Ambassador Jack Markell: “Biotech strengthens our economies and is central to addressing global challenges”

Ambassador Markell’s remarks at the Conference “Italy-US: International Cooperation on Emerging Biotechnologies and Life Sciences.” November 14, 2023 Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Thank you so much for hosting and for convening.  It’s great to see you. And also, to see Minister Bernini, Minister Urso, Minister Schillaci as well.  All of you have been really …

Read More»

Demonstration Alert – U. S. Consulate General, Naples, Italy

Demonstration Alert – U. S. Consulate General, Naples, Italy (11 November, 2023)   Location: Outside U.S. Consulate General Naples. Event:  On Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 3:00 p.m., there is a demonstration scheduled in the vicinity of the U.S. Consulate General Naples that may attract several hundred participants. Actions to Take:  Avoid the area and exercise …

Read More»

2023 Investment Climate Statements

The U.S. Department of State’s Investment Climate Statements provide information on the business climates of more than 160 economies and are prepared by economic officers stationed in embassies and posts around the world. They analyze a variety of economies that are or could be markets for U.S. businesses. The Investment Climate Statements are also references …

Read More»

Worldwide Caution

Location:  Worldwide Caution – October 19, 2023 Event:  Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution.  U.S. citizens should: ·        Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists. ·        Enroll in …

Read More»

President Biden on the United States’ Response to Hamas’s Terrorist Attacks Against Israel and Russia’s Ongoing Brutal War Against Ukraine

White House October 20, 2023 THE PRESIDENT:  Good evening, my fellow Americans.  We’re facing an inflection point in history — one of those moments where the decisions we make today are going to determine the future for decades to come.  That’s what I’d like to talk with you about tonight. You know, earlier this morning, …

Read More»

President Biden on the October 7th Terrorist Attacks and the Resilience of the State of Israel and its People

Tel Aviv, Israel October 18, 2023 THE PRESIDENT:  Good afternoon.  Please have a seat.  I come to Israel with a single message: You are not alone.  You are not alone. As long as the United States stands — and we will stand forever — we will not let you ever be alone. Most importantly, the …

Read More»

President Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel Before Expanded Bilateral Meeting

Tel Aviv, Israel October 18, 2023   PRIME MINISTER NETANYAHU:  Mr. President, you are meeting with our united war cabinet — united and resolved to lead Israel to victory.  This will be a different kind of war because Hamas is a different kind of enemy. While Israel seeks to minimize civilian casualties, Hamas seeks to …

Read More»

President Biden at the National Italian American Foundation’s 48th Anniversary Gala

Omni Shoreham Hotel Washington, D.C. (October 14, 2023) 7:39 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: My name is Joe Biden. I’m Jill Biden’s husband. (Applause.) You know, I may be Irish, but I’m not stupid. (Laughter.) I married Dominic Giacoppa’s granddaughter. And I want to tell you something. The — I grew up in a neighborhood — …

Read More»

First Lady Jill Biden at the National Italian American Foundation Gala

October 14, 2023 Washington, D.C. As Prepared for Delivery Thank you, John. You, Robert, and the entire NIAF leadership team do so much to keep our heritage alive. Thank you for supporting extraordinary Italian Americans, like these five incredible honorees, and inspiring the next generation of leaders. And the crowd that’s here is a testament …

Read More»

First Lady Jill Biden at an Italian American Heritage Month Reception

October 12, 2023 East Room, The White House As Prepared for Delivery Hello, everyone, and welcome to the White House! Ambassador Zappia, we’re honored to have you with us this evening. And we’re grateful for Italy’s continued partnership on the world stage and in supporting Ukraine against Putin’s unprovoked war. Every family has its own …

Read More»

Joint Statement on Israel

October 9, 2023 Today, the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the United States of America released the following joint statement following their call: Today, we — President Macron of France, Chancellor Scholz of Germany, Prime Minister Meloni of Italy, Prime Minister Sunak of the United Kingdom, and President Biden of the …

