G7 summit hot mic reveals leaders' casual chat

World leaders gathering for the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, this week had their private, informal conversations accidentally broadcast to the public, offering a rare glimpse of lighter moments before formal discussions on global security and trade. Microphones captured discussions about personal habits, sports, and a cryptic mention of Greenland by U.S. President Donald Trump as leaders assembled for meetings on Tuesday, June 16.

The most prominent exchange involved Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni revealing she had quit smoking. When German Chancellor Friedrich Merz jokingly asked if she had smoked that morning, Meloni replied she had not smoked since May 1. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney then asked if she was using a nicotine patch, prompting laughter. Other leaders, including those from Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, and the European Union, congratulated her.

Sports was a frequent topic, with leaders discussing the ongoing FIFA World Cup in North America. Someone shouted support for the French team, "Allez les Bleus," while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised Cape Verde's surprising draw against Spain. President Trump was heard enthusiastically...