Russia is likely to name Alexander Darchiev as its new ambassador to Washington, according to sources. Darchiev will face a challenging role as the relationship between Russia and the US is at its worst since the Cuban Missile Crisis. He will also need to establish ties with the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump. Darchiev has extensive experience in US and North American affairs, having served as Russia's ambassador to Ottawa from 2014 to 2021.