Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Ukraine

Ambassador Robert Wood Alternative Representative for Special Political Affairs New York, New York December 6, 2023 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, Assistant-Secretary-General Jenca and Director for Coordination Rajasingham for your briefings today. Colleagues, since last February, Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine has resulted in the deaths of nearly 10,000 …

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G7 Leaders’ Statement

WHITE HOUSE DECEMBER 06, 2023 We, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7), met virtually on December 6, 2023, to address global challenges and shape a course for a better future. We reaffirm our commitment made at the G7 Summit in Hiroshima, which is a city that suffered an atomic bombing and now has …

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A Proclamation on National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, 2023

December 06, 2023 White House On this day 82 years ago, 2,403 service members and civilians were killed in a painful and unprovoked attack on our Armed Forces.  On National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we remember these women and men, who gave their last full measure of devotion to our Nation.  We honor the brave service …

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G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Situation in Israel and Gaza

MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON NOVEMBER 28, 2023 The text of the following statement was released by the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union. Begin Text: We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, …

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Preserving a Native American tribe’s language and culture

By ShareAmerica The United States brings together many identities, languages and religions. This diversity is a core part of Americans’ identities, and many people have dedicated their lives to preserving their own cultures. Quirina Geary  is Native American. Even though she never expected her life’s work to be the preservation of Mutsun, the language of her ancestors, …

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A Proclamation on World Freedom Day, 2023

WHITE HOUSE November 8, 2023 On World Freedom Day, we remember that the hammer blow that brought down the Berlin Wall and the might that lifted the Iron Curtain were not sparked by the words of any single leader — it was the people of Europe who spent decades fighting to free themselves and defend democracy.  Together, …

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Celebrating champions of equity and justice

By ShareAmerica Structural racism weakens societies. When communities lack opportunity, countries fail to reach their economic potential. When people lack access to vaccines, disease spreads. And when individuals don’t see themselves reflected in government, faith in democracy suffers. “Racism, discrimination — these are not only morally wrong; they make our world less safe, less stable, …

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Nov 2 – International Day to End impunity for Crimes Against Journalists

Today, on the International Day to End impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, the United States strongly condemns threats, harassment, and violence targeting journalists and media workers in Russia and around the world.  We stand in solidarity with courageous journalists – both Russian and foreign – who continue their work to ensure the free flow of information …

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Ambassador Tracy interview with RFE/RL Grani Vremeni

Riga, Latvia – October 12, 2023 RFE/RL: My first question, the relation between Moscow and Washington is at it’s worse since the Cold War era. What should diplomats [do] to prevent these conflicts from turning into a wider military confrontation? AMBASSADOR TRACY: I think the other thing that I want to touch on before I …

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Remarks by President Biden on the United States’ Response to Hamas’s Terrorist Attacks Against Israel and Russia’s Ongoing Brutal War Against Ukraine

WHITE HOUSE BRIEFING ROOM SPEECHES AND REMARKS OCTOBER 20, 2023 8:02 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Good evening, my fellow Americans. We’re facing an inflection point in history — one of those moments where the decisions we make today are going to determine the future for decades to come. That’s what I’d like to talk with …

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Statement from President Joe Biden on the Hospital Explosion in Gaza

WHITE HOUSE BRIEFING ROOM STATEMENTS AND RELEASES OCTOBER 17, 2023 I am outraged and deeply saddened by the explosion at the Al Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza, and the terrible loss of life that resulted. Immediately upon hearing this news, I spoke with King Abdullah II of Jordan, and Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel and …

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Remarks by President Biden on the Terrorist Attacks in Israel

OCTOBER 10, 2023 WHITE HOUSE State Dining Room 2:24 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon. You know, there are moments in this life — and I mean this literally — when the pure, unadulterated evil is unleashed on this world. The people of Israel lived through one such moment this weekend. The bloody hands of …

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Remarks by President Biden on the Terrorist Attacks In Israel

OCTOBER 07, 2023 WHITE HOUSE State Dining Room 2:48 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon. Today, the people of Israel are under attack, orchestrated by a terrorist organization, Hamas. In this moment of tragedy, I want to say to them and to the world and to terrorists everywhere that the United States stands with Israel. …

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Israel Under Attack

PRESS STATEMENT THE SECRETARY OF STATE OCTOBER 7, 2023 The United States unequivocally condemns the appalling attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israel, including civilians and civilian communities. There is never any justification for terrorism. We stand in solidarity with the government and people of Israel, and extend our condolences for the Israeli lives lost in …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken With The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg at The Atlantic Festival

INTERVIEW ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE WASHINGTON, D.C. SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 MR GOLDBERG:  Thank you, and good morning.  And again, on behalf of everyone at The Atlantic, thank you so much for coming today and tomorrow, I hope.  We have an amazing program.  We’re kicking it off with the Secretary of State.  I’ve told him …

