Lavrov sidelined in Moscow?

Lavrov Sidelined 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 highlight a significant shift in Kremlin power dynamics. Previously a central figure in crafting Moscow’s foreign policy, Lavrov now seems sidelined as President Vladimir Putin takes tighter control over diplomatic decisions.

For the first time in decades, Lavrov did not attend a Security Council session led by Putin—an absence officially called “coordinated.” However, the transfer of his responsibilities to Maxim Oreshkin and Alexey Overchuk, both technocrats from the presidential administration, indicates a deeper change than a routine reshuffle.

The Kremlin is apparently strengthening its hold on international representation, limiting the foreign ministry’s autonomy in shaping Russia’s global narrative.

Context Behind Lavrov’s Decline

Lavrov’s sidelining followed the cancellation of a planned meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Budapest. Reports suggest that a tense exchange between Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, combined with a Russian memorandum on Ukraine seen in Washington as “maximalist,” caused discontent within the Kremlin.

“Some insiders now accuse Lavrov of mishandling the episode — or even undermining Putin’s diplomatic agenda.”

In Moscow’s power structure, mistakes are rarely overlooked. Once viewed as a steadfast figure, Lavrov now faces isolation similar to what preceded the downfall of former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Key Points

Lavrov removed from key diplomatic delegations to G20 and ASEAN.
Absent from a Security Council session chaired by Putin for the first time in decades.
Duties passed to presidential administration technocrats Maxim Oreshkin and Alexey Overchuk.
Shift indicates Kremlin tightening control over foreign policy narratives.
Tense interactions with US officials contributed to Kremlin frustration.

Author’s summary: Sergey Lavrov’s recent exclusion from top diplomatic roles signals Putin’s increased consolidation of foreign policy control amid Kremlin frustrations over diplomatic setbacks.

Defence24.com — 2025-11-07