Sergey Lavrov attends G20 ministerial meeting in Atlanta

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attended a two-day G20 ministerial meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, sparking tension among European diplomats. The presence of the Russian official, following an invitation from Washington, drew criticism from several European delegations who opposed the decision to include Russian officials.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that European partners would avoid group photographs with Lavrov to prevent sending the wrong visual signals. Following reports that European ministers threatened to walk out rather than stand near the Russian official, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly canceled the traditional group photo.

Amid the diplomatic friction, Secretary Rubio addressed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, expressing uncertainty regarding the possibility of a peace agreement through negotiations. His comments come as Kyiv expresses concern over potential shifts in Washington's stance ahead of scheduled tripartite negotiations in Abu Dhabi planned for November.