G20 hosts canceled the traditional group photo after European diplomats refused to stand with Russia's foreign minister.
Diplomats from Europe recently refused to join an official photo at the G20 meeting. The event took place in Atlanta, Georgia. They declined to stand near Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
Consequently, the American hosts decided to cancel the traditional group picture. This event usually features representatives from every attending nation. It was originally set for Friday morning.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is currently hosting these top diplomats. They represent many of the world's largest economies. Ukraine did not receive an invitation to this specific gathering.
Meanwhile, tensions between the United States and Ukraine remain high. President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky have faced a recent diplomatic standoff. This involves Ukraine's strikes on Russian oil infrastructure.
Also, the United Kingdom confirmed its refusal to participate in the photo. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband attended the summit. The UK maintains a policy against direct engagement with Russian officials.
Next, a US official explained the reasoning behind the cancellation. They wanted to avoid a diplomatic distraction. Officials preferred to keep the focus on important policy discussions.
However, US and Russian relations show signs of a partial thaw. President Trump recently waived some sanctions against Russia. He also reached a deal to import Russian diesel fuel.
As a result, Trump hopes to lower gasoline prices before the mid-term elections. He faces pressure after months of economic struggles related to the war in Iran.
Still, Ukraine and its European partners remain very critical of this deal. Zelensky described the agreement as a gift to Vladimir Putin. He argues it prolongs the ongoing conflict.