Lavrov’s Diminished Role in Moscow
Sergey Lavrov’s absence from the recent Security Council meeting and his removal as head of Russia’s delegations to the G20 and ASEAN summits signal a clear shift in Kremlin power structures. Once a central figure in shaping Moscow’s foreign policy, Lavrov now appears sidelined as President Vladimir Putin strengthens his control over diplomatic decisions.
Key Changes in Diplomatic Leadership
For the first time in decades, Lavrov missed a Security Council session led by Putin, with his absence officially described as “coordinated.” However, the reassignment of his duties to Maxim Oreshkin and Alexey Overchuk, both presidential administration technocrats, hints at more than a routine personnel change.
The Kremlin seems to be tightening its hold on international representation, limiting the foreign ministry's role in crafting narratives abroad.
Reasons Behind Lavrov’s Marginalization
Lavrov’s decline follows the cancellation of a planned meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Budapest. Reports suggest a tense encounter between Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as a Russian memorandum on Ukraine viewed in 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 Moscow’s power structure, errors are seldom forgiven. Lavrov, once considered indispensable, now faces the isolation similar to that preceding former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu’s fall.
Summary
Lavrov’s sidelining marks a significant realignment in Russia’s diplomatic command, reflecting Putin’s move to centralize authority and restrict the foreign ministry’s influence.
“Lavrov’s absence from the Security Council and replacement at key summits reveal a visible shift in Kremlin’s power dynamics.”Would you like the summary to be more detailed or concise?