Plans to invite a Russian delegation to next year’s G20 summit in Manchester have sparked significant criticism from political figures and government insiders amid ongoing tensions over Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Government sources confirmed that Russia will be invited to participate in the summit despite continuing conflict, with no consensus among G20 members to exclude the country. Officials acknowledged the decision as “deeply regrettable” but emphasized that the forum’s consensus-based nature leaves little choice for the host nation.
While Russian President Vladimir Putin is not expected to attend in person due to concerns over a potential arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court related to alleged war crimes in Ukraine, as well as accusations surrounding the 2018 poisoning in Salisbury, the presence of a high-ranking delegation is viewed by some as problematic.
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson described the possibility of Putin or senior Russian officials such as Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov entering the UK as “unthinkable.” Johnson warned that allowing their presence would send a dangerous message of returning to normal relations, which he said would serve Kremlin propaganda interests. He called for the UK to make it clear that any individuals wanted for war crimes would be subject to arrest if they attend.
Tory national security spokesperson Alicia Kearns also voiced strong opposition, characterizing the invitation as “an insult” to those affected by the Ukraine conflict and insisting that Moscow should not be welcomed until it ends its military actions.
Within the government, there is reported unease over the decision. Sources indicated that both the Foreign Office and the Ministry of Defence opposed inviting Russia, with the move being primarily driven by Downing Street and the Cabinet Office, which is responsible for summit preparations.
A security official described Russia as an ongoing adversary not only to the UK but to the broader West, warning that participation in the G20 summit could be exploited by Russia as a propaganda victory to bolster its international image.
A government spokesperson reiterated the UK’s official position that participation in G20 meetings is determined by member states and underscored the regret over Russia’s involvement, stating, “Russian participation in G20 meetings is regrettable. The G20 is a consensus-based multilateral grouping, all countries are invited and it’s a matter for member states who represents them at summits.”
Despite the controversy, Downing Street maintained that Mayor Andy Burnham remains firmly committed to supporting Ukraine as the UK prepares to host the summit.