MOSCOW, March 26, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - Russia's new ambassador to Washington has left for the US, a source told TASS news agency Wednesday, as the two countries restore ties that were effectively severed following Russia's offensive in Ukraine.

Alexander Darchiev was named as ambassador in February after Russia and the US held talks on resolving diplomatic issues, in a sign of easing tensions after US President Donald Trump returned to power in January.

The post had been unoccupied since last year.

Darchiev, 64, has worked in various Russian diplomatic roles since 1992, most recently as director of the Russian foreign ministry's North American department.

The announcement comes after the US announced it had reached a deal with Russia and Ukraine for a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea.

But Moscow has said the agreement would not apply until international sanctions that have affected its food and fertiliser exports are lifted.