Russia’s Ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, has died at the age of 66 after battling a chronic illness.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed his death on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, saying the veteran diplomat died in Moscow.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, disclosed that Darchiev died from a chronic illness, although the specific medical condition was not revealed.
In a statement, the ministry described him as an outstanding diplomat, an experienced leader and a mentor, adding that he had worked in one of the most important areas of Russia’s foreign policy.
Darchiev was appointed Russia’s ambassador to the United States in March 2025, following years of diplomatic service focused on relations with Western countries.
Before his appointment, he served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada from 2014 to 2021 and held several senior positions within the country’s Foreign Ministry, including director of its North Atlantic Department.
He also represented Russia during diplomatic discussions with the United States in Istanbul in February 2025.
His appointment in Washington came at a period when Russia and the United States were seeking to restore diplomatic engagement amid tensions over the war in Ukraine.
The Russian Foreign Ministry has yet to announce arrangements for his funeral, but said further details about a memorial service would be made available later.
