In recent days, Russian and foreign media have been actively discussing the possible resignation of Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who has held this position for more than 21 years – since 2004. According to sources close to diplomatic circles, the decision may be made in the coming months as part of a “planned renewal of the leadership of the foreign policy bloc”.

Within the ministry, potential candidates to replace Lavrov are already being discussed. Among the possible figures are Deputy Minister Andrey Rudenko, Russia’s Permanent Representative to the UN Vasily Nebenzya, and Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov, known for his international contacts. However, there has been no official confirmation of this information: the Russian Foreign Ministry has called reports of the minister’s possible resignation “rumors and speculation”.

Sergey Lavrov is one of the longest-serving ministers in modern Russian politics. His name is associated with an era of “tough diplomacy” and a sharply anti-Western course, especially after 2014 and the start of the conflict with Ukraine. His departure could symbolize a transition to a new diplomatic strategy – possibly less personalized and more technocratic.

The Kremlin could use a change of foreign minister as a gesture of political flexibility, especially under growing sanctions pressure and Moscow’s efforts to strengthen ties with the Global South. A new minister could become the face of an “updated diplomacy” – one that does not change the course but shifts the tone.

Lavrov’s resignation could also be part of internal personnel renewal. After Vladimir Putin’s re-election in the spring of 2024, there has been a gradual rotation of elites: key ministries are being refreshed, and the role of the Security Council and the Presidential Administration is increasing.

Analysts estimate the likelihood of Lavrov’s departure in the coming months as moderate – around 50%. In a recent interview, Lavrov hinted that he “will work as long as the president needs”, which may be a diplomatic way of signaling his readiness to step down.

#RUSSIA

08.11.2025 10:25