PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, STATE DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON JANUARY 23, 2021 The United States strongly condemns the use of harsh tactics against protesters and journalists this weekend in cities throughout Russia. Prior to today’s events, the Russian government sought to suppress the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression by harassing protest organizers, threatening social ... Read More»
Presidential Statement on the Paris Climate Agreement Acceptance
ACCEPTANCE ON BEHALF OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA I, Joseph R. Biden Jr., President of the United States of America, having seen and considered the Paris Agreement, done at Paris on December 12, 2015, do hereby accept the said Agreement and every article and clause thereof on behalf of the United States of America. ... Read More»
Proclamation on Ending Discriminatory Bans on Entry to The United States
JANUARY 20, 2021 BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION The United States was built on a foundation of religious freedom and tolerance, a principle enshrined in the United States Constitution. Nevertheless, the previous administration enacted a number of Executive Orders and Presidential Proclamations that prevented certain individuals from entering the United States — ... Read More»
Inaugural Address by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.
The United States Capitol 11:52 AM EST THE PRESIDENT: Chief Justice Roberts, Vice President Harris, Speaker Pelosi, Leader Schumer, Leader McConnell, Vice President Pence, distinguished guests, and my fellow Americans. This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope. Of renewal and resolve. Through a crucible for the ages America ... Read More»
OSCE Forum for Security Cooperation under United States’ Chairpersonship
OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation under United States’ Chairpersonship will focus on fulfilment of commitments, rebuilding military transparency and confidence VIENNA, 20 January 2021 — Fulfilling commitments and rebuilding confidence and transparency are key steps to addressing new and long-standing politico-military issues in the OSCE region, said United States Acting Assistant Secretary of State ... Read More»
COVID-19 Information
Last updated: 01/19/2021 Effective January 26, all airline passengers to the United States ages two years and older must provide a negative COVID-19 viral test taken within three calendar days of travel. Alternatively, travelers to the U.S. may provide documentation from a licensed health care provider of having recovered from COVID-19 in the 90 days ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan on the Detention of Aleksey Navalny
January 18, 2021 The detention of oppositionist Aleksey Navalny immediately upon his return to Russia on January 17 appears to be deeply politicized. The international community will be observing Mr. Navalny’s treatment closely. The Russian government is responsible for ensuring Mr. Navalny’s health and safety. The United States notes with grave concern that Mr. Navalny’s ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Arrest of Aleksey Navalny
Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Press Statement by Michael R. Pompeo January 17, 2021 The United States strongly condemns Russia’s decision to arrest Aleksey Navalny. We note with grave concern that his detention is the latest in a series of attempts to silence Navalny and other opposition figures and independent ... Read More»
Health Alert – Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs
Effective January 26, all airline passengers to the United States ages two years and older must provide either a negative COVID-19 viral test taken within three calendar days of travel or provide a positive test result and documentation from a licensed health care provider or public health official of having recovered from COVID-19 in the ... Read More»
Update on Department Transition Efforts and Travel
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Morgan Ortagus, Spokesperson January 12, 2021 The Department of State is well along in its transition efforts with President-elect Biden’s team. We are fully committed to the completion of a smooth and orderly transition process to be finalized over the next 8 ... Read More»
U.S. Announces Designation of Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo January 11, 2021 The State Department has designated Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism for repeatedly providing support for acts of international terrorism in granting safe harbor to terrorists. The Trump Administration has been focused from the ... Read More»
Sanctioning Russia-linked Disinformation Network for its Involvement in Attempts to Influence U.S. Election
PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE JANUARY 11, 2021 Today, the United States is imposing sanctions on seven individuals and four entities that are part of a Russia-linked foreign influence network associated with Andrii Derkach, who was designated on September 10, 2020, pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13848 for his attempt to influence ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador John J. Sullivan
"The violent and criminal assault on the U.S. Capitol during the recent proceedings to certify the results of the presidential election and the victory of President-elect Biden, is a grave reminder of how important it is to value and safeguard the essential elements of our republic that are enshrined in our Constitution, including the right ... Read More»
Ambassador John J. Sullivan interview with Konstantin Remchukov of Nezavisimaya Gazeta
Ambassador John J. Sullivan interview with Konstantin Remchukov, Editor-in-Chief, Nezavisimaya Gazeta December 18, 2020 NEZAVISIMAYA GAZETA: I’m going to be brief in my questions, to give you some time to you to respond. And I will start with the news of the last days: cyber attacks allegedly conducted by Russians on major infrastructure, objects, and networks in America. And I read and ... Read More»
Commerce Department Will Publish the First Military End User List Naming More Than 100 Chinese and Russian Companies
For Immediate Release Monday, December 21, 2020 Office of Public Affairs (202) 482-4883 publicaffairs@doc.gov The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) will amend the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by adding a new ‘Military End User’ (MEU) List, as well as the first tranche of 103 entities, which includes 58 Chinese and 45 Russian companies. The ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on Russian Influence in the Mediterranean
Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, in comments at the MED Dialogue, accused the United States of playing political games in the Mediterranean and stalling the appointment of a new UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Libya. It’s unfortunate and unhelpful that Mr. Lavrov again gets the facts wrong and attempts to ... Read More»
Deputy Secretary Biegun’s Conversation with Belarusian Opposition Leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya
Today, Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun participated in a virtual discussion hosted by the German Marshall Fund with Belarusian presidential candidate and leader of the opposition, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. They discussed the ongoing political crisis in Belarus, and Deputy Secretary Biegun reaffirmed strong U.S. support for the Belarusian people’s resounding calls for their voice ... Read More»
Sanctioning Iranian Intelligence Officers Involved in the Abduction of Bob Levinson
U.S Department of State Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State December 14, 2020 For 13 years, the Iranian regime has denied knowledge of Robert A. “Bob” Levinson’s whereabouts or condition. However, senior Iranian officials authorized Levinson’s abduction and detention and launched a disinformation campaign to deflect blame from the regime. Today, the United ... Read More»
The President’s National Space Policy
The President’s National Space Policy , released yesterday, outlines America’s principles and goals regarding our national interests and activities in space. The policy reaffirms America’s leadership in outer space, emphasizes the importance of the commercial space sector to economic growth, and reaffirms the importance of all nations acting responsibly for the safety, stability, security, and long-term sustainability ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan on Human Rights Day
"We all must continue to strive for global respect for the inalienable rights belonging to all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, sexual identity, disability, or any other characteristic. Over the course of my career, I have seen the progress that can be made when nations invest in the protection of human rights of all ... Read More»
International Human Rights Day
On International Human Rights Day, the United States celebrates the rights and freedoms enshrined in the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This day has a special resonance for Americans, as the United States was the first nation founded on the belief that all individuals are created equal and endowed by their creator with certain unalienable ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo on the EU’s Adoption of a Human Rights Sanctions Framework
The United States welcomes the European Union’s adoption of its global human rights sanctions framework. Today, on the occasion of International Human Rights Day, we note that this groundbreaking accomplishment will further protect human rights worldwide. Read More»
Remarks by Deputy Secretary Biegun to the OSCE Ministerial Council Plenary Session
As prepared for delivery by Deputy Secretary Stephen E. Biegun to the OSCE Ministerial Council Plenary Session Tirana, Albania (remotely, via Zoom) December 3, 2020 It is an honor to join Ambassador Gilmore in representing the United States and Secretary Pompeo at this Ministerial. I commend Chair-in-Office Prime Minister Rama for his leadership throughout this ... Read More»
Ambassador Reeker’s Remarks to the OSCE Side Event on Crimea
As prepared for delivery by Ambassador Philip T. Reeker to the OSCE Side Event on Crimea Tirana, Albania (remotely, via Zoom) December 3, 2020 Thank you, Foreign Minister Kuleba. It is an honor to speak at this event today and to join Ukraine and other partners in highlighting Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine, including its ... Read More»
Joint Statement by the Heads of Delegation of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair Countries
TIRANA, December 3, 2020 – The Heads of Delegation of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries – Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov, Deputy Secretary of State of the United States Stephen E. Biegun, and Minister for European and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian – welcome the cessation of military activities in the area ... Read More»
International Day of Persons with Disabilities
PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE DECEMBER 2, 2020 December 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a fitting occasion for the United States to reaffirm its commitment to, and support for, the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in daily life of the community. We point with pride to robust public and private enforcement of the ... Read More»
New Sanctions Under the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act (INKSNA)
U.S. Department Of State Office Of The Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement By Secretary Michael R. Pompeo November 27, 2020 On Wednesday, November 25, 2020, the United States sanctioned four entities located in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Russia for supporting Iran’s missile program, under the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation ... Read More»
Observance of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE NOVEMBER 25, 2020 Around the world, violence against women harms not only millions of women and girls every year, but also their communities and families. Violence against women, whether in the workforce, the home, a school environment, or as a result of conflict or crisis, is ... Read More»
The United States Welcomes Cessation of Hostilities Between Armenia and Azerbaijan
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo November 17, 2020 The United States welcomes the cessation of active hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan. From the start of the recent hostilities, the United States called for an end to the violence and condemned the military ... Read More»
US and France want more clarity from Russia on Karabakh
The U.S. and French authorities admit that Russia’s actions contributed to peace in unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh. At the same time, they want more details from Moscow about the peace agreement. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drienne came to this agreement during talks in Paris, as representatives of the U.S. ... Read More»
On the 41st Anniversary of the U.S. Embassy Takeover in Tehran
Forty-one years ago today, Ayatollah Khomeini’s followers broke into the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and took more than 50 U.S. diplomats hostage. For the next 444 days, the Iranian regime tormented these brave Americans and their families who did not know if they would ever see their loved ones again. The survivors of the Iran ... Read More»
International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists
A free press is essential to an informed citizenry. A vigorous press can, for instance, expose corruption, shine a light on human rights abuses, and provide the public essential information during crises. In many places, journalists fulfilling this necessary role risk attacks by authoritarian regimes and criminal organizations seeking to clamp down on press freedom and freedom of expression. More than 1,500 journalists have been killed worldwide since the turn of the century, and in more than 85 percent of cases, the killers ... Read More»
International Religious Freedom Day
Twenty-two years ago today, the United States enacted the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act, reaffirming our commitment to promote and defend the fundamental right to religious freedom for all people everywhere. Born of the vision of America’s founders, our government understood that an individual, irrespective of their religion or beliefs, should be free to organize ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan’s Interview with Nezavisimaya Gazeta
Transcript Friday, October 23, 2020 Mr. Konstantin Remchukov, Editor-in-Chief, Nezavisimaya Gazeta NEZAVISIMAYA GAZETA: So, Mr. Ambassador, as you mentioned, the time for the last months was unusual, so many frustration for people, so many bad news. And culture has always been a good retreat for people to boost up their energy, morale, spirits, and everything. ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Meetings with Armenian FM Mnatsakanyan and Azerbaijani FM Bayramov
The following is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met with Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov separately today in Washington, D.C. Secretary Pompeo emphasized the need to end the violence and protect civilians. The Secretary also stressed the importance of the sides entering substantive ... Read More»
United States Charges Russian Military Intelligence Officers for Cyber Crimes
The criminal charges the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced today against six officers of the Russian General Staff Main Intelligence Directorate’s (GRU) Military Unit 74455 highlight once again Russia’s continuing disruptive, destructive, and destabilizing activities in cyberspace. Read More»
Joint Statement Calling for a Ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh
"The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian, and Secretary of State of the United States of America Michael R. Pompeo, representing the Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, condemn in the strongest terms the unprecedented and dangerous escalation of violence ... Read More»
Transcript of Ambassador Sullivan’s Interview with Interfax
AMBASSADOR JOHN SULLIVAN WITH INTERFAX NEWS AGENCY Transcript Tuesday, September 29, 2020 Interfax representatives: Renat Abdullin, Deputy Director General Margarita Velekhova, Foreign Desk Correspondent INTERFAX: It seems that the U.S.-Russia dialogue on strategic stability and arms control has reached a stalemate. Russia has described the proposals voiced by U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Arms Control ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Mission Russia
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Mission Russia (October 1, 2020) Location: Vladivostok Event: The Embassy is aware of media reports of an ongoing dock workers strike at the Vladivostok Commercial Sea Port (Strelnikov St. 9), which has reportedly attracted a crowd of at least 500 people. U.S. citizens should avoid the Vladivostok Commercial Sea Port and ... Read More»
Escalation of Violence between Armenia and Azerbaijan
Morgan Ortagus, State Department Spokesperson: The United States is alarmed by reports of large scale military action along the Line of Contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone that has resulted in significant casualties, including civilians. We extend our condolences to the families of those killed and injured. The United States condemns in the strongest terms ... Read More»
Health Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (September 24, 2020)
Location: Russia Event: As COVID-19 case numbers continue to rapidly increase in Moscow and Russia, this alert recommends that U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents traveling to or residing in Russia continue to exercise caution to limit exposure to COVID-19. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow and U.S. Consulate General in Yekaterinburg continue to operate with ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador John J. Sullivan on U.S. Citizen Trevor Reed
September 24, 2020 Today I visited U.S. citizen Trevor Reed at Vodnik prison, following my visit to him last month. As the U.S. Ambassador to Russia, the health, welfare, and treatment of U.S. citizens are my top priorities. I remain concerned by the treatment of some of my fellow citizens held by Russian authorities. I ... Read More»
Imposing Sanctions on Entities and Individuals Advancing Russia’s Malign Influence
Today, the United States imposed sanctions on a network connected to Russian operative Yevgeniy Prigozhin by targeting entities and individuals working on his behalf to advance Russia’s influence in the Central African Republic (CAR). The United States is also targeting actors involved in supporting the activities of the Federal Security Service, also known as the ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador John J. Sullivan on U.S. Citizen Paul Whelan
September 22, 2020 Today I had the opportunity to visit IK-17, a Russian penal colony in Mordovia where U.S. citizen Paul Whelan is being held. Mordovia is about an 8-hour drive outside of Moscow but it is almost five thousand miles from Michigan, where Paul ought to be – at home, with his family. Paul ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Return of UN Sanctions on the Islamic Republic of Iran
Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo September 19, 2020 The Trump Administration has always understood that the greatest threat to peace in the Middle East comes from Islamic Republic of Iran, whose violent efforts to spread revolution have killed thousands and upended the lives of millions of innocent people. History shows appeasement only emboldens such ... Read More»
Statement from President Trump on the Passing of Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Issued on: September 18, 2020 Today, our Nation mourns the loss of a titan of the law. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg served more than 27 years as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—notably just the second woman to be appointed to the Court. She was a loving wife to her ... Read More»
Security Incident at Spaso House, the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence in Moscow
Today, at approximately 16:20 local time, a Russian national in a vehicle breached the perimeter at Spaso House, the U.S. Ambassador’s residence in Moscow. He was intercepted by Embassy personnel and turned over to local authorities. Ambassador Sullivan was not home at the time, and no one was injured in this incident. in Moscow. He ... Read More»
International Day of Democracy
PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 14, 2020 In recognition of the International Day of Democracy on September 15, we reaffirm the right of every citizen to take part in the processes of democratic self-governance. Democracies are accountable to their citizens. They respect the Rule of Law, protect lives and property, and ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Russia, countrywide Event: The Government of Russia is currently holding a series of regional and local elections. Twenty-eight regions and numerous municipalities will open polls today through Sunday. There will likely be lines outside polling stations or crowds in other public areas. There is also the potential for authorized and/or unauthorized demonstrations preceding and ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to Russia John Sullivan speaks about the 19th Anniversary of the 9-11 Terrorist Attacks
“Today, as we remember the victims of terrorism and share the grief of their families and friends, the United States of America pledges to work with all willing partners to ensure that these global threats are defeated, so we can build a better world that brings security, liberty, prosperity, and justice to all.” Read More»
Music of World War II: Remembering the Shared Sacrifice of Allied Nations
A virtual concert commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Read More»
U.S. and Soviet Soldiers Work Together During World War II
This collection of little known photographs at the U.S. National Archives shows American and Soviet soldiers working together in training, sport, meals, and entertainment at the joint US-Soviet base operations in Eastern Europe during World War II. At the Tehran Conference in November 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt proposed to Premier Joseph Stalin the idea ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador John J. Sullivan on U.S. Citizen Trevor Reed
Statement by Ambassador John J. Sullivan on U.S. Citizen Trevor Reed Moscow, August 31, 2020 (as prepared) Good afternoon. Thank you all for coming out today. I have just been in to Vodnik prison to visit with American citizen Trevor Reed. As the U.S. Ambassador to Russia, the health, welfare, and treatment of U.S. ... Read More»
Deputy Secretary of State Biegun’s Meetings in Ukraine
During his August 26-27 visit to Ukraine, Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister Reznikov, and Foreign Minister Kuleba to discuss a broad range of multilateral and regional issues, including Ukraine’s reform agenda, the conflict in eastern Ukraine, and the situation in Belarus. ... Read More»
