Donald Trump is considering an invitation to Vladimir Putin for the G20 summit in Miami this December, according to U.S. Officials cited by the Washington Post.
Trump sees Putin as a potential attendee despite ongoing Ukraine war
The U.S. President has signaled openness to Putin’s participation, contrasting with widespread criticism from Western allies over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Trump’s stance reflects his prior skepticism toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his willingness to engage directly with Moscow. No formal invitation has been issued yet, but Russia’s G20 membership ensures it will be invited to ministerial and leaders’ meetings.
Previous Trump-Putin talks in Alaska yielded no breakthroughs
The two leaders met in August 2025 to discuss the Ukraine conflict but ended without concrete agreements. That meeting followed Trump’s earlier decision to exclude South African President Cyril Ramaphosa from the G20 over disputed claims of anti-white racism, a move criticized by Brazil and others. Ramaphosa rejected the allegations, noting South Africa’s G20 status alongside Russia.
Western nations likely to oppose Putin’s inclusion
Many Western countries are expected to view any Putin invitation critically given the prolonged war in Ukraine and associated sanctions. The White House and State Department have not commented on the reports. Trump’s approach risks deepening divisions within the G20, particularly as consensus on Ukraine remains elusive among member states.
Is a formal invitation to Putin guaranteed?
No. Officials told the Washington Post that no formal invitations have been sent yet, though Russia’s G20 membership means it will be invited to attend.
Why did Trump exclude Ramaphosa from the G20?
Trump cited claims of racism against white people in South Africa, which Ramaphosa denied and Brazil criticized.
