Africa's first G20 summit opens with an ambitious agenda and a U.S. boycott

At the G20 summit in Johannesburg, Western leaders expressed that the US peace plan for Ukraine requires significant revisions, with French President Macron warning that the G20 risks losing its relevance. The plan, which includes concessions to Russia, has been met with skepticism from European leaders, highlighting the complexities of achieving peace in the region.

World leaders at the G20 summit in South Africa adopted a new declaration, marking a departure from traditional protocols, despite the boycott by the United States. This summit is significant as it is the first G20 meeting held on African soil, highlighting the continent's growing role in global governance.

Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Saturday resulted in the deaths of at least 24 individuals and left dozens wounded, marking a significant escalation in violence amid a fragile ceasefire. Hospitals reported the casualties as the conflict continues to unfold, raising concerns about the humanitarian situation in the region.

Leaders from Europe, Canada, Japan, and Australia convened at the G20 summit to discuss the US plan for Ukraine, which requires further refinement according to an EU official. The discussions aim to enhance the applicability of the US proposal based on prior dialogues.

South Africa has declared gender-based violence a national disaster, coinciding with widespread protests by women across major cities, including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban, ahead of the G20 summit. The protests, marked by participants wearing black to symbolize mourning and resistance, highlight the urgent need for action against gender violence in the country.

European leaders are expressing concerns over a U.S.-led peace plan for Ukraine that aligns closely with Russian demands, potentially leaving Ukraine vulnerable. The plan, which has not included European input, has prompted calls for revisions to ensure Ukraine's interests are prioritized.

Prime Minister Mark Carney is attending the G20 summit in Johannesburg, where South African officials have confirmed a joint declaration will be issued despite the absence of the United States due to a boycott initiated by former President Donald Trump.

European leaders are urgently working on a counter-proposal to the US-Russian 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, which has become a focal point at the G20 summit in South Africa. The plan, proposed by former President Trump, has raised significant concerns due to its demands for territorial concessions from Ukraine to Russia.