Thank you.
"It's almost one year passed since your last visit in Kyiv and I still remember the very crucial and positive discussions we had at that time, and the whole world (inaudible) our country faced a critical changes in peace and security caused by the extremely cynical aggression against Ukraine, aggression against fundamental principles of international law, peaceful coexistence, respecting sovereignty and territorial (inaudible) and noninterference (inaudible). Present time become the test – Ukraine-U.S. strategic partnership," said President Poroshenko during his meeting with Secretary Kerry.
President Poroshenko expressed gratitude for "the United States invaluable support to our nation" amidst ongoing Russian aggression in Crimea and Donbas. He emphasized the importance of strong U.S. backing from various American institutions: "It is important to underline strong and unanimous support of our country both from United States President, United States Administration, United States Congress, and United States Government."
The discussion also touched on transatlantic solidarity: "The United States leading role in consideration of the transatlantic solidarity in support of Ukraine is critical for pushing of the peaceful solution," said Poroshenko. He recalled their meeting during a major summit where key documents for de-escalation were developed.
Poroshenko condemned violence by terrorists supported by Moscow as well as attacks on civilians: "(Inaudible) Volnovakha, tragedy in Mariupol, tragedy in Debaltseve...is absolutely unacceptable." The illegal imprisonment of Nadiya Savchenko was also discussed as a violation of human rights committed by Russia.
On security cooperation with the U.S., Poroshenko mentioned finding effective ways to enhance it. Reforms within Ukraine were another topic: "We are already demonstrating...urgent sphere...fight against corruption...rule of law...independent court system."
Secretary Kerry responded by affirming U.S. support: "I am here specifically to bring you the support and friendship and goodwill...of the American people." He praised Ukrainians' pursuit of democracy despite challenges posed by Russian aggression.
Kerry emphasized that this situation should not be viewed as a zero-sum game between East and West but rather about rule of law: "This is about rule of law. It’s about norms by which nation-states behave."
He acknowledged promising reform steps led by President Poroshenko even amid conflict conditions while addressing Russia's continued actions in eastern Ukraine: "There’s no other way to call it."
"We’re not seeking conflict with Russia; no one is – not President Poroshenko," stated Kerry who called for diplomatic solutions involving all parties including European allies over upcoming meetings such as those planned at Munich Conference soon after these talks concluded here today
Kerry urged immediate commitments towards ceasefires alongside pulling back heavy weapons beyond artillery ranges followed up removing foreign troops ensuring respect towards international borders restoring Ukrainian sovereignty ultimately bringing lasting political resolution desired regionally globally alike ending bloodshed once-and-for-all through honoring Minsk agreements entered previously signed accordingly fully expecting implementation thereof necessary order achieve peace long sought after countless lives lost unnecessarily due ongoing hostilities
Finally reflecting upon past experiences visiting Maidan site personally moved deeply impressed progress made overall under difficult circumstances Secretary Kerry reiterated commitment standing united supporting Ukraine alongside partners worldwide hoping future holds brighter prospects achieving desired outcomes sought after years struggle determination shown consistently throughout journey thus far