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Russia’s ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died suddenly at the age of 66, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday, without disclosing the cause or circumstances of his death.

No details about funeral arrangements had been announced.

“We have lost an outstanding diplomat, an experienced leader, a kind colleague and a mentor,” the ministry said in a statement, describing Darchiev as an accomplished professional and an expert on US affairs.

Darchiev had served as Russia’s ambassador in Washington since March 2025, following his appointment by President Vladimir Putin. He took up the post at a time when Moscow and Washington were seeking to restore diplomatic contacts after relations deteriorated sharply following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

His appointment coincided with efforts by US President Donald Trump’s administration to engage Moscow and explore prospects for ending the war in Ukraine, a diplomatic shift that caused concern among Kyiv and European governments.

A veteran diplomat at the center of US-Russia relations

Darchiev was a career diplomat with extensive experience in relations with North America. Before becoming ambassador in Washington, he served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada from 2014 to 2021 and held senior positions at the Foreign Ministry, including heading its North American Department.

He had also served at the Russian Embassy in Washington as minister-counselor, giving him previous experience of the diplomatic environment in which he later became Moscow’s top representative.

In February 2025, Darchiev led the Russian delegation at talks with US officials in Istanbul, part of the early diplomatic contacts between the two governments following Trump’s return to the White House.

Known for his forceful criticism of Western governments, Darchiev had publicly defended Moscow’s positions in disputes with the United States and its allies. His appointment was viewed as significant because of his familiarity with US affairs and his long experience in managing relations with Washington.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said he had served in “one of the most demanding areas of Russian foreign policy” and extended its condolences to his family and loved ones.