Klimkin, Hale discuss security and defense cooperation to counter Russian aggression

"Foreign Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Klimkin met with U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale. During the meeting, a wide range of issues of political interaction between Ukraine and the United States were discussed at the bilateral level and as part of international organizations, as well as the development of security and defense cooperation to counter Russia's aggression,” the statement says.

In particular, Klimkin stressed the importance of the U.S. leadership in further mobilizing and coordinating international support for Ukraine in the issues of protecting sovereignty and territorial integrity and in carrying out reforms in Ukraine.

Also, the issues of promoting European and Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine were discussed. In this context, the American side reaffirmed its continued support for the European choice of Ukraine and assured that the United States will continue to provide active assistance in strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities in line with NATO standards and strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law.

As Ukrinform reported, David Hale arrived in Kyiv on March 5. He intends to meet with senior Ukrainian officials, discuss the upcoming elections and anti-corruption measures. On March 7, Hale will hold a press conference on the results of his visit to Ukraine and current relations between Ukraine and the United States.

iy

iy