Anatoly Antonov, Russia’s ambassador to the United States, has announced that his term is ending. This development allows Moscow to appoint a new representative to Washington amid the worst U.S.-Russia relations in decades, primarily due to the conflict in Ukraine.
The news about Antonov’s departure was first reported by Russia’s Kommersant newspaper, which found a handwritten note from Antonov congratulating a Moscow think-tank on its 30th anniversary. In the letter dated June 29, Antonov wrote, “My assignment is coming to an end. I hope that together we will continue to defend the interests of our Fatherland!”
When questioned about Antonov’s departure, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated via Interfax news agency, “There is no reason to comment here. Everyone can have their own personal plans. Decisions on the appointment and change of ambassadors are made by the president.”
Antonov, 69, began his tenure in Washington in September 2017. Prior to this role, he served as a deputy defense minister and a deputy foreign minister.
