US invites Russian finance chief to G20, sparking European ire
The presence of Russia’s finance minister at the G20 finance talks in North Carolina has drawn sharp rebuke from Europe and could reshape transatlantic coordination.
Anton Siluanov appeared in person at the opening of the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting in Asheville, North Carolina on Monday, meeting with Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury secretary. The invitation, made while the United States holds the rotating G20 presidency, has ignited frustration among European leaders who have been working to isolate Moscow after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
European backlash
German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil told reporters he would have preferred a clear U.S. stance that the Russian official would not be treated as a regular guest. "Receiving the Russian finance minister here sends a signal I find troubling," he said, adding that he refused to stand for a joint photo with Siluanov.
The European Union echoed the sentiment, stating it would not appear in a group photo with Siluanov and would continue to push for Iran to halt destabilising activities through U.S.-led economic pressure.
US agenda and outlook
President Donald Trump brushed off the controversy, saying the United States likes “getting along with everybody” and that this approach contributes to his success. White House spokesman Kush Desai added that the administration is working with Russia on a deal to end “the endless bloodshed” in Ukraine, but made clear that any economic relief would be contingent on the war’s conclusion.
"The president and the administration will never shy away from talking with the folks we need to talk to, to further that," Desai said.
Beyond the Russia issue, Bessent used the meeting to rally support for tougher sanctions on Iran and to discuss ways to boost global growth. The G20, which includes 19 nations plus the EU and the African Union, is also grappling with high inflation, trade tensions, notably a recent U.S., Canada spat, and sovereign‑debt challenges.
Analysts warn that the episode may strain U.S., EU coordination within the G20, potentially complicating consensus on future economic measures. As the summit continues, the United States is likely to face pressure from European partners to adopt a firmer stance on Russia while still pursuing its broader agenda on Iran and global stability.
