Putin's Right-Hand Man's Absence Sparks Speculation
The notable absence of Russia's seasoned Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov from a crucial Kremlin Security Council meeting and the G20 delegation has led to rumors that he may have lost favor with President Vladimir Putin.
Analyzing Kremlin Hierarchy Through Occasions
During the Soviet era, Western analysts closely examined footage from state events such as military parades on Red Square to glean insights into Kremlin power dynamics. Observers studied who stood nearest the leader, interpreted body language, and noted which officials appeared favored or sidelined.
Modern Kremlin Observers Focus on Recent Security Council Meeting
Today’s Kremlin watchers are scrutinizing video from Wednesday’s pivotal Security Council session where Putin instructed his closest officials to prepare for a potential nuclear weapons test. Such a critical meeting would normally require the presence of a loyal deputy.
Lavrov's Notable Absence
Contrary to expectations, Sergei Lavrov was the sole permanent Security Council member missing from this key discussion. Reports from the Russian business newspaper Kommersant describe his absence as “coordinated.”
“Sergei Lavrov, Russia's veteran foreign minister, was conspicuously absent - the only permanent member of the Council not present.”
Surrounding Context
- The incident has intensified speculation about shifts within Kremlin’s top ranks.
- The absence is seen as unusual given Lavrov’s traditional status as Putin’s close and trusted aide.
- Such developments echo past practices of assessing Kremlin power through official appearances and body language at state events.
Additional Note
Separately, a British individual who volunteered to spy for Russia was recently jailed, illustrating ongoing espionage tensions.
Author’s Summary
The unexpected absence of Sergei Lavrov from pivotal Kremlin meetings signals potential changes in his standing with President Putin, reflecting the fragile nature of power in Russia’s leadership.