Russia’s ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died at the age of 66, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
The ministry confirmed his death in a statement but initially provided no details about the circumstances surrounding his passing. However, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova later said Darchiev died in Moscow from an unspecified chronic illness.
In its announcement, the ministry described Darchiev as an outstanding diplomat, an experienced leader, a valued colleague and a mentor. It also praised his expertise in American affairs and his contributions to one of the most important areas of Russian foreign policy.
Darchiev had served as Russia’s ambassador to Washington since March 2025, following his appointment by President Vladimir Putin. He replaced Anatoly Antonov, who left the position in late 2024.
His appointment came shortly after Donald Trump returned to the White House, at a time when Moscow and Washington were exploring opportunities to restore diplomatic communication despite significant disagreements over Russia’s war in Ukraine and wider international security issues.
Before becoming ambassador, Darchiev held several senior positions within Russia’s Foreign Ministry, including heading its North America and North Atlantic departments. He was regarded as an experienced specialist in relations between Russia and Western countries, particularly the United States.
He also served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada from 2014 to 2021, managing diplomatic relations between Moscow and Ottawa during a period of considerable tension following Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
Earlier in his diplomatic career, Darchiev worked at the Russian Embassy in Washington as a minister-counsellor between 2005 and 2010. He also led Russia’s delegation during diplomatic discussions with American officials in Istanbul in February 2025.
His death comes at a sensitive period in relations between Russia and the United States, with both countries continuing to navigate disagreements over the Ukraine war, international sanctions and European security.
Although diplomatic engagement has continued under the Trump administration, Moscow and Washington have yet to resolve their fundamental differences over the conflict.
The Russian Foreign Ministry has not announced a successor or provided details about funeral arrangements. Zakharova said information concerning a memorial service would be released later.
Darchiev’s death represents a significant development for Russia’s diplomatic mission in Washington, where he had been responsible for representing Moscow’s interests during a challenging period in bilateral relations.
Swifteradio.com
