Kremlin Responds to Claims of Putin-Lavrov Disagreement Over Trump Meeting
The Kremlin has rejected media allegations suggesting a falling out between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The dispute was reportedly related to the cancellation of a planned meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Hungary.
Background on the Canceled Meeting
The proposed Trump-Putin summit was dropped after a preparatory phone call between Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. During the conversation, both sides realized there was little potential for progress toward a Ukrainian peace settlement or a ceasefire, a key condition from Washington.
Trump’s Diplomatic Efforts
President Trump, who aims to bring an end to the war in Ukraine, previously met with Putin in Alaska in August. Despite diplomatic engagement, Russia intensified its attacks on Ukraine, straining Trump’s attempts to use economic measures—such as sanctions and secondary tariffs—alongside dialogue to secure a resolution. The Budapest meeting had been expected to play an important role in these peace efforts.
Kremlin’s Official Statement
“There is nothing true in these reports,” said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, as quoted by state news agency TASS. “Of course, Lavrov continues to serve as foreign minister.”
Security Council Absence
Lavrov did not attend a recent in-person meeting of the Security Council’s permanent members, during which Putin ordered preparations for potential nuclear tests if the U.S. were to proceed with similar steps. According to Kommersant, an unnamed source claimed that Lavrov had agreed in advance to skip the session, despite being one of the council’s permanent members.
Author’s Summary
Despite reports of internal discord, the Kremlin maintains that Putin and Lavrov remain aligned, dismissing claims of conflict following the canceled Trump meeting in Hungary.