The Russian Foreign Ministry reported the death of Russia's ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, at the age of 66.
The ministry's statement said: "An outstanding diplomat, an experienced leader, a kind comrade and mentor, has passed away. A consummate professional and a brilliant Americanist, Alexander Nikitich Darchiev worked in one of the most responsible areas of Russian foreign policy."
Darchiev had served in the diplomatic service since 1992, holding various posts in the central apparatus of the Russian Foreign Ministry and abroad. He received the rank of extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador in February 2016, when he was ambassador to Canada; he held that post from 2014 to 2020.
Darchiev took charge of the embassy in Washington in March 2025, and at the same time became Russia's permanent observer to the Organization of American States.
From 2005 to 2010 he was minister-counselor at the Russian embassy in the United States. From 2021 to 2024 he served as director of the North America department, after which, until 2025, he headed the North Atlantic department.
Darchiev's awards included honorary certificates from the Foreign Ministry and the Russian president, the medal "For Strengthening Military Cooperation," the Foreign Ministry's "For Distinction" badge, and the Orders of Friendship and Honor.