Lavrov arrives for G20 talks in Atlanta despite Ukraine sanctions

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrived in Atlanta for the October 30–31 G20 foreign ministers’ meeting, leading Russia’s delegation in a rare U.S. visit since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. European diplomats objected to appearing alongside him, prompting U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to cancel the traditional group photograph; lawmakers from both parties also criticized Russia’s invitation. The meeting is marked by divisions over Ukraine, Iran, trade and maritime security, with prospects for agreement uncertain. Moscow says Lavrov will oppose sanctions and promote a multipolar world. The meeting comes ahead of further talks involving Russia, Ukraine and the United States, including a planned trilateral meeting in November, and the G20 leaders’ summit in Miami in December.