Source:
PoliticoWASHINGTON — President Barack Obama plans to nominate his top Russia adviser as the next U.S. ambassador to that country, a man who helped the administration’s work to “reset” the two countries’ relationship.
A senior administration official on Sunday confirmed the choice of Michael McFaul — a departure from standard practice because McFaul is not a career diplomat. The choice was first reported by The New York Times.
The administration official spoke on condition of anonymity ahead of a formal announcement. Press secretary Jay Carney, traveling with the president in Missouri, declined to confirm McFaul’s appointment.
McFaul is considered one of the nation’s foremost experts on U.S.-Russia relations and has become a trusted policy adviser as the president has sought to ease long-standing tensions with Russia. Among the recent moves to begin the relationship anew is the signing of New START to reduce strategic warheads.
Read more:
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0511/55891.html
The article goes on to say a couple of puzzling things. Not sure if I can quote them without violating the rules, though.
:shrug: