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Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov Attends G20 Summit in the United States Amid European Backlash

Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov attended the G20 finance ministers' meeting in Asheville, North Carolina, marking his first in-person appearance on U.S. soil since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. During the summit, Siluanov held a bilateral meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to discuss Russia-U.S. cooperation and economic growth. The administration announced that the U.S. would not provide Russia with economic relief until the war in Ukraine is over. While Siluanov was present, several European allies expressed dissatisfaction with the move. German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil stated that receiving the Russian minister as a normal guest was troubling because of the ongoing war. Polish Finance Minister Andrzej Domanski also expressed unhappiness with Russia's representation, noting a lack of trust in the country. Due to this friction, European officials refused to participate in the traditional "family photo" with Siluanov. Consequently, the final group photo was taken without the Russian finance minister. President Trump defended the decision, stating that he likes getting along with everyone. Democratic lawmakers also criticized the inclusion of Russia, urging the administration to pressure Putin rather than offering him a platform.

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