Russia’s Ambassador to UN Dies

Tributes poured in Monday for Vitaly Churkin, the Russian ambassador to the United Nations who died suddenly in New York. He was remembered for his intellect, wit and the pride he took in serving his country.

Churkin died one day before his 65th birthday.

The diplomat suffered a cardiac arrest at the Russian Mission on East 67th Street, a law enforcement official said. He was taken to New York’s Presbyterian Hospital, where he died, CNN reported.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said, “The outstanding Russian diplomat died while he was in his current working role.” 

President Vladimir Putin “expressed sympathy to the friends and family as well as to the staff of the Russian Foreign Ministry”, the Kremlin said.

Members of the UN General Assembly stood for a moment of silence in memory of their colleague.