Russia’s ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died suddenly in Moscow at the age of 66, the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed on Wednesday, November 11.

The ministry announced his death in an official statement, describing the veteran diplomat as a highly respected official who played an important role in Moscow’s foreign policy toward the United States.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova later said Darchiev died from a chronic illness. Specific details about the illness were not immediately disclosed.

Darchiev had served as Russia’s ambassador in Washington since early 2025 after succeeding Anatoly Antonov. President Vladimir Putin formally appointed him to the position in March 2025.

His diplomatic career stretched across several decades and included extensive work involving relations with North America. Before becoming ambassador to the United States, Darchiev served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada and held senior positions overseeing North American affairs within the Foreign Ministry.

He had also served as minister-counselor at the Russian Embassy in Washington, giving him years of direct experience dealing with U.S.-Russia relations.

Darchiev’s death comes at a sensitive moment in diplomatic relations between Moscow and Washington, with both countries continuing discussions over global security issues and the war in Ukraine.

The Russian Foreign Ministry paid tribute to him as an experienced leader, mentor and specialist in American affairs who dedicated much of his professional life to Russian diplomacy.

Officials have not yet announced details regarding his funeral. The Foreign Ministry said information about a memorial service would be provided later.

Darchiev’s passing leaves Russia without its top diplomatic representative in Washington at a particularly important period for U.S.-Russia relations.