Global diplomatic gatherings reveal widening rifts as US unpredictability fuels realignments
Recent high-level meetings across continents highlighted a splintering of international alliances, driven by uncertainty in U.S. policy.
At a G20 finance ministers' session, delegates were surprised by Russia's presence and pressed to keep Moscow out of official photos, while the host nation blamed Canada for trade frictions. Ukraine sought additional air-defence aid at a gathering of its partners that notably excluded the United States. Meanwhile, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye formalised a new defence pact, and Japan announced plans to broaden joint drills with India. Chinese President Xi Jinping continued his world tour, attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS summits.
Why it matters
These meetings show shifting alliances that could reshape security and trade patterns worldwide.
How this story developed
- Aug 28 China, Russia and India convene in Bishkek for SCO summit challenging US influence
- Aug 31 India’s enthusiasm for the SCO is reported to be waning.
- Aug 31 Xi pledged stronger China‑Russia cooperation at the summit.
- Sep 1 Modi urged Putin to end the Ukraine war during the summit.
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