G20 Faces Growing Strains as Macron Warns Bloc Is “At Risk”

Macron Highlights Deepening Divisions

French President Emmanuel Macron warned on Saturday that the G20 is “at risk” as the group struggles to respond to major global crises. He shared the concern during a summit in South Africa that the United States boycotted.

More than two dozen world leaders gathered in Johannesburg, but US President Donald Trump’s absence underscored tensions between Washington and Pretoria on several issues. Macron suggested that the G20 may be reaching the “end of a cycle” as geopolitical disagreements deepen.

He emphasized that global powers are finding it harder to address major conflicts together. “We are living in a geopolitical moment where we struggle to resolve major crises, including with members who are not present today,” he said.

G20 Endorses Climate Declaration Without US Input

The summit adopted a declaration focused on the climate crisis and broader global challenges. Negotiators drafted the document without the involvement of the United States, a move a White House official described as “shameful.”

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson said the declaration reflects language the US has long opposed and insisted it “cannot be renegotiated.” This further highlighted the strained relations between the US and the host nation.

Tensions Over Ukraine Peace Proposals

Macron also criticized a new unilateral US plan aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. The proposal reportedly accepts several of Russia’s strong demands, which European leaders view as unacceptable.

European heads of state met on the sidelines of the summit to discuss alternative ideas. Macron stressed that any peace deal must include Ukraine and respect its sovereignty. “There can be no peace without the Ukrainians and without recognition of their sovereign rights,” he reiterated.

G20 Struggles to Find Common Ground

The G20 includes 19 countries along with the European Union and the African Union. However, the group is finding it difficult to agree on sensitive issues such as sovereignty and humanitarian law.

Macron called on world leaders to revive cooperation. He warned that the G20 could weaken further if members fail to align around common priorities. “We must show concrete actions that re-engage this forum and deliver solutions for our economies,” he said.