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Secretary Blinken Outlines the Power and Purpose of American Diplomacy in a New Era in Speech at Johns Hopkins SAIS

FACT SHEET OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON SEPTEMBER 13, 2023 Today, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken delivered a speech at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) sharing the Biden Administration’s view of the power and purpose of American diplomacy at this historic inflection point — the end of the post-Cold War era …

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Press Statement from U.S. Embassy Moscow Vladimir Kara-Murza’s Second Birthday in Detention

Press Statement from U.S. Embassy Moscow Vladimir Kara-Murza’s Second Birthday in Detention September 7, 2023 September 7 is a difficult milestone for Russian pro-democracy activist Vladimir Kara-Murza.  Today, he turns 42 years old, marking his second birthday in detention, while he undergoes a perilous transfer to a penal colony after the denial of his appeal …

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International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 30, 2023 On this International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, we stand in solidarity with those who have been subjected to the anguish of separation from their families and friends. We also extend our support to the family members, legal representatives, and human rights …

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Joint Statement Delivered by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on Russia’s Continued Pursuit of Weapons from the DPRK

United States Mission to the United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy For Immediate Release August 30, 2023 Joint Statement Delivered by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on Russia’s Continued Pursuit of Weapons from the DPRK   (The following is a joint statement delivered by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Representative of the United States to the United Nations, …

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Video of Former Embassy Moscow Service Provider and FSB Summons of U.S. Diplomats

PRESS STATEMENT MATTHEW MILLER, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON AUGUST 28, 2023 We have seen the video shown on Russia’s state media depicting the alleged confession of Russian citizen, Mr. Robert Shonov, as well as images of apparent Federal Security Service (FSB) summons for two diplomats working at U.S. Embassy Moscow in connection to the case. The allegations …

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Imposing Sanctions on Individuals and Entities to Promote Accountability for Forced Transfer and Deportation of Ukrainian Children

FACT SHEET OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON AUGUST 24, 2023 Today, on Ukrainian Independence Day, the Department of State is imposing sanctions and pursuing visa restrictions to promote accountability for individuals and entities connected to forcible transfer and deportation of Ukraine’s children.  Some targets are being designated pursuant to  Executive Order (E.O.) 14024  , which authorizes sanctions with respect to …

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Tenth Anniversary of the Ghouta, Syria Chemical Weapons Attack

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 21, 2023 Ten years ago the Assad regime launched rockets carrying the deadly nerve agent sarin into the Ghouta district of Damascus, killing more than 1,400 people. The United States remembers and honors the victims and survivors of the Ghouta attack and of the other chemical …

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Russia’s War on Ukraine’s Grain and Global Food Supply, in Five Myths

GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT CENTER AUGUST 17, 2023 Russia’s disinformation myths cannot hide the hard truths that (1) sanctions did not apply to Russia’s grain, (2) Ukraine’s grain is critical to getting adequate food to low-income countries, (3) Russia cannot replace Ukraine’s grain supply, (4) the Kremlin is on track to destroy more grain than it has …

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Designating Individuals Involved in the Poisoning of Aleksey Navalny

PRESS STATEMENT MATTHEW MILLER, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON AUGUST 17, 2023 Today, the United States is designating four Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) operatives, Alexey Alexandrovich Alexandrov, Konstantin Kudryavtsev, Ivan Vladimirovich Osipov, and Vladimir Alexandrovich Panyaev, pursuant to the Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act of 2012 for their involvement in the poisoning of Russian opposition …

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Sanctioning Entities Connected to Russia-DPRK Arms Dealer

PRESS STATEMENT MATTHEW MILLER, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON AUGUST 16, 2023 Today, the United States is imposing sanctions on three entities connected to a U.S.-sanctioned arms dealer who has attempted to facilitate arms deals between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Russian Federation for Russia’s use in its brutal war against Ukraine. Earlier this …

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How the U.S. and its partners support mental health

By ShareAmerica Nearly 1 billion people worldwide suffer from some form of mental health disorder, according to the  World Health Organization . Rates of depression and anxiety shot up 25% during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. government works at home and abroad to advance the response to mental health challenges around the world. Mental …

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International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 9, 2023 This week, we celebrate the United Nations International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. With over 5,000 cultures and an estimated 7,000 languages, Indigenous communities bring unique perspectives, a rich diversity, and generations of knowledge to addressing so many of the challenges facing our …

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Marking Fifteen Years Since Russia’s Invasion and Occupation of Georgia

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 7, 2023 Fifteen years ago, Russia invaded the sovereign nation of Georgia and occupied 20 percent of its territory. The United States remains steadfast in our support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The lives of the conflict-affected populations have forever …

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20 years of partnering to stop the spread of weapons of mass destruction

