UPDATE: The Kremlin has swiftly dismissed growing speculation regarding a rift between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and President Vladimir Putin. This statement follows the postponement of a highly anticipated summit between Putin and US President Donald Trump, originally slated for Budapest, which has left observers questioning Lavrov’s standing in the Russian leadership.
In a press briefing today, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov firmly rejected the notion that Lavrov had fallen out of favor, stating, “I will give you a brief answer: there is nothing true in these reports.” Peskov confirmed Lavrov’s continued role as foreign minister, emphasizing, “Absolutely. Lavrov is working as foreign minister, of course.”
The urgency of this situation is compounded by Lavrov’s notable absence from a key Kremlin meeting earlier this week, where his presence would typically be expected. Additionally, he has not been included in the Russian delegation for the upcoming G20 Summit in South Africa, a role he has previously filled.
Adding to the intrigue, Lavrov’s travel plans and speaking engagements have not been disclosed by the Foreign Ministry for the past two weeks, stirring further speculation about his influence and relationship with Putin. Reports suggest that the cancellation of the summit with Trump, which was announced on October 20, 2023, may be linked to Lavrov’s perceived hardline stance on Ukraine, as indicated by communications from his ministry.
Sources within the US government reportedly cited Lavrov’s conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a turning point, raising concerns about Lavrov’s commitment to engaging with Washington. “Lavrov is clearly tired and seems to think he has better things to do than engage with the US, whatever Putin may want,” an unnamed source told the Financial Times.
This development is critical as relations between Russia and the US remain tense, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump has called for an immediate ceasefire, while Moscow insists on further territorial concessions from Kyiv. The cancellation of the summit reflects significant geopolitical implications, as both nations possess extensive nuclear arsenals and any breakdown in dialogue could escalate tensions.
In response to the Financial Times article, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Western media of waging a “hybrid war” against Russia, suggesting that the speculation surrounding Lavrov’s status is part of a broader campaign to undermine Moscow’s position on the global stage.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on Lavrov and his actions in the coming days. The implications of his standing within the Kremlin are profound, affecting not only Russia’s foreign policy but also the dynamics of international relations amid rising global tensions.
Stay tuned for real-time updates on this unfolding story as Russia navigates its complex relationship with the United States.
