US Cancels G20 Photo Over Russia Diplomatic Row
The United States has cancelled the traditional group photograph at the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Atlanta after Australia, Britain, Canada and several European countries refused to appear alongside Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The decision, taken on October 30, 2026, highlighted continuing diplomatic divisions over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, even as Washington sought cooperation on major international economic and security challenges.
Marco Rubio Cancels G20 Photo Over Russia Objections
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio removed the customary photograph from the meeting’s agenda after approximately one-third of participating delegations indicated they would not appear alongside Russian representatives.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said European countries could not participate in a joint photograph that suggested relations with Moscow had returned to normal.
British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband expressed a similar position, reflecting London’s continued opposition to Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong supported the cancellation, maintaining that Australia would not normalise Russia’s invasion.
Ukraine War Divides G20 Foreign Ministers
Despite the disagreement, Rubio opened the discussions by urging participating countries to cooperate on economic stability, energy security, international trade and freedom of navigation.
Wong criticised Russia’s invasion of Ukraine during the meeting, arguing that the conflict had disrupted international markets and worsened global food insecurity.
Diplomats described the opening discussions as cordial but acknowledged substantial disagreements over Ukraine and other international disputes.
South Africa Exclusion Adds to G20 Disagreements
The meeting also faced controversy over Washington’s decision not to invite South Africa, a founding G20 member.
Ukraine was excluded, while Poland attended as a guest with American support for its membership aspirations. Russia has opposed Poland joining the organisation.
These disagreements have complicated efforts to produce a joint declaration.
Nevertheless, participating countries indicated their willingness to continue discussions ahead of the G20 leaders’ summit scheduled for December in Florida.
