On Friday, the Kremlin stated that the Group of Seven (G7) no longer represents the world's fastest-growing economies, and thus, has diminished in relevance, especially following President Trump's expressed desire to have Russia readmitted. Trump mentioned, "I'd love to have them back. I think it was a mistake to throw them out. Look, it's not a question of liking Russia or not liking Russia. It was the G8."
Previously, Russia was a member of the G7, which later became the G8, until being excluded due to the annexation of Ukraine's Crimea region in 2014. In response to Trump's remarks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, during a conference call, emphasized that the G7 had lost relevance by stating, "We have repeatedly said that the group which is now called the G7 has lost much of its relevance. It brings together countries that are not now leaders in terms of growth, when it comes to various parameters." He highlighted that the "centres of growth have moved to other regions of the globe" and expressed Russia's interest in focusing on the G20, which represents a more globally impactful economic forum. Peskov noted that "A forum like the G20 is probably more reflective of the globe's economic 'locomotive'."