Deputy Secretary of State Biegun’s Meetings in Moscow, Russia
On his August 25 visit to Moscow, Russia, Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov, and Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov. During these meetings, they discussed the full range of bilateral and regional issues. Read More»
Confirmation of Reports on the Poisoning of Aleksey Navalny
The United States is deeply concerned by reported preliminary conclusions from German medical experts that Russian opposition activist Aleksey Navalny was poisoned. If the reports prove accurate, the United States supports the EU’s call for a comprehensive investigation and stands ready to assist in that effort. MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE: Mr. Navalny’s family ... Read More»
Deputy Secretary Biegun’s Travel to Lithuania, Russia, Ukraine, and Austria
Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun will travel to Vilnius, Lithuania; Moscow, Russia; Kyiv, Ukraine August 24–27 to meet with senior government leaders to discuss a range of regional and international issues. Deputy Secretary Biegun will travel to Vienna, Austria August 27 to meet with counterparts at the Organization for Security and Cooperation in ... Read More»
Supporting the Aspirations of the Belarusian People
PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 20, 2020 The United States has been inspired by the display of peaceful expression of the Belarusian people seeking to determine their own future. We stand by our long-term commitment to support Belarus’ sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the aspirations of the Belarusian people ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia: COVID-19 Testing Requirement For All Foreigners Traveling to Russia
Event: The Russian Government recently updated COVID-19 testing requirements for all foreigners traveling to Russia. The Russian government now requires that all foreign travelers present a negative PCR COVID-19 test result upon arrival, dated no later than three days prior to arrival in Russia. The results can be in English and/or digital. Foreign travelers must ... Read More»
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo With Ray Furlong of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty
U.S Department of State Interview Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State Prague, Czech Republic U.S. Chief of Mission Residence August 12, 2020 QUESTION: You have condemned the conduct of the elections in Belarus and you’ve also condemned the violence from security forces that has followed those elections. But what does this mean for the future ... Read More»
Russian Decree Targeting RFE/RL and Voice of America in Russia
U.S. Department of State Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State August 10, 2020 The United States is deeply concerned by the recent draft decree published by Russian authorities targeting U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM)-funded entities in Russia. For more than 70 years, Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Europe / Radio ... Read More»
Message for U.S. Citizens: Voting in 2020 U.S. Elections
Message for U.S. Citizens VOTING IN 2020 U.S. ELECTIONS Your vote counts! Did you know that many U.S. federal elections have been decided by a margin smaller than the number of ballots cast by absentee voters? All states are required to count every absentee ballot as long as it is valid and reaches local election ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador John J. Sullivan on Conviction of U.S. Citizen Trevor Reed
Today, U. S. citizen Trevor Reed was convicted in a Russian court following a trial in which the prosecution’s case and the evidence presented against Mr. Reed were so preposterous that they provoked laughter in the courtroom. Even the judge laughed. This conviction, and a sentence of nine years, for an alleged crime that so ... Read More»
The United States and Russia Hold Space Security Exchange
Officials from the Departments of State, Defense, and Energy, as well as the National Security Council, met with Russian Federation officials in a Space Security Exchange under the framework of the Strategic Security Dialogue. In more than 13 hours of discussion, these senior U.S. civilian and military experts with space policy and operational experience engaged in ... Read More»
Meeting of U.S. – Russia Expert Groups on Trilateral Arms Control and for the Space Security Exchange
A U.S. delegation, including representatives from the Departments of State, Defense, and Energy, as well as the National Security Council, will travel to Vienna, Austria, for U.S.-Russia Working Group meetings from July 28-30. During these meetings officials will discuss Nuclear Doctrine and Warheads, and Transparency and Verification, as part of the U.S. push for trilateral ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Sullivan: Honoring Representative John Lewis
On Friday, July 17, our country lost a civil rights icon, Representative John Lewis, following a six-month battle with pancreatic cancer. When he was diagnosed with the disease, John Lewis took it in stride, stating that he had been in some kind of fight – for freedom, equality, and basic human rights – for nearly ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Mission Russia
The Embassy is aware of reports that protests may take place at Lenin Square in Khabarovsk and Revolution Square in Vladivostok on Saturday,July 18, around 12:00 p.m. local time. Earlier protests in Khabarovsk also included marches from Lenin Square up Muravyeva-Amurskogo Street and Turgeneva Street toward the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral. U.S. citizens should avoid these demonstrations and any ... Read More»
The United States Imposes Sanctions on Russian Financier’s Global Sanctions Evasion Network
For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo July 15, 2020 Today, the United States took action to further limit Yevgeniy Prigozhin’s destabilizing global activity by designating entities that have enabled his ability to evade sanctions – this time, in Sudan. These designations include Private Military Company (PMC) Wagner’s apparent cover entity in Sudan, ... Read More»
Ambassador John J. Sullivan’s Interview with RBC TV
Ambassador John J. Sullivan’s Interview with RBC TV Broadcast on July 3, 2020 RBC: Ambassador, thank you very much for giving us this opportunity to speak with you again. First question: the biggest challenge of the year is coronavirus. In Russia we have an expression – друг познаётся в беде, a friend in need is ... Read More»
The United States Announces Additional Humanitarian Assistance for the Syrian People
U.S. Department of State Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State June 30, 2020 At today’s fourth Brussels Conference on “Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region,” hosted by the European Union, Special Representative for Syria Engagement Ambassador James Jeffrey announced more than $696 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the people of ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Russia, countrywide Event: Coronavirus restrictions have been lifted in many parts of the country, increasing the possibility of encountering public gatherings. There is also the potential for authorized and/or unauthorized demonstrations in the days preceding and subsequent to the conclusion of nationwide voting on July 1. Should there be any demonstrations, a heavy police ... Read More»
Joint Statement on Pride Month 2020
Moscow, June 27, 2020 We, the undersigned Ambassadors and Chargés d’Affaires of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States, affirm the inherent dignity of each individual as expressed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and call upon the government of the Russian Federation to adhere to its stated commitment to ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan on Pride Month
“June is Pride Month. LGBTI rights are human rights, and human rights are universal.” Read More»
Pride Month 2020
Today, the U.S. Embassy in Russia displays the LGBTI Pride Flag. The LGBTI flag was created by American artist and activist Gilbert Baker and was first raised as a symbol of hope and diversity on June 25, 1978, during the Gay Freedom Day parade in San Francisco. June is Pride Month and we celebrate that ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert from Embassy Moscow
Location: Moscow, Russia Event: The Embassy is aware of reports of protests taking place in central Moscow, including Lubyanka Square and Prospekt Academician Sakharov. U.S. citizens should avoid these demonstrations and any other demonstration-related activities. Actions to Take: Monitor local media for updates. Avoid the areas. Avoid crowds. Avoid demonstrations. Notify friends and family of ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Routine Aeroflot Flights to New York (JFK) Aeroflot continues to operate weekly flights to the United States. Most of these flights route from Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) directly to New York (JFK). Due to the consistency of these flights and the availability of tickets for purchase on Aeroflot’s website , the Embassy ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador John J. Sullivan on the Sentencing of U.S. Citizen Paul Whelan in Russia
Ambassador Sullivan: Good morning everyone. I’m disappointed, crestfallen, outraged at what I’ve just heard. An American citizen, who’s also a citizen of three other countries – the United Kingdom, Canada, and Ireland – has been sentenced to 16 years, so I’m told. There was a judgement that was read by a judge – a three-judge ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (June 16, 2020)
Event: Extension of Temporary Stay or Permanent Residency of Foreigners in Russia Until September 15, 2020 President Putin signed a decree extending the temporary stay or permanent residency of foreigners and stateless persons in the Russian Federation until September 15. This decree applies to immigration documents, including visas, residence permits, and migration registration, that have ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (June 15, 2020)
Event: Reminder of Upcoming Aeroflot flights to New York Aeroflot direct flights from Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) to New York (JFK) are scheduled to depart on Tuesday, June 16, and Sunday, June 21, at 14:15. Tickets are still on sale via Aeroflot's website. Please note that the Embassy is not creating lists of potential passengers, ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Conviction of U.S. Citizen Paul Whelan in Russia
The United States is outraged by the decision of a Russian court today to convict U.S. citizen Paul Whelan after a secret trial, with secret evidence, and without appropriate allowances for defense witnesses. We have serious concerns that Mr. Whelan was deprived of the fair trial guarantees that Russia is required to provide him in ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan on the Occasion of Russia Day
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Occasion of Russia Day in the Russian Federation
On behalf of the U.S. government and the American people, I congratulate the citizens of Russia as you celebrate “Russia Day.” On this holiday, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Declaration of Russian State Sovereignty, which recognized the democratic aspirations and sovereignty of the people of Russia, their centuries of history, culture, and traditions, ... Read More»
Special Representative Jeffrey’s Call with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Vershinin
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Media Note June 11, 2020 Special Representative for Syria Engagement Ambassador James Jeffrey spoke by phone today with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin on the situation in Syria. Ambassador Jeffrey and Deputy Foreign Minister Vershinin discussed the political process for the settlement of ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (May 28, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Upcoming Aeroflot flights to New York and Miami Aeroflot has recently announced a direct flight from Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) to Miami International Airport. This flight is scheduled to depart on Saturday, May 30, at 11:00. Tickets are on sale via Aeroflot’s ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan on the Occasion of Eid al-Fitr
Ambassador Sullivan: “Today, on the final day of the holy month of Ramadan, I would like to wish Muslims across Russia and around the world a blessed Eid al-Fitr.” Read More»
Secretary Pompeo on the Treaty on Open Skies
Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State May 21, 2020 Tomorrow, the United States will submit notice of its decision to withdraw from the Treaty on Open Skies to the Treaty Depositaries and to all other States Parties to the Treaty. Effective six months from tomorrow, the United States will no longer be a ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan on Delivery of U.S. Ventilators to Russia
May 21, 2020 Today, the U.S. donated 50 life-saving ventilators to the Russian people. This $5.6 million humanitarian aid donation will eventually include a total of 200 U.S.-produced ventilators to save lives in Russia. Through the generosity of the American people and private industry innovation, the United States is providing critical medical supplies and ventilators ... Read More»
Delivery of U.S. Ventilators to Russia
May 21, 2020 Today, the United States donated and delivered 50 high-quality ventilators to the people of Russia. This represents the first part of a humanitarian donation of a total of 200 much-needed, U.S.-manufactured ventilators to Russia, and is made possible through the generosity of the American people and private industry innovation. This $5.6 million ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (May 18, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Upcoming Aeroflot flight to New York Tickets are now on sale on Aeroflot’s website for a flight from Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) to New York, JFK on Saturday, May 23, departing at 14:15. Please note that the Embassy is not creating lists of ... Read More»
The United States is Leading the Humanitarian and Health Assistance Response to COVID-19
The United States is the world’s leader in health and humanitarian assistance. For decades, the United States has been the largest contributor to global health security. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the U.S. government has committed nearly $500 million in assistance to date. This funding will improve public health education, protect healthcare facilities, and increase ... Read More»
Fact Sheet: Transatlantic Cooperation on COVID-19
As President Trump has said, the United States is working with our friends and partners around the world to coordinate our efforts on stopping the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The United States values our cooperation with allies and partners in combatting the pandemic and in planning for our collective recovery. In addition to the ... Read More»
25th Anniversary of the Extension of the Non-Proliferation Treaty
Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Press Statement by Morgan Ortagus, Department Spokesperson May 11, 2020 On May 11, 1995, States Party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons decided that the Treaty, known as the Non-Proliferation Treaty or NPT, should remain in force indefinitely. The NPT entered ... Read More»
World War II Allies: U.S. Lend-Lease to the Soviet Union, 1941-1945
Even before the United States entered World War II in December 1941, America sent arms and equipment to the Soviet Union to help it defeat the Nazi invasion. Totaling $11.3 billion, or $180 billion in today’s currency, the Lend-Lease Act of the United States supplied needed goods to the Soviet Union from 1941 to 1945 ... Read More»
Message by Ambassador Sullivan and Brig. Gen. Harmon on the 75th Anniversary of Victory in Europe
Ambassador Sullivan and Brig. Gen. Harmon: “Today, on this 75th anniversary of the end of the war in Europe, let us pause to honor the service of so many of our family members, friends, allies, and partners who sacrificed so much for the cause of freedom.” Read More»
Message by Secretary Pompeo on the 75th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day)
Today we mark 75 years since the end of hostilities in Europe in the Second World War. We pay tribute today to all those who stood up for humanity and freedom in the face of tyranny, and we honor the sacrifices of all service members involved in ridding the world of Nazi, fascist, and other ... Read More»
The U.S. is Leading the Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic and Developing a Vaccine
Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Media Note May 4, 2020 As outlined in its recent Action Plan , the United States is bringing together the brightest minds in U.S. government agencies, the private sector, universities, and overseas partners to develop vaccines and therapeutic interventions to protect the world from COVID-19. The United ... Read More»
Press Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the World Press Freedom Day
Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State May 2, 2020 On World Press Freedom Day, recognized around the world on May 3, we highlight the critical role of independent media in facilitating the open exchange of information and ideas so vital to free, prosperous, and secure democratic societies. This year, as the world faces ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan on the continued detention of U.S. citizen Paul Whelan
Ambassador Sullivan on the continued detention of U.S. citizen Paul Whelan. Read More»
The Spirit of Torgau
By Brigadier General (retired) Gregory G. Govan Former Defense Attaché, US Embassy, Moscow It was the iconic moment that nearly didn’t happen. The two fronts in the European campaign of the Second World War meet, cutting Germany in two and heralding the imminent victory of the Allies over the Nazis. Everyone knew it was going ... Read More»
Statement by President Trump and President Putin on the 75th Anniversary of the Meeting on the Elbe
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 25, 2020 Joint Statement by President Donald J. Trump and President Vladimir Putin of Russia Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Meeting on the Elbe April 25, 2020, marks the 75th Anniversary of the historic meeting between American and Soviet troops, who shook hands on the damaged bridge over the Elbe ... Read More»
Press Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Occasion of Ramadan
PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE APRIL 23, 2020 On behalf of the American people, I extend my best wishes to Muslim communities in the United States and around the world as they mark the start of the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan is a time of introspection, service, and compassion. In the ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan’s Roundtable with Journalists (April 22, 2020)
AS DELIVERED REMARKS Ambassador Sullivan’s Roundtable with Journalists – via telephone Wednesday, April 22, 2020 Ambassador Sullivan: Thank you for taking the time to join me on this call today. I hope you are all well, and I’m looking forward to doing a roundtable in person sometime soon. But this is the next best ... Read More»
Ambassador John J. Sullivan on Patriots’ Day
Today is April 20, a very important day in my hometown of Boston, Massachusetts, as well as in several other states. The third Monday in April is called “Patriots’ Day” because it commemorates the first battles of the American Revolution in 1775 in Lexington, Concord, and Menotomy (now called Arlington), Massachusetts. The City of Boston ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan on Paul Whelan’s Trial (April 20, 2020)
Good morning, thank you for being here. My name is John Sullivan, I am the U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation. I came here to the courthouse today to try to get into the hearing that is going to be held any moment. I tried last week and was not admitted. I tried again today, and did not ... Read More»
Message from Secretary Pompeo to the Faithful of the Orthodox Churches
Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, April 18,2020 Susan and I send you Easter greetings and wish you the joy of this Blessed Season. Although churches around the globe have been empty recently, the faith of believers fills the world each and every day. May your faith strengthen your hope as well as your resolve during ... Read More»
An Orthodox Easter Greeting Video Message from Ambassador Sullivan
Ambassador Sullivan: “May you have an Easter filled with hope and joy.” Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 17, 2020)
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 17, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Electronic Pass Requirements for Travel to Moscow and Reports of Aeroflot Suspending Flight Operations Through July 2020 Important information for U.S. citizen and legal permanent residents traveling to Moscow in order to depart the Russian Federation via commercial flights: The Moscow City government implemented ... Read More»
Ambassador John J. Sullivan on the Postponement of Victory Day Celebrations in Russia
Ambassador Sullivan: The end of World War II in Europe and the defeat of Nazism and fascism that it represents are important events that can never be forgotten, and we fully support Russia’s decision to reschedule these commemorations to a time when we are all able celebrate them properly. Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 15, 2020)
Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Departure of Aeroflot Flight SU102 to the United States on April 14, 2020 Yesterday, approximately twenty U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents departed Moscow for New York-JFK via an Aeroflot commercial flight. These passengers were able to purchase tickets directly through Aeroflot at Sheremetyevo International Airport in Moscow. We have heard ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador John Sullivan on Paul Whelan’s continued detention
It is during challenging times like these that we must not lose sight of what is fundamentally important. As the U.S. Ambassador to Russia, my highest priority is the security and well-being of all U.S. citizens in this country. This includes Paul Whelan, a U.S. citizen who has been unjustly imprisoned for nearly 16 months ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 10, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Limited Commercial Flights We are following reports of limited commercial flights on Aeroflot to Europe and the United States. These flights are planned to repatriate Russian citizens, but you may be able to buy tickets directly from Aeroflot. Aeroflot flights are ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 8, 2020)
