German Chancellor Angela Merkel successfully persuaded her fellow leaders to agree on a single communique covering trade, finance, energy, and Africa at a meeting in Hamburg, showcasing her mediation skills ahead of the German election. However, there was a noticeable divide between US President Trump, who prioritizes "America First", and the 19 other members of the group, which includes countries like Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Argentina. Merkel pointed out that disagreements over climate negotiations were largely centered around the US, particularly since Trump announced the country's withdrawal from the Paris climate accord. She also noted that trade negotiations were challenging due to the specific positions taken by the US. The summit in Hamburg was marked by violent protests that resulted in burning cars and broken shop windows. The meeting brought together a mix of leaders during a time of significant changes in global geopolitics. Trump's move towards a more unilateral and transactional diplomacy has created a leadership vacuum, causing unease among traditional allies in Europe and allowing China to play a larger role. Tensions between the US and China were a major focus leading up to the meeting, with the Trump administration pressuring President Xi Jinping on North Korea and threatening trade measures. Trump's first meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hamburg was highly anticipated, as Trump had promised improved relations with Russia during his campaign but faced accusations of Russian interference in the election and investigations into his associates' ties to Russia. Putin stated that Trump questioned him about the meddling during a two-hour meeting, and appeared satisfied with Putin's denials of involvement. Trump had previously criticized Russia for their actions in Ukraine and Syria, but during the summit in Hamburg, he took a more friendly approach, expressing his admiration for Putin and emphasizing a focus on future relations rather than past grievances. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson noted the positive chemistry between Trump and Putin during their meeting. The other leaders acknowledged the US withdrawal from the Paris climate accord as irreversible, while the US stated its intention to collaborate with other countries to improve the use of fossil fuels. French President Emmanuel Macron took the lead in trying to tone down the language coming from the US. According to Thomas Bernes from the Centre for International Governance Innovation, there is a general agreement among the other countries involved, but the absence of the US poses a significant challenge. Jennifer Morgan, executive director at Greenpeace, praised the G19 for standing firm against Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. The leaders agreed to fight protectionism and unfair trade practices, while also acknowledging the importance of legitimate trade defense instruments. They also committed to promoting economic development in Africa, a key initiative for Merkel. The summit, held in Hamburg, was chosen by Merkel to demonstrate Germany's openness and tolerance for peaceful protests, despite violent demonstrations that took place nearby at a former theater called the "Rote Flora". Over 200 police officers were harmed and around 143 individuals were detained, with 122 being held in custody. Significant destruction occurred while Merkel was entertaining other leaders at a concert and extravagant dinner at the Elbphilharmonie, a contemporary glass concert hall with a view of the Elbe River. Following the summit, Merkel expressed gratitude towards the police and security forces and criticized the excessive violence displayed by some protesters. However, during her concluding press conference, she faced challenging inquiries regarding the decision to hold the summit in Hamburg.