Prime Minister Mark Carney plans to keep any potential encounter with Russian President Vladimir Putin brief at the upcoming G20 summit. The annual gathering, hosted by the U.S. in Miami, may see Putin’s attendance following an invitation earlier this year from the Kremlin.
During an unrelated press conference, Carney mentioned that if he meets Putin in December, his message will be straightforward: urging Putin to withdraw from Ukraine, return the territory to its rightful owners, and put an end to the ongoing conflict that is claiming thousands of lives each month.
When asked whether the Trump administration should rescind Putin’s invitation, Carney acknowledged that there are valid concerns but emphasized that the decision lies with the host country.
Putin has not participated in a G20 summit since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which led to an active arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court against him. Recently, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent convened G20 finance ministers in Asheville, N.C., where Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov was present.
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne expressed discomfort over Siluanov’s participation, stating Canada’s unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to visit Canada soon, with his previous visit in December involving discussions with Carney and Trump to seek an end to the conflict.
Carney’s stance mirrors former Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s firm message to Putin during the 2014 G20 summit, urging him to cease his actions in Ukraine.
Despite recent drone strikes in Kyiv by Russia, there have been optimistic statements from both sides regarding the potential for a peaceful resolution. Putin mentioned that several nations, including the U.S. and China, are willing to support peace efforts.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed hope for renewed diplomatic engagement, indicating a positive shift in peace negotiations. He suggested that the resolution ultimately lies in the hands of Russia and Ukraine, urging continued international support for peaceful dialogue.
