Lavrov Sidelined After Failed US Negotiations
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has lost favor within the Kremlin after the collapse of a planned summit between President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump, reports The Moscow Times.
Key Events Leading to Lavrov's Decline
The failure of the summit followed a problematic conversation between Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which contributed to the summit's cancellation. Reports indicate Lavrov, who has led the Foreign Ministry for over 20 years, was notably absent from a crucial Security Council meeting on November 5.
Security Council Meeting Absence
At this meeting with permanent members of the Security Council—where Lavrov is a regular member—Putin directed officials to prepare proposals for resuming nuclear tests, last conducted by Russia in 1990. Lavrov's absence was described as "by agreement," and he was the only permanent council member not present.
Loss of Roles and Influence
Lavrov also lost his position as head of the Russian delegation to the G20 summit. The Kremlin confirmed that Deputy Chief of Staff Maksim Oreshkin will lead the delegation this year.
"The decision to appoint Oreshkin was made by Putin," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated.
Lavrov's sidelining reflects a shift in Kremlin strategy following the unsuccessful US talks, diminishing his influence in key diplomatic and security matters.
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