Russia announces the "sudden" death of its ambassador to the United States

The Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday the death of the Russian Ambassador to the United States, Alexander Darchiev, at the age of 66.

The cause of death has not yet been publicly revealed.

The ministry said in a statement that Darchiyev "passed away suddenly," describing him as a "professional and exceptional diplomat."

The statement added: “Alexander Darchiev worked in one of the most demanding areas of Russian foreign policy. We express our deepest condolences and deepest sympathy to the family and loved ones of Alexander Darchiev.”