G20 Summit in South Africa Marred by US Boycott and Ukraine Fears
Image Source: Internet
The G20 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, was overshadowed by a US boycott and concerns over a proposed unilateral plan to end the war in Ukraine. European leaders, including France's Emmanuel Macron and the UK's Keir Starmer, expressed reservations about the plan, citing its potential to leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attacks. The G20, which accounts for 85% of the world's GDP and two-thirds of its population, has been a key player in addressing global economic crises. However, the summit's host, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, acknowledged the challenges posed by geopolitical fractures and unilateralism. The US, led by President Donald Trump, skipped the summit, citing differences in priorities on trade and climate. Trump's plan for Ukraine, which involves ceding territory to Russia and reducing Ukraine's military, has faced criticism from European leaders. They argue that the plan requires the consent of EU and NATO members and should not be imposed unilaterally. In a joint statement, European leaders emphasized the need for a "just" peace in Ukraine and other conflict zones. They also called for cooperation and partnership to address global challenges. The statement was signed by Macron, Starmer, and other European leaders, but not by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The summit's outcome is uncertain, with some leaders expressing concerns about the road ahead. However, the G20 remains a crucial platform for international cooperation, and leaders are working to find ways to address the world's challenges collectively. Meanwhile, the US and Ukrainian counterparts will meet in Switzerland on Sunday to seek progress on the US plan. A coalition of nations backing Ukraine is also set to hold a video call on Tuesday to coordinate their efforts. The outcome of these meetings will be closely watched, as the international community tries to find a way forward on the Ukraine conflict.
