Kremlin Backpedals on Putin's G20 Attendance After Initial Welcome
The Kremlin said it is premature to discuss Putin attending the G20 summit in Miami, a day after welcoming the US invitation. Spokesman Peskov said no decision has been made and Moscow will study the invitation. The invitation comes amid US efforts to broker peace talks.
The Kremlin’s shift from welcoming to downplaying the G20 invitation reflects internal caution over committing Putin to a trilateral encounter with Zelensky. Peskov’s statement that Moscow will “study” the offer suggests diplomatic maneuvering, especially after he had previously called a Putin-Zelensky meeting at the summit “impossible.” The invitation itself was announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio following his UNGA talks with Lavrov, while Trump separately told Zelensky that Putin is “willing to meet” and wants the war to end. No concrete date or format has been confirmed.
This mixed signal could affect peace-process momentum, as conflicting statements from Moscow may undermine trust in its willingness to negotiate. If Putin ultimately declines, it may disappoint global leaders seeking a breakthrough, while a surprise attendance could reshape diplomatic dynamics. The outcome may also influence public perception of US mediation efforts, potentially affecting support for continued aid to Ukraine or pressure for concessions.