Kremlin Denies Claims of Lavrov Losing Favor with Putin
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed speculation that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had fallen out of favor with President Vladimir Putin. Speaking to Russian media on November 7, Peskov stated firmly:
"There is nothing true in these reports. Lavrov continues to work as the foreign minister."
The statement follows media reports suggesting that Lavrov’s political influence had weakened after his conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which reportedly contributed to the cancellation of the planned Budapest summit between Presidents Putin and Trump.
Reports of Declining Influence
Despite still holding a place on Russia’s Security Council, Lavrov did not attend a key meeting chaired by Putin on November 5. His absence raised questions about his current role in Kremlin decision-making.
Furthermore, Lavrov lost his position as head of the Russian delegation to the upcoming G20 summit. The delegation will instead be led by Maxim Oreshkin, the deputy head of the presidential administration.
Budapest Summit Cancellation
Lavrov and Rubio held a phone discussion on October 21 concerning the terms of the Budapest meeting. Reports claim that after the call, Rubio advised the U.S. president to cancel the summit. Sources told Reuters that the decision came after the Kremlin insisted on one-sided concessions and declined to support a ceasefire in Ukraine.
Consequences of the Collapse
The summit’s cancellation marked a setback in U.S.-Russia diplomatic relations. Soon after, Washington imposed the first sanctions on Moscow since President Trump’s return to office, targeting major oil firms Rosneft and Lukoil.
Author’s Summary
The Kremlin flatly rejected claims of Lavrov’s declining status, though his recent absence from top meetings and loss of key roles may indicate subtle shifts within Russia’s power structure.
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