Climate change, the crisis in the Middle East, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and combating global poverty are all pressing issues that are up for discussion at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. President-elect Joe Biden has been using forums like Nato, the G7, and the G20 to address these pressing issues, seeking consensus among Western leaders. However, there are concerns about how the incoming US President Donald Trump will approach these matters.
During his flight to Rio de Janeiro, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need to support Ukraine and stand united against Vladimir Putin. However, with Trump set to take office, there are questions about how he will end the war in Ukraine, especially after his new secretary of state voted against sending more military aid to the country. Allies are already showing signs of wavering, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reaching out to Putin, much to the dismay of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
As the Trump administration prepares to take over, there are concerns about the implications it will have on trade, global conflicts, and alliances. The British Prime Minister is looking to strengthen economic ties with countries like China and ensure support for Ukraine in the face of a more isolationist US government.
During the summit, Starmer aims to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping to advance economic ties and address challenges like climate change. Despite the uncertainties surrounding the incoming Trump administration, Starmer remains committed to showing leadership on climate change and seizing economic opportunities in renewable energy.
While allies attempt to persuade the outgoing president on key issues, such as climate change and taxation, the prospect of a Trump White House is creating waves of uncertainty. There are challenges in reaching a consensus on climate finance and taxation, with some leaders threatening to block agreements endorsed by G20 leaders.
On domestic priorities, both Starmer and Trump share a focus on economic growth and border control. The British Prime Minister is looking to engage in talks with major economic partners like China, Brazil, and Indonesia to pursue his growth agenda. Additionally, plans are being made to address the issue of small boat crossings, with negotiations underway with countries like Kurdistan, Turkey, and Vietnam to establish cooperation and security deals.
As the British economy faces challenges and small boat crossings reach record numbers, Starmer faces a difficult task ahead. With the incoming Trump administration adding further complexities to crucial issues like Ukraine, climate change, and global trade, the Prime Minister must navigate these challenges to secure another term as a center-left incumbent.