US Secretary Tillerson "Disappointed" in Russian Involvement in Ukraine

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson’s visit to Ukraine is a strong symbol of American support, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said. In his July 9 visit to Kyiv, Secretary Tillerson met with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko and anti-corruption activists. He also clearly threw American support behind Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty and integrity in its eastern conflict.

Secretary Tillerson underlined the American government’s disappointment in the lack of progress made under the Minsk Agreement. Russia must make the first move to de-escalate the conflict in eastern Ukraine by respecting the ceasefire, pulling back heavy arms, and guaranteeing the free movement of OSCE monitors, Tillerson said. He further emphasized that the sanctions against Russia will remain in place until Russia address their cause: its military intervention in Ukraine.

The U.S. administration has appointed Kurt Volker as Special Representative for Ukrainian Negotiations. Volker's appointment will hopefully serve as an impetus for further progress on the Ukrainian conflict, Tillerson said.