Kremlin Denies Rumors of Lavrov Falling Out of Favor with Putin
Speculation that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov fell out of favor with President Vladimir Putin is false, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed on November. During a briefing, Peskov stated:
“I will give you a brief answer: there is nothing true in these reports. Lavrov is working as the foreign minister, of course.”
Context and Speculation Around Lavrov's Position
Reports suggested Lavrov’s influence declined following a phone call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which was linked to the cancellation of a planned Budapest summit between Putin and the U.S. Despite his permanent membership in the Russian Security Council, Lavrov was absent from a key meeting chaired by Putin on November 5, prompting questions about his status within the Kremlin.
Changes in Diplomatic Roles at International Summits
- Lavrov lost his position as head of the Russian delegation at the G20 summit.
- This year, the delegation will be led by Maxim Oreshkin, deputy head of Russia's presidential administration.
Details on the Budapest Summit Cancellation
Lavrov spoke with Rubio on October 21 to negotiate terms for the Budapest summit. After that call, Rubio reportedly advised the U.S. president to cancel the meeting. Sources familiar with the negotiations told Reuters that the Kremlin’s inflexible demands and refusal to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine were key reasons behind the breakdown of talks.
Aftermath
The summit's failure coincided with the announcement of the first U.S. sanctions on Russia since Trump's return to office, targeting major oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil.
Author's summary: Despite rumors of a fallout, the Kremlin insists Sergey Lavrov remains in favor amid summit cancellations and shifting diplomatic roles within Russia's leadership.