Donald Trump defends G20 engagement with Russia

President Donald Trump stated that Washington ‘loves harmony with everyone’ following Russia's participation in a G20 meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors in Asheville, North Carolina. Trump noted that his ability to maintain harmony with various parties is a key reason for his success, signaling a continued willingness to engage in dialogue with Moscow despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and Western sanctions.

During the G20 proceedings, Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent held a meeting to discuss bilateral financial cooperation and coordination within the G20 framework. This marked the first personal participation by a Russian minister since the conflict in Ukraine began.

The Russian involvement drew sharp criticism from European officials. German Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil described Washington's actions as inappropriate, arguing that Russia should not be treated as a regular guest given its military operations in Ukraine. In response to threats from European ministers to boycott the traditional group photo, the Russian delegation opted to skip the photo session to avoid further diplomatic escalation.