At 66, Russian ambassador Alexander Darchiev died, foreign ministry says
Death confirmed in Moscow
Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced Wednesday that Alexander Darchiev had died in Moscow at age 66. It attributed his death to a chronic illness but did not specify the condition.
Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova praised Darchiev as “an outstanding diplomat,” calling him an experienced leader, colleague and mentor. She also described him as a scholar of US history and affairs.
Diplomatic career and negotiations
Darchiev had previously headed the Foreign Ministry’s North America and North Atlantic departments. He served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada from 2014 to 2021 and was known for publicly criticizing the West. In February 2025, he led Russia’s negotiating team in Ukraine peace talks with the US in Istanbul, Turkey.
Zakharova addresses speculation
Zakharova cautioned against conspiracy theories about Darchiev’s death, saying US media outlets were “particularly active” in spreading them. She said information about a memorial service would be made public at a later date.
Key points
- Russia’s Foreign Ministry said Alexander Darchiev died in Moscow at 66 from an unspecified chronic illness.
- Darchiev was appointed ambassador to the US in March 2025 after the role remained vacant for six months.
- He previously served as Russia’s ambassador to Canada and led its team in February 2025 Ukraine peace talks.
- The ministry said memorial service details would be announced later.