Putin Says Russia Will Not Return to G8, Calls G7 Economically Irrelevant

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that Moscow has no interest in rejoining the G8, saying the bloc, now operating as the G7, is losing its economic weight. He argued that the group’s global financial influence is shrinking, offering Russia no strategic or economic advantage.

Russia was removed from the G8 in 2014 after its annexation of Crimea, and ongoing tensions over the war in Ukraine have prevented any discussion of reinstatement. Putin suggested Russia is instead focused on strengthening partnerships through platforms such as BRICS and the Eurasian Economic Union.

Putin also confirmed a recent meeting with U.S.-linked intermediaries tied to former President Donald Trump, saying discussions on possible peace efforts for Ukraine were “useful.” He stressed that reaching a consensus will be challenging but urged Europe to play a constructive role in ending the conflict.

Pic courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright