Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on today’s election of Petro Poroschenko to be the next President of Ukraine: 

“This election is a clear victory for Ukrainian democracy and a big setback to Vladimir Putin’s efforts to divide the country.  By voting today, Ukrainians in all regions showed their commitment to a united, independent, and democratic Ukraine.  When I met with President-elect Poroshenko in Ukraine last month, I was impressed by his discussion of rebuilding his country, including long-overdue and desperately needed reforms to end corruption and promote economic growth and national unity.  Words now must become effective actions.  During our meeting, I assured him that the United States will continue to stand by Ukraine as it moves forward against tough challenges to reclaim its future.”

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