US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo held a press conference at the State Department in Washington, D.C. to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the administration’s efforts to bring about a lasting peace. Pompeo was joined by his spokesperson, MS Bruce.
Pompeo began by reiterating the administration’s desire for a ceasefire in Ukraine, which he said was a necessary step towards achieving a lasting peace. He stated that the President is committed to bringing an end to the conflict and that the United States is willing to work with both sides to achieve this goal.
When asked about the conditions under which Russia would be willing to negotiate, Pompeo acknowledged that the exact terms were not specified but emphasized that the administration’s hope was that Russia would express a willingness to bring an end to the conflict. He also noted that if Russia did not cooperate, the United States would have to examine its options and make decisions based on that assessment.
Pompeo was asked about the administration’s actions in response to Russia’s refusal to negotiate, but he replied that the sanctions imposed on Russia remained in place and that there had been no steps taken to relieve them. However, he emphasized that issuing threats or making ultimatums would not be constructive and that the administration’s approach was focused on finding a mutually acceptable solution.
The press conference highlighted the complexities of the situation and the challenges of negotiating a ceasefire in Ukraine. Pompeo’s comments underscored the administration’s commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict, but also acknowledged the need for Russia to take concrete steps towards cooperation.
Key Points:
The administration is committed to bringing an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
The President wants to bring about a lasting and enduring peace in Ukraine.
The administration hopes that Russia will express a willingness to negotiate under certain conditions.
Sanctions imposed on Russia remain in place, but there has been no step taken to relieve them.
Issuing threats or making ultimatums would not be constructive, according to Pompeo.