G20 summit news
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The gist
U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent met Russian Finance Minister Siluanov at G20 talks in Asheville. The meeting signals Washington's willingness to engage Moscow despite European objections.
Background
The G20 summit in Asheville, North Carolina, has become a focal point for diplomatic tensions. The U.S. has invited Russia's finance minister for the first time since the invasion of Ukraine, angering European allies. Meanwhile, the U.S. is pushing for a peace deal in Ukraine and encouraging G20 members to reconsider trade with China.
How it unfolded
- Aug 30, 2026U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent tells Reuters he will encourage G20 members to re-examine trade terms with China to reduce global imbalances.
- Aug 31, 2026Fed Chair Kevin Warsh tells G20 leaders that the global savings glut is turning into an investment surge. Bessent reportedly meets Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov on the sidelines, discussing Trump's peace plan; Kyiv says it was unaware.
- Sep 1, 2026Reports confirm Bessent told Siluanov no economic relief for Russia until the Ukraine war ends. European officials express frustration over Siluanov's presence.
Who’s saying what
- U.S.
- The Trump administration is working with Russia to push for a deal that would stop the endless bloodshed.
- Europe
- European ministers and officials are frustrated and dismayed by Russia's return to G20 talks, preferring to keep Moscow isolated.
- Ukraine
- A Ukrainian official says Kyiv does not know anything about the Bessent-Siluanov meeting, indicating a lack of transparency.
Still unverified
The reported meeting between Bessent and Siluanov and the details of the peace plan discussion are based on unnamed sources and have not been officially confirmed.