Lavrov’s Diminished Role 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 notable shift in Kremlin power dynamics. Once the main architect of Moscow’s foreign policy, Lavrov now seems sidelined as President Vladimir Putin strengthens his control over diplomatic decisions.
Key Changes in Diplomatic Leadership
For the first time in decades, Lavrov did not attend a Security Council session chaired by Putin, an absence officially called “coordinated.” However, the transfer of his responsibilities to Maxim Oreshkin and Alexey Overchuk, technocrats from the presidential administration, indicates more than a routine reassignment.
“The Kremlin appears to be tightening its grip on international representation, reducing the foreign ministry’s independence in shaping narratives abroad.”
Consequences of a Failed Diplomatic Meeting
Lavrov’s decline followed 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, alongside a Russian memorandum on Ukraine seen in Washington as “maximalist,” caused dissatisfaction within the Kremlin.
“Some insiders now accuse Lavrov of mishandling the episode — or even undermining Putin’s diplomatic agenda.”
Lavrov’s Position in the Power Hierarchy
In the Moscow power structure, mistakes are seldom forgiven. Once regarded as a firm pillar, Lavrov now faces isolation similar to that which preceded the fall of former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.
Author’s summary: Sergey Lavrov’s sidelining reflects Putin’s tightening control over foreign policy, marking a significant shift in Russia’s diplomatic hierarchy amid rising internal tensions.