US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has declared that he will not participate in the G20 summit scheduled to take place in Johannesburg later this year. His announcement not only signals his absence from the main summit but also from the crucial preparatory meeting of G20 foreign ministers on 20 and 21 February. This decision has led to speculation regarding whether President Donald Trump will also choose to skip the gathering in November.
Rubio took to social media platform X on Wednesday night, sharing his strong sentiments regarding the South African government’s actions. He stated, “I will NOT attend the G20 summit in Johannesburg. South Africa is doing very bad things. Expropriating private property. Using G20 to promote ‘solidarity, equality, & sustainability’. In other words: DEI and climate change. My job is to advance America’s national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism.”
Rubio’s comments reflect a growing tension surrounding international forums where discussions on climate change and equitable development plans are prevalent. His remarks suggest that he views such topics as detracting from the US’s focus on its national interests. Furthermore, using the platform intended for global cooperation as a stage for what he perceives to be anti-American agendas has stirred controversy among political commentators.
The implications of Rubio’s decision are yet to be fully realised as it opens a wider conversation about America’s role on the global stage. The G20 summit, known for bringing together leaders from the world’s major economies to discuss pressing international issues, now faces uncertainty with a key US figure sidelined. Many within the diplomatic community are left to ponder how this absence will affect the dynamics of discussions, particularly concerning economic recovery and environmental strategies.
Furthermore, with Trump’s administration having previously emphasised ‘America First’ policies, Rubio’s stance could align with potential reluctance from the president himself to engage in what he and others might deem ‘soft diplomacy’.