G20 Opens in Asheville With Russia Row as Europe Forces Siluanov Out of Group Photo
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Aug 31
G20 Opens in Asheville With Russia Row as Europe Forces Siluanov Out of Group Photo
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Aug 31
Summary
Anton Siluanov’s surprise in-person appearance at the G20’s opening in Asheville triggered immediate protests from European finance chiefs, overshadowing a summit the U.S. had framed around Iran sanctions and global growth.
Lars Klingbeil said he confronted the Russian finance minister over Ukraine and warned the U.S. against treating him as a normal guest; European delegates then threatened to boycott the traditional photo unless he was excluded.
The group photo was ultimately taken without Siluanov, while Ukraine’s finance minister was set to join a separate G7 session by video rather than attend the G20 gathering in person.
The dispute added to broader friction around the U.S. host role, with attendees also upset by South Africa’s exclusion, business-only networking sessions for American executives, and denied press credentials for some major news outlets.
Those tensions clouded talks meant to address slowing growth, higher inflation and borrowing costs, with the IMF warning of rising fiscal pressure as the U.S. pushes allies to join tougher economic isolation of Iran.