Lavrov Sidelined in Moscow Power Shift
Sergey Lavrov's recent absence from the Security Council meeting and his removal as head of Russia’s delegations to the G20 and ASEAN summits highlight a clear shift in Kremlin power. Once a central figure in shaping Moscow's foreign policy, Lavrov now seems sidelined as President Vladimir Putin tightens control over diplomatic decisions.
Change in Diplomatic Leadership
For the first time in decades, Lavrov did not attend a Security Council session chaired by Putin, with his absence officially described as “coordinated”. However, transferring his responsibilities to Maxim Oreshkin and Alexey Overchuk—both technocrats from the presidential administration—indicates more than a routine change.
The Kremlin appears to be curbing the foreign ministry’s independence, centralizing authority over Russia’s international representation and messaging.
Context of Lavrov's Decline
Lavrov’s fall coincides with the cancellation of a planned meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Budapest. Reports describe a tense exchange between Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, alongside a Russian memorandum on Ukraine seen in Washington as “maximalist.” These events reportedly caused frustration within the Kremlin.
Some insiders accuse Lavrov of mishandling the episode or even undermining Putin’s diplomatic agenda.
In Moscow’s political hierarchy, errors are seldom forgiven. Once considered an unshakeable figure, Lavrov now faces isolation similar to that which preceded the decline of former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.
Summary
The sidelining of Sergey Lavrov marks a significant recent shift, illustrating how Putin is reclaiming exclusive control over Russia’s foreign policy and diplomatic narrative.