On the Passing of Henry A. Kissinger

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE NOVEMBER 30, 2023 Henry Kissinger once wrote that, “however different the great statesmen of history, they had a common sense of the past and a vision for the future.” Henry was not only a student of history and strategy. Over the course of an extraordinary 100 years, …

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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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U.S. secretary of state’s favorite songs for ‘on the road’ or ‘at home’

By ShareAmerica As America’s top diplomat, Secretary of State Antony Blinken travels the globe, carrying out U.S. foreign policy and meeting with world leaders. As a lifelong music lover, he also practices cultural diplomacy, learning about talented artists in the places he visits. Blinken is an enthusiastic amateur guitarist (of modest ability, he says) who …

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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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Music diplomacy: Helping to ‘see each other’s humanity’

By ShareAmerica For decades, U.S. musicians have traveled the world offering beats and solos in a cultural exchange aimed at promoting better understanding between countries. This tradition of  music diplomacy  dates to the mid-1950s, when the U.S. Department of State invited jazz greats such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie and Sarah Vaughan to play 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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Call for End of Hostilities in Nagorno-Karabakh

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 The United States is deeply concerned by Azerbaijan’s military actions in Nagorno-Karabakh and calls on Azerbaijan to cease these actions immediately. These actions are worsening an already dire humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh and undermine prospects for peace. As we have previously made clear to …

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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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Russia’s Sham Elections in Ukraine’s Sovereign Territory

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 7, 2023 The Russian Federation is in the process of conducting sham elections in occupied areas of Ukraine. These so-called elections are taking place nearly one year after the Kremlin staged sham referenda and purported to annex Ukraine’s Kherson, Zaporizhzhya, Donetsk, and Luhansk oblasts, and over …

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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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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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United States Sanctions Russian Financial Elites and a Russian Business Association

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 11, 2023 Today, the United States is imposing sanctions on four prominent members of Russia’s financial elite who have served on the supervisory board of the Alfa Group Consortium, one of the largest financial and investment conglomerates in Russia. We are also imposing sanctions on the …

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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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The United States Announces More Than $380 Million in Additional Humanitarian Assistance for Africa

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JULY 20, 2023 The United States will provide an additional $380 million in humanitarian assistance for Africa. With this funding, the United States has provided more than $4 billion in humanitarian assistance this fiscal year to respond to the needs of refugees, internally displaced persons, and people …

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Imposing Sanctions on Malian Officials in Connection with the Wagner Group

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JULY 24, 2023 Today, the United States is designating three Malian officials who have worked closely with the Wagner Group to facilitate and expand Wagner’s presence in Mali since December 2021.  Civilian fatalities have surged by 278 percent since Wagner forces deployed to Mali in December 2021. …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken At Aspen Security Forum Fireside Chat

Secretary Antony J. Blinken At Aspen Security Forum Fireside Chat Moderated by NBC News Chief Washington and Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent Andrea Mitchell REMARKS ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE ASPEN MEADOWS RESORT ASPEN, COLORADO JULY 21, 2023 MS MITCHELL:  Good morning, everyone.  It’s wonderful to be back in Aspen, and especially after such a great program all week, and most especially …

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Marking 500 Days of Resilience in Ukraine

PRESS STATEMENT THE SECRETARY OF STATE JULY 8, 2023 Five hundred days ago, on February 24, 2022, the Russian government launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. As the Kremlin attempts to subjugate Ukraine, seize its land, topple its democratically elected government, the spirit of Ukraine’s people remains unbroken, and the United States remains committed to …

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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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Secretary Blinken’s Call with G7 Foreign Ministers and the High Representative of the EU

Secretary Blinken spoke today with Foreign Ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to discuss the ongoing situation in Russia.  Secretary Blinken reiterated that support by the United States for Ukraine will not change.  The United States will stay in …

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The commencement speech: A U.S. college tradition

By ShareAmerica It’s the time of year at U.S. colleges and universities when commencement speakers offer advice to new grads just before school officials award them their hard-earned diplomas. Each season, at least some of the prominent authors, executives, public officials and entertainers at the podiums deliver knockout speeches that garner media attention and linger in audience members’ …

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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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World Ocean Day

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 8, 2023 On this World Ocean Day, I’m encouraged by global progress in protecting and conserving our ocean. In 2022, the United States launched the Ocean Conservation Pledge, joined by 19 countries, committing to conserve 30% of our ocean by 2030. Together, we can meet the …

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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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Speech by Secretary Blinken: “Russia’s Strategic Failure and Ukraine’s Secure Future.”