By ShareAmerica Weapons of mass destruction (WMD) technology can spread in many ways. Components of WMD, their delivery systems or related materials may be hidden in cargo and transported by land, air or sea. They can be sold for cash, cryptocurrency, or through wire transfer. Or someone can pass along specialized knowledge or expertise. The  Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI)

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Conviction and Sentencing of Aleksey Navalny on Additional Politically Motivated Charges

PRESS STATEMENT MATTHEW MILLER, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON AUGUST 4, 2023 The United States condemns a Russian court’s further sentencing and conviction of opposition politician and anti-corruption campaigner Aleksey Navalny to an additional 19 years in prison on unfounded charges of so-called “extremism.” This is an unjust conclusion to an unjust trial. For years, the Kremlin has …

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The United States Provides $15 Million in Additional Assistance for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services Programming in Ukraine

Office of Press Relations press@usaid.gov Wednesday, July 19, 2023 Press Release Today in Kyiv, USAID Administrator Samantha Power announced $15 million in additional development funding to further strengthen USAID’s mental health and psychosocial support programming in Ukraine, including through the First Lady of Ukraine’s All-Ukrainian Mental Health Initiative. More than 500 days of the Russian …

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Remarks by President Biden on Supporting Ukraine, Defending Democratic Values, and Taking Action to Address Global Challenges | Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius University Vilnius, Lithuania JULY 12, 2023 7:51 P.M. EEST THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Lithuania!  (Applause.)  As my mother would say, “God love ya.”  No seats.  Holy mackerel.  (Laughter.) It’s good to be back in Vilnius, a nation and a region that knows better than anyone the transformational power of freedom.  (Applause.)  You know, you showed …

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Making sure food for the world’s hungry is safe

By ShareAmerica Jun 6, 2023 The United States is the  largest provider of international food assistance  in the world, and it takes care that the food that feeds hungry people is safe and nutritious. The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires that food products are inspected and meet  quality standards . What’s more, it requires packaging to keep the food safe and alerts the …

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Attack on Yelena Milashina and Alexander Nemov in Russia’s Republic of Chechnya

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE PRESS STATEMENT MATTHEW MILLER, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON JULY 6, 2023 The United States is appalled by the brutal beating of renowned journalist Yelena Milashina and attorney Alexander Nemov in Chechnya on July 4.  The Russian government should conduct a prompt, impartial, and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this savage attack and …

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Joint Statement on Pride Month by the Ambassadors of Canada, Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom

Joint Statement on Pride Month by the Ambassadors of Canada, Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States, and Chargés d’Affaires of Australia, Chile, Czechia and Iceland: “We, the undersigned Ambassadors of Canada, Denmark, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, USA and the UK, and …

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Statement from President Biden on International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

WHITE HOUSE JUNE 26, 2023 Torture is prohibited everywhere and at all times. It is illegal, immoral, and a stain on our collective conscience. Today, on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, I reaffirm the United States’ opposition to all forms of inhumane treatment and our commitment to eliminating torture and assisting …

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Sanctioning Entities and Individual Connected to Wagner Group in Africa

ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 27, 2023 The United States is imposing sanctions on several entities in the Central African Republic (CAR) today for their connection to the transnational criminal organization known as the Wagner Group and for their involvement in activities that undermine democratic processes and institutions in the CAR through illicit …

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Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on World Refugee Day

United States Mission to the United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy For Immediate Release June 20, 2022 Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on World Refugee Day We are facing an unprecedented global displacement crisis. Record numbers of people are being forced to flee their homes due to war, conflict, disasters, and political instability …

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Statement from President Joe Biden on World Refugee Day

WHITE HOUSE JUNE 20, 2023 On World Refugee Day, we join nations around the world in honoring the bravery and resilience of millions of refugees forced to flee violence and oppression. Together, as we celebrate their diverse contributions to the fabric of our communities, we renew our support to citizens and organizations who step up …

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U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy’s Statement on Wrongfully Detained U.S. Citizen Evan Gershkovich’s Appeal

Today, I attended the appeal hearing of U.S. citizen Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter who has been detained since March 2023 while he was on a reporting trip in Russia. This was a procedural hearing, appealing the conditions of his continued detention. We were extremely disappointed by the denial of his appeal. Although …

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On the Occasion of World Refugee Day 2023

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 20, 2023 Today, we recognize the courage and resilience of millions of refugees who have been forced to flee persecution, the generosity of the communities that host them, and the global response of humanitarian partners that support them. The United States has welcomed more than 3.5 …

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United States Announces Additional Humanitarian Assistance for the People of Ukraine

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 16, 2023 The United States is providing $205 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the people of Ukraine as part of our support for those affected by Russia’s unprovoked, unjustified, and brutal war against Ukraine. U.S. humanitarian assistance provides the people of Ukraine with critical support, …

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Remarks for Adoption of a UN General Assembly Resolution on the Status of IDPs and Refugees in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Georgia

Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis Acting Deputy Representative to the United Nations New York, New York June 7, 2023 AS DELIVERED Mr. President, Colleagues, the United States is pleased to co-sponsor and support this important resolution. We urge members of the General Assembly to also support the resolution before us today. We remain greatly concerned over the …

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U.S. Sanctions Leading Members of Russian Intelligence-Linked Group Plotting to Destabilize the Government of Moldova

PRESS STATEMENT OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON JUNE 5, 2023 The United States is designating seven leading members of a Russian intelligence-linked group and one entity for their role in Russia’s malign influence campaigns and destabilization operations in Moldova. These actors are a part of Russia’s global information operations that have also targeted the United States, …

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Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on the Growing Military Cooperation Between Iran and Russia

United States Mission to the United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy For Immediate Release June 9, 2023 Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on the Growing Military Cooperation Between Iran and Russia I am gravely concerned by the growing military cooperation between Russia and Iran which continues to enable Russia’s prosecution of its brutal …

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USAID’s Response to the Kakhovka Dam Destruction

USAID Office of Press Relations Thursday, June 8, 2023 For Immediate Release Statement By Spokesperson Jessica Jennings The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is responding to the humanitarian, environmental, and economic impacts caused by the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in Ukraine’s Kherson region on June 6. The destruction of the dam has triggered …

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Remarks by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan for the Arms Control Association (ACA) Annual Forum

THE WHITE HOUSE JUNE 02, 2023 National Press Club Thank you, Tom, for that very important set of introductory comments and for the kind words. I also want to thank Daryl for bringing us all together today. And most importantly—I want to thank all of you for giving me the opportunity to just say a …

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On the 34th Anniversary of Tiananmen Square

PRESS STATEMENT THE SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 3, 2023 Tomorrow, we observe the 34th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Massacre. On June 4th, 1989, the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) sent tanks into Tiananmen Square to brutally repress peaceful Chinese pro-democracy protesters and bystanders alike. The victims’ bravery will not be forgotten …

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Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on LGBTQI+ Pride Month

United States Mission to the United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy For Immediate Release June 1, 2023 Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on LGBTQI+ Pride Month Pride Month is a time to celebrate the progress that we have made so far in securing protections for the human rights of the LGBTQI+ community. It …

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World Food Prize laureate turns ‘mines to vines’

By ShareAmerica May 11, 2023 Heidi Kühn walked through her first minefield, in Dragalić, Croatia, in 2000. Workers there asked her blood type in case she stepped on a land mine. “That was such a defining moment,” Kühn said. “I was with a friend and we looked at each other in the eye and we …

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United States Imposes Additional Sanctions and Export Controls on Russia in Coordination with International Partners

FACT SHEET OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MAY 19, 2023 The United States will continue to take actions against Russia until it ends its brutal and illegal war against Ukraine. The United States is implementing commitments made at the G7 Leaders’ Summit to increase costs for Russia and those who support its war effort. Among others, …

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Treasury Sanctions the Head of the Wagner Group in Mali

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY PRESS RELEASES MAY 25, 2023 WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Ivan Aleksandrovich Maslov (Maslov), the head of Russian Private Military Company ‘Wagner’ (Wagner Group) paramilitary units and its principal administrator based in Mali. The Wagner Group and its leader, …

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Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at a UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate on Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield U.S. Representative to the United Nations New York, New York May 23, 2023 AS DELIVERED Thank you very much, President Berset. And I particularly want to thank Switzerland for making the pressing issue of conflict-induced food security a centerpiece of its presidency. This is also a very high priority for the U.S. …

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Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing on Ukraine

Ambassador Robert Wood Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs New York, New York May 18, 2023 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Madam President, and I thank Mr. Ebo for his detailed briefing. We gather again just weeks after discussing this same topic and, unfortunately, little has changed. We’re here again listening to Russia’s allegations that arms …

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Statement from President Joe Biden on International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia

WHITE HOUSE MAY 17, 2023 Everyone is entitled to be treated with dignity and equality—no matter whom they love, or how they identify. On the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia, we reaffirm our commitment to this ongoing work and stand with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) people around the world. …

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Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield and Ambassador Jim O’Brien at a Foreign Press Center Briefing on the Black Sea Grain Initiative

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield U.S. Representative to the United Nations New York, New York May 11, 2023 AS DELIVERED MODERATOR: Welcome to the New York Foreign Press Center. We’re honored to have two distinguished briefers with us today who will speak on the Black Sea Grain Initiative: Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Representative to the United Nations; …

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Media Note: Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield Announces United States to Join Council of Europe’s Register of Damage for Ukraine

United States Mission to the United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy For Immediate Release May 15, 2023 Media Note: Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield Announces United States to Join Council of Europe’s Register of Damage for Ukraine The United States has expressed its intent to join the Council of Europe’s “Register of Damage Caused by …

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The importance of an independent press

