G20 Leaders in South Africa Urge End to Ukraine Conflict, Emphasize Global Cooperation

The G20 summit convened in Johannesburg, South Africa, has become a focal point for international calls to halt the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz addressed the assembly of world leaders, emphasizing the urgent need for Russia to cease its military actions in Ukraine, describing the war as a source of significant human suffering in Europe.

Merz did not comment directly on the recently unveiled 28-point peace proposal put forward by US President Donald Trump, which reportedly includes extensive concessions from Ukraine. The plan, negotiated primarily between US and Russian officials without Ukrainian or European participation, has prompted discussions among European leaders on alternative approaches to achieving peace.

Highlighting the responsibilities of leading economies, the German Chancellor called on G20 member states to act beyond their own economic interests and uphold the collaborative spirit that defines the group. He underscored the importance of fostering economic growth, reducing bureaucratic barriers, and supporting a fair, rules-based international trade system. Merz also voiced support for reinforcing the World Trade Organization and reaffirmed Germany's commitment to partnership with nations in the Global South.

On the sidelines of the summit, Merz held bilateral discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. These meetings took place as European leaders considered their collective response to the US-led peace plan and explored alternative proposals that involve wider international input.

The official summit declaration reflected broad support among participants for Ukraine, as well as for peace efforts in other regions affected by conflict, including Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Palestinian territories. The document reiterated the principles of the United Nations Charter and called for a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in these areas. Additional priorities included expanding the use of renewable energy, advancing climate protection measures, and addressing the debt burdens faced by low-income countries.

The 2025 summit marks the first time the G20 has convened on the African continent. The group comprises 19 major economies alongside the European and African Unions. South Africa, as host, set the agenda around the themes of solidarity, equality, and sustainability. In his opening remarks, President Cyril Ramaphosa stressed the need for enhanced cooperation to address pressing global challenges such as geopolitical instability, climate change, energy security, and armed conflict. Ramaphosa also highlighted persistent disparities between wealthy and developing nations, describing inequality as a major obstacle to sustainable growth.

The summit's proceedings were affected by the absence of several key leaders. The United States, under President Donald Trump, declined to participate, citing unsubstantiated concerns about alleged discrimination against white citizens in South Africa. Other nations, including China, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Argentina, were not represented by their top officials.

Despite these absences, the G20 summit in Johannesburg reinforced the importance of international dialogue and cooperation in addressing global issues, with a strong focus on conflict resolution, economic development, and building equitable partnerships across continents.