Germany says Putin’s possible G20 attendance would test Russia’s readiness for Ukraine talks as U.S. senators urge Trump to withdraw the invitation.
Kyiv denied that Trump proposed Zelensky travel to Moscow, highlighting the strategic stakes around venues, energy talks and diplomacy.
Russia says it will not pause its Ukraine campaign for talks, even as Lavrov and Rubio keep a senior diplomatic channel open in New York.
Russia will attend G20 energy talks in Houston, testing U.S. strategy as energy security, sanctions and shipping risks dominate the agenda.
Washington reportedly told Moscow not to expect sanctions relief or wider economic deals before the war in Ukraine ends, reinforcing a hard-line policy stance.
US President Trump sees strategic value in Putin attending the 2026 G20 Miami summit amid ongoing tensions but notes uncertainty about Russia's official invitation and participation.