Putin's Right-Hand Man Absent from Key Kremlin Meeting
The absence of Sergei Lavrov, Russia's veteran foreign minister, from an important Security Council session has stirred rumors about his standing with President Vladimir Putin. The meeting, held on Wednesday, focused on drafting proposals for a possible nuclear weapons test — a subject one would expect Lavrov to attend.
Significance of Lavrov's Absence
Lavrov was the only permanent Security Council member missing from this critical gathering, raising questions among observers. According to the Russian business daily Kommersant, his absence was \"coordinated,\" hinting at a possible fall from favour.
Historical Context of Kremlin Hierarchy Observations
Since Soviet times, Western analysts have studied footage from state events like military parades to interpret Kremlin power dynamics by noting officials’ proximity to the leader and body language. These observations remain relevant as experts now scrutinize video from recent Kremlin meetings.
Additional Context
- The current scrutiny is linked to a Security Council meeting where discussions involved nuclear weapons strategy.
- Lavrov's missing presence is unusual given his long-standing role as a trusted lieutenant of Putin.
"His absence was 'coordinated'." — Kommersant
Reported by Moscow correspondent @IvorBennett, Friday 7 November 2025
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Author’s Summary
Sergei Lavrov's notable absence from a key Kremlin meeting hints at shifting allegiances within Putin’s inner circle amid rising tensions over nuclear weapons policy.