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Russia’s ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died at 66, just over a year and a half after assuming the diplomatic post in Washington.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced his death on Wednesday, describing him as an “outstanding diplomat, an experienced leader and a kind colleague”. The ministry did not disclose the cause of his death or provide further details surrounding the circumstances.
The US State Department confirmed that Darchiev died in Moscow on Wednesday and extended condolences to his family.
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“We offer our condolences to Ambassador Darchiev’s family and loved ones. We refer you to the Russian Government for additional details regarding his passing,” a State Department spokesperson said.
Darchiev was appointed Russia’s ambassador to Washington in March 2025, shortly after US President Donald Trump returned to the White House. His appointment came during a difficult period in relations between Moscow and Washington, with Russia’s military offensive in Ukraine continuing to strain diplomatic ties between Russia and Western governments.
An experienced diplomat specialising in North American affairs, Darchiev held several senior positions in Russia’s foreign service.
Before his appointment to Washington, he served as director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s North America Department between 2021 and 2024, overseeing diplomatic matters involving the United States and Canada.
He previously served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada from 2014 to 2021, gaining extensive experience managing Moscow’s relations with North American governments.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Darchiev publicly defended Moscow’s military action, describing it as a “necessary measure”.
His death leaves Russia’s diplomatic mission in Washington without its ambassador at a time when relations between the two countries remain affected by disagreements over Ukraine and broader international security issues.
Russian authorities have yet to announce funeral arrangements or identify a successor to the diplomatic position.