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 8, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Additional Information on Thursday April 9 Chartered Flight and Departure of Aeroflot Flight Yesterday a number of U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents departed Russia and successfully landed in New York. We are working hard to confirm who was on the ... Read More»
SECOND UPDATE: Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 7, 2020)
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 7, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Departure of Aeroflot Flight and Additional Information on Thursday April 9 Chartered Flights Departure of Aeroflot Flight: Today’s Aeroflot flight departed Moscow and is currently on the way to New York City. If you previously registered interest with the U.S. ... Read More»
UPDATE: Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 7, 2020)
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 7, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Time Change – Aeroflot Flight to New York JFK at 18:00 Today, April 7 Aeroflot has informed U.S. Mission Russia that the airline has changed the departure time for today’s planned flight from 14:15 to 18:00 (6 p.m.). Ticketing for ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert– U.S. Mission Russia
Possible Aeroflot Flight: Aeroflot has just informed U.S. Mission Russia that the airline has requested permission to run a charter flight to the United States at 14:15 today, April 7, in order to repatriate Russian citizens from New York. As recently as last night and this morning, the Russian government and Aeroflot denied the existence of ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Update: Registering for Special Charter Flights to the United States U.S. Mission Russia continues to work on passenger lists for special chartered flights for U.S. citizens and, if space is available, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). We anticipate that they will depart Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport on Thursday, April 9, 2020 beginning ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 5, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Update on Possible Charter Flight The Department of State has arranged special chartered flights for U.S. citizens and, if space is available, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). We anticipate that they will depart Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport on Thursday, April 9, 2020 ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 4, 2020)
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 4, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Update on Possible Charter Flight The U.S. Mission to Russia team continues to pursue a charter flight for our fellow U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States. As of this moment, we anticipate a mid-week departure from Moscow. ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 3, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Daily COVID-19 Update for U.S. Citizens in the Russian Federation Cancellation of Flight SU102: The U.S. Mission Russia is aware of the unfortunate and unexpected cancellation of Aeroflot flight 102 today. To those of you who were boarded on that flight ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 2, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Daily COVID-19 Update for U.S. Citizens in the Russian Federation Please review the Level 4: Do Not Travel, Global Health Advisory, updated on March 31, linked here . At present the Department of State is making every effort to assist U.S. citizens ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (April 1, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Daily COVID-19 Update for U.S. Citizens in the Russian Federation Flight Update: U.S. Mission Russia continues to monitor the availability of international flights departing the Russian Federation. The Aeroflot website is currently selling tickets for an April 3 flight from Moscow to ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (March 31, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Daily COVID-19 Update for U.S. Citizens in the Russian Federation The Government of the Russian Federation has severely curtailed or cancelled most international flights in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19. While Aeroflot initially indicated it would continue limited flights ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (March 30, 2020) Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Implementation of Citywide Self-Isolation Order in Moscow The mayor of Moscow announced a citywide self-isolation order, effective March 30, meant to slow the spread of COVID-19. Visit the website of the Mayor of Moscow and the local government COVID-19 website for updated information. This order mandates all individuals present ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Daily COVID-19 Update for U.S. Citizens in the Russian Federation Effective March 30, the Government of the Russian Federation announced that it will close all land borders to passenger transport until further notice in order to combat the spread of coronavirus. We are aware that commercial flights out of Russia have ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Daily COVID-19 Update for U.S. Citizens in the Russian Federation Effective March 30, the Government of the Russian Federation announced that it will close all land borders to passenger transport until further notice in order to combat the spread of coronavirus. We are aware that commercial flights out of Russia have been ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia (March 28, 2020)
Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Daily COVID-19 Update for U.S. Citizens in the Russian Federation Yesterday, Ambassador John Sullivan and Acting Minister Counselor of Consular Affairs Catherine Holt conducted a virtual town hall to discuss the latest COVID-19 news in Russia and answer questions pertinent to U.S. citizens at this time. You may view a recording ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Location: Russia, country-wide Event: International Flights Departing from the Russian Federation Effective March 27, the Government of the Russian Federation implemented a restriction on international flights departing the Russian Federation in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19. We are aware of media reports that limited commercial flights may continue to operate to the ... Read More»
MASCOT Message – U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location:Moscow, Russia Event: Virtual Town Hall with Ambassador Sullivan on COVID-19 at 4:30 p.m. U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation, John Sullivan will hold a virtual town hall today at 4:30 p.m. to discuss the latest COVID-19 news in Russia and answer frequently asked questions most pertinent to U.S. citizens at this time, such as ... Read More»
NOTICE for U.S. Citizen Travelers
STEP: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad. U.S. Citizens Travelers: Please enroll in step.state.gov to receive alerts & ensure you can be located in an emergency. U. S. Citizens in an Emergency: In Case of Emergency: Call 1-888-407-4747 (U.S./Canada); +1-202-501-4444 (overseas); or contact the nearest ... Read More»
Health and Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Location: Russia, country-wide Event: Nationwide-Holiday and Potential Cancellation of International Flights Departing from the Russian Federation Effective March 27, 2020 The Government of the Russian Federation has called for a nationwide, non-working paid holiday from March 28 to April 5, 2020 in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19. Russian officials have announced that ... Read More»
Statement by U.S. Ambassador John J. Sullivan on Paul Whelan
March 23, 2020 Good morning. I am very grateful for your being here today. I am joined by my colleagues, the Ambassador from the United Kingdom, Ambassador Bronnert, and the Ambassador from Ireland, Ambassador McElduff. As the U.S. Ambassador to Russia, the security and well-being of American citizens is my highest priority. We are here ... Read More»
Travel Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Location: Russia, country-wide Event: U.S. Consulate General Vladivostok has temporarily suspended operations until further notice. U.S. Consulate General Yekaterinburg has assumed responsibility for U.S. Consulate General Vladivostok’s consular district. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow and U.S. Consulate General in Yekaterinburg are providing citizenship and visa services on an emergency basis due to the global COVID-19 ... Read More»
U.S. Mission to Russia Reduces Consular Services
Out of concern for the health of our Russian and American staff and the public in light of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Mission to Russia has reduced visa operations and routine American citizen services. Effective March 18, the consular sections of the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, the U.S. Consulate General in Yekaterinburg, and ... Read More»
Temporary Suspension of Operations at the U.S. Consulate General in Vladivostok
The Department of State has temporarily suspended operations at the U.S. Consulate General in Vladivostok out of concern for the health of our Russian and American staff, and the public, in light of the global COVID-19 pandemic. We look forward to resumption of operations at the U.S. Consulate General in Vladivostok as soon as the ... Read More»
Information Resources for COVID-19, Presidential Proclamation, and its Impact on Travel to the U.S.
Please read the latest Global Health Alert and be advised that the U.S. Department of State currently advises all U.S. citizens to reconsider travel due to risks posed by COVID-19 coronavirus For the most current information regarding COVID-19, the March 11 Presidential proclamation, and its impact on travel to the United States, please visit www.dhs.gov and www.whitehouse.gov . The restrictions ... Read More»
The 50th Anniversary of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons
Joint Statement by the Foreign Ministers of China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States on the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons Read More»
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia (March 7, 2020) Location: Moscow, Russia Event: The city government of Moscow has implemented enhanced screening and quarantine measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice. Visit the website of the City of Moscow government for additional information ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia (February 28, 2020)
Location: Moscow, Russia – Strastnoy Boulevard to Academician Sakharov Avenue, starting at 13:00. Event: On Saturday, February 29, there will be an authorized march in memory of Russian politician Boris Nemtsov. The march is scheduled to take place from 13:00 to 16:00, with several thousand expected participants. Police and media presence are expected. U.S. citizens ... Read More»
Deputy Special Representative for North Korea Alex Wong Visits Russia
Deputy Special Representative for North Korea Alex Wong met with Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov and Ambassador-at-Large Oleg Burmistrov to discuss continued U.S.-Russia coordination on North Korea in Moscow February 13. During his meetings in Moscow, Deputy Special Representative Wong reaffirmed the United States’ continued openness to diplomatic engagement with the DPRK to make progress ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan’s Interview with RBC TV
Spaso House February 7, 2020 RBC: How would you assess your appointment as U.S. Ambassador to Russia? Does it mean that the pressure on Russia will increase or is your mission to soften the situation? Ambassador Sullivan: Thank you, Ilya, it’s a great pleasure to be with you here today and talk about my appointment ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan Meets with Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation Alexander Novak
As part of his continuing series of introductory meetings, Ambassador John Sullivan met February 6 with Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation Alexander Novak. Ambassador Sullivan and Minister Novak discussed global energy trends, energy security, and the bilateral energy relationship. Ambassador Sullivan underscored his goal of supporting open transparent channels of communication with representatives ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan Meets with Chairman of Russia’s Accounts Chamber Aleksey Kudrin
As part of his continuing series of introductory meetings, Ambassador John Sullivan met today with Chairman of the Accounts Chamber of the Russian Federation Aleksey Kudrin. Ambassador Sullivan and Chairman Kudrin discussed bilateral economic cooperation, and the business climate and investment climate in Russia for U.S. investors. Ambassador Sullivan looks forward to supporting open channels ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation John J. Sullivan presents credentials to President Putin
Media Note February 5, 2020 U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation John J. Sullivan presented his credentials today to President Putin in a ceremony held in the Kremlin’s Alexander Hall. “As the U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation, I have been tasked by President Trump to improve our bilateral relationship and open channels of communication. I ... Read More»
Ambassador Sullivan Meets with Russia’s Security Council Secretary Patrushev
As part of his continuing series of introductory meetings, Ambassador John Sullivan met February 4, 2020 with Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Nikolai Patrushev to discuss the importance of bilateral cooperation in various spheres, including strategic security. Ambassador Sullivan looks forward to supporting open channels of communication with representatives of the ... Read More»
Health Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
January 31, 2020 Location: Wuhan, Hankou area, China Event: Due to the ongoing outbreak of respiratory illness, first identified in Wuhan, China , the U.S. Government issued a Level 4 Do Not Travel Alert on January 30, 2020. This alert recommends that U.S. citizens avoid travel to China due to the rapid spread of coronavirus. The Government of the Russian Federation has taken additional steps to control the spread of ... Read More»
Ambassador John J. Sullivan Meets with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
As part of his continuing series of introductory meetings, Ambassador John Sullivan met today with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Ambassador Sullivan has met Foreign Minister Lavrov previously on several occasions. Today’s constructive meeting continued an on-going dialogue between the two diplomats on bilateral and multilateral issues including counterterrorism, the Middle East and arms control. Read More»
Ambassador John J. Sullivan Meets with Deputy Foreign Minister Oleg Syromolotov
January 29, 2020 As part of his introductory calls with Russian officials, Ambassador John Sullivan met today with Deputy Foreign Minister Oleg Syromolotov to discuss a variety of issues including counter-terrorism. The meeting was cooperative and informative, and Ambassador Sullivan looks forward to continued dialogue with representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the ... Read More»
Ambassador John J. Sullivan Meets with Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov
Ambassador John Sullivan met today with Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov to discuss a variety of issues related to North Africa and the Middle East as part of his introductory calls with Russian officials. The meeting was candid and constructive, and Ambassador Sullivan looks forward to continued dialogue with representatives of the Ministry of Foreign ... Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador John J. Sullivan at the Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center in Moscow, Russia
"I stand before you today to underscore the United States’ unwavering commitment to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and doing everything possible to prevent anything like it from happening ever again." Read More»
Health Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Event: There is an ongoing outbreak of respiratory illness, first identified in Wuhan, China, caused by a novel (new) coronavirus. The United States is closely monitoring the situation, and we are actively working with governments and international partners to combat the spread of the outbreak. There are indications that limited person-to-person spread is occurring. Preliminary information ... Read More»
Deputy Chief of Mission Bart Gorman Lays Wreath at the Motherland Monument in St. Petersburg
On January 27, 2020, to mark the 76th Anniversary of the lifting of the Siege of Leningrad, Deputy Chief of Mission Bart Gorman together with diplomatic mission staff laid a wreath at Piskaryovsky Memorial Cemetery to honor the memory of the brave citizens of Leningrad and defenders of the city. DCM Gorman: “Thinking about the ... Read More»
U.S.-Russia Strategic Security Dialogue
U.S. Department of State Media Note Office of the Spokesperson January 16, 2020 Today, Assistant Secretary for International Security and Nonproliferation Dr. Christopher A. Ford, who has been delegated the authorities and functions of the Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, led a U.S. interagency delegation to Vienna, Austria, to participate ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to Russia John J. Sullivan to Arrive in Moscow
On January 10, 2020, at a ceremony presided over by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Samuel Alito swore in John J. Sullivan as the new U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation. Friday’s ceremonial event followed the Ambassador’s official swearing in by the Secretary of State on December 23, 2019. Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Russia Event: Heightened Middle East Tensions Heightened tension in the Middle East may result in security risks to U.S. citizens abroad. The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed. Actions to Take: Keep a low profile. Be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert in locations frequented ... Read More»
Message to U.S. Citizens – 2020 Winter Holiday Hours – U.S. Mission Russia
Event: Due to the U.S. and Russian Christmas and New Year’s holidays, the U.S. Embassy in Moscow and the U.S. Consulates General in Yekaterinburg and Vladivostok will be closed December 24-25, 2019, and January 1-8, 2020. During this time, passport, notarial, and Consular Report of Birth Abroad services will be unavailable. Actions to Take: If ... Read More»
Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Moscow, Lubyanka Square Event: According to media reports, there is an active shooter situation near the Federal Security Services (FSB) headquarters building in Lubyanka square. Police actions related to this incident are ongoing. U.S. citizens should avoid Lubyanka Square and the surrounding area. Actions to Take: Monitor local media for updates. Avoid the area. ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
During the holiday season, security measures in Russia may be heightened due to potential threats posed by European-based transnational terrorist organizations and individuals inspired by extremist ideology. Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations such as airports, train stations and other transportation hubs, public transportation, Christmas holiday markets, shopping malls, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Russia, countrywide Event: According to local media reports, dozens of locations throughout Russia recently received telephonic bomb threats. The targeted facilities included court houses, shopping centers, and airports. In all instances, police sweeps of the area did not detect the presence of explosive devices and the calls were considered hoaxes. Local police authorities must ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Russia, countrywide Event: During the holiday season, security measures in Russia may be heightened due to potential threats posed by European-based transnational terrorist organizations and individuals inspired by extremist ideology. Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations such as Christmas holiday markets, shopping malls, airports, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, transportation hubs, festivals and ... Read More»
Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert Discusses Continued U.S.-Russia Cooperation on North Korea in Moscow
Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert met with Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov and Ambassador-at-Large Oleg Burmistrov in Moscow on November 8 to discuss continued U.S.-Russia cooperation on North Korea. The conversation was candid and constructive, and Special Envoy Lambert emphasized the importance of continued close coordination with Russia on North Korea. Read More»
U.S. Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert Travelling to Moscow
Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert is travelling to Moscow, Russia, November 6 – 9 to meet with Russian officials to discuss efforts to achieve the final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea. He will also meet with subject-matter experts and attend the Moscow Nonproliferation Conference. Read More»
U.S., Russia, China and Pakistan Joint Statement on Peace in Afghanistan
The text of the following statement was cooperatively released by the Governments of the United States of America, Russia, China, and Pakistan on the occasion of the joint meetings on Afghanistan, held in Moscow on October 24 – 25, 2019. Begin Text: The Special Representatives of Russia, China, and the United States of America held ... Read More»
U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Khalilzad holds consultations in Moscow
U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad held consultations on Friday, October 25, with Russian and Chinese counterparts, as well as officials from Pakistan, as part of a continued effort to support the Afghan people’s desire for an end to war and a lasting peace. The meetings were positive and constructive. Read More»
Alert: Demonstration – U.S. Consulate General Yekaterinburg, Russia, October 26, 2019
Location: Ulitsa Belinskogo 232 to Southern Park “Южный парк” (near the corner of Samotsvetnyy Bul'var and Ulitsa Akademika Shvartsa). Yekaterinburg, Russia. Event: Demonstrations are expected to take place on Saturday, October 26, 2019 beginning at 2 pm to 4 pm. Several political organizations intend to protest the political and economic policies of the Russian government. Read More»
Upcoming Event: November 16-17, 2019 – Zoohackathon IT Marathon
On November 16-17, 2019, Zoohackathon, IT Marathon will be held at the American Center at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, during which specialists from different areas of software development will search for a technological answer to solve environmental issues and protect wildlife. Read More»
