At the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, US President-elect Donald Trump's upcoming second term was a major but scarcely mentioned topic among global leaders.

Many referred indirectly to policy shifts expected under Trump's administration, using phrases like 'next administration' and 'change.' French President Emmanuel Macron criticized 'tariff policies,' hinting at Trump's proposed tariffs on European and Chinese imports.

Macron also mentioned concerns over 'fragile' climate agreements, indicating worries over Trump's stance on the Paris Climate Accord.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres avoided naming Trump while expressing confidence in the US's climate role.

Outside the venue, protests highlighted Trump's presence, contrasting with social media posts celebrating his alliance with figures like Argentina's President-elect Javier Milei.

Behind the scenes, European diplomats took a cautious tone, planning to work with Trump as they have before.

Outgoing President Joe Biden's final summit appearance was marked by a lack of direct discussion about Trump, respecting Biden's preference to avoid mentioning his successor by name.

As the summit concluded, Biden made a call for continued global cooperation, acknowledging an inevitable change in US leadership.