United States cancels G20 family photo over Russian foreign minister attendance

The United States cancelled a planned group photograph of foreign ministers at the G20 summit in Atlanta on Friday. Euronews and CBS News both report that the cancellation occurred after several European diplomats objected to appearing alongside Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and threatened to leave. [1][7]

Anadolu Ajansı reported that German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul publicly ruled out taking part in the picture, telling reporters in Atlanta that he assumed there would be no family photograph at all. According to Euronews, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio decided to cancel the traditional photo to avoid further controversy, citing two anonymous US officials. Euronews added that Rubio opened the talks by stating that he hoped for a productive meeting during a critical moment. [1][3]

The international community heavily condemned Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. That military action resulted in widespread negative government reactions, particularly across Europe, and led to severe global sanctions against Russia. [8]

The foreign ministers gathering in Atlanta is proceeding as scheduled. Euronews reported that the meeting takes place ahead of a broader G20 leaders summit hosted by President Donald Trump at his Miami golf club in December. [1]