Read More»

Italy is a Reliable Ally in Support of Ukraine. Silk Road? It Didn’t Work

Interview published by Corriere della Sera October 4, 2023 by Giuseppe Sarcina ROME – For the US administration, Giorgia Meloni “passed the pudding test.” A year ago, the victory of the center-right in Italy caused concern, if not fear, even in the White House. Today, the new U.S. ambassador to Italy, Jack Markell, notes that …

Read More»

Joint Statement from President Biden and Prime Minister Meloni

The White House JULY 27, 2023   The United States and Italy commit to strengthen space cooperation, including through the creation of a “new space dialogue” to promote industrial cooperation with government support. Both reaffirm their partnership on space exploration and express, as original signatories, support for the principles of the Artemis Accords. The United …

Read More»

Sacrifices of Operation Husky as Important Today as in the Past

July 9, 2023 Gela, Siracusa [As Prepared for Delivery] Good evening. Thank you to the Rotary Club of Gela and Naval Air Station Sigonella for organizing this important event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Operation Husky. I am honored to be here in the presence of our distinguished guests. I would like to acknowledge …

Read More»

Readout of President Joe Biden’s Call with Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni

June 26, 2023 President Joe Biden spoke today with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy as part of his close coordination with key Allies and partners following recent events in Russia. The leaders affirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine. They also coordinated on preparations ahead of the upcoming NATO Summit and discussed recent developments in North Africa. President Biden …

Read More»

Chargè d’Affaires Shawn Crowley Celebrates Independence Day 2023 at Villa Taverna

June 26, 2023 Villa Taverna, Rome [As Prepared for Delivery] Minister Tajani, members of the government, fellow diplomats, distinguished guests, good evening, buonasera. Welcome to the U.S. Embassy’s celebration of the 247th anniversary of the declaration of independence of the United States of America! A titolo personale, vorrei esprimire il mio sincero ringraziamento ad ognuno …

Read More»

Chargé d’Affaires Shawn Crowley celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Fulbright Italy

Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale Palazzo della Farnesina, Roma June 5, 2023 (As prepared for delivery) Buongiorno everyone. I would like to thank Minister Tajani and the staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for hosting this important event. We appreciate your commitment to this outstanding binational partnership. I would also like …

Read More»

Chargé d’Affaires Shawn Crowley at the Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremony, Florence American Cemetery

Good morning, buongiorno. Division General Pietro Tornabene, Admiral Ishee, Consul General Gupta, Angel and the ABMC team, distinguished guests, veterans, ladies and gentlemen, it is an honor to be with you today on this important occasion. I am particularly grateful for the current and former members of the military in attendance. We thank you for …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken On the 2022 Report on International Religious Freedom

Good morning, everyone.  Twenty-five years ago, President Clinton signed the International Religious Freedom Act into law.  And that gave us a range of new tools to give voice to the persecuted, to empower advocates, to promote religious freedom around the world. At that time, President Clinton noted that freedom of religion was a bedrock American …

Read More»

A day to stop discrimination against LGBTQI+ people

Each year, International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) is commemorated in 130 countries on May 17, a date established in 1990 when the World Health Organization declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder. “We’re celebrating that LGBTQI+ people should no longer be considered mentally ill, sick, or in other ways different just because of …

Read More»

“Advancing Technology for Humanity”, remarks by CdA Crowley at RomeCup Event

Good morning! I would like to thank President Tosti and the Campus for their hospitality and for promoting this important initiative. Thank you to Mirta Michilli and the Fondazione Mondo Digitale for your commitment to an inclusive and fair digital world. I welcome so many young people with so much energy and talent to the …

Read More»

Biden is committed to NASA’s Artemis program for the moon and beyond

President Biden is committed to NASA’s multilateral mission to return to the moon and send astronauts to Mars. “Through the Artemis program, the United States is building the broadest and most diverse international human space exploration coalition in history,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in November 2022. The Artemis program aims to land the …

Read More»

Honoring defenders of freedom of expression

On April 17, Russian journalist and activist Vladimir Kara-Murza was sentenced to 25 years in prison. His crime? Criticizing the Russian government’s brutal war against Ukraine. Journalists in Iran, many of them women, have been arrested simply for covering demonstrations involving many parts of Iranian society — from teachers and workers’ unions to lawyers and students.

