Russia's U.S. ambassador Alexander Darchiev dies 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 in an online statement. The ministry did not disclose the location or cause of death.

"An outstanding diplomat, experienced leader, good comrade and mentor, a brilliant scholar of U.S. affairs, working in one of the most important areas of Russian foreign policy," the statement said. Darchiev had held the post since March 2025, succeeding Anatoly Antonov, who left the position in late 2024. His diplomatic career included leading the Foreign Ministry's North America and North Atlantic departments, serving as ambassador to Canada, and acting as minister-counselor at the Russian embassy in Washington. In February 2025, he led Russia's delegation in Istanbul for talks with the United States. The ministry did not provide details about funeral arrangements.