The recent “family photos” from the world’s most developed nations, the G7 and G8, show world leaders posing in a relaxed manner during the world summit. These photos are reminiscent of family portraits, which often showcase dysfunctional members. In this case, Russian President Vladimir Putin has been ousted, indicating how much he faces unprecedented international isolation since the country invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
An arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court is currently hanging over Putin’s head, which has clouded the prospects for the president’s travels to many destinations, including countries considered Russia’s allies. Only ten years ago, Putin proudly stood among his compatriots, including former US President Barack Obama, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and former Chancellor Shinzo Abe, at the summit of the eight major powers in Northern Ireland.
However, Russia has been expelled from a group made up of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US for illegally annexing Crimea in 2014. This action has resulted in Putin’s expulsion from the group, and the images from this year’s G7 summit show the same government leaders, except for Putin.