G7 ministers weigh Trump's midterm setback as Ukraine, Iran top Paris agenda

G7 foreign ministers met in Paris on Monday to assess whether Donald Trump's US midterm setback will change his administration's foreign policy, with Ukraine, Iran and European security dominating talks. Four G7 diplomats said Democratic gains could narrow the White House's room for maneuver but warned against expecting a return to traditional US multilateralism. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a potential 2028 presidential contender, made his first appearance before allies since the elections, downplaying chances of a deal with Iran. In a sideline meeting with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, Rubio stuck to a tough approach, calling for an end to EU trade preferences and pressing concerns about the International Criminal Court, which he has sanctioned. Ukraine is likely to top the agenda ahead of trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday between Ukraine, Russia and the US. Diplomats warned Russia has shifted tactics to target energy infrastructure, aiming for a nationwide winter blackout, while shortages of Patriot missiles remain Kyiv's most urgent vulnerability. The meeting also addresses hybrid threats after a spate of incidents across Europe.