Lavrov's Reduced Role in Kremlin Diplomacy
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 the Kremlin’s internal power structure. Once a key figure in shaping Moscow's foreign policy, Lavrov now seems sidelined as President Vladimir Putin tightens control over diplomatic decisions.
Changes in Diplomatic Representation
For the first time in decades, Lavrov did not attend a Security Council session led by Putin, with his absence officially called "coordinated." However, the reallocation of his responsibilities to Maxim Oreshkin and Alexey Overchuk, both technocrats from the presidential administration, hints at a deeper reorganization. The Kremlin appears to be centralizing international representation, limiting the foreign ministry’s autonomy in crafting Russia’s global narrative.
Context Behind Lavrov's Decline
Lavrov’s setback followed the cancellation of a planned meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Budapest. Reports suggest that a tense exchange involving Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, coupled with a Russian memorandum on Ukraine seen by Washington as "maximalist," caused frustration within the Kremlin.
"Some insiders now accuse Lavrov of mishandling the episode—or even undermining Putin’s diplomatic agenda."
In Russia's power hierarchy, errors rarely go unnoticed. Once regarded as a steadfast figure, Lavrov now risks the isolation that preceded the fall of former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.
Summary
The Kremlin's shift toward tighter presidential control has sidelined Sergey Lavrov, reflecting a consolidation of diplomatic power and internal consequences for perceived missteps.
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