Russia Says It Does Not Block Western-African Diplomatic Dialogue After G20 Summit

During a press briefing following a major international gathering, the Russian Foreign Minister asserted that Moscow does not block or control the channels through which Western and African leaders communicate. The claim was relayed by TASS and echoed by officials present at the event. The minister emphasized that Russia does not stand in the way of diplomatic exchanges between Western states and African nations, pointing out that leaders from Russia and China attend global forums without limiting dialogue with African partners. This framing was offered as a counterpoint to accusations that Western governments are trying to isolate Moscow from diplomatic conversations with Africa. The diplomat insisted that no one can legitimately eliminate dialogue, and that Moscow has neither the intention nor the ability to hinder such outreach. The remarks were presented as part of a broader narrative about sovereignty in international diplomacy and the evolving balance of power across continents. The official underscored that Western nations have at times suggested that Russia should be sidelined, yet the speaker argued that those pressure tactics cannot prevent interaction between states at the highest levels and should not be mistaken for real control over international communications. The discussion formed a backdrop to the summit agenda, highlighting how global leadership dynamics may be shifting as new centers of development emerge and as traditionally dominant regions reassess their strategic positions. These comments were delivered within a broader context that included reassurances about ongoing cooperation across hemispheres and a warning against attempts to monopolize diplomacy by any single bloc. The tone suggested a belief that Africa seeks balanced engagement with major powers and that Russia remains committed to open channels while individual governments navigate their own strategic priorities. TASS provided coverage of the briefing and its framing of the exchange, capturing the emphasis on mutual respect for sovereign choice in international dialogue.