US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Tuesday that Russia’s return to high-level G20 finance talks had not disrupted the gathering, despite strong objections from European allies over Moscow’s continuing war against Ukraine.
“I would point out that we had 19 out of 20 countries agree, so... there has been no impact,” Bessent told a press conference, referring to a chair’s statement that received backing from nearly all members.
“I know that some Europeans had a sour taste, but I think it’s very important to engage,” he added.
Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov attended the two-day meeting in Asheville, North Carolina – his first in-person appearance at the forum since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
His presence drew criticism from several European officials, who argued that Moscow should not be treated as a normal international partner while the war continues.
German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil said there could be no normalization of relations with Russia and joined other European representatives in refusing to appear in the traditional G20 “family photo” with Siluanov.
EU economy chief Valdis Dombrovskis similarly said it was “not the time to normalize Russia” or its participation in such meetings.
Bessent nevertheless held bilateral talks with Siluanov on the sidelines of the gathering.
According to US officials, their discussion included President Donald Trump’s efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Bessent reportedly told the Russian minister that Moscow could expect no economic relief or agreements with Washington while the war continues.
Russia’s Finance Ministry said the two officials also discussed bilateral financial issues and cooperation within the G20 framework.