Russian ambassador to US Alexander Darchiev dies suddenly, says foreign ministry

Russia's ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, died suddenly on November 11 aged 66. He was appointed in March 2025 amid Moscow's efforts to improve ties with the Trump administration.Russian President Vladimir Putin appointed Darchiev as ambassador to Washington in March 2025. (File Photo: Reuters)Russia's ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died suddenly at the age of 66, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday. The ministry announced his death in a statement, saying Darchiev died on November 11. It did not immediately give a cause of death.The Russian Foreign Ministry said, "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.""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.Russian President Vladimir Putin appointed Darchiev as ambassador to Washington in March 2025, putting the veteran diplomat at the centre of Moscow's efforts to improve relations with the Trump administration. Darchiev was a veteran diplomat with extensive experience in US affairs and had previously been known for publicly criticising Western policies. - Ends