Ukrainian president hopes Trump will support Ukraine in conflict with Russia

Ukraine's president on Monday said he hoped United States President-elect Donald Trump would maintain US support for Kiev regarding the conflict with Russia.


Speaking alongside US Vice President Joe Biden, Petro Poroshenko said Ukraine backed the democratic election of the US and was ready to cooperate with the new administration.

"I hope the Ukrainian question continues to be a priority," Poroshenko said.

Russia had invaded Ukrainian territory, he continued, occupying part of Donbass in the east and Crimea.

Incoming US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson told the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations that Russia "has invaded Ukraine, including the taking of Crimea."

Before taking on the top diplomatic post, the former ExxonMobil chief had criticized Washington sanctions against Moscow.

Trump said last week he was willing to negotiate with Russia on lifting economic sanctions in exchange for the Kremlin agreeing to reduce its nuclear weapons stockpiles.
 EFE
16/1/17