On 23 November 2025, G20 leaders adopted a declaration focused on climate action and global challenges without U.S. support, causing major diplomatic tension. The U.S. boycotted the summit and accused South Africa, the 2025 G20 president, of “weaponizing” the G20 and breaking the tradition of consensus. South Africa said the declaration “cannot be renegotiated” and was supported by overwhelming consensus.
Argentina withdrew at the last minute, objecting to the text on the Middle East conflict, but South Africa proceeded. The declaration highlights climate change, renewable energy, and debt relief, which the U.S. opposed.
The summit reflected wider global divides amid the Ukraine war, climate talks at COP30, and disputes over geopolitical influence. South Africa also refused to hand over the G20 presidency to a junior U.S. diplomat, calling it a breach of protocol.