SPEECH ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE HELSINKI CITY HALL HELSINKI, FINLAND JUNE 2, 2023 MAYOR VARTIAINEN:  Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, dear friends, it is my great pleasure to warmly welcome you all to the beautiful capital of Finland, Helsinki, and the Helsinki City Hall.  Helsinki has a great honor to host this special …

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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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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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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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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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Russia’s War Against Ukraine – One Year Later

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 24, 2023 One year ago today, President Putin ordered a full-scale invasion of Ukraine following months of deceit about why Russia had amassed huge numbers of soldiers on Ukraine’s border. It was then that Russia’s forces illegally crossed into Ukraine’s sovereign territory to wage a war …

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Sanctioning Evasion Network Supporting Russia’s Military-Industrial Complex

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 1, 2023 The United States, in coordination with our allies and partners, will continue to fully enforce our sanctions against Russia’s war machine and those that support its efforts. These actions will decrease Russia’s ability to wage war and weaken its military-industrial complex. Today, the Department …

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Countering the Wagner Group and Degrading Russia’s War Efforts in Ukraine

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JANUARY 26, 2023 The United States is sanctioning individuals and entities linked to Russia’s para-military Wagner Group and its head, Yevgeniy Prigozhin – including its key infrastructure and associated front companies, its battlefield operations in Ukraine, producers of Russia’s weapons, and those administering Russia-occupied areas of Ukraine. …

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Four Year Anniversary of Paul Whelan’s Wrongful Detention in Russia

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE DECEMBER 28, 2022 Today marks four years that Paul Whelan has spent wrongfully detained, away from his family, suffering through an unfathomable ordeal. Russian authorities subjected him to a secret trial and sentenced him to 16 years in a Russian penal colony based on secret evidence. His …

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The United States Imposes Sanctions on Russian Entities Involved in UAV Deal With Iran

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE DECEMBER 9, 2022 Today, we are imposing sanctions on three Russian entities connected to Moscow’s growing military relationship with Tehran – a relationship that includes the transfer of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) from Iran. The Kremlin is deploying these UAVs against Ukraine, including in large-scale attacks on …

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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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G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement

MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON NOVEMBER 20, 2022 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: On the launch of an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile by …

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Targeting Russia’s Global Military Procurement Network and Kremlin-Linked Networks

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE NOVEMBER 14, 2022 In response to Moscow’s unprovoked war against Ukraine, the United States will continue to disrupt Russia’s military supply chains and impose high costs on President Putin’s enablers, as well as all those who support Russia’s brutality against its neighbor. Today, the Departments of State …

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Russia’s Continued Wrongful Detention of Brittney Griner

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE NOVEMBER 9, 2022 Following a sham trial and the unjust sentencing of Brittney Griner, Moscow is transferring her from a prison in Moscow to a remote penal colony. It is another injustice layered on her ongoing unjust and wrongful detention. As we work to secure Brittney Griner’s …

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Suspension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE OCTOBER 29, 2022 The United States regrets Russia’s suspension of its participation in the operations of the U.N.-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative. We urge all parties to keep this essential, life-saving Initiative functioning. The Black Sea Grain Initiative has already moved more than 9 million metric tons …

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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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Joint Statement on Ukraine

MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON OCTOBER 23, 2022 The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, France, and the United Kingdom. We, the Foreign Ministers of France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, reiterate our steadfast support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in …

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Imposing Swift and Severe Costs in Response to Russia’s Violations of Ukraine’s Sovereignty

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 The United States unequivocally rejects Russia’s fraudulent attempt to change Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders, including by holding sham “referenda” in Ukraine’s Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya regions. This is a clear violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. In response, the United …

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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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$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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Secretary Antony J. Blinken at the United Nations Security Council Ministerial Meeting on Ukrainian Sovereignty and Russian Accountability

ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE UNITED NATIONS HEADQUARTERS NEW YORK, NEW YORK SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 REMARKS SECRETARY BLINKEN: (Via interpreter) Thank you very much, Madam President, for having brought this council together at this very grave moment of the crisis of the war of Russia on Ukraine. (In English) Mr. Secretary General, thank you …

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The Kremlin’s Troop Mobilization

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 21, 2022 President Putin’s call to partially mobilize Russian citizens, directing them to fight in Ukraine, reflects the Kremlin’s struggles on the battlefield, the unpopularity of the war, and Russians’ unwillingness to fight in it. President Putin is not operating from a position of strength; rather, …

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Welcoming Prisoner Exchanges in Ukraine

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 21, 2022 The United States welcomes the negotiated prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, which includes two U.S. citizens captured while serving in Ukraine’s military.  The United States is appreciative of Ukraine including all prisoners of war, regardless of nationality, in its negotiations, and we look …

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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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Targeting Russia’s Senior Officials, Defense Industrial Base, Financial Infrastructure Leaders, and Human Rights Abusers

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 The United States continues to hold the Russian government to account for its war against Ukraine. Today, we are taking actions against major Russian defense entities, key advanced-technology firms that support Russia’s defense industrial base, and financial infrastructure. We are also taking actions against …

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$600 Million in Additional U.S. Military Assistance for Ukraine

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 15, 2022 Together with our Allies and partners, we are delivering the arms and equipment that Ukraine’s forces are utilizing so effectively as they continue their successful counter-offensive against Russia’s invasion. President Biden has been clear we will support the people of Ukraine for as long …

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Russian Government Actions Impacting U.S. Mission Russia

Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State The United States is immensely grateful for the tireless dedication and commitment of our locally employed staff and contractors at U.S. Mission Russia. We thank them for their contributions to the overall operations and their work to improve relations between our two countries. Their dedication, expertise and friendship have …

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Holding the Lukashenka Regime and its Enablers to Account

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 21, 2021 The United States has taken action against dozens of Belarusian individuals and entities in response to last month’s forced diversion of a commercial Ryanair flight between two European Union member states and the politically motivated arrest of journalist Raman Pratasevich and Sofiya Sapega. These …

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President Biden’s Trip to Europe

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. traveled to Cornwall, UK; Brussels, Belgium; and Geneva, Switzerland. On June 10-12, President Biden took part in the G7 meeting in Cornwall. The President then took part in the NATO Summit on June 14 and also participated in the U.S.-EU Summit on June 15, both in Brussels. Finally, President Biden …

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Russia National Day

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 12, 2021 On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the citizens of Russia as you celebrate Russia Day. This holiday marks the significant step Russia made on June 12, 1991, when it held its first free, open, and fair elections, …

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Secretary Blinken’s Participation in the Virtual NATO Foreign Ministerial

MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON JUNE 1, 2021 Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken participated today in the virtual NATO Foreign Ministerial hosted by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. Secretary Blinken discussed the upcoming NATO Summit and reaffirmed U.S. commitment to NATO, highlighting the Administration’s priority to revitalize our alliances. The Secretary expressed support …

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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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Diversion of Ryanair Flight to Belarus and Arrest of Journalist

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MAY 23, 2021 The United States strongly condemns the forced diversion of a flight between two EU member states and the subsequent removal and arrest of journalist Raman Pratasevich in Minsk. We demand his immediate release. This shocking act perpetrated by the Lukashenka regime endangered the lives …

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Release of the 2021 Arctic Council Joint Declaration and Strategic Plan in Reykjavik, Iceland

MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MAY 20, 2021 Today, at the 12th Arctic Council Ministerial meeting in Reykjavik, Iceland, foreign ministers from all eight Arctic States signed onto the 2021 joint declaration reaffirming the Council’s commitment to maintain peace, stability, and constructive cooperation in the Arctic region, emphasizing Arctic States’ unique position to promote …

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Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov

05/19/2021 08:30 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the margins of the Arctic Council Ministerial.  The Secretary noted that the United States sought a more stable and predictable relationship with Moscow.  To …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov Before Their Meeting

05/19/2021 07:35 PM EDT   Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister Reykjavik, Iceland Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good evening.  I’m pleased to be meeting with Sergey for the first time in my capacity as the Secretary of State.  And as President Biden shared with President Putin, we seek a …

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Reinforcing the U.S. Commitment to the Arctic at the Arctic Council Ministerial May 19-20, 2021

FACT SHEET OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MAY 19, 2021 “… [at the Arctic Council Ministerial] I’ll reaffirm America’s commitment to meeting our climate goals and encourage other Arctic nations to do the same.”                                             …

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On the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State This year’s May 17 marks 16 years since the first International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB). In the intervening period, the United States has endeavored to reaffirm the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all persons, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex persons. To be …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov

READOUT OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MAY 12, 2021 Share The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Secretary Blinken and Minister Lavrov discussed the upcoming Arctic Council Ministerial, where they will meet next week, and the potential to cooperate during Russia’s …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a Virtual Roundtable on Reform and Anticorruption

REMARKS ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AMERICA HOUSE KYIV, UKRAINE MAY 6, 2021 MS KVIEN: Hello. Good afternoon, everyone. I’m Kristina Kvien. I’m the charge d’affaires here at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv. And it is my enormous pleasure to have with me today our Secretary of State Antony Blinken. We’d like to thank …

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G7 Foreign and Development Ministers’ Meeting

