G20 meeting marked by diplomatic snub as Lavrov criticizes germany
A diplomatic incident overshadowed the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, as German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul refused a traditional group photograph with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The move, prompted by Russia’s war in Ukraine, signaled a clear message from Western nations to Moscow. The customary “family photo” of all foreign ministers was canceled.
Wadephul had previously stated that a joint photograph with Lavrov would not occur, emphasizing the need to avoid “false optical signals” despite the importance of addressing differences at the negotiating table.
Lavrov responded sharply to the snub, mocking Wadephul. “This Mr. Wadephul, who asked for a meeting with me in New York a month ago, has now issued a statement saying he would tell me everything about the aggressive war and would never let himself be photographed,” Lavrov said, sarcastically labeling it “family photo diplomacy.”
Wadephul had sought a direct conversation with Lavrov in New York in late September to condemn Russia’s war. Lavrov also accused Western nations of interfering in peace negotiations regarding Ukraine.
Lavrov further criticized the United States, stating that progress in relations has been lacking and dismissing expectations surrounding a potential energy deal. He also lamented ongoing US sanctions against Russian energy companies Lukoil and Rosneft.
The Atlanta meeting serves as a crucial rehearsal for the G20 summit of heads of state and government in Miami in mid-December, to which US President Donald Trump has invited both German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Tensions were also heightened by the Iran conflict, with Wadephul cautioning the US and Israel against renewed military action following the US midterm elections.
Source
“G20-Eklat: Lawrow spottet über Deutschland”
Read the original report (in German) ↗This story is an AI-assisted version of the original report, checked and edited by the Plainwire desk before publication. Read our editorial policy · Report an error
Read next
Global powers vie to deploy nuclear reactors on the moon
The United States, Russia, and China are engaged in a competition to establish nuclear reactors on the moon, raising concerns about potential safety…
Related
Caught up in five lines
The Brief: the day’s biggest stories, written by our desk at and .