The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven nations have discussed the situation in Ukraine and urged Russia to engage "sincerely and promptly" in peace negotiations without preconditions.



The ministers held a telephone meeting for roughly one hour on Sunday night, Japan time. Ukraine declared its independence from the former Soviet Union on that day in 1991. Sunday also marked three-and-a-half years since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine.



Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also took part in the meeting. From Japan, Senior Deputy Foreign Minister Namazu Hiroyuki attended on behalf of Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, who is on an overseas trip.



Japan's foreign ministry says the G7 ministers reaffirmed their solidarity with Ukraine.
It says they also welcomed "the creation of opportunities for a just and peaceful resolution to the aggression," under US President Donald Trump's leadership.



The ministers strongly urged Moscow to engage in peace negotiations, and agreed they would continue their close communication and coordination.



The Japanese government conveyed Iwaya's message. It said Japan welcomed Ukraine's active engagement under the proactive initiatives of the United States, and reiterated the importance of the G7's unity to realize an early ceasefire and achieve a just and lasting peace.
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Quiz 1:
On what day did Ukraine declare its independence from the former Soviet Union?
A. August 25, 1991
B. August 24, 1991
C. August 26, 1991
D. August 27, 1991

Quiz 2:
For how long has Russia been involved in its invasion of Ukraine as of the date given (2025-08-25)?
A. Three years
B. Three and a half years
C. Four years
D. Five years

Quiz 3:
Which country's foreign minister did not take part in the telephone meeting with G7 foreign ministers regarding Ukraine?
A. United States
B. Japan
C. Russia
D. Ukraine