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Moscow, Russia – Sakharov Square, starting at 3:00 p.m. Event: On Sunday, September 29, protesters plan to gather for an authorized protest at Sakharov Square. The protest is scheduled to take place from 3 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the number of expected participants numbering up to 20,000. A large police and media presence ... Read More»
Availability of Appointments for Business and Tourist Visas
The U.S. Embassy in Moscow and our constituent Consulates General in Yekaterinburg and Vladivostok continue to work to meet the demand for visa appointments in the Russian Federation, and to take steps to ease appointment scheduling and offer more options for Russian citizens wishing to travel as tourists to the United States. As part of ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Consulate General Yekaterinburg
Location: Yekaterinburg, Russia – The park near the intersection of 8 March and Bolshakova Streets. Event: On Saturday, August 10, 2019, from 2 pm to 9 pm, a rally will be held by the Team Navalny (команда Навального) in support of independent candidates and the release of participants detained during last week’s rallies in Moscow. The organizers ... Read More»
Treasury Announces Sanctions under the Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act
U.S. Department of the Treasury Office of Public Affairs August 3, 2019Washington– The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced today that it is implementing two sanctions on the Russian Federation as part of measures imposed by the U.S. government pursuant to the Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act of 1991, as amended ... Read More»
Second Round of Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act Sanctions on Russia
FACT SHEET OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON AUGUST 2, 2019 Read More»
U.S. Withdrawal from the INF Treaty on August 2, 2019
Press Statement by Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State Read More»
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Moscow, Russia – Moscow Mayor’s Office, Tverskaya 13 Event: Protestors plan to gather outside the Moscow Mayor’s office on Saturday, July 27, 2019 at 14:00 for an unauthorized demonstration. Heavy police presence is expected. Given the possible size of the protest and likely sizeable police presence, U.S. citizens should avoid the protest site. Actions to Take: ... Read More»
Under Secretary for Political Affairs Hale Meeting with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Ryabkov
Under Secretary for Political Affairs David Hale met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on July 10 in Helsinki. They discussed U.S. – Russia relations and the impact of regional challenges in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The Under Secretary stressed that while the United States seeks to narrow differences and foster cooperation ... Read More»
Commemorating the 15th Anniversary of the Murder of Paul Klebnikov
Today, we commemorate the life and work of Paul Klebnikov, an American citizen and distinguished journalist whose assassination in Russia fifteen years ago shocked the world. As a journalist and editor of Forbes Russia, Mr. Klebnikov was a resounding voice of conscience in the fight against corruption. His brave work cost him his life. Gunned ... Read More»
Ambassador Jon Huntsman meets with Russian General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov in Moscow
U.S. Ambassador Jon Huntsman and Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, General of the Army Valeriy Gerasimov met in Moscow today to discuss security issues, including Syria, the Middle East, arms control, military transparency, and the broader U.S. – Russia relationship. There was also discussion on ways to ... Read More»
Under Secretary Andrea Thompson Continues Discussions With Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Ryabkov in Prague
U.S Department of State Office of the Spokesperson Media Note June 12, 2019 Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Andrea L. Thompson met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov in Prague today to build on the discussions held by Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Minister Lavrov during their May 14 meeting ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Moscow, Russia ‑ Downtown Moscow near Chistye Prudy Metro Station Event: Supporters of a jailed Russian journalist have scheduled a protest for June 12, 2019 at 12:00 noon. A procession from Chistye Prudy Metro to major streets south and west of the initial marshaling area (Myasnitskaya – Lubyanka – Kuznetskiy Most – Stoleshnikov – Bolshaya Dmitrovka ... Read More»
Press Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Occasion of Russia Day in the Russian Federation
MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On behalf of President Trump and the American people, I congratulate the people of Russia on the occasion of “Russia Day.” As you mark almost three decades since the beginning of constitutional reforms in Russia, the United States honors the Russian people’s continued aspirations for the democratic principles of ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Consulate General Yekaterinburg, Russia (June 7, 2019)
Location: Yekaterinburg, Russia ‑ Labor Square by the National Liberation Movement (Национально-освободительное движение) (NOD) Event: A rally will be held on Sunday, June 9 to mark the 76th anniversary of the liberation of Donbass from German forces during World War II. The NOD is an anti-American organization. Police presence is expected. U.S. government personnel are advised ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Occasion of Eid al-Fitr
"On behalf of the United States Department of State, I would like to wish all Muslims a blessed Eid al-Fitr." Read More»
Presidential Message on Eid al-Fitr, 2019
Melania joins me in sending our warmest greetings on Eid al-Fitr. At the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate the day of Eid through prayer and reflection. This sacred day provides Muslims, both in the United States and around the world, an opportunity to renew their commitment to help those less fortunate, ... Read More»
Alert: Protest/Vigil Alert – U.S. Consulate General Yekaterinburg, Russia, May 31, 2019
Location: Yekaterinburg, Russia ‑ in front of U.S. Consulate, Yekaterinburg, Gogolya 15A Event: Over the past week, several individuals have been demonstrating against the U.S. Consulate General on the public sidewalk in front of the Consulate’s entrance. The Russian police remain committed to controlling the situation and continually monitor each demonstration. U.S. Government personnel are advised ... Read More»
Meeting Readout of Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert in Moscow
Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert met with Ambassador-at-Large Oleg Burmistrov and Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov in Moscow May 17 to discuss continued U.S.-Russia cooperation to achieve the final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea. The conversation was candid and constructive. During the meetings, Russian officials provided a readout of the April 25 ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert – U.S. Consulate General Yekaterinburg, Russia, May 17, 2019
Location: Yekaterinburg, Russia ‑ Park next to the Drama Theater, near Yeltsin Center Event: Due to the recent protests against the construction of the St. Yekaterina Cathedral in Yekaterinburg in the park next to the Drama Theater, U.S. citizens should be aware of the potential for ongoing protests over the weekend and in the next ... Read More»
U.S. Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert visiting Moscow
Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert is visiting Moscow May 16-18. He will meet with Russian officials to further efforts to achieve the final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea. Read More»
Treasury Targets Additional Individuals Involved in the Sergei Magnitsky Case and Gross Violations of Human Rights in Russia
May 16, 2019 Action Further Exposes Those Involved in the Death of Sergei Magnitsky and Its Cover-up, and Highlights the Systemic Human Rights Abuses in Chechnya Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated five individuals and one entity pursuant to the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of ... Read More»
Increased Capacity for Nonimmigrant Visa Renewal Applications at U.S. Embassy Moscow
Beginning May 15, 2019, U.S. Embassy Moscow increased its capacity to accept nonimmigrant visa applications that do not require an in-person interview at the Embassy (Interview Waiver cases) by 100 per day. As a result, the wait to submit an application to renew a nonimmigrant visa consular section without appearing for an interview in Moscow ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Remarks With Russian President Vladimir Putin
REMARKS MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE / MAY 14, 2019 BOCHAROV RUCHEY SOCHI, RUSSIA PRESIDENT PUTIN: (Via interpreter) Mr. Secretary of State, dear colleagues, we are glad to welcome you in Russia. As you know, several days ago I had the pleasure of talking to the President of the United States on the phone, and ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Press Availability With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
PRESS AVAILABILITY MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE / MAY 14, 2019 RUS HOTEL SOCHI, RUSSIA MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Ladies and gentlemen, we are beginning a joint press conference. Secretary of State, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia, please. FOREIGN MINISTER LAVROV: (Via interpreter) Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. First of all, I would like to ... Read More»
Remarks With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov Before Their Meeting
MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE MAY 14, 2019 RUS HOTEL SOCHI, RUSSIA FOREIGN MINISTER LAVROV: (Via interpreter) Mr. Secretary of State, (inaudible) welcome to Sochi. We had a chance to hold the discussion on the 6th of May, when we had our negotiations in Finland on the margins of the Arctic Council. We covered and ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Travel to Moscow and Sochi, Russia
Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will travel to Moscow and Sochi, Russia from May 12-14.On May 13, he will arrive in Russia to meet with his team at U.S. Embassy Moscow before meeting with U.S. business leaders and U.S. exchange alumni. Secretary Pompeo will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Secretary Pompeo ... Read More»
Remarks to Traveling Press by Secretary Pompeo
SECRETARY POMPEO: So I thought I’d do two things. One, I thought I’d give you a little bit of a summary of the meeting that I had with my foreign minister counterpart from Russia, Sergey Lavrov. I was just with him again at the event tonight.It was a good conversation. We covered a wide range ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Occasion of Ramadan
On behalf of the U.S. Department of State, I extend best wishes to Muslim communities at home and abroad for a blessed Ramadan. For many Muslims, this month is an occasion to focus on spiritual rejuvenation, kindness and resilience, compassion for those less fortunate, and harmony across diverse communities. In the United States, many mosques ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Call With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo called Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov today, May 1, to discuss the situation in Venezuela. Read More»
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad Travels to Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Qatar, Russia, and the U. K.
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad will travel to Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Qatar, Russia, and the United Kingdom April 21 to May 11, as part of the overall effort to facilitate a political settlement that ends the conflict in Afghanistan. Read More»
Meeting Readout of Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun in Moscow
U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun held a constructive meeting today with Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov. During the meeting, Special Representative Biegun and Deputy Foreign Minister Morgulov discussed respective bilateral engagements with North Korea and efforts to achieve the final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea. Read More»
U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun visiting Moscow
U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun will travel to Moscow April 17-18 to meet with Russian officials to discuss efforts to advance the final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea. Read More»
Joint Statement on Syria
The text of the following statement was released today by UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, and U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo. Read More»
Transatlantic Community Imposes Sanctions on Russia
Today, the United States, EU, and Canada took coordinated action in response to Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine by imposing sanctions on individuals who orchestrated the unjustified November 25 attack on three Ukrainian naval vessels near the Kerch Strait. Additionally, the United States imposed sanctions on six Russian defense firms, including shipbuilding companies; two individuals ... Read More»
Ambassador Jon Huntsman meets with Federation Council Chair Valentina Matviyenko in Moscow
Ambassador Jon Huntsman met March 12 with Federation Council Chair Valentina Matviyenko. Building on the productive conversations between the Congressional delegation that visited last year and Federation Council representatives, Ambassador Huntsman reiterated the desire of the American government to work together with Russia to facilitate inter-parliamentary cooperation, and raised issues which present opportunities for and obstacles ... Read More»
U.S. Special Envoy Lambert Discusses Denuclearization of North Korea with Russian Counterparts
Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert met with Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov and Ambassador-at-Large Oleg Burmistrov in Moscow March 4 to discuss continued U.S.-Russia cooperation to achieve the final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea. The conversation was candid and constructive. Read More»
Elimination of Additional U.S. Visa Issuance Fee for Russian Citizens
Beginning March 4, 2019, the total cost of a B-1/B-2 visa (visitor for business or tourism) returns to US$160. Additional issuance fees for Russian citizens are eliminated. This new fee structure is based on reciprocity and ensures that Russian and American citizens pay the same fee for business and tourism visas. For more information about ... Read More»
Statement by Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino
Four years ago, former Russian Deputy Prime Minister Boris Nemtsov, a leading figure in Russia’s democratic movement, was gunned down outside the walls of the Kremlin. Although five men were convicted for carrying out his assassination, the United States continues to call on Russian authorities to identify publicly those who organized and ordered the crime, and ... Read More»
Statement of the Embassy of the United States of America on Delayed Consular Access
Seven days after his detention, the U.S. Embassy still has not received permission from Russian authorities to visit detained American citizen Michael Calvey. Read More»
U.S. Special Envoy Lambert Discusses Denuclearization of North Korea with Russian Counterparts
February 11, Special Envoy for North Korea Mark Lambert met with Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov and Ambassador Oleg Burmistrov in Moscow to discuss efforts to achieve the final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea. The conversation was candid and constructive. Read More»
Op-Ed by Ambassador Jon Huntsman for RBC
The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, signed in 1987, prohibits the United States and Russia from possessing ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 KM. In the early years of this historic treaty, both sides collectively destroyed more than 2,600 missiles. Read More»
U.S. Intent To Withdraw from the INF Treaty February 2, 2019
Press Statement by Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo: On December 4, 2018, the United States announced that the Russian Federation is in material breach of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, an assessment shared by all NATO Allies. The United States also provided notice that unless Russia returned to full and verifiable compliance in ... Read More»
Remarks by Michael R. Pompeo – Remarks to the Press
SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning, everyone. At the core of President Trump’s foreign policy are a few very, very simple truths. The security of the American people must be our greatest consideration, the agreements into which we enter must serve American interests, and countries must be held accountable when they break the rules. For years, Russia ... Read More»
Attacks on LGBTI Community in Chechnya. Statement by Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino
We are deeply disturbed by credible reports out of Chechnya about renewed attacks against individuals perceived to be members of the LGBTI community. Civil society groups report that at least 40 individuals have been illegally detained since December, including two who reportedly died in custody after being tortured. We call on Russia to live up ... Read More»
Telephonic Press Briefing with Andrea L. Thompson Under Secretary for Arms Control And International Security Affairs
Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Special Briefing January 16, 2019 Moderator: Greetings to everyone from the U.S. European Media Hub in Brussels. I would like to welcome our participants dialing in from across Europe and thank you for waiting for the few extra minutes today for today’s discussion. Our speaker ... Read More»
Statement by Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Andrea L. Thompson
Andrea L. Thompson, Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security: “Today we held talks with a Russian delegation on the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. In doing so, we are upholding Secretary Pompeo’s commitment to continue to talk with Russian officials to urge Russia to return to full and verifiable compliance with the Treaty before ... Read More»
Treasury Targets Russian Operatives over Election Interference, World Anti-Doping Agency Hacking, and Other Malign Activities
“Treasury is sanctioning Russian intelligence operatives involved in cyber operations to interfere with the 2016 election and a wide range of other malign activities. We are taking action against operatives working on behalf of a sanctioned oligarch, hacking the World Anti-Doping Agency and other international organizations, and engaging in other subversive actions,” said Steven T. ... Read More»
The Passing of Human Rights Defender Ludmilla Mikhailovna Alexeeva
Press Statement Robert Palladino Deputy Spokesperson Washington, DC December 10, 2018 Today, on International Human Rights Day, we mark with deep sorrow the passing in Russia of one of the world’s great defenders of human rights, Ludmilla Mikhailovna Alexeeva, who died on December 8 at the age of 91. Until the last, she was a force ... Read More»
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Khalilzad meets with MFA counterparts in Moscow
Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad met today with MFA Second Asian Department Director Zamir Kabulov and Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov to discuss supporting an inclusive peace process in Afghanistan. Special Representative Khalilzad reiterated that a resolution to the conflict in Afghanistan can only be achieved through a negotiated political settlement and ... Read More»
In tribute: George H.W. Bush, 41st President
He was the longest-lived president in U.S. history and a statesman whose service to his country spanned his entire adult life. Before becoming president, he served in posts ranging from Navy pilot to Central Intelligence Agency director to vice president of the United States. Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Russia, countrywide Event: During the holiday season security measures in Russia remain heightened due to ongoing threats posed by transnational terrorist organizations and individuals inspired by extremist ideology throughout Europe. Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations such as Christmas holiday markets, shopping malls, airports, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, transportation hubs, and other ... Read More»
Russia’s Dangerous Escalation in the Kerch Strait
Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC November 26, 2018 The United States expresses its deep concern over the incident in the Black Sea that occurred November 25 as Ukrainian vessels attempted to transit through the Kerch Strait. Reports that Russian vessels rammed and fired on the Ukrainian ships, injuring Ukrainian crewmen, before ... Read More»
Remarks by ambassador Nikki Haley at an Emergency UN Security Council Meeting on Ukraine
As Delivered Thank you, Mr. President. This morning I spoke with President Trump and Secretary Pompeo and my statement reflects the concerns at the highest level of the American government. For the past four years, the international community has spoken with a strong, clear, and largely united voice denouncing Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The United ... Read More»
Special Representative for Syria Engagement Jeffrey in Interview with RIA Novosti and Kommersant
Ambassador James F. Jeffrey, Special Representative for Syria Engagement Interview with RIA Novosti and Kommersant November 21, 2018 RIA Novosti: Yesterday the U.S. announced new sanctions against Iran and Russia for oil shipments to Syria and issued a warning about significant risk of sanctions for those who will engage in such activity in the future. So what are ... Read More»
Treasury Designates Illicit Russia-Iran Oil Network Supporting the Assad Regime, Hizballah, and HAMAS
November 20, 2018 WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating nine targets in an international network through which the Iranian regime, working with Russian companies, provides millions of barrels of oil to the Syrian government. The Assad regime, in turn, facilitates the movement of hundreds of ... Read More»
Sanctions Announcement on Iran
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC November 20, 2018 The United States today sanctioned an international network by which the Iranian regime and Russia are providing millions of barrels of oil to the Assad regime in exchange for the movement of hundreds of millions of dollars to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force, ... Read More»
Refuting Russian Allegations of U.S. Noncompliance With the INF Treaty
Fact Sheet Washington, DC November 16, 2018 Since declaring the Russian Federation in violation of the INF Treaty in July 2014, the United States has pressed the Russian Federation repeatedly to return to compliance with its obligations under the Treaty. In spite of these efforts, Russian officials have refused to engage in any serious discussion ... Read More»
