US backs Russia's return to G20 but ties economic relief to end of war
The US has signaled support for Russia rejoining the G20, while linking any economic relief for Moscow to an end to the war in Ukraine. European officials have pushed back against Russia's return.
The United States has indicated it would welcome Russia's return to the G20 group, but stopped short of offering Moscow any economic relief while the war in Ukraine continues, according to a source.
Under this approach, any easing of economic pressure or sanctions on Russia is explicitly tied to the war reaching an end. This suggests Washington is treating Russia's participation in international formats as a separate matter from economic relations and possible sanctions relief.
European officials push back
European officials have reportedly resisted the idea of readmitting Russia to the G20, pointing to a divergence between the US and its European allies over how to handle Russia within international institutions while the war continues.
The G20 is one of the most prominent international platforms, bringing together the world's largest economies. Russia has faced exclusion or marginalization from several international formats since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The reported US stance suggests Washington may be seeking to partially normalize diplomatic engagement with Moscow while maintaining economic pressure until a resolution to the war is reached.
