The G20 summit in Atlanta canceled a traditional group photo session after European foreign ministers refused to be pictured with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The decision came after several European delegates threatened to walk out of the session if Lavrov was included. The photograph, usually taken at the start of diplomatic gatherings, was scrapped on Friday.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between Western nations and Russia, particularly over its involvement in Ukraine. Lavrov attended the summit at the invitation of US hosts, but his presence sparked objections. European officials expressed concerns over Russia’s role in the conflict, which began more than four years ago with Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
This follows a pattern of diplomatic friction, with some European countries resisting close cooperation with Russian officials. The cancellation marks a symbolic escalation in the divide between Russia and its Western counterparts. The summit continues without the photo, reflecting the deepening political rift.
