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Trump says saddened to learn of death of Russia’s Permanent Representative to UN Churkin

Vitaly Churkin died in New York on February 20, a day before his 65th birthday

© EPA/SHAWN THEW

WASHINGTON, February 22. /TASS/. President of the United States Donald J. Trump was saddened to learn of the unexpected death of Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Vitaly Churkin, according to the White House press service.

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Putin: Russia's UN envoy Churkin suffered no defeats

"An accomplished diplomat, Ambassador Churkin worked alongside his U.S. counterparts in New York for more than a decade. While American officials sometimes disagreed with their Russian counterparts, Ambassador Churkin played a crucial role in working with the United States on a number of key issues to advance global security. The President offers the condolences of the American people to the Russian people and government," the press service said.

Vitaly Churkin died in New York on February 20, a day before his 65th birthday. He has been Russia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations since April 8, 2006. The Russian foreign ministry said the diplomat died while on duty. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday signed a decree to posthumously award the Order of Courage to him.

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