A recent decision by the United States to permit Ukraine to launch long-range missiles deeper into Russian territory has added complexity to potential diplomatic relations between the West and Russia. This move, made just before the G20 summit, was seen as a strategic maneuver to bolster Ukraine's position ahead of a change in American leadership, with the incoming president showing skepticism towards ongoing US support.
The decision has raised concerns among world leaders attending the summit, as it could be perceived by Russia as a new phase of conflict initiated by the West. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed this sentiment during a news conference at the summit, highlighting the potential implications of such actions.
Amidst these developments, there were notable interactions and discussions among various leaders at the summit. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz engaged in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, while French President Emmanuel Macron was seen exchanging pleasantries with Lavrov.
However, the looming shadow of the incoming Trump presidency cast uncertainty over the discussions regarding the Ukraine conflict. Questions arose about how Trump's stance on the war might influence future policies, especially concerning the decision to allow Ukraine long-range missile capabilities.
As the summit concluded, hopes for a strong denouncement of Russia's invasion were tempered by diplomatic challenges. The final leaders' statement featured diluted language, lacking explicit condemnation of Russia's actions in Ukraine.
Tensions between the US and Russia continued to escalate, with Russia announcing updates to its nuclear doctrine in response to recent developments. American officials maintained their stance in the face of Russia's rhetoric, emphasizing the need for responsible dialogue and action.
In his closing remarks, Lavrov downplayed the significance of Russia's updated military doctrine, attributing the changes to perceived threats from the West. The evolving dynamics between the US, Russia, and other global players underscored the complexities of international relations in the current geopolitical landscape.
