3 sources·Politics

Diplomatic Tensions: U.S. Absence at G20 Raises Questions on South Africa's Agenda

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will not attend G20 meetings in South Africa, signaling diplomatic strains.

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  1. Marco Rubio Snubs G20 Meeting in South Africa

    Analysts say that Rubio and Bessent’s absence signalled the U.S was pulling back from the G20 and demonstrated how strained relations are.

    Marco Rubio Snubs G20 Meeting in South Africa

    TIME MagazineTIME Magazine·2M
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    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
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    This outlet slightly leans left.
  2. Rubio Skips G-20 Meeting in South Africa

    So it does mean that whatever is achieved obviously without the US will be less meaningful.

    Rubio Skips G-20 Meeting in South Africa

    BloombergBloomberg·2M
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    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
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    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
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Updated: Feb 20th, 2025, 6:53 AM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

The absence of U.S. officials at the G20 summit in South Africa highlights strained relations between the U.S. and South Africa amid ongoing diplomatic tensions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will not attend, impacting the significance of the discussions due to the U.S.'s economic power. Despite the U.S. pullback, South Africa aims to reinforce ties with the EU and global partners, focusing on addressing inequality and the needs of the Global South. President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the gathering under themes of solidarity and sustainability, amidst criticisms of U.S. foreign policy.

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