Lavrov sidelined in Moscow?

Lavrov Sidelined in Moscow?

Sergey Lavrov’s absence from the latest Security Council meeting and his removal as head of Russia’s delegations to the G20 and ASEAN summits signal a clear shift in Kremlin power dynamics. Once a central figure in shaping Moscow’s foreign policy, Lavrov now seems sidelined as President Vladimir Putin tightens his control over diplomatic decisions.

For the first time in decades, Lavrov did not attend a Security Council session chaired by Putin, with his absence officially described as coordinated. However, his duties were simultaneously transferred to Maxim Oreshkin and Alexey Overchuk, technocrats from the presidential administration, indicating more than standard rotation.

The Kremlin is reinforcing its hold on international representation, limiting the foreign ministry’s ability to influence narratives abroad.

Backstory of Lavrov's Decline

Lavrov’s marginalization follows the cancellation of a planned meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Budapest. Reports suggest a tense exchange between Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with a Russian memorandum on Ukraine seen in Washington as maximalist, caused frustration within the Kremlin.

Some insiders blame Lavrov for mishandling the situation or even undermining Putin’s diplomatic goals. Mistakes within Moscow’s power structure are rarely tolerated.

Lavrov, once viewed as an unshakable figure, now faces the same isolation that preceded the fall of former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Author's summary: Sergey Lavrov’s removal from key diplomatic roles reflects President Putin’s increased direct control over foreign policy amid internal Kremlin tensions.

more

Defence24.com Defence24.com — 2025-11-07

More News