Tensions flare as Lavrov and Dmitriev clash in Saudi talks
During February talks in Saudi Arabia, a conflict arose within the Russian delegation. Sergey Lavrov and Kirill Dmitriev clashed at the negotiating 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 surprised Lavrov.
What were the backstage details of the conflict in the Russian delegation?
During the talks in Saudi Arabia, which took place in February, an unexpected conflict arose within the Russian delegation. Sergey Lavrov, Russia's foreign minister, was surprised by the presence of Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund. Dmitriev appeared at the meeting without prior notice, causing tension.
Lavrov, not hiding his displeasure, refused Dmitriev a seat at the negotiating table. According to the Moscow Times portal, the Russian foreign minister stated that Dmitriev's presence should have been agreed upon 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 for Russia to formulate consistent demands during negotiations. Dmitriev, being a Putin advisor, is closely linked to the Russian leader, which further complicates 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 assessed them as "positive," emphasizing the need for dialogue between the two great countries.
