Lavrov has been Russia’s uncompromising diplomat for more than two decades, receiving the nickname “Dr No” for his relentless obstruction and refusal to negotiate with the West. His recent disappearance from public view has fueled rumors of turmoil within Putin’s administration.
Lavrov Excluded from G20 Duties
Lavrov was notably absent from the Kremlin’s Security Council session on Wednesday and stripped of his conventional role heading Russia’s delegation to the forthcoming G20 summit in South Africa. For the initial time, Kremlin insider Maxim Oreshkin has been assigned the responsibility. Putin cannot attend the G20 personally in regard to an international arrest warrant connected to the abduction of Ukrainian children. Previously, Lavrov had deputized for him, a privilege abruptly revoked now.
At his last public engagement with Putin in late October, Lavrov seemed to be tense and withdrawn while hosting North Korea’s foreign minister. Other accounts indicate that Lavrov had been wanting to retire but had previously been denied approval by Putin.
Fallout from the Trump Summit
Russian media suggests that Lavrov is being blamed for the failure to arrange a summit between Putin and Donald Trump in Budapest, Hungary. The Moscow Times reported that:
“Putin sent Lavrov into disgrace after the Trump summit collapse.”
The controversy arrived from what insiders stated “a disastrous call” Lavrov held with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on October 21. The conversation reportedly soured Washington’s stance and made Trump cancel the summit. Lavrov insisted the talk went “really well,” even citing it must have been “so good” that Washington called off the follow-up meeting.
Sources mentioned by the Nezygar Telegram indicate that Lavrov is “clearly dejected now, he has found himself at the centre of intrigue.” Another source stated:
“Lavrov is indeed tired, and, apparently, he now has more ill-wishers in the Kremlin.”
Kremlin Moves to Rebuild Diplomatic Ties
Speculations indicated that an investigation may have started into Lavrov’s role as Putin seeks a “scapegoat” to describe Russia’s inability to secure international support in the Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, Vlad allegedly dispatched Kirill Dimitriev, a close companion of Putin’s daughter Katerina, to repair ties in Washington, bypassing “sidelined” Lavrov completely.
This week, the Russian leader reportedly cautioned of Western spies plotting to destabilize Russia, while a senior aide hinted at possible “civil war.” On the battlefield, Moscow remained aggressive, despite caution from Washington to cease “senseless killings.” Ukrainian forces reacted with strikes on fuel depots and transportation infrastructure in occupied Crimea.
Despite rumors, the Kremlin highlighted that Lavrov remains foreign minister. Spokesperson Maria Zakharova cited to CNN that Lavrov was still serving, mentioning:
“but that happens.”
Lavrov has represented Russia for more than twenty years, that includes postings as ambassador to the United Nations. He has been a vocal supporter of Russia’s actions in Ukraine and formerly defended Moscow’s intervention in Syria, the annexation of Crimea, and conflicts in Georgia. Popular for his confrontational style, Lavrov often mirrors Putin’s assertive diplomatic approach, including showing Soviet-era symbolism in international summits.
FAQs:
- Who is Sergei Lavrov?
Lavrov is Russia’s long-serving foreign minister and has represented the country in international diplomacy for more than two decades. - Why is Lavrov in the news?
He has reportedly been sidelined by Putin following the failure to organize a summit with Donald Trump.
