Trump invites Putin to G20 summit in Miami

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Wednesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin has been invited to the upcoming G20 summit in Miami. This decision to extend an invitation to Putin follows the ongoing struggle to reach a resolution to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. According to Rubio, engaging with those with whom there are disagreements is a necessary step in resolving problems, and the invitation to Putin is an opportunity for him to interact with not only the President of the United States, but also other world leaders.

Rubio's comments came following his meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who stated at the UN General Assembly that Moscow would not suspend its "special military operation" in Ukraine. Lavrov accused Europe of attempting to utilize a ceasefire to supply Ukraine with weaponry. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to address the UN and has previously appealed for enhanced air defense systems against Russian drone and missile strikes.

In a joint declaration released during the UN General Assembly, 51 countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Japan, and Canada, expressed their continued support for Ukraine and expressed concern over the attacks in the Black Sea. The statement emphasized Russia's efforts to disrupt Ukrainian grain exports and called for measures to protect commercial shipping and critical infrastructure.

Rubio also suggested a potential energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, stating that while it would not end the war, it could create a foundation for broader agreement. Ukrainian President Zelensky had previously expressed willingness to cease fire on Russian energy sites if Moscow reciprocated.