Read More»

More Ukrainian grain delivered worldwide via U.N. deal

The U.N.’s Black Sea Grain Initiative has delivered nearly 28 million metric tons of Ukrainian foodstuffs to help many of the world’s most needy. The deal also has helped to lower global food prices. “This critical work is done against the backdrop of the ongoing war and active hostilities,” Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the U.N. …

Read More»

U.S., Ukraine launch rebuilding initiative

The United States and Ukraine are working together with the international business community to accelerate rebuilding efforts in Ukraine. The U.S.-Ukraine Partnership Forum brought together government, private sector and other leaders to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington April 13 to discuss ways to rebuild and revitalize Ukraine’s economy. “The need for the bold and original ideas of …

Read More»

Announcement of Nationwide Ceasefire in Sudan

Following intense negotiation over the past 48 hours, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have agreed to implement a nationwide ceasefire starting at midnight on April 24, to last for 72 hours.  During this period, the United States urges the SAF and RSF to immediately and fully uphold the ceasefire.  To …

Read More»

18th Annual NATO Conference on Arms Control, Disarmament and WMD Non-Proliferation

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman will deliver remarks at the opening session of the conference on April 18 and participate in a Q&A session with in-person attendees. Only the opening session will be livestreamed on the U.S. Department of State website and on YouTube . The conference will be chaired by U.S. …

Read More»

Curbing Russia’s Efforts to Evade Sanctions

Today, the Department of State and the Department of Treasury are imposing sanctions on more than 120 entities and individuals across more than 20 countries and jurisdictions in connection with the Russian Federation’s unlawful and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, including facilitators of sanctions evasion.

Read More»

Senior Biden officials deepen ties in visits to Africa

While visiting a farm outside Lusaka, Zambia, Vice President Harris announced $7 billion in private sector investments to boost food production across Africa and mitigate the effects of climate change. The March 31 announcement came as the vice president wrapped up a weeklong trip to Africa, which included visits to Ghana and Tanzania.

Read More»

U.S. funds will boost global semiconductor supplies, secure info tech

The department’s International Technology Security and Innovation Fund (ITSI) will be spread over five years in $100 million allotments, starting in fiscal year 2023. The bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, the $280 billion package that President Biden signed into law in August 2022, released the money that powers new initiatives with American allies and partners.

Read More»

As a memorial turns 80, it gets a boost

As the Thomas Jefferson Memorial turns 80 on April 13, its stewards are taking steps to ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy it and the beauty of the Tidal Basin where it is situated for decades to come. The Tidal Basin, adjacent to the National Mall, is a popular destination for locals and tourists …

Read More»

Chargé d’Affaires Shawn Crowley visited the NATO Defense College in Rome

Originally located in Paris, the NATO Defense College was founded thanks to General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the first Supreme Allied Commander Europe, who identified early on the need for a new international defense institution with a unique educational mission. It moved to Rome in 1966, where it continues to fulfil its mission to contribute to the …

Read More»

After Action Review on Afghanistan

In December of 2021, I asked Ambassador Dan Smith to lead an After Action Review of the Department of State’s execution of its duties related to ending the U.S. military mission in Afghanistan. The After Action Review covers the period from January 2020 to the end of August 2021 and the completion of the U.S. …

Read More»

Lending medical support to Ukraine

Lily Manson, a 7-year-old Illinois girl, watched news about Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on television and wanted to help. Her father, Chris Manson, told Voice of America that during dinner she asked, “Can we pray for the people of Ukraine?” They did more than pray.

