Germany says Putin’s possible G20 attendance would test Moscow’s readiness for Ukraine talks, as U.S. senators urge Trump to withdraw the invitation.
Kyiv denied a report that Trump urged Zelensky to meet Putin in Moscow as Washington presses both sides to curb energy strikes.
Lavrov said Russia will not pause operations for Ukraine talks, while Rubio kept open a U.S. role in pursuing a ceasefire.
Russia is expected at the G20 energy meeting in Houston, adding sanctions, security and corporate risk questions to the agenda.
Scott Bessent reportedly told Anton Siluanov that the U.S. will not ease pressure on Russia before the war in Ukraine ends, reinforcing a hard line for business.
President Trump finds Putin’s attendance at the 2026 G20 summit potentially beneficial but is uncertain about Russia’s formal invitation or participation decision.