President Poroshenko, US Senator Johnson discuss release of captured sailors

President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko met with US Senator Ronald Johnson and discussed the release of Ukrainian sailors captured by Russians.
As the press service of the Head of State reports, the President of Ukraine expressed gratitude to the American side for the firm bipartisan support to Ukraine and the clear condemnation of the recent regular act of armed aggression by the Russian Federation in the Kerch Strait.

Petro Poroshenko stressed that Russia must immediately release Ukrainian sailors and return three Ukrainian vessels.

"I want to thank you for the strong support to our struggle for freedom, democracy and reforms in Ukraine," the President said.

The parties set as a priority further stepping up of international pressure on Russia, including by strengthening sanctions in response to the Kremlin's aggressive actions in order to restore the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.

In turn, Senator Johnson said: "I came to Ukraine for the sole reason - to demonstrate strong support not only by the Senate, not only by the Congress, not only by the Administration, but by the entire American people. We condemn Russia's actions. We support the Ukrainian people, the government. We support the territorial integrity of Ukraine."

Petro Poroshenko thanked for the consistent support of American lawmakers in providing Ukraine with comprehensive assistance, including in the context of the ongoing reforms and strengthening the country’s security and defense.