Russia names new envoy to US as relations with Washington evolve

In a move signalling a shift in Russian diplomacy, President Vladimir Putin has appointed Alexander Darchiev as Russia’s new Ambassador to the United States.

The appointment, which also includes his role as Russia's Permanent Observer to the Organization of American States (OAS), was confirmed in an official decree, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

According to the legal portal, the decree officially names Darchiev as the "Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the United States of America" and “Permanent Observer of the Russian Federation to the OAS in Washington, D.C.," a position he will hold on a part-time basis.

The US government approved Darchiev’s appointment after a diplomatic exchange on February 27 in Istanbul. In discussions between the Russian and US sides, the US handed over an official note of agreement for his appointment. This follows the vacancy of the post since the departure of Anatoly Antonov in 2024.

At 64, Darchiev has a long and distinguished career in Russian diplomacy. Born in Hungary and a graduate of Moscow State University, he earned a degree in Historical Sciences.

Over his career, Darchiev has held key positions, including director of the North Atlantic Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, and Russian Ambassador to Canada, and served in various roles at the Russian Embassy in the US. His deep expertise in North American affairs makes him a fitting choice for this high-profile role.

In February 2025, Darchiev played a central role as the head of the Russian delegation during the first official talks between Russia and the US following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. Sonata Coulter, deputy assistant secretary of state for Eurasia, participated from the US side.

The United States has also signalled plans to appoint Richard Norland as its new ambassador to Russia. Since 2023, the diplomatic mission has been headed by Lynne Tracy.

By Tamilla Hasanova