UPDATE: The United States, under Donald Trump, has officially announced a boycott of the G20 Summit taking place in South Africa this weekend due to severe human rights concerns. This decision comes as the summit, themed “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” is set to focus on pressing global issues like climate change and debt relief.
President Donald Trump declared, “No U.S. Government Official will attend as long as these human rights abuses continue,” labeling South Africa’s hosting of the summit as a “total disgrace.” The U.S. is the G20’s most powerful member, making its absence particularly significant.
In remarks to reporters, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa downplayed the U.S. boycott, stating it is “their loss” and suggesting that boycotting rarely leads to substantial outcomes. He emphasized the summit’s importance in advancing discussions on global issues.
As the summit kicks off on November 21, 2025, it remains uncertain whether a consensus for a joint statement will be achieved among the participating nations, including China, Russia, Mexico, and Argentina, all of which are sending representatives.
Authorities in South Africa are preparing for potential protests surrounding the summit, deploying 3,500 extra police officers and placing the military on standby to ensure security. Activists, both local and international, are expected to voice their concerns regarding issues highlighted by Trump’s boycott.
The G20 meeting will occur immediately following the conclusion of the COP30 conference in Brazil, further amplifying the urgency of discussions on climate change and energy transitions. South Africa, holding the G20’s rotating chairmanship until the end of November, will pass control to the U.S. next year, when the summit is set to take place in Miami, Florida.
As world leaders gather, the absence of the U.S. is casting a shadow over the event, raising questions about its effectiveness and the future of international collaboration on critical issues like climate change and human rights.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
