Special Representative of the U.S. State Department for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker states that the United States wishes Ukraine success in holding the second round of presidential elections in Ukraine, but does not support any of the candidates.
The statement came as Volker addressed the 12th Kyiv Security Forum via a video link, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
“It's been a challenging five years for Ukraine. Not only because of the annexation by Russia of Crimea, not only because of the war in Donbas, but also politically and economically, it's been very challenging times. What is encouraging to see is that Ukrainians have responded to these challenges by forging a strong and unifying national identity, one that is looking toward the implementation of further reforms and ultimate integration into Euro-Atlantic institutions. The United States stands by Ukraine in this journey," said Volker.
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“We congratulate the people of Ukraine on having a successful first round of presidential elections. We wish you well in conducting the second round of those presidential elections, as well as parliamentary elections this fall,” he added.
According to the U.S. special envoy, traditionally the United States does not endorse any particular candidate in any election; however, Washington stands for principles.
“We're strongly supporting Ukraine in the development of its democratic institutions, in economic reform, in fighting corruption, and building a strong, sovereign, secure state,” Volker emphasized.
