Action movie star Steven Seagal has been appointed as a Russian envoy to the US, according to a statement from Moscow’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to the statement, Seagal’s role is “to contribute to the further development of Russian-American relations in the humanitarian sphere”, and does not carry any monetary reward.

“I’ve always had a very strong desire to do all I can to help improve Russian-American relations,” Seagal said. “I have worked tirelessly in this direction for many years unofficially and I am now very grateful for the opportunity to do the same thing officially.”

Seagal is an “ardent supporter” and “close friend” of Russian president Vladimir Putin, according to CNN. The actor attended Putin’s recent swearing-in ceremony in May.

The Independent says that Seagal has “faced some criticism for some comments he has made about the controversial Russian leader”, including describing Putin as “one of the greatest world leaders” during a 2013 interview.