Tensions flare in Russian delegation as Lavrov, Dmitriev clash
During February discussions in Saudi Arabia, a conflict emerged within the Russian delegation. Sergey Lavrov and Kirill Dmitriev clashed at the negotiation table over a chair, according to the independent Russian portal, Moscow Times, citing the Agientstvo channel.
What do you need to know?
- Where did the conflict occur? During the American-Russian talks in Saudi Arabia in February 2025.
- Who was involved in the dispute? Sergey Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister, and Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund.
- Why did the conflict arise? Dmitriev joined the delegation without the knowledge of its leader, which caught Lavrov by surprise.
What were the backstage details of the conflict in the Russian delegation?
During the talks in Saudi Arabia, held in February, an unexpected conflict arose within the Russian delegation. Sergey Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister, was taken aback by the presence of Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund. Dmitriev appeared at the meeting unannounced, causing tension.
Lavrov, not hiding his displeasure, refused Dmitriev a seat at the negotiation table. According to the Moscow Times portal, the Russian Foreign Minister stated that Dmitriev's presence should have been coordinated directly with Vladimir Putin. Only after Lavrov left the room did Dmitriev take a seat at the table.
Chaos in Russian diplomacy
According to sources, chaos in communication has become the norm at the Kremlin, which also affects diplomacy. A Moscow Times informant revealed that different people receive different information from Vladimir Putin, making it difficult to formulate consistent demands by Russia during negotiations. Dmitriev, being a Putin advisor, is closely connected to the Russian leader, further complicating the situation.
The talks in Saudi Arabia were the first direct meeting of Russian and American diplomats since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Although no significant agreements were reached, Dmitriev described them as "positive," emphasizing the need for dialogue between the two great countries.
