Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attended the G20 meeting in South Africa, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio chose to skip the event amid reported tensions with South Africa. The meeting focused on global challenges, including support for Ukraine and the need for international collaboration, despite apparent divisions among G20 members.
At the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attended while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio notably chose to abstain. This absence was highlighted amid growing European support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. Lavrov’s participation comes after U.S.-Russia talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which have excluded European allies and Kyiv from key discussions.
During the opening of the meeting, Lavrov joined top diplomats from the European Union and other nations, such as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The agenda emphasized global issues such as geopolitical tensions, climate change, and economic stability, which have become increasingly urgent.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed attendees, remarking on the importance of serious dialogue regarding pressing international challenges. He noted the existing lack of consensus on numerous issues, calling for unity among major powers. Concurrently, the G20 forum aims to establish cooperation between developed and developing nations, although differing national interests often hinder effective solutions.
Rubio’s absence reflects ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and South Africa, particularly around contentious policies. His refusal to engage undermines the G20’s purpose, prompting criticisms regarding U.S. commitment to international collaboration. U.S. officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, have also opted out of upcoming G20 events due to competing commitments, signaling a retreat from multilateral diplomacy.
In a speech, Rubio expressed skepticism about South Africa’s G20 theme, critiquing it as primarily focused on diversity, equity, and climate change, arguing it detracted from American interests. Despite speculation regarding the significance of his absence, South African officials downplayed its impact on their G20 presidency, asserting continued engagement with international partners.
The G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in South Africa witnessed significant participation from Russia, with Lavrov’s presence underscoring ongoing geopolitical tensions. Meanwhile, Rubio’s absence highlights strained U.S.-South African relations and reflects a broader skepticism towards international forums by the current U.S. administration. The meeting emphasized the importance of cooperation amidst global challenges, yet found itself navigating divergent national interests of its member nations.
Original Source: apnews.com
