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A notable absence from the summit was Russian President Vladimir Putin, who declined to attend citing security concerns. His absence was met with relief by many, as it negated the presence of an international figure whose war in Ukraine has divided alliances and fueled economic disruptions.
Without Putin at the table, discussions about ending the Ukraine conflict and managing global repercussions could proceed with fewer interruptions. Several leaders, including Indonesian President Jokowi, highlighted that Putin's non-attendance facilitated more candid conversations about how to address the ongoing war, which continues to destabilize the global economy.