White House: "Biden Has No Plans to Meet Putin at Next Month's G20"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] The White House confirmed on the 13th (local time) that President Joe Biden has no plans to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the upcoming G20 summit next month.

John Kirby, National Security Council (NSC) Strategic Communications Coordinator, stated in a virtual briefing that "The President currently has no plans or intention to meet with Putin."

Referring to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, he said, "President Biden does not believe it is the time to conduct business as usual with Russia," adding, "The President has no plans to engage in talks with Russia at the summit level."

Regarding the recent detention of American WNBA player Brittney Griner in Russia, Kirby mentioned that while a meeting could be possible, there are no plans for a formal summit-level meeting.

Earlier, President Biden had hinted at the possibility of meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping during the G20 summit. In response, Coordinator Kirby said, "There is nothing specific to comment on at this time."

Additionally, Kirby addressed the recent production cut decision by the oil-exporting countries' coalition, OPEC+, noting Saudi Arabia's mention of economic necessity. He stated, "We clearly disagree. In a situation where stable oil supply is the issue, we do not believe this decision was made based on mathematical calculations," dismissing the rationale. He criticized, "The biggest beneficiary of this cut is none other than Russia," calling it "a short-sighted and regrettable decision." Furthermore, regarding President Biden's policy to reassess relations with Saudi Arabia, he said, "The process has now begun, and I do not want to specify any timelines."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.