G20 Leaders' Declaration Surprises Russia and Ukraine

Russian Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed surprise at the adoption of the New Delhi Leaders' Declaration at the G20 Summit, stating that Moscow did not expect it and was prepared to defend its wording on the Ukraine conflict. Lavrov credited the countries of the global south for ensuring that the G20 agenda was not overshadowed by the Ukraine conflict. He emphasized that the main content of the declaration focused on the awakening and consolidation of the Global South's willingness for the G20 to work towards its main goals. Lavrov also mentioned that Russia is open to negotiations for peace in Ukraine but stressed the need to consider the realities on the ground and NATO's aggressive policy. Additionally, he stated that Russia would rejoin the Black Sea grain deal once its conditions for exporting grain and fertilizers are met.