Read More»

Removing land mines protects people, restores habitat

Zimbabwe’s liberation war ended in 1979, but for cattle herder Elvis Chauke, the danger remains. Chauke grazes animals near a minefield along Zimbabwe’s southeastern border. He’s lost livestock and fears for his children’s safety. U.S.-supported mine-removal operations in areas near Zimbabwe’s Chilotlela village allow Chauke to breathe easier. “Although they have been educated to stay …

Read More»

Finland’s Accession to NATO

On this historic day as we mark the 74th anniversary of NATO, we also welcome Finland as NATO’s 31st Ally.  Finland is stronger and safer within the Alliance, and the Alliance is stronger and safer with Finland as its Ally.  Finland has a highly capable military and has been an active participant in NATO-led operations; …

Read More»

How NASA helps fight cancer

One benefit of scientific research is how expanding knowledge in one area leads to breakthroughs in another. In the United States, research designed to protect astronauts from radiation exposure in space is helping to fight cancer on Earth. An astronaut working on the International Space Station for six months faces as much radiation as 1,000 …

Read More»

NATO has brought 74 years of stability to Europe

As NATO marks its 74th anniversary on April 4, the alliance can claim a record of remarkable achievements since its founding in 1949. Retired U.S. Admiral James Stavridis, a former supreme allied commander for Europe (2009–2013), cites NATO’s “unblemished record of deterring attack against its members” as among the alliance’s greatest accomplishments.

Read More»

Supporting Ukraine’s children

Sophia, 16, was sitting in physics class in Kharkiv when Russia began bombing the city in February 2022. As the bombing intensified over the following days, Sophia was forced to travel to a city in western Ukraine. Months later she learned that her childhood home had been destroyed. “There is nothing but stones,” she said (PDF, …

Read More»

Declaration of the Summit for Democracy

Today, President Biden and the leaders of Costa Rica, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, and the Republic of Zambia opened the second Summit for Democracy, which gathered leaders from around the world to spur further action to strengthen democratic resilience, demonstrate how democracies are delivering for citizens, and highlight how democracies are best equipped …

Read More»

Partners continue to assist Türkiye and Syria after earthquakes

The United States and international partners are continuing to support survivors of the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria. On March 20, the U.S. government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) announced an additional $50 million in humanitarian assistance for the earthquake response in the region, bringing total U.S. support for the response to more than $235 …

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken at “The Status of Women is the Status of Democracy” Event

Well, good afternoon, everyone, and welcome to the State Department and welcome to the second Summit for Democracy. Jen, to you for your remarkable leadership at the White House Gender Policy Council; to Kat, for yours here at the State Department on Global Women’s Issues:  We could not have a better team, a more dynamic …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tajani

Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke via phone today with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani.  They discussed Tunisia’s political and economic challenges and the need to help the Tunisian government implement durable solutions.  The United States continues to underscore the importance of the Tunisian government quickly implementing its own …

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a Virtual Panel Session on “A Just and Lasting Peace in Ukraine”

In his first year in office, President Biden launched the summit to look at the future of democracy, which we see is at an inflection point.  Worldwide, we see autocrats violating human rights and suppressing fundamental freedoms; corrupting – and with corruption eating away at young people’s faith in their future; citizens questioning whether democracy …

Read More»

Letter from President Joe Biden on the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability

In our interconnected world, instability anywhere can have global repercussions. The security and prosperity of Americans here at home is directly connected to the security and economic health of people everywhere. Strife spills across borders. Violence and deprivation are driving a record number of people from their homes.

