Russia's ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died "suddenly" at the age of 66, Moscow's Foreign Ministry has announced.
Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a separate statement that Darchiev died in Moscow from an unspecified chronic illness.
Moscow Pays Tribute to Veteran Diplomat
The ministry described Darchiev as "an outstanding diplomat, experienced leader, good comrade and mentor," as well as a brilliant scholar of US affairs, working "in one of the most important areas of Russian foreign policy."
Darchiev had served as ambassador to the US since early 2025, succeeding Anatoly Antonov, who was relieved of his duties in late 2024.
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This is a developing story, with further details expected to emerge as the Foreign Ministry releases additional information about the ambassador's death and any official plans for commemorations.
