RismadarVoice Reporters
November 11, 2026
Russia’s Ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died suddenly at the age of 66, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday.
The ministry confirmed that the veteran diplomat died on November 11, 2026, but did not disclose the cause or circumstances surrounding his death.
In a statement, the ministry described Darchiev as an outstanding diplomat, experienced leader and respected colleague who made significant contributions to Russian foreign policy.
It also expressed condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, acknowledging his extensive experience in diplomatic relations with North America.
Darchiev was appointed Russia’s ambassador to Washington by President Vladimir Putin in March 2025, assuming the position during a period of renewed diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Washington.
His appointment followed discussions between Russian and American officials aimed at restoring diplomatic relations and addressing longstanding disputes affecting their embassies.
He succeeded Anatoly Antonov, who left the position in October 2024.
During his tenure, Darchiev played a role in Moscow’s diplomatic engagement with the administration of United States President Donald Trump, particularly as both countries explored opportunities to improve bilateral relations.
However, relations between Russia and Western countries remained strained over the continuing war in Ukraine, international sanctions and disagreements over European security.
Before his appointment to Washington, Darchiev served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada from October 2014 until January 2021.
He subsequently returned to Moscow, where he headed the Foreign Ministry’s department responsible for North American affairs.
The diplomat also held senior positions at the Russian Embassy in Washington during two earlier assignments, from 1997 to 2002 and 2005 to 2010.
Born on May 14, 1960, Darchiev studied history at Moscow State University and began his diplomatic career in 1992.
His professional experience included extensive involvement in Russian-American relations, international diplomacy and negotiations involving Western governments.
Darchiev was also known for publicly defending Moscow’s foreign policy positions, including Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.
His death comes approximately 20 months after his appointment as ambassador to the United States.
As of Wednesday, Russian authorities had not announced funeral arrangements or identified a successor to the diplomatic position.
The Foreign Ministry said Darchiev would be remembered for his professionalism, leadership and service to the Russian diplomatic corps.
