Ambassador Lipaev Found Unconscious inside Russian Embassy in Bucharest

On January 1, 2025, a serious incident occurred at the Russian Embassy in Bucharest, where Ambassador Vladimir Lipaev was found unconscious. Emergency medical services were called to the scene after an embassy employee reported the situation, indicating that Lipaev has known medical conditions.

He was subsequently transported to Floreasca Hospital for treatment. Floreasca is the closest Emergency Hospital to the Ambassador’s residence in Bucharest.

As of now, details regarding his health status and the exact cause of this alarming incident remain undisclosed, with investigations ongoing.

This incident is particularly significant when viewed in the context of a previous tragedy involving the embassy. On April 9, 2024, the wife of former ambassador Valery Kuzmin was found dead inside the embassy due to a cardio-respiratory arrest. Her sudden death shocked both the diplomatic community and the public, raising concerns about potential health issues affecting those within the embassy environment.

These two incidents’ circumstances highlight a troubling pattern regarding health emergencies among Russian diplomatic staff in Bucharest. The recent finding of Lipaev’s unconsciousness adds to the narrative of distress surrounding the embassy, especially considering the loss of Kuzmin’s wife less than a year prior.

Vladimir Lipaev, appointed as ambassador to Romania in April 2024 following Kuzmin’s departure, has had a notable diplomatic career. Before his appointment in Romania, he served as Russia’s ambassador to Estonia but was expelled amid rising tensions between Russia and Estonia due to diplomatic conflicts. His extensive experience includes various roles within the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and postings in countries such as Norway and Germany.

These health-related incidents occur against a backdrop of deteriorating relations between Romania and Russia, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Romanian government has taken several measures in response to perceived threats from Russia, including expelling numerous Russian diplomats and reducing staff at the embassy.

As investigations into Ambassador Lipaev’s condition continue, the situation remains fluid, and updates on Lipaev’s health are awaited as authorities work to uncover more details surrounding this distressing incident.

So far, the Russian Embassy to Bucharest issued no explanatory notice regarding the incident.