Victory on the battlefield will prevent Ukraine from becoming part of Russia, and victory in the fight against corruption will prevent the country from becoming similar to the Russian Federation. This was stated by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on May 14 in Kyiv during a speech at the Kyiv Polytechnic Institute, which was broadcasted by «Suspilne» on YouTube.
During his visit to Ukraine, Secretary Blinken emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the need to continue reforms and fight against corruption. He also expressed his support for Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations and praised the country’s progress in implementing reforms and strengthening democratic institutions.
The US Secretary of State’s statement about the connection between victory on the battlefield and victory in the fight against corruption is significant. It highlights the importance of both aspects in ensuring Ukraine’s independence and its path towards a prosperous and democratic future.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, fueled by Russian aggression, has been a major threat to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The country has been fighting against Russian-backed separatists for over seven years, resulting in thousands of casualties and the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia. However, despite these challenges, Ukraine has managed to defend its borders and maintain its independence.
The US has been a strong supporter of Ukraine’s efforts to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The country has provided significant military and financial assistance to Ukraine, as well as imposed sanctions on Russia for its aggressive actions. Secretary Blinken’s statement reaffirms the US’s commitment to Ukraine’s security and its determination to prevent the country from becoming part of Russia.
Moreover, Secretary Blinken’s emphasis on the fight against corruption is crucial for Ukraine’s development and its path towards European integration. Corruption has been a major obstacle to Ukraine’s progress and has hindered its economic growth and democratic development. The country has been struggling with corruption for decades, and it has been a major concern for its international partners.
The US has been a vocal advocate for anti-corruption efforts in Ukraine. The country has provided significant financial and technical assistance to support Ukraine’s anti-corruption reforms, including the establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office. Secretary Blinken’s statement reaffirms the US’s support for Ukraine’s fight against corruption and its determination to help the country achieve its European aspirations.
Furthermore, Secretary Blinken’s statement highlights the stark contrast between Ukraine and Russia. While Ukraine is fighting to defend its sovereignty and strengthen its democratic institutions, Russia has been undermining its neighbors’ sovereignty and democratic values. The illegal annexation of Crimea and the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine are clear examples of Russia’s aggressive actions and disregard for international law.
Moreover, corruption has been deeply ingrained in the Russian political system, and it has been a major obstacle to the country’s development. Transparency International ranks Russia as one of the most corrupt countries in the world, with a score of 129 out of 180 countries in its Corruption Perceptions Index. In contrast, Ukraine has made significant progress in fighting corruption, and its score has improved from 130 in 2014 to 117 in 2020.
In conclusion, Secretary Blinken’s statement in Kyiv highlights the importance of both victory on the battlefield and victory in the fight against corruption for Ukraine’s future. The US’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as its commitment to helping the country fight corruption, is crucial for Ukraine’s development and its path towards European integration. Ukraine’s success in these areas will not only prevent the country from becoming part of Russia but also ensure its prosperity and democratic future.