Russia’s ambassador to US, Alexander Darchiev, dies suddenly at 66

Russia’s ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, died suddenly on Wednesday at the age of 66, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced. The ministry did not disclose the cause or circumstances of his death.

In a statement, the ministry paid tribute to Darchiev as an accomplished diplomat, respected colleague and mentor with extensive expertise in American affairs.

“The cherished memory of our colleague will forever remain in our hearts,” it said.

Darchiev was appointed ambassador to Washington in early 2025, succeeding Anatoly Antonov during a period of heightened tensions between Moscow and Washington over Russia’s war in Ukraine.

His diplomatic career spanned more than three decades and focused largely on Russia’s relations with North America. He served at the Russian Embassy in Washington during the 1990s and 2000s before becoming ambassador to Canada, a position he held from 2014 to 2021.

Before taking up the Washington post, Darchiev headed the Russian Foreign Ministry’s North America Department..