Russian ambassador to the US dies suddenly at age 66

The Russian Foreign Ministry announced that Alexander Darchiev, Russia's ambassador to the United States, died suddenly at age 66, according to WTOP.

Darchiev had served as the ambassador to the US since early 2025, succeeding Anatoly Antonov, and was described as an experienced diplomat and scholar of U.S. affairs by the Foreign Ministry.

Before his current post, Darchiev led the Foreign Ministry's North America and North Atlantic departments, served as ambassador to Canada, and was minister-counselor at the Russian embassy in Washington.

In February 2025, he led Russia's delegation in talks with the United States in Istanbul, highlighting his role in key diplomatic efforts.

The Foreign Ministry did not disclose the location or cause of his death, nor details about funeral arrangements.

Darchiev's death follows the sudden passing of another Russian diplomat in the US, Vitaly Churkin, in 2017, noted by the ministry.