Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland recently addressed the media in Kyiv, Ukraine, following her visit to Sochi with Secretary Kerry. The trip aimed to reinforce the U.S. commitment to implementing the Minsk agreements and support Ukraine's reforms.
Nuland emphasized the importance of her visit to Kyiv after Sochi, stating, "We felt it was very important that... I come to Kyiv after Sochi to make absolutely clear the U.S. commitment to the full implementation of the Minsk agreements." She expressed optimism about Ukraine's progress toward becoming a more democratic and European nation, despite acknowledging the challenges involved in reforms.
During her stay, Nuland engaged in discussions with Ukrainian leadership on constitutional issues and decentralization. She stated that she left with "a renewed sense of optimism about the course that Ukraine is on."
In response to questions about concrete reassurances for Kyiv, Nuland clarified that "the United States is prepared now and actively engaged in deepening our engagement" across various aspects of Minsk implementation, including security and humanitarian relief. Specific measures discussed included ceasefires in strategic areas like Shyrokyne and enhancing OSCE's role.
Regarding expectations for negotiation results, Nuland noted that progress could be measured by reduced shelling in conflict zones and improved safety for Donbas residents. She reiterated U.S. support for Ukraine's pursuit of a stable and prosperous future.
Nuland concluded by affirming U.S. solidarity with Ukraine: "The people of the United States stand firmly with the people of Ukraine in their quest for a cleaner, more democratic, stable, peaceful, prosperous European country."