Russia Returns To G20 Talks As U.S. Engages Moscow, Europe Pushes Back

Russia is back at the table and Europe is not happy. Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov attended the U.S.-hosted G20 finance talks in Asheville, North Carolina, marking his first in-person appearance at the forum since 2022. He also met U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, with discussions reportedly covering Ukraine and financial cooperation. European officials objected to Russia’s presence and refused to join Siluanov for the traditional G20 family photograph. The episode highlights a growing divide between Washington’s willingness to engage Moscow and Europe’s push to maintain pressure on Russia. Bessent has also made clear that economic relief remains off the table while the Ukraine war continues.