By ShareAmerica Free, independent media allow the public to make informed decisions, hold leaders accountable and hear a diversity of opinions — all free of government influence. Journalists in the United States can report on public health questions, question elected officials — sometimes aggressively — and raise controversial issues without fear of reprisal. “Information and …

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Remarks at Russia’s Arria-formula Meeting on the Situation of the Orthodox Church in Ukraine

Trina Saha Deputy Political Coordinator New York, New York May 12, 2023 AS DELIVERED The United States takes seriously allegations of violations of human rights, including the freedom of religion or belief. We expect all countries to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms. However, it is hard to take seriously Russia’s meeting today as a …

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Statement from President Joe Biden Ahead of the Fifth Review Conference of the Chemical Weapons Convention

WHITE HOUSE MAY 12, 2023 Chemical weapons have wrought unthinkable horrors upon our world, and should never again be developed or deployed—period. That’s the commitment the world made when the Chemical Weapons Convention created the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in 1997—and it’s a commitment we must renew every day until our world …

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Europe moves away from Russia’s oil and gas

By ShareAmerica The European Union is producing all-time highs of wind and solar energy as the 27-country group works to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels from Russia. Four months after Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the European Commission launched REPowerEU . This campaign aims to: Boost the use of renewable energy. …

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Sanctioning Russian Federation and Iranian State Actors Responsible for the Wrongful Detention of U.S. Nationals

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE APRIL 27, 2023 The United States has no higher commitment than bringing home wrongfully detained Americans. Today, we are promoting accountability for those responsible for wrongfully detaining U.S. nationals abroad. Our actions are a clear and direct warning to those around the world who wrongfully detain U.S. …

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Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s Interview with Sumi Somaskanda of BBC World News

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield U.S. Representative to the United Nations New York, New York April 24, 2023 AS DELIVERED QUESTION: Ambassador, it’s great to have you with us. I want to ask you about one of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov’s stronger comments that he made today. FOREIGN MINISTER SERGEI LAVROV: As was the case in …

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Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at a UN Security Council Open Debate on Effective Multilateralism

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield U.S. Representative to the United Nations New York, New York April 24, 2023 AS DELIVERED Let me start by thanking Secretary-General Guterres for your remarks, and to thank you and the entire UN system for all of your efforts to promote peace and security and to support the UN Charter. And thank …

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Statement from President Joe Biden on Armenian Remembrance Day

WHITE HOUSE APRIL 24, 2023 Today, we pause to remember the lives lost during the Meds Yeghern—the Armenian genocide— and renew our pledge to never forget. On April 24, 1915, Ottoman authorities arrested Armenian intellectuals and community leaders in Constantinople—the start of a systematic campaign of violence against the Armenian community. In the years that …

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Statement from President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on the Occasion of Eid al-Fitr

THE WHITE HOUSE APRIL 20, 2023 Jill and I extend our best wishes to Muslim communities across the country and around the world as you celebrate Eid al-Fitr and conclude the holy month of Ramadan. With the sighting of the crescent moon, Eid al-Fitr is a festive celebration where Muslims feast after the holy month …

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U.S. Ambassador Tracy’s Statement on Wrongfully Detained U.S. Citizen Evan Gershkovich

U.S. Ambassador Tracy’s Statement on Wrongfully Detained U.S. Citizen Evan Gershkovich Outside Moscow City Court 18 April, 2023 I am speaking to you today from the steps of the Moscow City Court, where we observed today’s hearing on Evan Gershkovich’s case. I can say how troubling it was to see Evan, an innocent journalist, held …

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Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at the UN Security Council Stakeout on Russia’s Crackdown on Media Freedom

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield U.S. Representative to the United Nations New York, New York April 17, 2023 AS DELIVERED AMBASSADOR LINDA THOMAS-GREENFIELD: I am delivering this statement on behalf of the following countries: Albania, Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, …

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Commemorating the Days of Holocaust Remembrance

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE APRIL 17, 2023 On Yom HaShoah we remember and honor the six million Jews and the millions of others the Nazis murdered including Roma, LGBTQI+ persons, Slavs, and persons with disabilities. We honor them not only as they died, but as they lived, fought, and loved. We …

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The Sentencing of Opposition Politician Vladimir Kara-Murza

PRESS STATEMENT APRIL 17TH, 2023 The court’s decision today to sentence Vladimir Kara-Murza to 25 years in prison for expressing an opinion critical of the policies of his government is another terrible sign of the repression that has taken hold in Russia. We call for his immediate release. The right to have political opinions, or …

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Remarks at an Arria-Formula Meeting Organized by the Russian Federation on Children in Armed Conflict

Ngoyi Ngoyi Political Advisor New York, New York April 5, 2023 AS DELIVERED Since Russia’s illegal and unprovoked war in Ukraine began, Russia has forcibly separated thousands of children, aged between 4 months and 17 years old, from their families or legal guardians and moved them to over 40 different facilities in Russia-occupied parts of …

