France’s foreign minister expresses concern over military operations in the Caribbean at G7 meeting, citing potential instability and disregard for international law
NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE: France’s foreign minister raised concerns about “military operations” in the Caribbean during Tuesday’s G7 meeting as a US aircraft carrier deployment escalated regional tensions.
Jean-Noel Barrot emphasised the need to avoid “instability caused by potential escalations” following Venezuela’s warning that US deployments could trigger full-blown conflict.
“We have observed, with concern, military operations in the Caribbean region because they disregard international law,” Barrot told reporters.
His comments came after the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, entered waters under US Naval Forces Southern Command control.
The Trump administration is conducting a military campaign in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific as part of an anti-drugs offensive.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accused the US of “fabricating a war” while pursuing a disguised regime change plot.
Barrot stressed the G7 must “work in concert” against the global narcotics trade, noting over one million French citizens in the Caribbean could be affected by potential unrest.
Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said bolstering Ukraine would feature prominently in discussions.
The UK announced £13 million ($17.1 million) to repair Ukraine’s energy sector following massive Russian attacks.
Britain also imposed a maritime services ban on Russian liquid natural gas.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated Vladimir Putin “is trying to plunge Ukraine into darkness and the cold as winter approaches.”
Anand confirmed Sudan’s escalating crisis would be addressed during a working dinner on global security.
She said Canada was “absolutely horrified” by the conflict creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
The G7 would work “to support those who are suffering and dying needlessly in Sudan,” Anand added.
She is scheduled for bilateral talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio before Wednesday’s meeting conclusion.
Anand indicated she wouldn’t press Trump’s trade war issues causing Canadian job losses and economic strain.
“We will have a meeting and have many topics to discuss concerning global affairs,” she told AFP.
“The trade issue is being dealt with by other ministers.”
Trump abruptly ended trade talks with Canada last month following an apparently cordial White House meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The president expressed anger over an Ontario government ad quoting Ronald Reagan on tariff harms. – AFP