Read More»

Building a Water-Secure World

I am in New York this week for the first UN Water Conference in nearly 50 years. Fifty years in which our scientific understanding of the earth’s water resources has expanded and deepened dramatically. And 50 years in which global water issues have become more pressing and profound.  This week’s United Nations Water Conference in New York …

Read More»

On Ramadan in America

Because many American Muslims trace their ancestry to other corners of the globe, Ramadan traditions in the United States are diverse. Immigrants often recall their first Ramadan in the United States as a time they learned new customs.  Rizwan Jaka, born in Chicago and a member of the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) in the Washington …

Read More»

2022 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices

For nearly 50 years, the Country Reports on Human Rights Practices have served as a vital resource for governments, researchers, advocacy groups, journalists, and voices of conscience worldwide that work to promote respect for human rights and accountability for injustice.  The individual reports cover 198 countries and territories, providing factual, objective information based on credible …

Read More»

G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement On the launch of an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile by North Korea

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, condemn in the strongest terms North Korea’s March 16 launch of yet another Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), which undermines regional and international peace and security. Since last year, …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken to Release the 2022 Human Rights Report  

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken will deliver on-camera remarks on the release of the 2022 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices at 11:30 a.m. on March 20, 2023, in the Press Briefing Room at the U.S. Department of State. Acting Assistant Secretary Erin Barclay of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor will take questions in the Briefing Room …

Read More»

Deputy Secretary Sherman’s Call with Italian MFA Secretary General Guariglia

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman spoke via phone today with Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secretary General Riccardo Guariglia.  The Deputy Secretary thanked Ambassador Guariglia for Italy’s contributions to peace and security in the Mediterranean.  They discussed shared concerns about Tunisia’s economic and political reforms and the need to find a comprehensive solution to …

Read More»

Why nobody believes the Kremlin’s bioweapons claims

The Kremlin continues pushing false claims and disinformation about biological weapons labs in Ukraine even after numerous experts, including scientists from Russia, called the assertions “obviously false.” Among Russia’s President Vladimir Putin’s most outlandish claims: Ukraine houses U.S.-supported biological weapons labs. In some tellings, migratory birds, even mosquitos, threaten to unleash biological weapons on Russia.

Read More»

Russian Noncompliance with and Invalid Suspension of the New START Treaty

Russia’s noncompliance with the New START Treaty, and its claimed suspension of the treaty, are unfortunate and irresponsible steps.  Mutual compliance with New START strengthens the security of the United States, our allies and partners, Russia, and the world.  Russia’s claimed suspension of the New START Treaty is legally invalid.  As a result, Russia remains …

Read More»

Women fighting for change are honored at White House

The 11 women who received the 2023 International Women of Courage Award on March 8 fight for different causes but have one thing in common: They refuse to be intimidated. The award, given annually by the U.S. secretary of state, honors women around the world advocating for human rights, rule of law and gender equality, often at great personal risk. This …

Read More»

U.S. World Bank nominee leads in business and development

Ajay Banga, President Biden’s nominee to lead the World Bank, is a successful businessman who has long worked to bring investment and jobs to developing countries. In announcing Banga’s nomination for World Bank president, Biden commended Banga’s experience leading companies that have expanded access to financial services, as well as his skill forging effective partnerships. …

Read More»

U.S. pledges $6 billion to protect the ocean

The United States plans to invest nearly $6 billion to restore and protect the world’s ocean from climate change, pollution and other threats. The announcement came during the March 2–3 Our Ocean Conference in Panama. As U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John F. Kerry noted during the conference, this figure more than doubles the amount the U.S. …

Read More»

People across U.S. rush to aid Türkiye, Syria

In Medford, Massachusetts, boxes of winter clothing, baby formula, hygiene products and other supplies pile up at the Freerange Market, a gathering place for Turkish immigrants near Boston. The supplies are headed to survivors of the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit southeastern Türkiye and northern Syria on February 6. Hundreds of people have donated more …

Read More»

Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Summit

In celebration of International Women’s Day, U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur is hosting the first regional Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Summit from March 6-9, bringing together nearly 200 ExchangeAlumni, women entrepreneurs and business leaders from across the Indo-Pacific. The AWE Summit will leverage U.S. business expertise and technology in ways that build business acumen, create sustainable growth, …

Read More»

