News and reports from the State Department.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan regarding the importance of Hamas' return to negotiations on August 15 to finalize a framework for achieving an immediate and durable ceasefire in Gaza and securing the release of all hostages.

Today marks the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Geneva Conventions of 1949. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken issued a statement commemorating this milestone, reflecting on the urgent need for new protections for prisoners of war, the wounded and sick, and civilians in times of war that emerged from the tragedies experienced during the Second World War.

Today marks the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Geneva Conventions of 1949. The Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken, released a statement commemorating this significant milestone in international humanitarian law.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken engaged in a conversation with Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo on August 12, 2024. The discussion focused on Colombia's efforts to facilitate dialogue aimed at restoring democracy in Venezuela.

The United Nations initiated International Youth Day in 1998 to highlight youth issues within the global community and celebrate the potential of youth as partners in our society. The day emphasizes that youth issues, such as access to education, economic opportunity, food security, a healthy environment, good governance, and freedom from all forms of tyranny and violence, are universal concerns. Youth are recognized as leaders and essential partners in addressing these challenges.

On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warmest wishes to the people of the Republic of Chad on the 64th anniversary of your independence.

Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State, issued a statement on August 10, 2024, in recognition of Ecuador's National Day. "On behalf of the government of the United States and the American people, I send warm greetings to the Ecuadorian people as you celebrate the 215th anniversary of your independence," Blinken stated.

The United States is sending Ukraine a significant new package of urgently needed weapons and equipment to support its military forces as they defend against Russia’s ongoing attacks. This $125 million package of support, provided under Presidential Drawdown Authority, includes air defense interceptors, munitions for rocket systems and artillery, multi-mission radars, and anti-tank weapons that will help Ukraine protect its troops, its people, and its cities from Russian attacks and reinforce its capabilities across the front lines.

Assistant Secretary Kritenbrink Participates in Trilateral Consultations on the DPRK

The United States has expressed its approval of the Ad Hoc Committee on Cybercrime’s adoption of the United Nations Convention Against Cybercrime. This agreement aims to enhance global efforts to combat cybercrime, a significant and widespread issue impacting communities worldwide.

Today marks four years since the disputed presidential election in Belarus and the subsequent repression by the Lukashenka regime. In response, the United States, in coordination with Canada, the European Union, and the United Kingdom, has announced additional sanctions to hold the regime accountable.

The following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken engaged in a conversation today with Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ayman Safadi. The dialogue centered on efforts to de-escalate regional tensions and prevent further conflict escalation.

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Israeli Defense Minister Gallant

The U.S. Department of State has announced the selection of USA Expo Partners to engage corporate America and recruit sponsors for the USA Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. International expos, also known as World’s Fairs, provide an opportunity to showcase American values, enterprise, innovation, culture, and global leadership while promoting collaboration with international partners to address shared global challenges.