Russian 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, without disclosing the cause of his death.

Darchiev, a veteran diplomat with extensive experience in American affairs, had been appointed ambassador to Washington by Russian President Vladimir Putin in March 2025, at a time when Moscow was seeking to improve relations with US President Donald Trump's administration.

Announcing his death, the Russian Foreign Ministry expressed profound sorrow and paid tribute to his diplomatic career.

"The leadership and staff of the Russian Foreign Ministry announce with profound sorrow that Alexander Darchiev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the USA, passed away suddenly on November 11, aged 66," the ministry said in a statement.

It described Darchiev as an experienced diplomat who had served in one of the most challenging areas of Russian foreign policy.

"We have lost an outstanding diplomat, an experienced leader, a kind colleague and a mentor. An exceptional professional and a distinguished expert on the United States, Alexander Darchiev served in one of the most demanding areas of Russian foreign policy. We extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Alexander Darchiev's family and loved ones," the ministry added.

Darchiev assumed the ambassadorial position in March 2025, succeeding Anatoly Antonov, who had left Washington in October 2024.

His appointment came during renewed diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Washington, as the Trump administration explored ways to restore communication with Russia amid continuing tensions over the Ukraine conflict.

Before becoming ambassador to the United States, Darchiev headed the Russian Foreign Ministry's North American Department and had previously served as Russia's ambassador to Canada.

He had also held diplomatic assignments in Washington earlier in his career, gaining extensive experience in Russian-American relations.

Known for his criticism of Western policies, Darchiev was regarded as an experienced specialist in North American affairs.

His sudden death comes at a sensitive moment in relations between Russia and the United States, with diplomatic efforts continuing over the war in Ukraine.

The Russian Foreign Ministry did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding his death or announce who would succeed him as ambassador to Washington.