Kremlin Denies Rift Between Putin and Lavrov Over Trump Meeting
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov rejected 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 summit was called off following a preparatory phone call between Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. It became apparent there would be no significant progress toward peace in Ukraine and no ceasefire, as demanded by the White House.
Context of the Meeting and Ongoing Conflict
Trump, aiming to foster peace in Ukraine, had met with Putin in August in Alaska. However, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukraine since then, causing frustration for Trump. The President’s strategy to end the war combines economic measures, including sanctions and secondary tariffs, with diplomatic efforts, where the Budapest meeting was seen as a critical opportunity.
Kremlin’s Official 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
Lavrov was notably absent from a recent in-person Security Council meeting of permanent members, where Putin requested a report on preparations for nuclear testing in response to U.S. actions. A source told the Russian newspaper Kommersant that Lavrov voluntarily chose to not attend, despite being a permanent council member.
Summary: The Kremlin firmly denies claims of a dispute between Putin and Lavrov over the canceled Trump meeting, emphasizing continued cooperation despite tensions surrounding Ukraine and diplomatic efforts.