On Ukraine's Independence Day, August 24, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed solidarity and imposed sanctions on entities and individuals linked to human rights abuses in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
"I want to congratulate all Ukrainians on their Independence Day. August 24th is a testament to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and democracy and a day of pride in Ukraine’s strength and resilience. It is also a day of celebration of Ukrainian heritage and culture," said Blinken.
On August 24, 2023, a significant day for Ukraine as it celebrates its Independence Day, the United States has taken bold steps in showing support for the country and in condemning Russia's actions in the ongoing conflict.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken released a poignant statement in honor of the day, congratulating Ukraine on its independence and expressing solidarity with the country's struggle against Russian aggression.
He continued, reflecting on the ongoing conflict: "Today also marks one and a half years since the Kremlin launched its brutal, full-scale invasion of Ukraine – 18 months of senseless aggression, causing death and destruction across Ukraine. As we join you in celebrating more than three decades as an independent country, we also mourn with you remembering your sons and daughters who have given their lives in defense of your country. We stand by you in the fight for your beloved country."
Blinken then emphasized the United States' continued support, stating, "It is because of you and your resilience that Ukraine will prevail, and Russia will pay a high price for what it has done. The United States will continue to stand with you and work with our Allies and partners to ensure Ukraine has what it needs to defend itself, to recover, and to thrive."
On the same day, the Department of State imposed a series of sanctions on several individuals and entities involved in the Ukraine War, highlighting the U.S. government's determination to hold accountable those responsible for human rights abuses, including the forced deportation of Ukrainian children.
Several individuals were designated for roles in forcibly deporting Ukrainian children to Russia or transferring them within Russia-occupied areas of Ukraine, including government officials and human rights violators.
A significant entity targeted is the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institute International Children Center Artek (ARTEK), a Russia-owned "summer camp" in occupied Crimea, which has implemented “patriotic” re-education programs for Ukrainian children.
The sanctions also encompass two entities and 11 individuals tied to the forced transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children to camps promoting Russian indoctrination, as well as the imposition of Russian indoctrination curriculums in those regions of Ukraine.
