The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed condolences to the relatives of the former head of the Foreign Intelligence Service Trubnikov

“With deep regret, we learned about the death of a prominent statesman of our time ... Vyacheslav Ivanovich was a truly large-scale personality ... He made a significant contribution to strengthening the position of our country in the CIS space,” the ministry said in a statement.

The Russian Foreign Ministry noted Trubnikov's highest professionalism and versatile deep knowledge. 

“The domestic diplomatic service has suffered a heavy loss.

We will keep the bright memory of Vyacheslav Ivanovich.

We express our sincere condolences to his family and friends," the Foreign Ministry added.

Trubnikov died at the age of 77.

In addition to working in intelligence, he also held the posts of First Deputy Foreign Minister, Special Representative of the President of the Russian Federation in the CIS countries and the Russian Ambassador to India.

Trubnikov was awarded the title of Hero of Russia, the Order of the Red Star (twice), Order of Merit for the Fatherland, IV degree, and a number of foreign medals.