Petro Poroshenko and John Kerry have thoroughly discussed Russian aggression against Ukraine, the situation in Donbas and Crimea occupied by Russia.

“In the context of countering security challenges we noted that the US remained a key ally of Ukraine in the international arena. We are united by our shared values and understanding that the civilized world can effectively resist attempts to destabilize the global system of international security and cooperation only if it is united,” - the President of Ukraine said at the press conference after the meeting.

In his turn, the US Secretary of State emphasized that his country was closely following the situation in eastern Ukraine and required full implementation of the Minsk agreements: real ceasefire, unlimited access for the OSCE to the entire territory of Donbas, including the border area, release of hostages, withdrawal of all military forces and equipment. "If Russia does not fulfill all its commitments on de-escalation, sanctions will not be lifted. It also concerns Crimea," he stressed. John Kerry reiterated that the US did not recognize the annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula by Russia. He also assured that the US supported the efforts of the Ukrainian government in the implementation of the Minsk agreements.

Petro Poroshenko and John Kerry have discussed the Ukraine-US defense cooperation. "We noted the importance of our cooperation on strengthening defense of Ukraine. The US assistance in reforming the Armed Forces of Ukraine, supply of equipment and technology, joint exercises and training is a very important step in building effective cooperation and coordination in the defense sector," - the President of Ukraine noted and expressed a hope for further strengthening of such cooperation.

As President Petro Poroshenko stated, Ukraine expects that after the high-level meetings in Warsaw, mechanisms to coerce Russia into full implementation of the Minsk agreements and de-occupation of Crimea will be elaborated. "We continue to insist on launching the international mechanism for de-occupation of the peninsula,” – he said. 

The Head of State informed that the Ukraine-NATO Commission’s high-level session was planned in the capital of Poland, as well as the meeting in a unique format – USA, Germany, France, UK, Italy and Ukraine.

According to Petro Poroshenko, the basis of all negotiations is solidarity and shared responsibility, and a meeting in this format confirms mutual interest in strengthening the special partnership.

“We expect NATO’s support, we expect that the positions declared during the Bucharest Summit, the key of which is that NATO's doors remain open to any European country, are unchanged,” – the President of Ukraine stressed. 

In his turn, John Kerry said that NATO commended the progress of Ukraine in reforms, particularly on civilian leadership of the Armed Forces and further advancement to NATO standards.

The US Secretary of State noted significant positive changes that took place in Ukraine over the past year focusing on the establishment of new police, National Anti-Corruption Bureau, increased transparency of governance, constitutional amendments on justice and civil service reform. He also noted positive changes in the Prosecutor General’s Office, anti-corruption activities, elimination of oligarchic yoke, and reinforcement of the banking system and improvement of the investment climate in Ukraine as well as underscored significant progress in the Ukrainian energy sector.

“In any country of the world, at any time, it is a huge agenda and huge achievements. However, given the situation and certain security challenges of your country, it is even more impressive and proves the achievements of the Ukrainian people. Ukraine certainly advances,” – John Kerry said.

During the press conference, the Ukrainian President and the US Secretary of State noted the efficiency of interaction between the countries in the creation of an efficient anti-corruption system in Ukraine. “We are grateful to American partners for constant attention to Ukraine in difficult times - for a powerful expert assistance and financial aid, which is crucially important for the restoration of economic stability, growth and implementation of reforms,” Petro Poroshenko declared.

The President of Ukraine noted that today’s negotiations had been efficient and proved the meaningful content of the Ukraine-US strategic partnership – from the sphere of reforms to the sphere of security. The Ukrainian side is hopeful that the US would provide support in the issue of the judicial reform that will actively involve civil society, hold transparent contests and form a new Supreme Court.

Petro Poroshenko emphasized that the visit of US Secretary of State John Kerry had reaffirmed US support for Ukraine, trust and efficient coordination between Kyiv and Washington.