Lavrov sidelined in Moscow?
Sergey Lavrov’s absence from the latest Security Council meeting and removal as head of Russia’s delegations to the G20 and ASEAN summits signal a shift in Kremlin power dynamics. Once a central figure in crafting Moscow’s foreign policy, Lavrov appears increasingly sidelined as President Vladimir Putin strengthens his control over diplomatic decisions.
Security Council absence and leadership changes
For the first time in decades, Lavrov did not attend a Security Council session chaired by Putin — an absence officially described as “coordinated.” However, the reassignment of his duties to Maxim Oreshkin and Alexey Overchuk, technocrats from the presidential administration, suggests a deeper change rather than routine rotation.
The Kremlin seems to be tightening its hold on international representation, diminishing the foreign ministry’s autonomy in shaping Russia’s narratives abroad.
Context behind Lavrov’s fall
Lavrov’s sidelining followed the cancellation of a planned meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Budapest. Reports reveal a tense exchange between Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, accompanied by a Russian memorandum on Ukraine perceived in Washington as “maximalist,” which caused frustration within the Kremlin.
Some insiders now accuse Lavrov of mishandling the episode or even undermining Putin’s diplomatic agenda.
In Moscow’s power structure, errors are rarely tolerated. Once seen as an unshakable figure, Lavrov now faces isolation reminiscent of the decline experienced by former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.
Summary
Lavrov's diminishing role reflects Putin's consolidation of control over foreign policy, marking a significant realignment in Russia's diplomatic leadership.
Would you prefer a more formal or conversational tone for the summary?