INF Diplomacy Highlights Timeline
Fact Sheet Washington, DC November 16, 2018 Since 2013, the United States has raised its concerns with Russia regarding Russian development of a ground-launched cruise missile (NATO: SSC-8, Russian: 9M729) with a range capability between 500 and 5,500 kilometers on repeated occasions to resolve U.S. concerns. These include more than 30 engagements with various departments ... Read More»
Special Representative for Syria Engagement Ambassador James Jeffrey
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release On-the-Record Briefing November 14, 2018 Press Briefing Room MR PALLADINO: Good afternoon, everybody. Thank you for coming today. We have the Secretary of State’s Special Representative for Syria Engagement Ambassador James Jeffrey. Ambassador Jeffrey will have a few opening comments, and then we will ... Read More»
President Donald J. Trump Is Reimposing All Sanctions Lifted Under the Unacceptable Iran Deal
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release November 2, 2018 “The United States has launched a campaign of economic pressure to deny the regime the funds it needs to advance its bloody agenda.” – President Donald J. Trump REIMPOSING ALL SANCTIONS: President Donald J. Trump is reimposing the toughest sanctions ever ... Read More»
APNSA John Bolton Press Conference at Interfax
APNSA John Bolton Press Conference at Interfax News Agency Moscow, Russia October 23, 2018 Ambassador John Bolton, Opening Statement: Thanks very much for being here. I also want to thank Interfax. I’ve come here many, many times, beginning in September or October of 2001, when I came to deliver news of the Bush Administration’s decision to withdraw from the ABM treaty. I also want to thank Jon Huntsman and his team. They are doing a fantastic job here in Moscow under very difficult circumstances, limited ... Read More»
Online registration period for the DV-2020 Program
Online registration period for the DV-2020 Program will last from noon, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4), Wednesday, October 3, 2018, and noon, Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Tuesday, November 6, 2018. Applicants have to submit entries for the DV-2020 program electronically at dvlottery.state.gov . There is no cost to register for the DV Program. Do not wait until the ... Read More»
APNSA John Bolton Interview with Elena Chernenko, Kommersant
UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT APNSA John Bolton Interview with Elena Chernenko, Kommersant Moscow, Russia October 22, 2018 Kommersant (K): Is it true that you came here to bury the INF Treaty? Ambassador John Bolton (AJB): I’m meeting with Nikolai Patrushev and the staff of the Russian National Security Council. Actually, the first time that I met with ... Read More»
APNSA John Bolton with Echo Moskvy’s Olga Bychkova
APNSA John Bolton with Echo Moskvy’s Olga Bychkova Moscow, Russia October 22, 2018 Echo Moskvy: Mr. Bolton, have you announced, have you confirmed to the Russian side the U.S. intention to withdraw from the INF? Ambassador John Bolton: We had a very extensive discussion today on a number of arms control issues and the President’s ... Read More»
Helping Iranians ‘take back their basic human rights’
With a November 4 deadline approaching, after which a full slate of U.S. sanctions on the Iranian regime will return, U.S. officials met with members of the Iranian diaspora to highlight the plight of 800 prisoners of conscience held by the Iranian government and other human rights abuses by the regime against its own people. ... Read More»
U.S. Charges Russian GRU Officers with International Hacking and Related Influence and Disinformation Operations
Department of Justice Office of Public Affairs For Immediate Release Thursday, October 4, 2018 Conspirators Included a Russian Intelligence “Close Access” Hacking Team that Traveled Abroad to Compromise Computer Networks Used by Anti-Doping and Sporting Officials and Organizations Investigating Russia’s Use of Chemical Weapons A grand jury in the Western District of Pennsylvania has indicted ... Read More»
Joint Statement on Syria
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC September 27, 2018 The text of the following statement on Syria was released by the Governments of Egypt, France, Germany, Jordan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Begin text: We, the Foreign Ministers of Egypt, France, Germany, Jordan, the ... Read More»
Assistant Secretary Wess Mitchell on Echo Moskvy Radio
Assistant Secretary Wess Mitchell Echo Moskvy On the Record 24 September 2018 Echo Moskvy: Mr. Mitchell, I’m really happy to see you here at Echo of Moscow but in the center of New York. A/S Mitchell: It’s a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for doing the interview. Echo Moskvy: A few days ago your ... Read More»
Remarks by President Trump to the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly
The White House United Nations Headquarters New York, New York September 25, 2018 10:38 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Madam President, Mr. Secretary-General, world leaders, ambassadors, and distinguished delegates: One year ago, I stood before you for the first time in this grand hall. I addressed the threats facing our world, and I presented a vision ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Downed Russian Aircraft
U.S. Department Of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Pompeo September 18, 2018 The United States expresses sorrow for the death of the aircrew members of the Russian plane that was downed by Syrian regime anti-aircraft fire. Yesterday’s unfortunate incident reminds us of the need to find permanent, peaceful, and ... Read More»
President Donald J. Trump Is Working to Protect Our Nation’s Elections from Foreign Interference
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 12, 2018 “We’re going to take strong action to secure our election systems and the process.” – President Donald J. Trump PROTECTING OUR ELECTIONS: President Donald J. Trump is issuing an Executive Order that will work to respond to and deter foreign attempts ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo – On the Anniversary of the 9/11 Terror Attacks
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Pompeo September 10, 2018 Tomorrow we honor the nearly 3,000 people who were killed in the terrorist attacks 17 years ago on September 11. Tomorrow also marks six years since the tragic loss in Libya of Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, Glen ... Read More»
Joint Statement on the Salisbury Attack
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC September 6, 2018 We, the leaders of France, Germany, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, reiterate our outrage at the use of a chemical nerve agent, known as Novichok, in Salisbury on 4 March. We welcome the progress made in the investigation into the poisoning ... Read More»
Ambassador Haley to Chair UN Security Council Meeting on Idlib, Syria
September 5, 2018 For Immediate Release On Friday, September 7, the United States will chair a meeting of the UN Security Council on the deteriorating humanitarian and security situation in Idlib, Syria. The session comes as the Assad regime and its backers threaten coordinated military attacks against the city and its civilian residents. “The Trump ... Read More»
Russia’s Harassment of International Shipping Transiting the Kerch Strait and Sea of Azov
Statement by Heather Nauert, Spokesperson: "The United States condemns Russia’s harassment of international shipping in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait. Russia has delayed hundreds of commercial vessels since April and in recent weeks has stopped at least 16 commercial ships attempting to reach Ukrainian ports." Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Call With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC August 23, 2018 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Heather Nauert: Secretary Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov about Ukrainian political prisoner Oleh Sentsov, who has been on a hunger strike for more than three months in a Russian prison. The Secretary noted ... Read More»
Russia’s Continued Unlawful Imprisonment of Ukrainian Filmmaker Oleh Sentsov
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC August 21, 2018 Today marks the 100th day of the hunger strike of Oleh Sentsov, a Ukrainian filmmaker who is arbitrarily detained in a remote Russian prison. The United States is deeply concerned about his deteriorating health, and we renew our demand that Russia immediately release ... Read More»
Remarks – Wess Mitchell Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs
Senate Foreign Relations Committee Washington, DC August 21, 2018 As delivered Chairman Corker, Ranking Member Menendez, thank you for inviting me to testify today. If you’ll indulge me, I want to start with a piece of welcome news, it’s unrelated to this morning’s testimony. Yesterday, August 20th, the U.S. government removed to Germany, Jakiw ... Read More»
Celebrating 295th anniversary of Yekaterinburg
On August 18, U.S. Consul General Dr. Paul Carter, together with the diplomatic representatives of other foreign countries in the Urals, congratulated the city of Yekaterinburg on its 295th anniversary. The U.S. Consulate General was the first diplomatic mission to open its doors in Yekaterinburg in 1994, and since that time the Consulate has worked ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Call With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC August 10, 2018 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Heather Nauert: Secretary Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Secretary Pompeo reiterated that the United States seeks an improved relationship with Russia and agreed to future dialogue. The Secretary discussed with Minister Lavrov ... Read More»
Imposition of Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act Sanctions on Russia
Following the use of a “Novichok” nerve agent in an attempt to assassinate UK citizen Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia Skripal, the United States, on August 6, 2018, determined under the Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act of 1991 (CBW Act) that the Government of the Russian Federation has used chemical ... Read More»
American Diplomat in Russia’s City of Steel
On June 25-26, Consul General Paul Carter visited Magnitogorsk. Vice-Mayor Valeriy Izmalkov spoke on the huge effort of the Magnitogorsk Metallurgical Plant (MMK) to improve the ecological situation in the region and on city’s plans for the future. In the MMK Museum the Consul General learned about the history of the city and the plant, ... Read More»
Taganay National Park and Traditions of Zlatoust
Consul General Dr. Paul Carter visited the city of Zlatoust and Taganay National Park July 22-23. Taganay Park was in many ways similar to American national or state parks, and the guests enjoyed a hike on a mountain trail. The next day the local Center for Developing Tourism and the Stroytekhnika Company provided a tour ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo – Crimea Declaration
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Pompeo July 25, 2018 Russia, through its 2014 invasion of Ukraine and its attempted annexation of Crimea, sought to undermine a bedrock international principle shared by democratic states: that no country can change the borders of another by force. The states ... Read More»
Message to U.S. Citizens: U.S. Citizens Who Entered Russia on a FAN ID are Required to Depart by July 25, 2018
Event: U.S. Citizens who entered the Russian Federation on a FAN ID must depart on or before midnight on July 25, 2018. The U.S. Embassy and consulates will not be able to intervene in visa matters, including situations in which a U.S. citizen is stranded because of they have overstayed a visa or FAN ID. ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Call With Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov
On July 21, Secretary Pompeo spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. They discussed a broad range of issues, some of which were following up from the meeting between President Trump and President Putin. Read More»
Honoring Journalists Murdered in Russia: Estemirova and Klebnikov
Statement by Heather Nauert: This week, we remember Russian human rights defender and Novaya Gazeta journalist Natalya Estemirova and Forbes journalist and editor, Paul Klebnikov, an American citizen. Read More»
Consul General Paul Carter Visited the Innoprom Exhibition
Dr. Paul Carter visited INNOPROM – 2018, an annual international industrial trade fair that Yekaterinburg hosts July 9 through 12. He stopped by the booths of Cisco, Penetron and many other companies. When talking to the Head of the Yekaterinburg City International Department, Maksim Dokuchayev, CG Carter emphasized the high level of organization of the ... Read More»
Consul General Paul Carter met with American business representatives
On July 9, The American Chamber of Commerce hosted a dinner for American businesses working in the Urals and participants of the INNOPROM international exhibition. CG Dr. Paul Carter made a presentation on activities of the U.S. Consulate in Yekaterinburg. The participants talked about business environment and consular services. Alexis Rodzianko, President of the American Chamber ... Read More»
Statement by Spokesperson Nauert on Eroding Press Freedom in Russia
The Russian government continues to stifle press freedom and media independence. We condemn the selective targeting of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) and Voice of America (VOA) under Russia's law on "foreign agent" media outlets. RFE/RL and VOA remain the only media outlets designated under this law, which exacerbates long-standing restrictions on their distribution in ... Read More»
On the Release of U.S. Annual Trafficking in Persons Report
United States Mission to the OSCE As prepared for delivery by Political Counselor Gregory Macris to the Permanent Council, Vienna For Immediate Release July 5, 2018 I would like to draw everyone’s attention to the release of the 2018 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report on June 28. The theme of the 2018 TIP Report is, ... Read More»
Ongoing Harassment of Jehovah’s Witnesses and Other Religious Minorities in Russia.
United States Mission to the United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy As delivered by Political Counselor Gregory Macris to the Permanent Council, Vienna For Immediate Release July 5, 2018 Thank you, Mr. Chair. Less than two months ago, the United States joined other participating States at the Permanent Council in expressing concern about ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Call With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke today. The two discussed the upcoming meeting between President Trump and President Putin, as well as issues related to Syria and DPRK. Read More»
White House Statement on a Bilateral Meeting Between the United States and Russia
President Donald J. Trump and President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation will meet on July 16, 2018, in Helsinki, Finland. The two leaders will discuss relations between the United States and Russia and a range of national security issues. Read More»
Consul General Paul Carter met with the Metropolitan of Yekaterinburg and Verkhoturye
On June 18, 2018, Consul General Dr. Paul Carter met with the Metropolitan of Yekaterinburg and Verkhoturye. Over a cup of tea, Metropolitan Kirill spoke about the events that will mark the 100th anniversary of the murder of the Russian Tsar’s family this year, the annual service on the night of July 16-17, and the ... Read More»
Consul General Paul Carter visited the City Day in Perm
On June 12-13, 2018, at the invitation of the Mayor of Perm, Dmitry Samoylov, U.S. Consul General Dr. Paul Carter took part in the celebration of the City Day. Perm celebrated its 295th birthday. During the official meeting, Mayor Samoylov told the Consul General about the city and its prospects for economic and social development. ... Read More»
Consul General Paul Carter took part in the commemorative ceremony on June 22
On June 22, 2018, U.S. Consul General Dr. Paul Carter, along with other representatives of the diplomatic corps in Yekaterinburg, took part in a ceremony dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Great Patriotic War. The Consul General was deeply touched by the broadcast of the historical record of the announcement of the ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Call with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Readout June 18, 2018 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Heather Nauert: Secretary Pompeo and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke by phone today. The two discussed issues and concerns related to Syria and the bilateral relationship. Secretary Pompeo reemphasized the U.S. commitment to ... Read More»
Statement By Heather Nauert – Political and Religious Prisoners Held by the Russian Government
The United States is deeply concerned by the growing number of individuals—now more than 150—identified by credible human rights organizations as political and religious prisoners held by the government of the Russian Federation. Read More»
Presidential Message on Eid al-Fitr
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release June 15, 2018 Melania and I wish Muslims across the United States and around the world a blessed Eid al-Fitr. Eid marks the end of a month of reflection and a return to daily life with a renewed sense of joy and love for ... Read More»
Security Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Location: Moscow and other cities throughout Russia Event: The Russian Federation will be hosting the 2018 FIFA world Cup starting today June 14 through July 15th in 11 cities throughout Russia. U.S. citizens should be prepared for: Robust police presence in and around sporting venues, Fan Zones, transportations networks, hotels, vehicle checkpoints, and major tourist sites. Large crowds ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo on the Occasion of Russia Day
"On behalf of The President of the United States and the American people, I congratulate the Russian Federation and the people of Russia on the occasion of “Russia Day.” On this day, we honor the citizens of the Russian Federation and their aspirations for the democratic principles of universal freedom, civil liberties, and the rule ... Read More»
Treasury Sanctions Russian Federal Security Service Enablers
U.S. Department of the Treasury Office of Public Affairs June 11, 2018 Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated five Russian entities and three Russian individuals under Executive Order (E.O.) 13694, “Blocking the Property of Certain Persons Engaging in Significant Malicious Cyber-Enabled Activities,” as amended, ... Read More»
Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Risch Travels to Russia, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic
U.S. Department Of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Media Note June 4, 2018 Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Carl Risch will travel June 3-9 to Russia, Kazakhstan, and the Kyrgyz Republic to participate in a series of meetings with U.S. diplomats and foreign government authorities. While on this trip, ... Read More»
Secretary Pompeo’s Call With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
Readout Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC May 30, 2018 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Heather Nauert: Secretary Pompeo and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke by phone today, their first conversation since the Secretary’s swearing in and the Foreign Minister’s reappointment. The two discussed issues and concerns related to the bilateral relationship, Ukraine, ... Read More»
Statement by Heather Nauert – The Shoot Down of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Heather Nauert, Spokesperson May 24, 2018 The United States has complete confidence in the findings of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) as presented today by the Dutch Public Prosecutor: the missile launcher used to shoot down Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 originated from ... Read More»
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo After the Deal: A New Iran Strategy
U.S. Department Of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Remarks May 21, 2018 The Heritage Foundation Washington, D.C. SECRETARY POMPEO: Well, good morning, everyone. I first want to thank the Heritage Foundation and its president, Kay Coles James. Thank you for hosting me today. First as a private citizen and then as a ... Read More»
Statement by Spokesperson Nauert on the Opening of the Kerch Bridge in Crimea
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson ________________________________________ For Immediate Release STATEMENT BY HEATHER NAUERT, SPOKESPERSON May 15, 2018 The Opening of the Kerch Bridge in Crimea The United States condemns Russia’s construction and partial opening of the Kerch Strait Bridge between Russia and occupied Crimea, which was done without the permission of the ... Read More»
Presidential Message on Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Quran to the prophet Muhammad through fellowship and prayer. Many observe this holy time by fasting, performing acts of charity, reciting prayers, and reading the Quran. Read More»
Statement by Secretary Pompeo – On President Trump’s Decision to Withdraw from the JCPOA
As we exit the Iran deal, we will be working with our allies to find a real, comprehensive, and lasting solution to the Iranian threat. We have a shared interest with our allies in Europe and around the world to prevent Iran from ever developing a nuclear weapon. Read More»
Remarks by President Trump on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action
THE PRESIDENT: My fellow Americans: Today, I want to update the world on our efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. The Iranian regime is the leading state sponsor of terror. It exports dangerous missiles, fuels conflicts across the Middle East, and supports terrorist proxies and militias such as Hezbollah, Hamas, the Taliban, ... Read More»
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Remarks to the Traveling Press on Plane en route to Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release May 8, 2018 SECRETARY POMPEO: So the first time it was truly an intel effort, in that the South Koreans had made representations about things that North Korea was preparing to do that Kim Jong-un had told them, and we largely went there to ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin on Iran Decision
Washington - Today President Donald J. Trump announced his decision to cease the United States' participation in the JCPOA and begin reimposing U.S. nuclear-related sanctions on the Iranian regime. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is taking immediate action to implement the President's decision. Read More»
Demonstration Alert – U.S. Mission Russia
