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Quigley Statement on Meeting with President Poroshenko in Ukraine

February 22, 2017

UKRAINE – Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, released the below statement following his meeting with the President of Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko:

"It was a pleasure to meet with President Poroshenko to discuss the continued efforts to strengthen Ukraine's democracy. From stabilizing the economy to rooting out corruption and fostering a free press, President Poroshenko is leading the charge, and I applaud his government on their efforts and challenge them to keep up the hard work to move their country forward. The partnership between the United States and Ukraine remains essential due to both our shared values and mission countering Russian aggression and restoring Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"We must stand by our friends in Ukraine as they stay the course on what is undoubtedly a long road toward a stable democracy, and we can do our part by preserving and enhancing international sanctions against Russia. The Trump Administration's consideration to remove sanctions on Russia is dangerous, misguided, and damages U.S. global creditability, as it shortsightedly eliminates any leverage we have on the Kremlin. If President Trump remains unwilling to stand up to Vladimir Putin and draw a tough line on Russia, then members of Congress must accept the fundamental responsibility to act."

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Ukraine

Rep. Quigley and Senator Durbin (D-IL) met with President Poroshenko to discuss the enhancement of the strategic partnership between Ukraine and the United States, as well as shared efforts to counter Russian aggression. President Poroshenko provided detailed information on the escalation in Donbas, ongoing provocations, and the violation of the ceasefire regime by militants controlled by Russia.

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