Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to abstain from attending the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi has stirred significant attention. This marks another instance of Putin's absence from prominent international gatherings, highlighting his reluctance to engage with Western leaders. This move comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions due to Russia's actions in Ukraine and other geopolitical factors.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that President Putin will not be participating in the G20 Summit scheduled in New Delhi. This decision follows his non-attendance at the BRICS 15th Summit in Johannesburg, where he addressed the event virtually. The Russian President has now turned his attention towards a "special military operation," according to the Kremlin spokesperson. This choice has significance given the upcoming G20 event's lineup of major Western leaders, including US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron, who have imposed sanctions on Russia following its Ukraine invasion.
This isn't the first time Vladimir Putin has opted to abstain from international gatherings. In the wake of the Ukraine invasion in February 2022, Putin stayed away from the G20 Summit in Bali, Indonesia. Furthermore, during the annexation of Crimea in 2014, he was notably absent from a G20 summit as well. This consistent pattern raises questions about Putin's willingness to directly confront Western leaders in a diplomatic setting.
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Geo-political experts offer insights into Putin's strategic choices. The avoidance of international events featuring Western leaders suggests Putin's reluctance to face direct confrontation with countries that have imposed sanctions on Russia. Professor Harsh V. Pant, Vice President of Studies and Foreign Policy at the Observer Research Foundation, notes that Putin's absence symbolizes Russia's growing isolation on the global stage. The aftermath of the Ukrainian invasion has compelled Russia to steer clear of potential public humiliation.
Additionally, recent developments, such as the demise of Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, have cast shadows on Russia's internal security. Analysts speculate that Putin's concerns about his own safety might influence his decisions to limit his international appearances.
Vladimir Putin's reputation faces further scrutiny in the wake of Yevgeny Prigozhin's passing. Global leaders have linked Prigozhin's death to his alleged short-lived challenge against Putin's leadership. The Kremlin vehemently denies these claims, dismissing Western speculations about its involvement in the plane crash as baseless.
Amidst these complexities, New Delhi gears up for the upcoming G20 Summit. Set to take place at the Bharat Mandapam International Exhibition-Convention Centre in Pragati Maidan on September 9th and 10th, the summit is a gathering of paramount significance in the global diplomatic calendar.
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