Kremlin Denies Dispute Between Putin and Lavrov Over Trump Meeting
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov refuted media claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin had a disagreement with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov regarding the cancellation of a planned meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Hungary.
Cancellation of Trump-Putin Summit
The proposed Trump-Putin summit was called off following a preparatory call between Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. It became clear during that conversation that progress toward peace in Ukraine was unlikely, and no ceasefire would be agreed upon, as demanded by the White House.
Background on Peace Efforts
- Trump met with Putin in Alaska in August as part of his efforts to broker peace in Ukraine.
- Despite these efforts, Russia has intensified its military actions in Ukraine, which has frustrated Trump.
- The President's strategy combines economic pressure, including sanctions and secondary tariffs, with diplomatic engagement.
- The Budapest meeting was seen as a key opportunity to advance these diplomatic efforts.
Peskov's Statement
"There is nothing true in these reports," said Peskov, according to the state news agency TASS. "Of course, Lavrov continues to serve as foreign minister."
Lavrov's Absence from Security Council Meeting
This week, Lavrov did not attend an in-person Security Council meeting of permanent members where Putin requested a report on preparations for nuclear tests if the U.S. takes action. An unnamed source told the Russian newspaper Kommersant that Lavrov agreed to miss the meeting despite his status as a permanent council member.
Author’s summary: The Kremlin dismissed reports of a rift between Putin and Lavrov over a canceled Trump meeting, emphasizing ongoing diplomatic efforts despite setbacks in Ukraine peace talks.