Lavrov's Diminished Role in Moscow's Foreign Policy
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 reveal a significant shift in Kremlin power dynamics. Once a central figure in shaping Moscow's foreign policy, he now seems sidelined as President Vladimir Putin tightens control over diplomatic decisions.
Significance of Lavrov's Absence
For the first time in decades, Lavrov did not attend a Security Council session chaired by Putin, an absence officially described as coordinated
. However, the simultaneous transfer of his duties to Maxim Oreshkin and Alexey Overchuk, both technocrats from the presidential administration, suggests more than a routine rotation.
Kremlin's Tightening Control
The Kremlin appears to be reducing the foreign ministry's independence in managing Russia’s international representation and narratives. This move limits Lavrov's influence and strengthens the presidential administration’s grip on foreign policy.
Triggering Events Behind Lavrov’s Fall
Lavrov's decline followed the cancellation of a planned meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Budapest. Reports highlight a tense exchange between Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as a Russian memorandum on Ukraine viewed in Washington as maximalist
, which caused frustration within the Kremlin.
Some insiders now accuse Lavrov of mishandling the episode — or even undermining Putin’s diplomatic agenda.
Within Moscow’s power structure, mistakes are rarely forgiven. Once considered unshakable, Lavrov now faces isolation similar to that which preceded the fall of former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.
Summary
Lavrov’s sidelining reflects President Putin’s consolidation of foreign policy control, reducing the foreign ministry's autonomy amid internal Kremlin frustrations.
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