Pentagon: US is committed to partnership with Ukraine
The head of the Pentagon, James Mattis, told reporters on August 20 that during his visit to Ukraine he intends to confirm Washington's commitment to its strategic partnership with Kyiv, reports the press office of the US defense department.
Earlier, the Pentagon reported on Mattis' visit to Kyiv, which will occur on August 24. The Ukrainian presidential administration has provided information that Petro Poroshenko will hold talks with the US Secretary of Defense.
"I have meetings with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko and Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak, and I intend to underscore our commitment to a strategic partnership and our support for their sovereignty and territorial integrity," Mattis said.
He also intends to highlight "U.S. train, equip and advise efforts to build the capacity of their forces."
The head of the Pentagon recalled that the priority in resolving Ukrainian problems favors diplomatic methods, noting that Kurt Volker, the US Special Representative for Ukraine, will visit Kyiv along with him.
"I'm in support of Secretary Tillerson's efforts there to work with our NATO allies and Ukraine and continue to press Russia on its Minsk commitments," Mattis stressed.
The US Secretary of Defense indicated that this implies "an immediate cease-fire, withdrawal of heavy weapons, and unfettered access by [OSCE] monitoring."
Earlier, the US Special Representative for Ukraine said that there can be no question of recognizing the actions of the Russian Federation in the Crimea and eastern Ukraine.