G20 ‘Family Photo’ Scrapped in Atlanta as Allies Refuse to Pose with Lavrov
US cancels G20 photo session in Atlanta after Australian and British diplomats refuse to pose alongside Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
POLICY WIRE — Atlanta, United States — The United States abruptly halted plans for a traditional group photograph at the G20 foreign ministers meeting in Atlanta. The decision was made after several European diplomats expressed strong objections to appearing alongside Russia’s top envoy.
The customary “family photo” session, typically used to open such gatherings, was discontinued due to widespread diplomatic friction. Specific nations, including Australia and the United Kingdom, declined to stand next to Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister.
This standoff highlights deepening divisions between the Trump administration and European partners regarding their respective strategies toward Moscow. The scheduling conflict occurred just before the formal launch of the two-day meeting, with leaders gathering in the US city under a cloud of political disagreement.
The awkwardness surrounding the photography session and Lavrov’s attendance underscores the broader strain in transatlantic relations. European and American officials continue to navigate these competing positions as they convene for ongoing discussions.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