FACT SHEET OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MAY 2, 2021 “Another enduring principle is that we need countries to cooperate, now more than ever.” – Secretary Antony J. Blinken, March 3, 2021 Secretary Blinken will attend the G7 Foreign and Development Minister’s Meeting in London, the United Kingdom, from May 3-5, 2021.  The members of the …

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World Press Freedom Day

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MAY 2, 2021 Tomorrow, the United States joins the international community in celebrating World Press Freedom Day.  Information and knowledge are powerful tools, and a free and independent press is the core institution connecting publics to the information they need to advocate for themselves, make informed decisions, and …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken At a Press Availability

REMARKS TO THE PRESS ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE U.S. EMBASSY KABUL KABUL, AFGHANISTAN APRIL 15, 2021 SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon. Good to see everyone. I’ve come to Afghanistan today because it was important to me and important to President Biden to convey in person America’s commitment to an enduring partnership with Afghanistan and …

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Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with USAGM Acting CEO Chao

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) Acting CEO Kelu Chao today to discuss the vital role that free and independent media play in the preservation and promotion of democratic principles worldwide.  Secretary Blinken expressed his strong support for USAGM-affiliated networks around the world, including Radio Free Europe/Radio …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken On Release of the 2020 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices

“President Biden has committed to putting human rights back at the center of American foreign policy, and that’s a commitment that I and the entire Department of State take very seriously.  We will bring to bear all the tools of our diplomacy to defend human rights and hold accountable perpetrators of abuse.  The reports we’re releasing today are just one way to …

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“Reaffirming and Reimagining America’s Alliances” – Speech by Secretary Blinken at NATO Headquarters

SPEECH ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE NATO HEADQUARTERS AGORA BRUSSELS, BELGIUM MARCH 24, 2021 SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon. A few weeks ago, not long after becoming Secretary as State, I spoke directly to the American people. I said that my number one job is to ensure that America’s foreign policy delivers for them – …

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World Water Day

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MARCH 22, 2021 Water is an invaluable resource that we rely on for nearly everything we do.  Reliable access to water underpins health, economic opportunity, and security in every country, and ensuring global access to safe and adequate water for basic needs is now more important than ever.  Climate change is already …

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Opening Remarks by Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken Before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs

REMARKS ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE WASHINGTON, D.C. MARCH 10, 2021 SECRETARY BLINKEN: Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member McCaul, thank you so much for your warm welcome. It’s very, very good to be back before this committee, to be back in this room. And I really do appreciate the opportunity to talk today about the …

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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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Honoring Anticorruption Champions

Around the world, corruption threatens security and stability, hinders economic growth, undermines democracy and human rights, destroys trust in public institutions, facilitates transnational crime, and siphons away public and private resources.  The Biden Administration recognizes that we will only be successful in combating these issues by working in concert with committed partners, including courageous individuals …

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Secretary Blinken’s Participation in the EU Foreign Affairs Council

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken participated virtually in today’s EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) at the invitation of EU High Representative Josep Borrell.  Secretary Blinken highlighted the United States’ commitment to repairing, revitalizing, and raising the level of ambition in the U.S.-EU relationship. He emphasized the importance of close cooperation with the EU and …

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U.S. Decision To Reengage with the UN Human Rights Council

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 8, 2021 The Biden administration has recommitted the United States to a foreign policy centered on democracy, human rights, and equality. Effective use of multilateral tools is an important element of that vision, and in that regard the President has instructed the Department of State to …

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Advancing the Human Rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex Persons Around the World

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 4, 2021 Today, President Biden signed a Presidential Memorandum directing all U.S. government departments and agencies engaged abroad to ensure that U.S. diplomacy and foreign assistance promote and protect the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) persons around the world. The …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov

READOUT OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON FEBRUARY 4, 2021 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov today. Secretary Blinken and Minister Lavrov discussed the New START extension and the need for new arms control that addresses all of Russia’s nuclear weapons and …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a Press Availability

REMARKS TO THE PRESS ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE PRESS BRIEFING ROOM WASHINGTON, DC JANUARY 27, 2021 MR PRICE: Good afternoon. Welcome back to the briefing room, to your briefing room. We’ll be spending quite a bit of time together starting very shortly, and I very much look forward to that. But today, first, …

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Opening Remarks by Secretary of State-Designate Antony J. Blinken

REMARKS ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SENATE FOREIGN RELATIONS COMMITTEE WASHINGTON, DC JANUARY 19, 2021 SECRETARY-DESIGNATE BLINKEN:  Mr. Chairman, thank you very much.  And to you, to Ranking Member Menendez, to all the members of this committee, thank you for the opportunity to be here today, and I greatly appreciate everything you’ve done to …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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, …

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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 …

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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 …

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