The Russian Foreign Ministry has called on the United States to expedite the process of granting agrément for its newly appointed ambassador, Alexander Darichev, emphasizing the importance of maintaining regular diplomatic operations between the two countries.
Diplomatic Formalities
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov confirmed that Moscow has formally requested Washington to finalize the agrément for Darichev, who currently serves as Director of the North America Department at Russia’s Foreign Ministry. Ryabkov underscored the necessity of ensuring all diplomatic missions are fully staffed to facilitate open dialogue amid strained bilateral relations.
“The absence of a Russian ambassador in Washington is not ideal,” Ryabkov noted, pointing out that the Russian embassy has been without a head since October.
Delays Linked to Administrative Transitions
Sources suggest the delay is connected to the transition to the Trump administration. The U.S. State Department reportedly submitted the agrément to President Biden, but the matter was subsequently deferred to Trump’s incoming team. According to diplomatic sources, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his team have slowed the process, aiming to link Darichev’s appointment to the selection of a new U.S. ambassador to Russia.
A Call for Expediency
Although Russian officials have refrained from describing the situation as critical, they continue to urge the U.S. to expedite the approval. Ryabkov emphasized the broader implications of the delay, noting that diplomatic dialogue benefits from fully operational embassies on both sides.
Despite these challenges, the U.S. ambassador remains active in Moscow, reflecting ongoing, albeit complex, diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
