Secretary Antony J. Blinken recently held a meeting with representatives from civil society in Kyiv, Ukraine. The Secretary of State expressed his pleasure at having the opportunity to engage with these leaders, whom he described as "remarkable."
Blinken drew parallels between the bravery of Ukrainians currently battling Russian aggression on the front lines and the courage of those fighting against corruption within their own society. He emphasized the importance of developing a strong democracy in Ukraine – one that reflects the will of its citizens and attracts investment.
The Secretary of State underscored that both battles – against external aggression and internal corruption – are crucial for Ukraine's future. He also expressed his eagerness to learn from these leaders about their experiences and insights gained from their efforts.
Blinken's remarks came during a visit to a coffee shop in Kyiv on May 14, 2024. The meeting served as an opportunity for him to hear firsthand about the challenges and triumphs faced by those working towards a more transparent and democratic Ukraine.