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Russians in the U.S., and elsewhere, press for peace

By ShareAmerica Around the world and in the United States people who identify as Russian continue to show support for the people of Ukraine and freedom. To mark one year since the Kremlin launched its full-scale war against Ukraine, many Russians in the United States took to the streets February 24 to voice their opposition, …

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Russia’s Wrongful Detention of Journalist Evan Gershkovich

PRESS STATEMENT VEDANT PATEL, PRINCIPAL DEPUTY SPOKESPERSON APRIL 10, 2023 Today, Secretary Blinken made a determination that Evan Gershkovich is wrongfully detained by Russia. Journalism is not a crime. We condemn the Kremlin’s continued repression of independent voices in Russia, and its ongoing war against the truth. The U.S. government will provide all appropriate support …

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U.S. Assistance Provides Critical Support to Help Ukraine Emerge from Winter at War

USAID has provided Ukraine with $400 million in winter-related assistance to help Ukrainians access heat, hot water, electricity, healthcare, and basic supplies during winter. This winter, Putin sought to destroy Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in an attempt to break the will of the Ukrainian people, but Ukrainians stood strong and the United States stood alongside them. …

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Russia’s Arrest of a U.S. Citizen. Press Statement by Secretary Blinken.

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MARCH 30, 2023 We are deeply concerned over Russia’s widely-reported detention of a U.S. citizen journalist. We are in contact with the Wall Street Journal on this situation. Whenever a U.S. citizen is detained abroad, we immediately seek consular access, and seek to provide all appropriate support. …

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Honoring Boris Nemtsov

PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON FEBRUARY 27, 2023 Eight years have passed since Boris Nemtsov’s assassination in downtown Moscow. Nemtsov was a former Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, a political activist, and a reformer; someone who devoted his life to improving the lives of his fellow citizens. He was fearless and outspoken, andhis civic …

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Remarks by President Biden Ahead of the One-Year Anniversary of Russia’s Brutal and Unprovoked Invasion of Ukraine

The Royal Castle in Warsaw Warsaw, Poland 5:39 P.M. CET THE PRESIDENT: Hello, Poland! (Applause.) One of our great allies. President Duda, Prime Minister — Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. Mayor, and to all the former ministers and presidents, as well as mayors and Polish political leaders from all across the country: Thank you for welcoming …

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Joint Statement Through the Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse on Standing with the Women and Girls of Iran

MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON DECEMBER 8, 2022 The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Australia, Canada, Chile, Iceland, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Begin Text: The undersigned Foreign Ministers for country members of the Global Partnership for Action …

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The Release of Brittney Griner from Russia

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE DECEMBER 8, 2022 This morning, I joined President Biden, Vice President Harris, National Security Advisor Sullivan, and Cherelle Griner in the Oval Office, as Cherelle spoke to her wife Brittney, who is now on her way back to the United States and to her wife’s loving embrace. …

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The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE NOVEMBER 25, 2022 Today we recognize the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. Despite great strides to prevent and respond to the pervasiveness of gender-based violence around the world, violence remains …

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Accountability for War Crimes and Other Atrocities in Ukraine: Recent Reporting on Unjust Detentions and Disappearances in Kherson Oblast

MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON NOVEMBER 18, 2022 The Conflict Observatory, a program supported by the U.S. Department of State, released an independent report today that details numerous instances of unjust detentions and disappearances in Kherson, Ukraine, as they relate to Russia’s ongoing filtration operations. Russia must halt these operations and withdraw its forces to end a needless war …

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International Religious Freedom Day

ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE OCTOBER 27, 2022 PRESS STATEMENT The United States joins the international community in marking the 24th occasion of International Religious Freedom Day. Freedom of religion or belief is a founding principle of our nation, enshrined in our Constitution. Americans cherish the right to worship, or not worship, as they …

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Statement by Department of State Spokesperson Ned Price calling for the Immediate Release of Aleksey Navalny

Last week, Russian authorities initiated a new criminal case against opposition leader and anticorruption campaigner Aleksey Navalny for allegedly, quote, “propagating extremism, calling for terrorism, financing extremist activity, and rehabilitating Nazism.” Those, of course, were their charges. These charges could result in a cumulative 30 years’ imprisonment. Only two days before the outrageous new charges …

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Statement of U.S. Embassy Moscow CDA Elizabeth Rood Following U.S. Citizen Brittney Griner’s Hearing

Statement of U.S. Embassy Moscow CDA Elizabeth Rood Following U.S. Citizen Brittney Griner’s Hearing Moscow Oblast Court October 25, 2022 Today was another sad day for the rule of law in the Russian Federation. In the case of U.S. citizen Brittney Griner, the appeals court made a slight reduction in her sentence for time served …

