Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia has no plans to rejoin the Group of Eight (G8), emphasizing his stance in an interview with Indian channel India Today ahead of his upcoming visit to Delhi. Putin highlighted the declining influence of the G7 nations, noting that their share of the global economy has been diminishing over recent years.
During the interview, Putin questioned the relevance of the G7 name, suggesting that the grouping no longer accurately reflects its members’ economic power. He pointed out that the reduced economic contribution of these countries calls into question their continuation as the “Group of Seven” and implied that the current global economic landscape demands a different approach.
The G8, which originally included Russia alongside the G7 nations, suspended Russia’s membership in 2014 following the annexation of Crimea. Despite discussions and calls for Russia’s return from some members, Russian officials have consistently maintained that Moscow does not intend to rejoin the group. Putin’s comments reinforce the ongoing diplomatic and geopolitical tensions surrounding Russia’s participation in international economic and political forums.
As Putin prepares for his visit to India, his remarks are likely to resonate with ongoing debates over Russia’s role in global governance and the future of multilateral groupings, particularly amid shifting alliances and economic realities worldwide.