Russia’s ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died at the age of 66, Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday, Nov. 11.
The ministry said he passed away suddenly and did not give further details about the cause of his death.
The story in 7 points
- Alexander Darchiev, Russia’s ambassador to the US, died on Nov. 11 at age 66.
- Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced the death and said it was sudden.
- No cause of death was given.
- Darchiev was a career diplomat who specialized in Russia–US relations.
- He became Moscow’s envoy in Washington in 2025.
- He had previously served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada.
- The ministry described him as an outstanding diplomat and a kind colleague.
Darchiev took up the Washington post in 2025, at a time when Moscow and Washington were trying to restart contacts after years of tension over the war in Ukraine.
His death comes during a busy week of diplomacy, with Russian, Ukrainian and US delegations meeting in Abu Dhabi for peace talks.
What happens next
Russia is expected to name a chargé d’affaires to run its embassy in Washington until a new ambassador is appointed and approved.
Sources: Al Jazeera, ABC News, CNN