4 ways the U.S. will boost women’s economic security worldwide

Reem Hamdan was one of few female electrical engineers when she started her career as a trainee in 1993 with the Electricity Distribution Company (EDCO) in Jordan. Today Hamdan is EDCO’s director general. She credits that advancement to hard work and Engendering Industries, a U.S.-backed program aimed at increasing the number of women in male-dominated fields. …

Read More»

Remarks by Chargè d’Affaires Crowley at the Transatlantic Forum

I want to thank our friends at the Centro Studi Americani, the Aspen Institute, and the European Council on Foreign Relations for organizing this afternoon’s discussion. It is an honor to be here with Presidents Gianni De Gennaro and Giulio Tremonti, and to welcome so many distinguished experts. Just over one year ago, my predecessor …

Read More»

Ukrainian women fight for their country’s future

More than 60,000 Ukrainian women serve in the Ukrainian military defending against Russia’s aggression. Tens of thousands more do their part to help their country as journalists, paramedics, teachers, politicians and artists. “Throughout history, women have played a critical role in Ukraine’s fight for freedom and sovereignty,” said Katrina Fotovat, acting ambassador-at-large for the Secretary’s …

Read More»

Additional U.S. Military Assistance for Ukraine

This week, as Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine continues at great cost, we are again reminded of the boundless courage and steadfast resolve of the people of Ukraine as well as the strong support for Ukraine in the international community. Pursuant to a delegation of authority from President Biden, I am authorizing our 33rd …

Read More»

Defending Ukraine’s art and culture from destruction

The Ukrainian people and their supporters worldwide are working to preserve Ukraine’s culture and to document the damage Russia’s military has caused. For its part, the U.S. Department of State announced February 23 that its Ukraine Cultural Heritage Response Initiative will invest $7 million to support Ukrainian efforts to protect Ukraine’s cultural heritage.

Read More»

World remains united behind Ukraine, 1 year later

On the eve of the first year since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the U.N. General Assembly voted overwhelmingly in favor of a resolution calling for ”comprehensive peace” in Ukraine and demanding the Russian Federation withdraw its military forces. “Today’s vote was really historic. You saw one year after Russia’s illegal, unprovoked, full-scale invasion into Ukraine where …

Read More»

52nd Session of the UN Human Rights Council

Today begins the UN Human Rights Council’s 52nd regular session.  The United States returned to the body in January 2022 as a full member, fulfilling a pledge made by President Biden and reflecting the centrality of human rights and multilateralism to our nation’s foreign policy. This year marks 75 years since the adoption of the …

Read More»

G7 Leaders’ Statement

At the one-year mark of Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, we, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7), met with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine for as long as it takes. Russia’s heinous attacks over the last 365 days have laid bare the cruelty of the ongoing aggression.

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Remarks at the United Nations Security Council Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine

Mr.  President, Mr.  Secretary-General, fellow council members: One year and one week ago – on February 17th, 2022 – I warned this council that Russia was planning to invade Ukraine. I said that Russia would manufacture a pretext, and then use missiles, tanks, soldiers, cyber attacks to strike pre-identified targets, including Kyiv, with the aim …

Read More»

Blinken pledges continued U.S. support for Türkiye, Syria

The United States will continue to support the people of Türkiye and Syria as they recover from devastating earthquakes, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said during a visit to the hard-hit region. “The United States is here, we stand strongly with the people of Türkiye and the people of Syria,” Blinken said February 19 at Incirlik …

Read More»

U.S. Embassies and Consulates General Illuminated with Colors of the Ukrainian Flag

To mark the one-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. Missions to Italy, the Holy See, and the UN Agencies in Rome will illuminate their office buildings in Rome, Florence, Milan, and Naples with the colors of Ukrainian flag. These symbolic gestures represent U.S. solidarity with the government and people of Ukraine. …

Read More»

Remarks by President Biden Ahead of the One-Year Anniversary of Russia’s Brutal and Unprovoked Invasion of Ukraine

