Lavrov Sidelined After Failed US Negotiations
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has fallen out of favor following the collapse of a planned summit between President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump, reports The Moscow Times.
Failed Summit and Kremlin Fallout
Lavrov's decline in standing with the Kremlin reportedly followed an unsuccessful discussion with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which led to the summit's cancellation.
Key Security Council Meeting Absence
On November 5, Lavrov did not attend a crucial meeting of Russia’s Security Council convened by Putin. This meeting focused on proposals to resume nuclear tests, last conducted by Russia in 1990.
Lavrov was "absent by agreement" and was the only permanent Security Council member to miss the important session.
Loss of Leadership Role at G20
In addition to his Security Council absence, Lavrov lost his role as head of the Russian delegation to the G20 summit. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced that Deputy Chief of Staff Maksim Oreshkin will lead the delegation this year.
According to Peskov, the decision to appoint Oreshkin was made by President Putin.
Background
- Sergey Lavrov has led the Foreign Ministry for over 20 years.
- The planned Putin–Trump summit was expected to strengthen bilateral relations before it fell apart.
- Resuming nuclear tests signifies a major shift in Russia’s defense posture.
Lavrov’s recent sidelining indicates a major shift in Kremlin dynamics following failed US negotiations.