Heads of state are converging in Johannesburg for the 2025 G20 Summit, but two key figures are missing: U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence. 😲
This week, tensions flared between Washington and Pretoria after President Trump accused the South African government of committing genocide against its White minority—a claim that has been widely discredited. South Africa’s leaders condemned the remarks, calling them baseless and inflammatory. 🌍🔥
As delegates gathered, a last-minute dispute over whether the U.S. would send any official representatives overshadowed the summit’s kickoff. U.S. officials ultimately decided to abstain from attending, leaving other G20 members to navigate discussions on global finance, climate change, and public health without their input. 📉🌱💉
The absence of the U.S. president and vice president marks a rare no-show for America at the world’s most influential economic forum. Analysts warn that skipping key sessions on trade tensions and green energy investment could weaken U.S. leverage on critical issues. 🤔💡
Meanwhile, other leaders are pushing forward with plans to expand digital infrastructure and renewable energy projects in Africa, aiming to strengthen partnerships and foster economic growth across the continent. ✨🌍
Stay tuned as we track how this diplomatic standoff shapes discussions at the G20 and what it means for the future of international cooperation. 🚀🌐
Reference(s):
U.S. abstains from attending G20 amid tensions with South Africa
cgtn.com