Location: Moscow and Yekaterinburg, and other cities throughout Russia Event: Various organizations are planning to hold unauthorized protests, throughout Russia on May 5 and May 6, 2018. According to media reports, the following events are planned: Saturday, May 5th Moscow — An unapproved opposition march is scheduled to take place along Tverskaya Street (from Belorusskaya ... Read More»
Statement on World Press Freedom Day – United States Mission to the OSCE
On the 25th annual World Press Freedom Day, the United States renews our commitment to promoting and protecting a free press, which is an essential pillar of democracy. The United States values a free press as a key component of democratic governance. When we foster a free press, citizens are more informed, active, and engaged ... Read More»
Remarks by President Trump at Swearing-In Ceremony of Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release May 2, 2018 State Department Washington, D.C. 11:17 A.M. EDT The President: Thank you. I must say, that’s more spirit that I’ve heard from the State Department in a long time — many years. (Laughter.) We can say many years, and maybe many decades. ... Read More»
Remarks by Mike Pompeo at his Swearing-In Ceremony as Secretary of State
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Remarks by Mike Pompeo, Secretary of State May 2, 2018 SECRETARY POMPEO: This is truly humbling. Thank you very much, Mr. President, for those kind words. Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for being here today to honor me by swearing me in. Thank you, ... Read More»
Statement by Spokesperson Nauert on Launching of Operations to Liberate Final ISIS Strongholds in Syria
The United States, the Global Coalition, and local partners, including the Syrian Democratic Forces, are launching operations to liberate the final ISIS strongholds in Syria. Read More»
Statement From the President on the Confirmation of Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release April 26, 2018 I am pleased with the Senate’s confirmation of Mike Pompeo to serve as our country’s top diplomat. Having a patriot of Mike’s immense talent, energy, and intellect leading the Department of State will be an incredible asset for our country at ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert U.S. Embassy Moscow
Location: Throughout Russia Event: Various organizations are planning to hold rallies, marches, protests, and parades throughout Russia starting on May 1st through May 9th. According to media reports, the following events are planned: Tuesday, May 1st (May Day) Moscow – Organized trade unions have five approved rallies scheduled to take place in Moscow from 1100 ... Read More»
Ambassador Jon Huntsman Speaks at Media Roundtable in Vladivostok, April 24, 2018
Ambassador Jon Huntsman Remarks at Media Roundtable Vladivostok April 24, 2018 Ambassador Huntsman: I am delighted to be in Vladivostok in the Russian Far East. It is my first visit to Vladivostok. I have lived south of here in China, and I’ve lived in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, so I’m familiar with the broader East ... Read More»
Ambassador Haley on the Release of the Annual Human Rights Report
This annual report evaluates the human rights records of 199 countries and territories. It provides an opportunity to highlight the nature, scope, and severity of human rights violations and abuses across the globe, and analyze whether governments are making efforts to protect human rights or failing to meet their obligations. Read More»
Fifteenth Session of the Bilateral Consultative Commission under the New START Treaty
The fifteenth session of the Bilateral Consultative Commission under the U.S.-Russia New START Treaty was held in Geneva on April 10-20. Read More»
Ambassador Haley Delivers Remarks at a UN Security Council Meeting on Salisbury
United States Mission to the United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy For Immediate Release April 18, 2018 Ambassador Nikki Haley, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, delivered remarks this afternoon at a UN Security Council briefing on an Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) report on the chemical weapons attack ... Read More»
Statement by Heather Nauert – Holding Russia Accountable for Chemical Weapons Use in Salisbury, UK
The UN Security Council and the Executive Council of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) met to discuss the OPCW’s recent findings related to the March 4 use of a military-grade nerve agent in Salisbury, UK. Read More»
Statement by the United States to the OPCW 58th Meeting of the Executive Council
Remarks Ambassador Kenneth D. Ward, Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the OPCW The Hague, Netherlands April 16, 2018 Mr Chairperson, Mr Director-General, distinguished ambassadors and delegates, It is utterly deplorable that, once again, the Executive Council must address a horrific chemical weapons attack by Syria. On 7 April, just three days ... Read More»
Joint U.S. – UK statement on malicious cyber activity carried out by Russian government
April 16, 2018 Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) released a joint Technical Alert about malicious cyber activity carried out by the Russian Government. The targets of this malicious cyber activity are primarily government and private-sector organisations, critical infrastructure providers, ... Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador Haley at an Emergency UN Security Council Meeting on Syria
We’re here today because three permanent members of the United Nations Security Council acted. The United Kingdom, France, and the United States acted – not as revenge, not as punishment, not as a symbolic show of force. We acted to deter the future use of chemical weapons by holding the Syrian regime responsible for its ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Jon Huntsman on the Situation in Syria
April 14, 2018 I’m Jon Huntsman, United States Ambassador to Russia. Amid everything that has happened in recent days, I wanted to be sure that you heard directly why the United States and others have resolved to take the actions that we have in Syria. As the President said, the chemical weapons attack by the ... Read More»
Remarks at an Emergency UN Security Council Meeting on Syria and Unilateral Threats to International Peace and Security
Ambassador Nikki Haley: "The Russian Federation has asked us to discuss what it calls “unilateral threats” related to Syria. What is strange is that Russia is ignoring the real threat to international peace and security that has brought us all here. And it is ignoring its own unilateral responsibility for all of it." Read More»
United States Assessment of the Assad Regime’s Chemical Weapons Use
The United States assesses with confidence that the Syrian regime used chemical weapons in the eastern Damascus suburb of Duma on April 7, 2018, killing dozens of men, women, and children, and severely injuring hundreds more. Read More»
Remarks Before a Vote on a Draft UN Security Council Resolution on the Use of Chemical Weapons in Syria
Ambassador Nikki Haley: "We have reached a decisive moment as a Security Council. On Saturday, the first haunting images appeared from Douma in Syria. We gathered around this table yesterday to express our collective outrage. We then collectively agreed that this Council must take steps to determine exactly what happened in Douma, and to put ... Read More»
Ambassador Haley on the Inability of the UN Security Council to Establish an Independent Investigative Mechanism on Chemical Weapons Use in Syria
Ambassador Nikki Haley, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, delivered remarks at three separate UN Security Council meetings on the use of chemical weapons in Syria that were held in an attempt to respond to the latest chemical weapons attack in Douma, Syria. Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador Haley at an Emergency UN Security Council Briefing on Chemical Weapons Use in Syria
Almost exactly one year ago, I stood on the floor of the Security Council and held up pictures of dead Syrian children. After that day, I prayed that I would never have to do that again. I could; there are many truly gruesome pictures. Many of us have worked hard to ensure that one day, ... Read More»
Press Release: U.N. Security Council to Hold Emergency Meeting on Chemical Weapons Use in Syria
The United States, along with Cote d’Ivoire, France, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, has called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council in light of the latest allegations of a chemical weapons attack in Douma, Syria. The emergency meeting will be held on Monday. Read More»
Statement by Heather Nauert – On the Chemical Attack in Douma
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement By Heather Nauert, Spokesperson Washington, DC April 7, 2018 We continue to closely follow disturbing reports on April 7 regarding another alleged chemical weapons attack, this time targeting a hospital in Douma, Syria. Reports from a number of contacts and medical personnel on ... Read More»
President Donald J. Trump Is Standing up to Russia’s Malign Activities
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release April 6, 2018 “It is more important than ever before to come together as Americans. We cannot allow those seeking to sow confusion, discord, and rancor to be successful.” – President Donald J. Trump NEW ACTIONS STANDING UP TO RUSSIA: President Donald J. Trump’s ... Read More»
Thirty Years of Enhanced Strategic Security through the Nuclear Risk Reduction Center
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Media Note April 6, 2018 The U.S. Department of State commemorates the 30th Anniversary of the creation of the Nuclear Risk Reduction Center (NRRC). Established in 1987 with the purpose of opening a communications channel to the USSR to reduce the risk of nuclear ... Read More»
Treasury Designates Russian Oligarchs, Officials, and Entities in Response to Worldwide Malign Activity
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), in consultation with the Department of State, today designated seven Russian oligarchs and 12 companies they own or control, 17 senior Russian government officials, and a state-owned Russian weapons trading company and its subsidiary, a Russian bank. Read More»
Ambassador Haley Delivers Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Chemical Weapons Use in Syria
Ambassador Nikki Haley, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, delivered remarks this morning at a UN Security Council briefing on the use of chemical weapons in Syria. The briefing coincided with the one-year anniversary of the chemical weapons attack on civilians in Khan Sheikhoun in Syria on April 4, 2017. Read More»
Joint Statement on First Anniversary of Chemical Attack on Khan Sheikhoun, Syria
The text of the following statement was released by UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, and U.S. Acting Secretary John Sullivan. Read More»
White House Statement on the Extradition of Yevgeniy Aleksandrovich Nikulin
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release April 2, 2018 The United States is grateful to the Czech Republic for the extradition of Yevgeniy Aleksandrovich Nikulin, who allegedly hacked computers belonging to LinkedIn, Dropbox, and Formspring. Nikulin, a Russian citizen, was arrested by Czech law enforcement and has been in Czech ... Read More»
Statement from State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert on the expulsion of U.S. Diplomats
March 29, 2018 I’d like to open with a statement from Ambassador Jon Huntsman, our Ambassador in Moscow: “This evening Ambassador John Huntsman was convoked to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian federation. They delivered a very serious message, the substance of which we factually cannot agree with. The Russian federation dubbed 60 ... Read More»
White House Press Secretary Statement Regarding Russia’s Expulsion of American Diplomats
"Russia's action today to expel American diplomats marks a further deterioration in the United States- Russia relationship. The expulsion of undeclared Russian intelligence officers by the United States and more than two dozen partner nations and NATO allies earlier this week was an appropriate response to the Russian attack on the soil of the United ... Read More»
Ambassador Huntsman Interview with RBC TV
March 27, 2018 Spaso House Q. Dear Ambassador, thank you so much, it’s a great pleasure. AMB: The honor is mine, thank you. Q. First of all, I would like to look at the timeline of events. President Trump congratulates Vladimir Putin with his re-election, despite the advice to the contrary from his policy advisors. ... Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador Nikki Haley – at a UN Security Council Briefing on the Humanitarian Situation in Syria
United States Mission to the United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy Remarks by Ambassador Nikki Haley For Immediate Release March 27, 2018 As delivered Thank you, Foreign Minister Blok, for chairing this meeting. And thank you to Under-Secretary-General Lowcock for once again laying out the facts about what’s happening in Syria. I also ... Read More»
Ambassador Huntsman Interview with TASS/Kommersant
Ambassador Huntsman: First of all, let me express very deep and profound condolences to the families who lost children and loved ones in this horrible shopping mall incident in Siberia. My heart just weeps every time I hear an update on the number of people killed, and I just wanted to express that first and ... Read More»
Ambassador Haley on the Expulsion of Russian Intelligence Operatives from the United States
United States Mission to the United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy For Immediate Release Press Release March 26, 2018 Today, the United States began the process of expelling 12 intelligence operatives from the Russian Mission to the United Nations who have abused their privilege of residence in the United States. After a review, ... Read More»
Press Statement by Heather Nauert: Holding Russia Accountable for Its Destabilizing Behavior
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC March 26, 2018 On March 4, Russia used a military-grade nerve agent to attempt to murder a British citizen and his daughter in Salisbury. This attack on our Ally the United Kingdom put countless innocent lives at risk and resulted in serious injury to three people, including ... Read More»
Statement from the Press Secretary on the Expulsion of Russian Intelligence Officers
Today President Donald J. Trump ordered the expulsion of dozens of Russian intelligence officers from the United States and the closure of the Russian consulate in Seattle due to its proximity to one of our submarine bases and Boeing. The United States takes this action in conjunction with our NATO allies and partners around the ... Read More»
Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia
President Donald J. Trump spoke today with President Vladimir Putin of Russia. The two leaders discussed the state of bilateral relations and resolved to continue dialogue about mutual national security priorities and challenges. President Trump congratulated President Putin on his March 18 re-election, and emphasized the importance of denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula. The two leaders ... Read More»
Statement by Heather Nauert, Spokesperson – Concern over the Situation in Afrin, Syria
The United States is deeply concerned over reports from Afrin City over the last 48 hours. It appears the majority of the population of the city, which is predominantly Kurdish, evacuated under threat of attack from Turkish military forces and Turkish backed opposition forces. Read More»
Treasury Sanctions Russian Cyber Actors for Interference With the 2016 U.S. Elections and Malicious Cyber-Attacks
U.S. Department of the Treasury Press Releases March 15, 2018 Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated five entities and 19 individuals under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) as well as Executive Order (E.O.) 13694, “Blocking the Property of Certain Persons Engaging in ... Read More»
Statement from the United States, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom on the Attack in Salisbury
THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 15, 2018 Statement from the United States, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom on the Attack in Salisbury We, the leaders of France, Germany, the United States and the United Kingdom, abhor the attack that took place against Sergei and Yulia Skripal in ... Read More»
Remarks at an Emergency UN Security Council Briefing on Chemical Weapons Use by Russia in the U.K.
Ambassador Nikki Haley: "We’re here today to discuss the use of a chemical weapon by one Council member in the territory of another Council member. Let me make one thing clear from the very beginning: the United States stands in absolute solidarity with Great Britain. The United States believes that Russia is responsible for the ... Read More»
Crimea Is Ukraine. Press Statement by Heather Nauert.
State Department Spokesperson: "Four years ago this week, Russia held an illegitimate, fabricated “referendum” in Ukraine in a futile attempt to legitimize its purported annexation of Ukrainian territory. Crimean residents were compelled to vote under scrutiny by heavily armed Russian troops. Russia’s claim that Ukrainians made a free choice in that sham “referendum” has always ... Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador Haley at a UN Security Council Briefing on Syria Ceasefire Implementation
Ambassador Nikki Haley U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York City March 12, 2018 Thank you, Mr. President, and I would like to congratulate Netherlands and your team on having the presidency of the Council this month. I also want to thank Secretary-General Guterres for your briefing ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Tillerson Attributing Responsibility for the Nerve Agent Attack in the U.K.
The United States was in touch with our Allies in the United Kingdom ahead of today’s announcement, including in a call between Secretary Tillerson and Foreign Secretary Johnson this morning. We have full confidence in the UK’s investigation and its assessment that Russia was likely responsible for the nerve agent attack that took place in ... Read More»
Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation in Ukraine
United States Mission to the OSCE As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Harry R. Kamian to the Permanent Council, Vienna March 8, 2018 Mr. Chair, progress in implementing the Minsk agreements remains elusive. In its February 27 weekly report, the SMM recorded 52 sightings of weapons proscribed by the Minsk agreements within the established withdrawal ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Tillerson – Annual Observance of International Women’s Day
U.S Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release March 8, 2018 As we commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8th, the United States renews our steadfast commitment to addressing inequalities between women and men at home and abroad and reaffirms the importance of advancing the status of women and girls globally. ... Read More»
Statement by the Press Secretary on Russian and Syrian Regime Attacks on Eastern Ghouta
The United States condemns the ongoing military offensive that the Assad regime, backed by Russia and Iran, is perpetrating against the people of Eastern Ghouta. After repeatedly delaying the passage of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2401, which demanded a 30-day cessation of hostilities across Syria, Russia has gone on to ignore its terms ... Read More»
Russia’s Continued Illegal Occupation of Crimea
United States Mission to the OSCE As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Harry R. Kamian to the Permanent Council, Vienna March 1, 2018 Distinguished colleagues, as I deliver my intervention today, you will see the names of victims who have suffered abuses for speaking out against Russian occupation of Crimea flashed on the screens above ... Read More»
Statement by Spokesperson Nauert on the Third Anniversary of the Murder of Boris Nemtsov
U.S. Department Of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement By Heather Nauert, Spokesperson February 26, 2018 Third Anniversary of the Murder of Boris Nemtsov Three years ago, opposition leader Boris Nemtsov was assassinated just outside the Kremlin. As a leading figure of Russia’s democratic movement, a former Russian regional governor, and an ... Read More»
Remarks by Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan at the Ukraine’s MFA Diplomatic Academy
Good afternoon. It is an honor to be here in Ukraine, in Kyiv, and in particular, to be joined by so many students. It’s great to see you all here today. Thank you to the Deputy Director of the Diplomatic Academy Dr. Natalia Shulga, and to the Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya, and to the ... Read More»
Grand Jury Indicts Thirteen Russian Individuals and Three Russian Companies for Scheme to Interfere in the United States Political System
The indictment charges thirteen Russian nationals and three Russian companies for committing federal crimes while seeking to interfere in the United States political system, including the 2016 Presidential election. Read More»
Statement from the White House Press Secretary
In June 2017, the Russian military launched the most destructive and costly cyber-attack in history. The attack, dubbed “NotPetya,” quickly spread worldwide, causing billions of dollars in damage across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. It was part of the Kremlin’s ongoing effort to destabilize Ukraine and demonstrates ever more clearly Russia’s involvement in the ongoing ... Read More»
Ambassador Haley Delivers Remarks at a UN Security Council Meeting on Syria
"The Assad regime has become a front for Iran, Hezbollah, and their allies to advance the irresponsible and dangerous agenda for the Middle East. On every front of this conflict, we find fighters imported by Iran from Lebanon, Iraq, and Afghanistan. When we see the Assad regime starving civilians in eastern Ghouta or pummeling schools ... Read More»
Spokesperson Heather Nauert on Third Anniversary of the Signing of the Minsk Package of Measures
Statement By Heather Nauert, Spokesperson on Third Anniversary of the Signing of the Minsk Package of Measures: "Yesterday marked the somber third anniversary of the signing of the Package of Measures for the Implementation of the Minsk Agreements. Sadly, Russia continues to disregard its commitments under the Minsk agreements, stoking a hot conflict in Ukraine that has cost ... Read More»
White House Statement on Saratov Airlines Flight 703 Crash
The United States is deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of those on board Saratov Airlines Flight 703. We send our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the people of Russia. Read More»
Secretary Tillerson’s Interview With Rich Edson of Fox News
SECRETARY TILLERSON: we’re going to continue to work with Russia on the really difficult and complex situation in Syria, where we can. We maintain very, very open lines of communication with them both through military channels, but also through the diplomatic channels. Read More»
Key Facts About New START Treaty Implementation. Fact Sheet.
