U.S. Ambassador John Tefft, left Moscow
U.S. Ambassador to Russia John Tefft has completed work in Russia and together with his wife Mariella, and I left Moscow. This is stated in the press service of the Embassy of the USA in Russia, received by RBC.
John Tefft held the post of U.S. Ambassador to Russia in 2014. In its place will be assuming the head of the Atlantic Council and former Governor of Utah John huntsman.
The Committee on international Affairs of the United States on September 19 held a hearing on the approval of the new American Ambassador to Russia.
During the hearing, democratic Senator Ben Cardin urged Huntsman to protect U.S. national interests and to raise the issue of human rights in Russia.
In response, huntsman said that “with impatience” waits for the beginning of his work as Ambassador, to counter “the Russian opponents of the United States” through sanctions and cultural-educational exchange. According to Huntsman, these measures will help the Russians to critically assess the actions of Russian authorities.
He added that he will regularly meet with representatives of the civil communities of Russia and the leaders of public organizations. During these meetings, the huntsman intends to promote American values and to “ensure the safety” of expats in Russia.
The future Ambassador added that Russia and the United States have many common interests, so Moscow and Washington must work together, including on the conflict around the Korean Peninsula.