OREANDA-NEWS President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko had a meeting with U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis.
The parties discussed the situation in Donbas caused by Russian aggression and expressed concern over constant attempts of Russia and its militants to undermine the process of peaceful settlement.

The Head of State expressed gratitude for a strong and resolute support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity by the United States and noted the importance of enhancing transatlantic unity and solidarity.

Petro Poroshenko urged to preserve a single international frontline in the policy of sanctions against Russia until the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty including Crimea.

The Head of State expressed gratitude for the important assistance of the U.S. in the enhancement of Ukraine’s defense capability and resilience of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as in the issue of rehabilitation of the Ukrainian servicemen.

James Mattis expressed full support for Ukraine and supported preservation of sanctions against Russia as country-aggressor. He noted the importance of compliance with commitments as regards ensuring the international order, sovereignty, territorial integrity and freedom.

“Even in the face of the aggression and cyberattacks your country demonstrates solid commitment and does a lot. The U.S. sticks to the position of supporting Ukraine,” he stressed.

He noted the great progress of Ukraine in the sphere of defense and security, as well as the role of Chief of the General Staff of the AFU Viktor Muzhenko in that issue.

The parties discussed the reinforcement of defense potential of Ukraine within the development of strategic partnership with the U.S. and the enhancement of bilateral cooperation in the defense sector.

Petro Poroshenko noted that Ukraine and USA have done a great job over the past three years. “We have created new Armed Forces of Ukraine together with our American partners,” the President emphasized.
The Head of State stressed that Ukraine continues developing its army even in the conditions of aggression. He added that the Ukrainian troops gained experience and can share it with our American partners.

The President emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation in the sphere of security and noted that Ukraine managed to preserve its territorial integrity, independence and sovereignty, inter alia, due to cooperation with the U.S., which is our strategic partner.

The President invited the U.S. Secretary of Defense to visit Ukraine.