Why Nobody Wanted to Eat Lunch With Putin at G20

At the G20 summit in Brisbane, members agreed to boost their economies by $2 trillion by 2018. However, the focus was on Vladimir Putin, who faced criticism for his role in the Ukraine crisis. Putin was at a crossroads, with options to either continue destabilizing Ukraine and face sanctions or take a diplomatic path. Despite being treated with respect, Putin left the summit early, citing travel and work commitments. He criticized Ukraine's decision to sever banking services in breakaway regions, while denying Russia's involvement in supporting insurgents. A Bloomberg poll indicated that investors view Russia as a major threat to global markets.

What was the main economic goal agreed upon by G20 members in Brisbane?

• To reduce global debt by $2 trillion

• To boost their economies by a collective $2 trillion by 2018

• To increase trade tariffs

• To cut down on military spending

What was the primary criticism directed at Vladimir Putin during the G20 summit?

• His environmental policies

• His economic policies

• His role in the Ukraine crisis

• His stance on global trade

What could lead to eased sanctions and a better relationship between Russia and the West?

• Russia increasing its military presence in Ukraine

• Russia recognizing Ukraine as a single political space

• Russia imposing trade barriers

• Russia withdrawing from the G20

Why did Vladimir Putin leave the G20 summit early?

• He was asked to leave by other leaders

• He was unhappy with the summit's outcome

• He had a prior engagement

• He needed to return to Moscow for work

What percentage of international investors surveyed viewed Russia as the biggest threat to global markets?

• 52%

• 26%

• 10%

• 5%