Hello, Poland!  (Applause.)  One of our great allies.  President Duda, Prime Minister — Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. Mayor, and to all the former ministers and presidents, as well as mayors and Polish political leaders from all across the country: Thank you for welcoming me back to Poland. You know, it was nearly one year ago …

Read More»

One Year of Supporting Ukraine

Nearly one year ago, Russia launched its unjust, brutal assault against Ukraine. Putin’s invasion was a test of Ukraine’s commitment to freedom, and a test for America and the world. Putin sought to subjugate Ukraine, but the free people of Ukraine stood strong—bravely defending their sovereignty and democracy. The United States, alongside our allies and partners, …

Read More»

Statement from President Joe Biden on Travel to Kyiv, Ukraine

As the world prepares to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, I am in Kyiv today to meet with President Zelenskyy and reaffirm our unwavering and unflagging commitment to Ukraine’s democracy, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. When Putin launched his invasion nearly one year ago, he thought Ukraine was weak and the …

Read More»

More U.S. Security Assistance on the Way for Ukraine

This week, we mark one year since the Russian Government launched its brutal and unprovoked invasion against Ukraine. President Putin expected a quick victory, but despite inflicting widespread destruction and human suffering, he has fundamentally underestimated the boundless courage and steadfast resolve of the people of Ukraine, and the support for Ukraine in the international community.

Read More»

Third Statement on Russia’s War on Ukraine and International Sport

Ministerial and senior representatives from our collective group of nations met on Friday 10 February. We were honored to be joined by President Zelenskyy, who outlined the ongoing devastation being inflicted on Ukraine, including its sports infrastructure and athletes, due to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable war of choice, facilitated by the Belarusian government. We reaffirmed our …

Read More»

U.S. Assistance to Emergency Earthquake Response Efforts in Türkiye and Syria

The February 6 earthquakes that struck southeastern Türkiye and northern Syria have devastated millions of people.  Within hours of the first quake, the United States, at the direction of President Biden, quickly mobilized federal agencies and partners to urgently provide life-saving assistance in close coordination with our NATO Ally Türkiye and partner organizations in Syria.

Read More»

Crimes Against Humanity in Ukraine

Based on a careful analysis of the law and available facts, I have determined that members of Russia’s forces and other Russian officials have committed crimes against humanity in Ukraine. Members of Russia’s forces have committed execution-style killings of Ukrainian men, women, and children; torture of civilians in detention through beatings, electrocution, and mock executions; …

Read More»

Honoring human rights defenders

Some were detained without cause, others harassed, but all 10 recipients of the State Department’s Global Human Rights Defender Awards share courage and commitment in making a more just world. “Protecting human rights defenders, in lockstep with our likeminded partners, is integral to U.S. foreign policy,” said Uzra Zeya, under secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, …

Read More»

An unshakable commitment: The U.S. and NATO

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was founded in 1949 in the aftermath of World War II, with the purpose of securing peace in Europe. Every American president since Harry Truman, who championed NATO’s creation, has reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to the principle of collective defense, which makes up the core of this now …

Read More»

After earthquake, U.S. assists Türkiye, Syria

U.S. search and rescue teams are on the ground in Türkiye responding to the devastating earthquake in the region as U.S. officials pledge continued support after the disaster. On February 6, President Biden directed U.S. officials to provide “any and all needed assistance” after the 7.8 magnitude earthquake leveled buildings and killed thousands of people …

Read More»

U.S. Assistance to Emergency Earthquake Response Efforts in Türkiye and Syria

The February 6th earthquakes that struck southeastern Türkiye and northern Syria have devastated millions.  Within hours of the first quake, the United States, at the direction of President Biden, quickly mobilized federal agencies and partners to urgently provide life-saving assistance in close coordination with our Turkish Allies and partner organizations in Syria.

