Trump Welcomes Potential Participation of Russia in G20 Meetings

Washington, October 17 (Daily Kiran) : President Donald Trump announced that Russia has expressed interest in participating in the G20 meetings scheduled to be hosted by the United States this year. Speaking to reporters before departing the White House, Trump stated that if Russian President Vladimir Putin decides to attend, he would be welcomed.

When asked about Putin’s potential attendance at the G20, Trump clarified, “No, he has only expressed a desire to join. I don’t know if Putin will come himself, but if he does, I will certainly welcome him.”

In response to a question regarding fuel prices, Trump referenced the G20, noting that Russian representatives have participated in past meetings. The U.S. is set to hold the G20 presidency in 2026, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio hosting a meeting of foreign ministers on October 30 and 31 in Atlanta, Georgia. Following this, Trump will host the G20 leaders’ summit at his Trump National Doral in Miami on December 14 and 15.

Both Russia and India are members of the G20, with India having recently hosted the summit in New Delhi in September 2023.

Trump also expressed his desire to negotiate nuclear agreements with both China and Russia, although he acknowledged that he does not believe such agreements will be reached this year.

When questioned about the ongoing war in Ukraine, Trump was reminded that Putin initiated the conflict. He responded, “Look, I know all the facts. At some point, I will make all the information public. The most important thing for me is that this war must end.” He noted the staggering casualty figures, stating that an average of about 25,000 soldiers are killed each month, with last month seeing a toll of 32,000. Trump emphasized that he is in contact with both sides and believes they both want to end the war, stating, “My full focus is on ending this conflict.”

Regarding the use of the ‘Starshield’ by Ukraine, Trump firmly stated, “No, we have not done that at all.”