Russian Ambassador to United States Alexander Darchiev Dies at 66

Russia's foreign ministry said on Wednesday that Ambassador Alexander Darchiev died at age 66 after serving one and a half years in Washington. The ministry described him as an "outstanding diplomat, an experienced leader and a kind colleague." Darchiev had been appointed to the U.S. post in March 2025, shortly after President Donald Trump returned to office. He previously served as Russia's ambassador to Canada from 2014 to 2021 and led the ministry's North America department between 2021 and 2024. In 2022, during the conflict in Ukraine, Darchiev called Russia's actions a "necessary measure." No further details on the cause of death were provided.