US President Donald Trump dismissed speculation that his early departure from the G7 summit in Canada was linked to potential ceasefire talks between Israel and Iran, contradicting earlier comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron.

In a post on Truth Social at 1:15 am Washington time Tuesday, shortly after Air Force One took off for the US capital, Trump wrote, “Publicity seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a ‘cease fire’ between Israel and Iran. Wrong!”

“He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that,” the post continued. “Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong. Stay Tuned!”

Macron suggested diplomatic opening

Earlier on Monday, Macron had told reporters in Alberta that Trump’s sudden exit could reflect a breakthrough in diplomatic efforts.

“If the US can obtain a ceasefire that is a good thing,” he said, describing the development as a potential opportunity for de-escalation in the Middle East.

Macron had noted that signals had been sent via intermediaries about a possible willingness from Iran to engage, following days of strikes between the two countries.

“There is indeed an offer to meet and exchange. An offer was made especially to get a ceasefire and to then kickstart broader discussions,”

Macron said, adding that while immediate change was unlikely, “since the US assured they will find a ceasefire and since they can pressure Israel, things may change.”

He framed the moment as one where diplomacy could be revived.

White House stays vague

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt initially said Trump was departing to attend to “many important matters,” later adding in a post on X that his return was prompted by “what’s going on in the Middle East.”

However, no specific agenda has been released, and Trump has yet to detail any next steps.

Karoline Leavitt

@PressSec

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President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State.

4:59 am · 17 Jun 2025

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The conflict between Israel and Iran intensified over the weekend, with Israel continuing its campaign against Iranian nuclear sites and Tehran launching missiles and drones in retaliation.

On Monday, Trump warned residents of Tehran to evacuate the city and urged Iran to drop its nuclear ambitions and return to the negotiating table.

As of Tuesday morning, there was no clarity on whether the US was preparing any formal diplomatic initiative or military action.

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