By KYIV. Nov 9 (Interfax-Ukraine) – The United States supports the position of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that negotiations with Russia will be possible when Russia withdraws its troops from Ukraine, U.S. Permanent Representative to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield has said.
"I think the Ukrainian president spoke for himself when he spoke last night and said that he’s willing to have diplomacy with the Russians, but they have to honor their borders. They have to abide by the UN Charter. They have to remove their troops from this country. And the international community is standing with Ukraine. Ukraine has to be in the driver’s seat, but we certainly support their efforts," Thomas-Greenfield told reporters in Kyiv on Tuesday.
She also said that during her visit to Ukraine, she reassured the Ukrainian leadership that U.S. President Joe Biden is committed to continuing to work with the Congressional team to ensure continued support for Ukraine.
"We’ve seen bipartisan support for Ukraine. The President is committed to continuing to work with the Congress to ensure that that support continues," Thomas-Greenfield said.
In addition, she said the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will provide an additional $25 million to support vulnerable groups in Ukraine this winter.
"I visited an IDP Collective Center, partially funded by USAID, which is ensuring displaced people have food, shelter, warmth this coming winter. And there I was proud to announce an additional $25 million from USAID to support vulnerable people in Ukraine during the harsh winter ahead," the diplomat said.
Thomas-Greenfield said that during her meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, she reaffirmed her unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence.
"So my message to Russian forces is simple: We will hold you accountable for your war crimes. We will have justice," the diplomat said.
Thomas-Greenfield drew attention to the fact that more than 828 million people are starving in the world and, in this regard, pointed out the importance of extending the Black Sea Grain Initiative.
The U.S. Ambassador to the UN said that "Ukraine will never be a victory for Russia. Democracy will prevail in this country."
