​Jon Huntsman ​is stepping down as US ambassador to Russia while he considers another run for governor in his home state of Utah, a report Tuesday said.

“American citizenship is a privilege and I believe the most basic responsibility in return is service to country,” Huntsman ​said in his letter to President Trump, according to a copy obtained by the Salt Lake Tribune. “To that end, I am honored by the trust you have placed in me as the United States ambassador to Russia during this historically difficult period in bilateral relations.​”​

Huntsman, 59, whose resignation is effective Oct. 3, said he informed Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo of his and his family’s decision to leave the post he has served in since October 2017.

“It is my hope that this will allow sufficient time for a successor to be nominated and confirmed,” the ambassador said. “I pledge my full effort in facilitating a smooth transition that ensures our foreign policy goals are kept in proper focus.”

​He was elected Utah’s governor in​ ​2004 and 2008, but left early in his second term to become the US ambassador for China in the Obama administration. ​

Huntsman was the envoy when the Trump administration ordered the expulsion of 60 Russian intelligence officers after Britain accused Moscow of being behind a nerve-gas attack in March 2018 that critically injured a Russian spy in England.

In his departing letter, Huntsman urged the administration to maintain a hard line on Russia.

“Going forward, we must continue to hold Russia accountable when its behavior threatens us and our allies,” ​he said. “While much of what divides us is irreconcilable, there are common interests we cannot ignore. No reset or restart is going to help, just a clear understanding of our interests and values — and a practical framework for sustained dialogue.​”​