September 15, 2014
The White House, Washington
Dear James:
Thank you for writing. My Administration continues to be deeply concerned by ongoing events in Ukraine, and I appreciate hearing from you.
Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine, its attempted annexation of Crimea, and its support for violent separatists constitute a threat to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. These actions violate international law, including Russia’s obligations under the United Nations Charter. Russia’s intervention is also inconsistent with the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, in which the United States, the Russian Federation, and the United Kingdom committed to respect Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and existing borders. The United States reaffirms this commitment to the Ukrainian government and the people of Ukraine, and we condemn Russia’s failure to abide by its commitments as demonstrated by its unilateral military actions and its continuing efforts to destabilize Ukraine.
Russia’s actions undermine the foundation of the global security architecture and endanger European peace and security. Its support, encouragement, training, and arming of separatists in eastern Ukraine led to the senseless shootdown of Malaysia Airlines flight 17 and the sudden and tragic loss of nearly 300 innocent lives. As I have said from the very beginning of this crisis, we want to see a negotiated solution, and I have urged President Putin to work constructively with President Poroshenko and the international community to reach a lasting settlement to the conflict. However, as long as Russia continues to take steps to destabilize its neighbor, we will continue to take the necessary steps to respond to its ongoing provocations.
Through sanctions, we have imposed significant costs on Russia. And we have told Russia in no uncertain terms that any crossing of the Ukrainian border, without the formal, express consent of the Ukrainian government would violate international law and lead to Russia’s further isolation from the international community.
America will continue to support Ukraine’s efforts to affirm its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and we will provide assistance and the best expertise available to help Ukraine repair its economy and address humanitarian needs. It is up to the Ukrainian people to determine their own destiny. As they work to restore unity, peace, and security to their country and build a more democratic, prosperous, and just state, we will stand by their side.
Sincerely,
Barack Obama
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James Patterson note: I've celebrated Ukraine Independence Day, August 24, with Ukrainians in California and Washington, DC! These were always solemn and inspiring for me. Obama/Biden failed Ukraine.