Through the Treaty’s verification regime, which includes short-notice, on-site inspections at New START Treaty-related bases and facilities, the United States is able to verify information about the strategic nuclear arsenal of the Russian Federation. The verification regime provides both countries insight into each other’s strategic nuclear delivery systems, warheads, and facilities. Read More»
New Start Treaty Central Limits Take Effect. Statement by Heather Nauert.
The United States of America and the Russian Federation have implemented the Treaty on Measures for the Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms (New START Treaty) for seven years. February 5, 2018 marks the date that the Treaty’s central limits on each country’s strategic nuclear arsenal take effect. Read More»
Treasury Information on CAATSA Report and Russian Sanctions
“There has been widespread misreporting of requirements under CAATSA and Treasury’s response, specifically relating to the report required by Section 241 on senior political figures and oligarchs in the Russian Federation. Treasury submitted an unclassified version of this report together with classified annexes. The unclassified report was derived from open source materials which include websites, ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador Jon Huntsman Speaks with Alexey Venediktov of Echo of Moscow Radio
Ambassador: Good morning Alexey. It’s a great pleasure to be with you in the studio. Venediktov: Of course, today’s event, Mr. Ambassador, is the publication of the so-called “Kremlin report” of the US executive power to the US Congress, and a separate list that was published. Could you tell our listeners what status this report ... Read More»
President Donald J. Trump’s State of the Union Address
The White House Office of the Press Secretary Washington, D.C. January 30, 2018[Following are excerpts related to U.S. foreign policy.] Mr. Speaker, Mr. Vice President, Members of Congress, the First Lady of the United States, and my fellow Americans: * * * * America has also finally turned the page on decades of unfair trade ... Read More»
Statement by Spokesperson Nauert on Unsafe Russian Military Practices
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC January 29, 2018 The United States notes with the highest level of concern the latest incident of unsafe Russian military practices, over the Black Sea on January 29. As confirmed by U.S. Naval Forces Europe, a Russian SU-27 engaged in an unsafe interaction with a U.S. EP-3 ... Read More»
Demonstration Alert – U. S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
Location: Rallies are planned in up to 90 cities throughout Russia. The large rallies are expected at the following locations: Moscow – A Moscow rally is planned to begin at 2:00 PM on Tverskaya Street. This rally has not been approved by the Moscow City Administration. Saint Petersburg – A Saint Petersburg rally is planned ... Read More»
Secretary Tillerson’s Phone Call With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Readout January 24, 2018 The following is attributable to Spokesperson Heather Nauert: U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke Wednesday, January 24, by phone. They discussed issues and concerns related to Syria, North Korea, and Ukraine. On Syria, ... Read More»
Remarks on Russia’s Responsibility for the Ongoing Use of Chemical Weapons in Syria
"This meeting was about two things: stopping chemical weapons attacks and denying impunity to those who use or enable the use of such weapons. For an indication of what these weapons can do to humans, one need look no further than East Ghouta in Syria. Only yesterday more than 20 civilians, most of them children, ... Read More»
Attention, visa applicants: U.S. Embassy Moscow Visa Unit has moved to a new location!
Dear visa applicants, Visa Unit of the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, Russia, moved to a new location. New address : 8 Bolshoy Deviatinsky Pereulok, 121099, Moscow, Russia Please note new Security Regulations: Applicants are not permitted to enter the U.S. Embassy/Consulate while carrying any of the following items: Electronic devices: cellular phones, photo cameras, video cameras, laptop computers, tablets ... Read More»
The Detention of Oyub Titiev of Russian NGO “Memorial”
Statement by Spokesperson Heather Nauert: We are troubled by the news that the head of the local Chechen branch office of the Russian human rights NGO Memorial, Oyub Titiev, has been arrested. This is the latest in a string of reports of alarming recent human rights violations in Chechnya. We call on Chechen authorities to ... Read More»
Statement by Spokesperson Nauert on Detainee Exchange between Ukraine and Russia-led Forces
Spokesperson Nauert: "The United States welcomes yesterday’s exchange between the government of Ukraine and Russia-led forces in eastern Ukraine of more than 300 detainees. This exchange is one step toward implementation of the Minsk agreements. We once again call on the sides to fully implement their Minsk commitments including through a true “all-for-all” detainee exchange; ... Read More»
Annual Report on the Implementation of the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC December 20, 2017 Today the State Department submitted to Congress the fifth annual report on the U.S. government’s actions to implement the Act. As part of this report, the State Department, in consultation with the Treasury Department, submitted to Congress the list of individuals who have been ... Read More»
Remarks by President Trump on the Administration’s National Security Strategy
National Security & Defense Issued on: December 18, 2017 Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center Washington, D.C. 2:03 P.M. EST THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you. Please. I want to thank Vice President Pence, along with the many members of my Cabinet here with us today. I also want to thank all ... Read More»
President Donald J. Trump Announces a National Security Strategy to Advance America’s Interests
“Our government’s first duty is to its people, to our citizens — to serve their needs, to ensure their safety, to preserve their rights, and to defend their values.” – President Donald J. Trump A NEW NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY FOR A NEW ERA: Less than a year after taking office, President Donald J. Trump is ... Read More»
Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Call with President Vladimir Putin
The White House December 17, 2017 President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia called President Donald J. Trump today to thank him for the advanced warning the United States intelligence agencies provided to Russia concerning a major terror plot in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Based on the information the United States provided, Russian authorities were able to ... Read More»
Ambassador Hutchison on the North Atlantic Council Statement on the INF
From Kay Bailey Hutchison, Permanent Representative of the United States to the North Atlantic Council, on the Statement by the North Atlantic Council (NAC) on the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty Today’s NAC statement on the INF Treaty shows once again the solidarity of the United States and our NATO Allies on speaking to Russia ... Read More»
30th Anniversary of the INF Treaty: Under Secretary Thomas A. Shannon’s Interview with Kommersant daily
Under Secretary for Political Affairs Thomas A. Shannon gave an interview to Kommersant daily newspaper on the occasion of the 30th Anniversary of the INF Treaty. Read More»
Secretary Tillerson Remarks at OSCE Ministerial Plenary Session
The OSCE is an indispensable pillar of our common security architecture that bolsters peace and stability in Europe and Eurasia. Of all the challenges confronting the OSCE today, none is more important or vexing than the situation in Ukraine. The United States is committed to Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized ... Read More»
Statement by President Trump on Jerusalem
In 1995, Congress adopted the Jerusalem Embassy Act, urging the federal government to relocate the American embassy to Jerusalem and to recognize that that city -- and so importantly -- is Israel’s capital. This act passed Congress by an overwhelming bipartisan majority and was reaffirmed by a unanimous vote of the Senate only six months ... Read More»
President Donald J. Trump’s Proclamation on Jerusalem as the Capital of the State of Israel
President Trump recognized Jerusalem, the ancient capital of the Jewish people, as the capital of the State of Israel. Read More»
Ambassador Huntsman on the Naming of Media Organizations as Foreign Agents in Russia
Ambassador Huntsman on the Naming of Media Organizations as Foreign Agents in Russia: “We are very concerned about this recent move by the Russian government under the banner of the Foreign Agent Law. We’ve seen what this has done to civil society and non-governmental organizations by way of harassment, lawsuits, and effectively putting people out ... Read More»
Russia: Resumption of limited visa services
On December 11, the U.S. consulates in St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, and Vladivostok will begin to offer limited interviews for nonimmigrant visas. Read More»
Media Note on Cancellation of Ambassador Huntsman’s Travel to the Russian Far East
Shortly after his arrival to Russia in October, U.S. Ambassador Huntsman prioritized visits to cities where we actively support U.S. citizens and U.S. business interests and where we hope in the very near future to be able to renew consular operations. He was very pleased with his November visits to Yekaterinburg and St. Petersburg where ... Read More»
Statement By Secretary Tillerson on the Latest DPRK Missile Launch
U.S. Department Of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement By Secretary Tillerson November 28, 2017 The United States strongly condemns North Korea’s launch of what is likely an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan, indiscriminately threatening its neighbors, the region and global stability. The DPRK’s relentless pursuit of nuclear weapons ... Read More»
Russia’s Restrictive Media-Focused Legislation
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC November 28, 2017 New Russian legislation that allows the Ministry of Justice to label media outlets as “foreign agents” and to monitor or block certain internet activity presents yet another threat to free media in Russia. Freedom of expression—including speech and media which a government may find ... Read More»
Secretary Tillerson on Efforts to Address Burma’s Rakhine State Crisis
I reiterate the United States’ condemnation of August 25 attacks on security forces by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA). Yet no provocation can justify the horrendous atrocities that have ensued. These abuses by some among the Burmese military, security forces, and local vigilantes have caused tremendous suffering and forced hundreds of thousands of men, ... Read More»
Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Call with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release November 21, 2017 President Donald J. Trump today spoke with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia for more than one hour. The presidents affirmed their support for the Joint Statement of the United States and the Russian Federation, issued at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation ... Read More»
Ambassador Huntsman on his First Visit to Yekaterinburg
I’ve had a terrific day here in Yekaterinburg on my first official trip outside of Moscow. As the U.S. Ambassador, I’m working first and foremost to ensure stability in our bilateral relationship. The foundation of that stability is trust, and trips like this, where I get to meet not only with local officials like the ... Read More»
Ambassador Huntsman’s Comments to Media during a November 17 visit to RFE/RL in Moscow
U.S. Ambassador to Russia Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., visited RFE/RL’s Moscow office on Friday, November 17. At the end of the visit, he gave the following comment to RFE/RL and answered a question by VOA: Comment: I’m here for a specific reason as the United States Ambassador. I’m here because we as Americans believe that ... Read More»
Statement from the White House Press Secretary on the Veto of the Renewal of the UN-OPCW Joint Investigative Mechanism
THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 17, 2017 Statement from the Press Secretary on the Veto of the Renewal of the UN-OPCW Joint Investigative Mechanism On November 16, Russia vetoed the renewal of the United Nations-Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM), once again protecting ... Read More»
Comment by the Embassy Spokesperson on FARA
Comment by U.S. Embassy Spokesperson Maria Olson on FARA November 17, 2017 Free speech and a free media are central elements of all democracies. We’re watching carefully the draft Russian law designating media outlets as foreign agents to see whether it is passed and how it is implemented. Official Russian statements link the draft legislation ... Read More»
Eighth Anniversary of the Death of Sergey Magnitskiy
U.S. State Department Spokesperson Nauert: We honor the memory of Sergey Magnitskiy, who died on November 16, 2009, while in custody in a Moscow prison. An investigation by Russia's Presidential Human Rights Council found that Magnitskiy had been severely beaten in prison, and members of the Council said his death resulted from beatings and torture ... Read More»
Meeting between U.S. Special Representative Volker and Russian Presidential Representative Surkov
U.S. Special Representative Volker and Russian Presidential Representative Surkov met in Belgrade on November 13, 2017. It was their third meeting and was a thorough discussion of the current diplomatic state of play concerning efforts to end the war in Donbas. It is not surprising that the United States and Russia have different concepts for ... Read More»
Joint Statement by The President of the United States and the President of the Russian Federation
President Trump and President Putin today, meeting on the margins of the APEC conference in Da Nang, Vietnam, confirmed their determination to defeat ISIS in Syria. They expressed their satisfaction with successful U.S.-Russia enhanced de-confliction efforts between U.S. and Russian military professionals that have dramatically accelerated ISIS’s losses on the battlefield in recent months. Read More»
International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists
Press Statement by Heather Nauert: "On International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, the United States renews its dedication to promoting a free, professional, and independent press abroad, and to advocating for accountability for those who would undermine a free press with threats, intimidation, and violence." Read More»
Secretary Tillerson’s Meeting With Ambassador Antonov
U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Russian Ambassador Anatoly Antonov met this afternoon at the Department of State. They discussed the need to restore Ukraine’s territorial integrity and fully implement the Minsk agreements. The two also discussed the defeat of ISIS in Syria and the United States’ continued commitment to the Geneva talks as ... Read More»
Statement by Ambassador Haley on Russia’s Veto of the Renewal of the Joint Investigative Mechanism on Chemical Weapons
Russia has once again demonstrated it will do whatever it takes to ensure the barbaric Assad regime never faces consequences for its use of chemical weapons. Read More»
Secretary Tillerson on Raqqa’s Liberation from ISIS
We congratulate the Syrian people and the Syrian Democratic Forces, including the Syrian Arab Coalition, on the liberation of Raqqa. Read More»
Press Release: Ambassador Haley on Attempts to Politicize and Manipulate Independent Investigations into Chemical Weapons Use in Syria
United States Mission To The United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy For Immediate Release October 19, 2017 The United States has great confidence in the thorough and impartial work of the Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM), a team led jointly by the United Nations and Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), ... Read More»
Remarks By President Trump On Iran Strategy
The White House October 13, 2017 Diplomatic Reception Room Read More»
President Donald J. Trump’s New Strategy on Iran
President Donald J. Trump, in consultation with his national security team, has approved a new strategy for Iran. Read More»
Ambassador Haley on the United States’ Withdrawal from UNESCO
In July, when UNESCO made its latest outrageous and politically based decision, designating the Old City of Hebron and the Tomb of the Patriarchs as part of Palestinian territory, the United States clearly stated that this decision would negatively affect our evaluation of our level of engagement with the organization. The United States will continue ... Read More»
Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Russia Jon Huntsman Jr.
THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 6, 2017 Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Russia Jon Huntsman Jr. President Donald J. Trump met with U.S. Ambassador to Russia Jon Huntsman Jr., and his wife, Mary Kaye Huntsman, to wish them well as they return ... Read More»
11th Anniversary of the Murder of Anna Politkovskaya
Eleven years ago renowned journalist Anna Politkovskaya was shot and killed in her Moscow apartment building. We continue to urge Russian authorities to identify and prosecute the person or persons who ordered, planned, and funded this terrible crime. Read More»
U.S. government representatives to attend Annual Meeting of the Special Services and Law Enforcement Entities
October 4 – 5, U.S. government representatives from Embassy Moscow and officials from Washington, D.C. will attend the 16th Annual Meeting of the Special Services and Law Enforcement Entities held in Krasnodar, Russia and hosted by the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). The meeting will focus on international law enforcement cooperation and counterterrorism, as well ... Read More»
U.S. Ambassador to Russia Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. presents credentials to President Putin
U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. presented his credentials today to President Putin in a ceremony held in the Kremlin's Alexander Hall. "As the U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation, I look forward to working to rebuild trust between our two countries and to strengthening the bilateral relationship based on cooperation on ... Read More»
Presidential Proclamation Honoring the Victims of the Tragedy in Las Vegas, Nevada
Our Nation is heartbroken. We mourn with all whose loved ones were murdered and injured in last night’s horrible tragedy in Las Vegas, Nevada. As we grieve, we pray that God may provide comfort and relief to all those suffering. Read More»
Arrival of U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation Jon M. Huntsman
U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation Jon M. Huntsman and his wife Mary Kaye arrived in Moscow this morning. They were greeted by U.S. Embassy personnel and a representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Huntsman was sworn in on September 29, 2017, and will present his credentials to President Putin on Tuesday, ... Read More»
Remarks by President Trump to the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 19, 2017 10:04 A.M. EDT PRESIDENT TRUMP: Mr. Secretary General, Mr. President, world leaders, and distinguished delegates: Welcome to New York. It is a profound honor to stand here in my home city, as a representative of the American people, to address the ... Read More»
Readout of Secretary Tillerson’s Meeting With Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met this evening in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. The two recommitted to deconflicting military operations in Syria, reducing the violence, and creating the conditions for the Geneva process to move forward, pursuant to United Nations Security ... Read More»
Statement by Secretary Tillerson on North Korea’s Missile Launch
North Korea's provocative missile launch represents the second time the people of Japan, a treaty ally of the United States, have been directly threatened in recent weeks. These continued provocations only deepen North Korea's diplomatic and economic isolation. United Nations Security Council resolutions, including the most recent unanimous sanctions resolution, represent the floor, not the ... Read More»
Remarks by Amb. Haley Following the Adoption of UN Security Council Resolution on DPRK Sanctions
U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Amb. Nikki Haley: "North Korea’s neighbors, its trading partners, and the entire international community are united against its dangerous and illegal actions. Today’s resolution builds on what were already the deepest cutting sanctions ever leveled against North Korea. We’ve been down this road before. The Security Council has ... Read More»
Remarks by President Trump at the 9/11 Memorial Observance
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 11, 2017 Remarks by President Trump at the 9/11 Memorial Observance The Pentagon Arlington, Virginia 9:49 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, General. Thank you very much, ladies and gentlemen. I want to thank you, Secretary Mattis, General Dunford, members of the ... Read More»
On the Anniversary of the 9/11 Terror Attacks
Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson: "Today we remember the victims of the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001, and honor the heroes who valiantly saved many lives that day, even sacrificing their own. Their courage on that day remains an example of the character of the American people in the face of evil. Though ... Read More»
Under Secretary Shannon Travel to Helsinki, Finland
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas A. Shannon, Jr. will travel to Helsinki, Finland September 10-12 where he will meet with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov to address areas of bilateral concern and cooperation. He will also lead the U.S. interagency delegation to the U.S.-Russia Strategic Stability Talks. Read More»
Remarks by Ambassador Nikki Haley at an Emergency UN Security Council Briefing on North Korea
Thank you, Mr. President. And we want to thank you for allowing us to have this prompt meeting, as it’s very urgent. And we also want to thank the Ambassador of Egypt and his team for the steady hand and the calm way in which he lead in this past month. For more than 20 ... Read More»
Achieving Parity in Diplomatic Missions
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson Statement by Heather Nauert, Spokesperson The United States has fully implemented the decision by the Government of the Russian Federation to reduce the size of our mission in Russia. We believe this action was unwarranted and detrimental to the overall relationship between our countries. In the spirit ... Read More»
Ambassador John Tefft answers questions from social media users
We asked our social media followers what would they ask Ambassador Tefft if given the opportunity. The Ambassador is responding to select questions in video form, which we’ll publish here as they become available. 1. Ambassador Tefft: “We had hoped for more from the Russian government.” 2. U.S. Ambassador John Tefft on Russia, Crimea and ... Read More»
Secretary Tillerson’s Calls With Japanese and Republic of Korea Foreign Ministers
Secretary Tillerson spoke on separate calls with Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono and Republic of Korea (R.O.K.) Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha to discuss North Korea’s launch of a missile that overflew Japan. They agreed the launch was an escalation of North Korean provocations and showcased the dangerous threat posed by North Korea to the United ... Read More»
Statement by President Donald J. Trump on North Korea
The world has received North Korea’s latest message loud and clear: this regime has signaled its contempt for its neighbors, for all members of the United Nations, and for minimum standards of acceptable international behavior. Read More»
Ambassador Tefft on U.S.-Russian Relations and much more
Ambassador Tefft in an Interview with TASS Russian News Agency – Mr. Ambassador, as you told us already, you are going to leave in September and what do you think is your main achievement as Ambassador? – Well, I don’t know about achievements. I have a bunch of disappointments, as you’d imagine, in the bilateral relationship. But you know, we try very hard at ... Read More»
Treasury Targets Chinese and Russian Entities and Individuals Supporting the North Korean Regime
8/22/2017 OFAC Designates 16 for Activities Related to Support of North Korea’s Nuclear and Ballistic Missile Programs, Energy Trade, Labor Exports, and Sanctions Evasion Washington – The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated 10 entities and six individuals in response to North Korea’s ongoing development of weapons of mass ... Read More»
U.S. Mission to Russia Statement
August 21, 2017 Russia’s decision to reduce the United States’ diplomatic presence here calls into question Russia’s seriousness about pursuing better relations. We will maintain sufficient staff to carry out essential elements of our mission. Due to the Russian government-imposed cap on U.S. diplomatic personnel in Russia, all nonimmigrant visa operations across Russia will be ... Read More»
Fact Sheet
August 21, 2017 As a result of the Russian government’s personnel cap imposed on the U.S. Mission, all nonimmigrant visa (NIV) operations across Russia will be suspended beginning August 23, 2017. Visa operations will resume on a greatly reduced scale. Beginning September 1, nonimmigrant visa interviews will be conducted only at the U.S. Embassy in ... Read More»
Fourth Anniversary of the Chemical Weapons Attack at Ghouta, Syria
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC August 21, 2017 Four years ago today, the Syrian regime launched a horrific chemical attack with the nerve agent sarin on the opposition-controlled suburb of Ghouta in Damascus – leaving more than 1,400 Syrians dead, many of them children. On this solemn anniversary, the international community remembers ... Read More»
Remarks by Secretary Tillerson on the 2016 International Religious Freedom Annual Report
"We are releasing today the 2016 International Religious Freedom Report. This report is a requirement pursuant to the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 – legislation that upholds religious freedom as a core American value under the Constitution’s First Amendment, as well as a universal human right. This law calls for the government to, quote, ... Read More»
President Donald Trump on Signing the “Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act”
President Donald J. Trump: "Yet despite its problems, I am signing this bill for the sake of national unity. It represents the will of the American people to see Russia take steps to improve relations with the United States. We hope there will be cooperation between our two countries on major global issues so that ... Read More»
Remarks by Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson at a Press Availability
Remarks Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Press Briefing Room Washington, DC August 1, 2017 MS NAUERT: Hi, everybody. How are you today? QUESTION: Good. MS NAUERT: Look who I brought. (Laughter.) Secretary Tillerson joins us today. QUESTION: Welcome to our briefing room. MS NAUERT: Yes. QUESTION: Who is – who’s the little, little ... Read More»
Inclusive Dance Company Inspires Audiences in the Russian Far East
Arts Envoy “REVolutions Dance”, a disability inclusive modern dance group composed of one wheelchair-bound dancer and three non-disabled dancers, visited the Russian Far East from July 15th to 25th, promoting respect for diversity and appreciation of modern dance. REVolutions Dance’s program opened in Vladivostok and Khabarovsk with public flash mobs at main squares under the ... Read More»
Respecting Religious Freedom in Russia
Heather Nauert, State Department Spokesperson: "The Russian Supreme Court’s decision this week against the Jehovah’s Witnesses is the latest in a disturbing trend of persecution of religious minorities in Russia. We urge the Russian authorities to lift the ban on Jehovah’s Witnesses’ activities in Russia, to reverse the closing of the Jehovah’s Witnesses Administrative Center, ... Read More»
Under Secretary Shannon’s Meeting With Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov
Following the recent meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hamburg, Germany, and multiple bilateral senior-level engagements, Under Secretary Thomas A. Shannon, Jr. met his Russian counterpart Sergei Ryabkov Monday to continue discussing areas of mutual concern. The conversation was tough, forthright, and deliberate, reflecting both parties’ commitment to a resolution. ... Read More»
Marking the Third Anniversary of the Downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17
State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert: "Three years ago today 298 innocent civilians were killed in the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17. The United States again extends its deepest sympathy to the families and friends of the victims..." Read More»
Honoring the Memory of Journalists Natalya Estemirova and Paul Klebnikov
Heather Nauert , Department Spokesperson: "Today, we mark with sadness the eighth anniversary of the murder of human rights defender and journalist Natalya Estemirova and the thirteenth anniversary of the murder of American journalist and editor Paul Klebnikov, both killed in Russia. Ms. Estemirova, renowned for her writing and activism on human rights abuses in ... Read More»
Secretary Tillerson Appoints Ambassador Kurt Volker Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC July 7, 2017 Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson announced today his appointment of Ambassador Kurt Volker to serve as the United States Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations. Ambassador Volker, who has served previously as the U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for ... Read More»
Press Briefing on the President’s Meetings at the G20
THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary ________________________________________________________________ For Immediate Release July 7, 2017 PRESS BRIEFING BY SECRETARY OF STATE TILLERSON AND SECRETARY OF TREASURY MNUCHIN ON THE PRESIDENT’S MEETINGS AT THE G20 Hamburg Messe Hamburg, Germany 7:18 P.M. CET SECRETARY MNUCHIN: Hi, everybody. I just want to highlight very briefly, and then ... Read More»
Background Briefing on the Ceasefire in Syria
Special Briefing Senior State Department Official Via Teleconference Washington, DC July 7, 2017 ________________________________ MODERATOR: All right. Thank you, sir. Good afternoon and thanks for joining us for this background call on the southwest Syria ceasefire arrangement. [Senior State Department Official] is joining us on this call. Earlier today, as many of you are aware, ... Read More»
Remarks by President Trump to the People of Poland
THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary ________________________________________________________________ For Immediate Release July 6, 2017 Krasiński Square Warsaw, Poland 1:16 P.M. CEST MRS. TRUMP: Hello, Poland! Thank you very much. My husband and I have enjoyed visiting your beautiful country. I want to thank President and Mrs. Duda for the warm welcome and their ... Read More»
Remarks by President Trump at the Three Seas Initiative Summit
The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release July 6, 2017 Royal Castle Warsaw, Poland 11:17 A.M. CEST PRESIDENT TRUMP: Thank you. I greatly appreciate it. This is a beautiful room, I must say. I love beautiful rooms and this is one of them. I want to thank you, President and President. ... Read More»
Joint Investigation Team Report on the Downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC July 6, 2017 The United States welcomes the unanimous decision of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) granting jurisdiction for the prosecution of those responsible for the downing of flight MH17 to the Dutch courts. We have full confidence in the ability of the Dutch criminal justice ... Read More»
Consul General Marcus Micheli visited Kurgan
On July 5-6, Consul General Marcus Micheli visited Kurgan, where he met officials of the Kurgan Oblast Administration and Kurgan Oblast Duma, President of the Kurgan Chamber of Commerce and CEOs of major companies to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation in the commercial, cultural, and educational spheres between the U.S. and Kurgan city and oblast. ... Read More»
Ambassador Nikki Haley Delivers Remarks at an Emergency UN Security Council Meeting on North Korea
July 5, 2017 “North Korea’s destabilizing escalation is a threat to all nations in the region and beyond. Their actions are quickly closing off the possibility of a diplomatic solution…The United States is prepared to use the full range of our capabilities to defend ourselves and our allies. One of our capabilities lies with ... Read More»
Statement From Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson on the Current Situation in Syria
Press Statement Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington, DC July 5, 2017 Before I depart for the G20 summit in Hamburg, I would like to comment on the current situation in Syria, which is a topic the President will raise in his meeting with Russian President Putin. First, parties in Syria must ensure ... Read More»
Meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC July 5, 2017 Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS Brett McGurk will host senior leaders of the Coalition for a series of meetings in Washington D.C next week. On July 11, the Coalition’s Working Groups on Counter Finance, Foreign Terrorist Fighters, Stabilization ... Read More»
Fact Sheets: New START Treaty Aggregate Numbers of Strategic Offensive Arms
Fact Sheet BUREAU OF ARMS CONTROL, VERIFICATION, AND COMPLIANCE July 1, 2017 (Data in this Fact Sheet comes from the biannual exchange of data required by the Treaty. It contains data declared current as of March 1, 2017. Data will be updated each six month period after entry into force of the Treaty.) Category of ... Read More»
The 4th of July in pictures: The USA’s biggest birthday party
It’s a birthday party for everyone, young and old. It takes place at fairgrounds and parks, on beaches and streets, and in people’s backyards. It is the Fourth of July — Independence Day — the birthday of the United States of America. Read More»
Spokesperson Nauert on Conviction of Five of Those Responsible for the Murder of Boris Nemtsov
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC June 30, 2017 We welcome the news that five of the persons responsible for the murder of Boris Nemtsov have been convicted of the crime. We call once more on the Russian Government to ensure that all involved in the killing of Boris Nemtsov, including anyone involved ... Read More»
Remarks at the 2017 Trafficking in Persons Report Launch Ceremony
Remarks by Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson, Ambassador-at-Large, Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons Susan Coppedge, Advisor to the President Ivanka Trump Read More»
Ambassador Nikki Haley Delivers Remarks at a UN Security Council Meeting on Iran
Ambassador Nikki Haley Delivers Remarks at a UN Security Council Meeting on Iran Share 06/29/2017 “The Secretary-General’s report is filled with devastating evidence of the nature of the Iranian regime. In paragraph after paragraph, it documents the Iranian government’s actions in defiance of Resolution 2231: repeated ballistic missile launches, proven arms smuggling, illicit procurement of ballistic missile-related technology. Iran’s destructive and destabilizing role in the Middle East goes far beyond its illicit missile launches. From Syria to Yemen and Iraq to Lebanon, Iran’s support for terrorist groups continues unabated. Iran’s weapons, military advisors and arms smugglers stoke regional conflicts and make them harder to solve.” “For our part, the United States will not continue to turn a blind eye to Iranian regime’s behavior. In our national capacity, the United States will do our part to enforce resolution 2231. We will work with our global partners to interdict cargo prohibited under the resolution. And we will continue to impose our own sanctions on those who help violate resolution 2231.” “The continuance of Iran’s destructive, destabilizing behavior will prevent it from ever having a normal relationship with the United States and the rest of the world. And the regime’s continued oppression of its own people speaks volumes about its true nature.” –Ambassador Nikki Hale Read More»
Fact Sheet: Aviation Enhanced Security Measures for All Commercial Flights to the United States
The United States and the global aviation community face an adaptive and agile enemy. Terrorist groups continue to target passenger aircraft, and we have seen a “spider web” of threats to commercial aviation as terrorist pursue new attack methods. Based on these concerns, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is working to raise the baseline ... Read More»
Remarks by Secretary of Defense James Mattis at Marshall Center, Garmisch, Germany
SECRETARY OF DEFENSE JIM MATTIS: Thank you, Keith, old friend, Minister von der Leyen, there is probably no one that I would rather be here today with than my esteemed fellow Minister, the first Minister to call on me after I had the surprise of being assigned to this job, I might add, thank you ... Read More»
Remarks by DHL Secretary Kelly for the Council for New American Security Conference
SECRETARY KELLY: Thank you, Richard. We have a lot of ground to cover today. Our nation is being targeted daily by terrorists, criminals, hackers, nation states, and more. But I want to focus my brief remarks this afternoon on aviation security and the very real threat we face. The world’s first commercial flight took to ... Read More»
State Department Press Briefing – June 27, 201
Heather Nauert Spokesperson Department Press Briefing Washington, DC June 27, 2017 TRANSCRIPT: 2:18 p.m. EDT MS NAUERT: And if anyone has any additional follow-up questions regarding the TIP Report, we can try to collect those and get back with you – more information. Good afternoon again. The – I want to start with a little ... Read More»
Briefing on the 2017 Trafficking in Persons Report
MS NAUERT: No, I wish. This morning, Secretary Tillerson released the 17th installment of the Trafficking in Persons Report, also known as the TIP Report. To go into greater detail about that report today, we have with us Susan Coppedge, who is the ambassador-at-large to monitor and combat trafficking in persons. Read More»
Statement from the White House Press Secretary
The United States has identified potential preparations for another chemical weapons attack by the Assad regime that would likely result in the mass murder of civilians, including innocent children. The activities are similar to preparations the regime made before its April 4, 2017 chemical weapons attack. As we have previously stated, the United States is ... Read More»
On the Record Statement by Spokesperson Heather Nauert: U.S.-Russia Relations
We regret that Russia has decided to turn away from an opportunity to discuss bilateral obstacles that hinder U.S.-Russia relations. During the Secretary’s April visit to Moscow, he and Foreign Minister Lavrov agreed to establish a senior-level working group to discuss bilateral issues of concern. Undersecretary Shannon had planned to travel to St. Petersburg this ... Read More»
Embassy Statement on the Reinforcing of Existing Sanctions
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) yesterday reinforced existing sanctions on Russia by designating or identifying a range of individuals and entities related to Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine and occupation of Crimea. The action was designed to counter attempts to circumvent our sanctions, and to maintain alignment of ... Read More»
Annual baseball game brings Republicans, Democrats together
One day after a gunman fired shots at members of Congress practicing for the annual Congressional Baseball Game, wounding five people, Republicans and Democrats faced off across the baseball diamond and drew nearly 25,000 fans supporting unity in Washington. The friendly baseball game, a summer tradition dating back to 1909, is a charitable event that ... Read More»
Explore the world’s biggest library … right now [video]
The Library of Congress, founded in 1800, is a book lover’s dream. With 164 million items and 1,350 kilometers of bookshelves, it’s the world’s largest library. Even if you can’t get to Washington to visit the marble and granite Library of Congress, across the street from the U.S. Capitol, you can take a virtual tour ... Read More»
Three For Silver Discovers Traditional American Music has a place in Ural Hearts
In May, Three For Silver, a folk rock band from Portland, Oregon, spent ten days in the Urals giving a great number of concerts, talking about America’s folk traditions, conducting workshops for students at local music schools, and also going on radio shows in Perm and Yekaterinburg. Three For Silver’s original music captured audiences immediately, ... Read More»
White House Statement on June 12 Protests in Russia
White House Spokesperson Sean Spicer: "[T]he United States strongly condemns the detention of hundreds of peacef