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Statement from National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on the Continued Wrongful Detention of Brittney Griner

THE WHITE HOUSE BRIEFING ROOM STATEMENTS AND RELEASES OCTOBER 25, 2022 We are aware of the news out of Russia that Brittney Griner will continue to be wrongfully detained under intolerable circumstances after having to undergo another sham judicial proceeding today. President Biden has been very clear that Brittney should be released immediately. In recent …

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The Trial of Félicien Kabuga for Genocide in Rwanda

NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON SEPTEMBER 29, 2022 PRESS STATEMENT The United States welcomes the opening statements in the trial of Félicien Kabuga at the Hague branch of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT), the successor mechanism to the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR). Indicted for genocide and crimes against humanity, Kabuga is …

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Remarks by Ambassador Michael G. Kozak at the OSCE Warsaw Human Dimension Conference

Warsaw Human Dimension Conference: Plenary Session V Rights of persons belonging to national minorities; Treatment of citizens of other States and human rights of migrants; Roma and Sinti issues; Equal opportunities and rights for women and men; Violence against women and children As prepared for delivery by Ambassador Michael G. Kozak, Head of the U.S. …

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Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s Remarks at the UNSC Stakeout Following a Vote on a Resolution Condemning Russia’s Sham Referenda

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield U.S. Representative to the United Nations New York, New York September 30, 2022 AS DELIVERED Let me thank all of you for waiting to see us this afternoon. The illegal referenda that Russia held in Ukraine and the purported annexations of Ukrainian territory by force are a violation of the UN Charter and international law. They change nothing about the status and borders of Ukraine. That is the firmly-held conviction of the United States. This is the firmly-held conviction of the Secretary-General. And as you saw just …

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Russia’s Sham Referenda in Ukraine

ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 29, 2022 PRESS STATEMENT The Kremlin’s sham referenda are a futile effort to mask what amounts to a further attempt at a land grab in Ukraine. To be clear: the results were orchestrated in Moscow and do not reflect the will of the people of Ukraine. The United …

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On the Anniversary of the Massacre at Babyn Yar: Joint Statement from Special Envoys for Holocaust Issues Condemning Russian Actions in Ukraine

OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON SEPTEMBER 29, 2022 MEDIA NOTE The text of the following statement was announced by the envoys for Holocaust issues or their equivalent from Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Netherlands, Romania, United Kingdom, and the United States of America on behalf of their Governments. Begin Text: We must never forget the …

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$457.5 Million in New U.S. Civilian Security Assistance for Ukraine

ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 26, 2022 PRESS STATEMENT The United States today committed an additional $457.5 million in civilian security assistance to enhance the efforts of Ukrainian law enforcement and criminal justice agencies to improve their operational capacity and save lives as they continue to help defend the Ukrainian people, their freedom, …

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Welcoming the Release of Political Prisoners in Belarus

NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON SEPTEMBER 25, 2022 PRESS STATEMENT The United States welcomes the release of several political prisoners in Belarus including Aleh Hurzdzilovich, a Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty journalist. While the release of these political prisoners is a step in the right direction, too many political prisoners remain behind bars in Belarus. We call …

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The Moscow Mechanism Report on Russia’s Failure to Fulfill its Human Dimension Commitments

NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON PRESS STATEMENT SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 The United States and 37 other countries invoked the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s (OSCE) Moscow Mechanism on July 28 to examine the Russia’s adherence to its OSCE Human Dimension commitments on human rights and fundamental freedoms. In the report released today in Vienna , the expert mission found that a …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken At a Freedom of Expression Roundtable

ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FOREIGN PRESS CENTER NEW YORK, N.Y. SEPTEMBER 19, 2022 REMARKS SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good morning, everyone. Before we begin, let me just take a moment to again welcome the safe return of Mark Frerichs, an American Navy veteran who spent more than two and a half years in captivity in …

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Documenting Russia’s Destructive Impact on Food Storage in Ukraine

MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 President Putin’s unjustified war against Ukraine puts millions around the globe at risk of increasing food insecurity. The Kremlin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, one of the world’s largest exporters of food, has led to the damage or outright destruction of many of Ukraine’s arterial roads, railways, …

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Russian Authorities’ Ongoing Harassment of Aleksey Navalny

09/09/2022 07:21 PM EDT Ned Price, Department Spokesperson The United States is deeply concerned by the Russian Government’s escalating, arbitrary interference with Aleksey Navalny’s rights. Prison authorities have interfered with Navalny’s preparation of his defense and ability to communicate freely with his counsel, including through supervision of his meetings and imposed delays in the exchanges …

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Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at a UN Security Council Meeting on Russia’s Filtration Operations – September 7, 2022

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield U.S. Representative to the United Nations New York, New York September 7, 2022 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. President. And also thank you to Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo and Assistant-Secretary-General Kehris for your briefings. And thank you so much, Ms. Drik, for offering a stark and credible view on the situation from a civil …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken at the 2021 Trafficking in Persons Report Launch Ceremony

