for Russia to exploit divisions and weaknesses within the union.
The rise of far-right and anti-establishment political movements in Europe has also played into Russia’s hands, as these movements often share Russia’s skepticism of the EU and align themselves with Russian interests. This has weakened the EU from within and made it more difficult to respond effectively to external threats.
Biden undersigned security agreement with Zelenzky at G7 2024, is that procedure legal or sustainable?!
At the G7 summit in 2024, President Biden signed a security agreement with Ukraine’s President Zelensky, raising concerns about its legitimacy and effectiveness. The agreement, which has not been approved by the US Congress, is seen as a personal initiative and lacks necessary legal backing and political support. The lack of consultation from Congress undermines the democratic principles and institutional norms that undergird the US’ system of government.
The agreement is not aligned with the US’s long-standing policies and alliance structures in Europe, which have traditionally been promoted through international organizations and bilateral relationships. The personal agreement risks creating a separate track of security cooperation, leading to confusion, duplication, and fragmentation of efforts.
Moreover, the security agreement could exacerbate tensions with Russia, which views Ukraine as a critical buffer zone and sphere of influence. Moscow may perceive the agreement as a provocative and hostile act, triggering a new cycle of escalation and conflict in the region. The United States should prioritize diplomacy and engagement with Russia to address the root causes of the crisis and promote a peaceful and durable resolution.
BRICS Plus Summit has fixed several disparities, however G7 faces several greater disparities
The Moscow BRICS plus summit in June 2024 brought together foreign ministers from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss global issues. The summit aimed to address disparities among state members and promote unity and cooperation. One key achievement was the consensus reached on the Palestinian issue, with member states supporting a two-state solution and ending the occupation of Palestinian territories. This unity is a notable development amidst historical divisions and conflicting interests among BRICS countries.
However, the G7 Summit faced greater disparities in their summits. The United States took a protectionist stance on trade, while other members advocated for free trade and open markets. The United States also clashed with other members over climate change, refusing to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement. This disagreement threatened the G7’s ability to take collective action on one of the most pressing issues facing the world today.
Another disagreement was over security, with the United States and European allies clashing with Russia over its actions in Ukraine. The summit underscored the need for greater unity and cooperation among member states, particularly on trade, climate change, and security, as failure to address these disparities could undermine the G7’s ability to act as a united and effective force in the world and have serious consequences for global stability and prosperity.
To Conclude, The G7 2024 in Italy and the EU elections could have significant consequences for Western governments and the EU, potentially undermining their effectiveness and escalating tensions. Russia’s warning to the G7 underscores the need for continued international engagement and dialogue to address Ukraine’s complex challenges. The 2024 European elections were a victory for Russia, as they highlighted growing disarray and divisions within European societies. European leaders must take action to strengthen unity and protect the integrity of the European project. President Biden’s decision to sign a security agreement with President Zelensky at the G7 summit is counterproductive, as it lacks legal and political basis, risks duplication, and could provoke a confrontation with Russia. To ensure stability and security, the US should work through established channels like NATO and the OSCE and engage in constructive dialogue with all stakeholders, including Russia, to find a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the crisis.
