Russia’s Ambassador To US Dies At 66

Russia’s Ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died on the age of 66, the Russian Foreign Ministry introduced on Wednesday.

The ministry stated the veteran diplomat died abruptly, describing him as an impressive diplomat, skilled chief and mentor. He died in Moscow, based on stories.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova later stated Darchiev had an unspecified persistent sickness. The ministry didn’t present additional particulars about his situation.

Darchiev was appointed Russia’s ambassador to Washington in March 2025 by President Vladimir Putin, succeeding Anatoly Antonov, who left the publish in late 2024.

His appointment got here as Moscow and Washington sought to revive diplomatic engagement following years of strained relations over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Before taking over the Washington posting, Darchiev served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada from 2014 to 2021. He additionally held a number of positions within the Russian Foreign Ministry, together with heading its North America division.

He beforehand labored on the Russian Embassy in Washington as an adviser and later as a minister-counsellor between 2005 and 2010.

In February 2025, he led Russia’s delegation at talks with the United States in Istanbul, Turkey, as each international locations explored methods to enhance bilateral relations.

The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed condolences to his household and colleagues, describing him as a specialist in American affairs who had labored in one of the vital necessary areas of the nation’s international coverage.