Russian ambassador to US Alexander Darchiev dies suddenly at 66

Russia’s Ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died suddenly at the age of 66, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday. The ministry did not disclose the cause of his death.

In an official statement, the ministry described Darchiev as an exceptional professional who had served in one of the most challenging areas of Russian foreign policy. It also extended condolences to his family and loved ones.

Darchiev was appointed Russia’s ambassador to Washington in March 2025. His diplomatic tenure coincided with efforts by Moscow and Washington to improve bilateral relations after years of tensions.

Relations between the two countries showed signs of a shift after US President Donald Trump initiated direct diplomatic engagement with Moscow and reduced American military assistance to Ukraine.

Before taking up the ambassadorial position, Darchiev held several important diplomatic posts. He previously headed the Russian Foreign Ministry’s North America Department and served as Moscow’s ambassador to Canada from 2014 to 2021.

A veteran diplomat, Darchiev was also known for his strong criticism of Western governments and their policies towards Russia.

His death recalls the sudden passing of another senior Russian diplomat, Vitaly Churkin, who died in 2017 at the age of 64. Churkin was serving as Russia’s permanent representative to the United Nations at the time of his death. He reportedly suffered cardiac arrest one day before his 65th birthday.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has not provided further details about the circumstances surrounding Darchiev’s death.