Ukraine (Washington Insider Magazine) – The Group of Seven (G7) defense ministers have reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine’s “irreversible” NATO membership while expressing concerns over escalating global conflicts, particularly in the Middle East. Meeting in Naples, Italy, the ministers focused on key security issues, including Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, China’s military actions around Taiwan, and tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto emphasized that while the G7 cannot single-handedly resolve these global tensions, it must act as a driving force for broader international action. The final statement reinforced Ukraine’s path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, highlighting growing concerns over North Korea’s support for Russia’s war efforts. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius warned that this conflict is expanding beyond its original scope, while the G7 also condemned China’s increasing military activities and its backing of Russia.
The meeting took place just days after Israel claimed responsibility for the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described this as a major turning point in the war, while US President Joe Biden suggested it could open the door to peace. However, analysts warned that Sinwar’s killing might intensify Israel’s military presence in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. The G7 called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages, warning that ongoing attacks could trigger further instability in the Middle East.
Another major point of discussion was Israel’s recent strikes in Lebanon, which have endangered UN peacekeeping forces. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urged Israel to scale back its attacks on Beirut and reassured that Israel had no intention of targeting peacekeepers. Italy, a major contributor to the UN force in Lebanon, has voiced strong opposition to these attacks, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visiting Lebanon and Jordan to assess the situation.
As global security tensions continue to rise, the G7 reaffirmed its role in promoting stability and cooperation while calling on the broader international community to take decisive action.
