Russian ambassador to United States Alexander Darchiev dies at 66
Russia's ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, died suddenly on November 11, according to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry.
Russia's ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, died suddenly on November 11 at the age of 66, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The ministry did not provide a cause of death.
The statement read, "On the passing of Alexander Darchiev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the United States of America, 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."
It added, "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."
President Vladimir Putin appointed Darchiev as ambassador to Washington in March 2025, positioning him at the centre of Moscow's efforts to improve relations with the Trump administration. Darchiev had a long career in diplomacy and was known for publicly criticising Western policies.