REMARKS ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE DR. KARI JOHNSTONE, ACTING DIRECTOR OFFICE TO MONITOR AND COMBAT TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS BEN FRANKLIN ROOM WASHINGTON, D.C. JULY 1, 2021 MS JOHNSTONE: Good afternoon, and welcome. My name is Kari Johnstone. I am the acting director of the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. Thank …

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Press Statement by Secretary Blinken on Pride Month

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 1, 2021 During this year’s Pride Month, we celebrate an important message: “You are Included.”  The diverse experiences, perspectives, and contributions of the State Department community make our institution stronger and advance the goals of American diplomacy.  Out of many, we are one. The Department has committed to increasing U.S. engagement on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and …

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Religious Freedom Concerns in Russia

PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON FEBRUARY 25, 2021 We are disturbed by reports that a Russian court sentenced Valentina Baranovskaya and her son, Roman Baranovsky, to terms of two and six years in a Russian penal colony, respectively, simply for being practicing Jehovah’s Witnesses. The sentencing of Valentina, a 69-year-old stroke victim, is particularly …

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Putting Human Rights at the Center of U.S. Foreign Policy

The United States is committed to a world in which human rights are protected, their defenders are celebrated, and those who commit human rights abuses are held accountable. Promoting respect for human rights is not something we can do alone, but is best accomplished working with our allies and partners across the globe. President Biden …

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Ambassador Sullivan Attends Appeal Hearing for U.S. Citizen Trevor Reed

U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation, John J. Sullivan Moscow City Court, February 3, 2021 – Appeal hearing of U.S. citizen Trevor Reed Ambassador Sullivan:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.  I’m John Sullivan, the U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation. I have been here today to attend the court proceeding, the appellate proceeding, for Trevor Reed, …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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, …

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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 …

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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 peaceful protestors throughout Russia that happened on June 12th. Detaining peaceful protestors, human rights observers, and journalists is an affront to core democratic values. The United States will monitor the situation, and we will call on the government of Russia …

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Detention of Murad Amriev in Russia

Press statement by spokesperson Nauert: “We are gravely concerned about the safety and well-being of Murad Amriev, a Russian athlete from Chechnya, who was reportedly detained by Belarusian authorities and returned to Russia, where he may be in custody. Mr. Amriev has reportedly expressed fears of torture and abuse in Chechnya. We urge the Russian …

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Designation Under Russia’s “Undesirables” Law of Open Russia, the Open Russia Civic Movement, the Institute of Modern Russia

Deputy State Department Spokesperson Toner: We are deeply troubled by the Russian Government’s decision to designate Open Russia, the Open Russia Civic Movement, and the Institute of Modern Russia as so-called “undesirable” foreign organizations. We reject the notion that these and other international civil society organizations are a threat to Russia. If Russia hopes to …

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Ambassador Nikki Haley Chairs Historic UN Security Council Thematic Debate on Human Rights

As president of the United Nations Security Council, Ambassador Nikki Haley, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, chaired a thematic debate on human rights. The debate marked the first time the Security Council held a meeting dedicated exclusively to human rights and its link to international peace and security, giving Security Council members the …

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Statement from U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley on Reports of Detentions and Killings in Chechnya

“We continue to be disturbed by reports of kidnapping, torture, and murder of people in Chechnya based on their sexual orientation and those persecuted by association. If true, this violation of human rights cannot be ignored – Chechen authorities must immediately investigate these allegations, hold anyone involved accountable, and take steps to prevent future abuses…”

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Statement by Acting Spokesperson Toner on the the detention of peaceful protesters throughout Russia on Sunday

“The United States strongly condemns the detention of hundreds of peaceful protesters throughout #Russia on Sunday. Detaining peaceful protesters, human rights observers, and journalists is an affront to core democratic values. We were troubled to hear of the arrest of opposition figure Alexei Navalny upon arrival at the demonstration, as well as the police raids …

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Just the facts: The State Department’s annual human rights reports

The annual  Country Reports on Human Rights Practices  are the State Department’s most-read publication by far. Over 1 million readers access them online every year. And, says Michael Kozak, a senior adviser in the State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, those readers can sort the accompanying  online database  by country or by issue, like the human rights of women or …

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Ongoing Violations of Freedom of Expression in Russia. Statement to the OSCE Permanent Council by Deputy Chief of Mission Kate M. Byrnes

As delivered by Deputy Chief of Mission Kate M. Byrnes to the Permanent Council, Vienna January 19, 2017 The United States is concerned about the December 28 decision by Chechnya’s Supreme Court to uphold the conviction of Zhalaudi Geriev, a local independent journalist. Mr. Geriev was detained by authorities April 16, 2016 near Grozny. Members …

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