Read More»

These women are creating climate solutions

Women and girls around the world are using their science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills to find climate solutions. These four women have been recognized by the U.S. Department of State’s Innovation Station initiative, which builds a network of woman and girl climate innovators from across the United States and around the world.

Read More»

Remarks of President Joe Biden – State of the Union Address as Prepared for Delivery

Mr. Speaker. Madam Vice President. Our First Lady and Second Gentleman. Members of Congress and the Cabinet. Leaders of our military. Mr. Chief Justice, Associate Justices, and retired Justices of the Supreme Court. And you, my fellow Americans. I start tonight by congratulating the members of the 118th Congress and the new Speaker of the …

Read More»

Americans love the Super Bowl

And this year’s game, Super Bowl LVII, should be a good one. The American Football Conference champion Kansas City Chiefs will play the National Football Conference champion Philadelphia Eagles on February 12 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Both teams are led by dynamic young quarterbacks — Patrick Mahomes II for the Chiefs and Jalen …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken Convenes Fourth COVID-19 Global Action Plan Ministerial

A year after launching the COVID-19 Global Action Plan (GAP), Secretary Blinken will host a fourth and final Ministerial on February 8 to conclude the work of the GAP focused on the acute needs of the pandemic, identify remaining barriers, and look towards the future to promote collaboration on preventing, detecting, and responding to the …

Read More»

Earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria

The United States expresses our deep sadness at the tragic loss of life and destruction across Türkiye and Syria from today’s earthquakes. We extend our condolences to the families of those affected and are assessing our comprehensive response options. I have directed my team to remain in close contact with our Turkish allies and our …

Read More»

Fixing Ukraine’s power grid

Temperatures inside the school can drop to 10 degrees Celsius. When a bombing occurs in the area, the students huddle in air raid shelters. Russia’s forces have attacked the city several times since the February 2022 full-scale invasion and are targeting civilian infrastructure such as heating, power and gas.

Read More»

Critical New U.S. Security Assistance to Ukraine

The United States is announcing today two new security assistance packages to help Ukraine continue to defend itself against Russia’s brutal war.  These packages include critical air defense and counter-drone capabilities to help Ukraine defend its people, as well as armored infantry vehicles and more equipment that Ukraine is using so effectively, including Javelin anti-tank …

Read More»

Assistant Secretary Donfried’s Travel to Italy, Vatican City, and Poland

Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Dr. Karen Donfried will travel to Italy, Vatican City, and Poland January 30 to February 3 to emphasize the United States’ commitment to our European Allies and partners, democracy, and transatlantic security as well as our continued support for Ukraine.

Read More»

Secretary Blinken on 20th Anniversary of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief

Twenty years ago today, President George W. Bush announced the creation of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).  Since that historic announcement, the people of the United States provided more than $100 billion to save more than 25 million lives and contributed to the resilient public and community health systems for today and …

Read More»

Remarks by Chargè d’Affaires Crowley at JCM Opening Session Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Good morning. Thank you, Undersecretary Tripodi, Minister Pastorelli, and good to see you again Alessandro. It is my pleasure to join you today at the Joint Commission Meeting. Thank you for hosting us at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and thank you also to our Italian colleagues for their work over the …

Read More»

Remarks by Chargè d’Affaires Crowley at the Joint Commission Meeting

Good morning and welcome to Villa Taverna. Thank you all for joining us here today, especially Under Secretary Tripodi. I would like to recognize the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for hosting and co-organizing the 14th Joint Commission Meeting on Science and Technology Cooperation.

Read More»

Remarks by Chargè d’Affaires Crowley for CDP “Italy Meets USA” Hybrid Event

Good evening. Thank you, Dario and Pasquale for inviting me to join today’s event. Ambassador Zappia – thank you for your leadership in support of our long-standing alliance and partnership. I am always pleased to participate in initiatives to broaden the United States’ strong bilateral relationship with Italy. The business matching platform launched today by …

Read More»

Defending Ukraine: Yana Zinkevych and Hospitallers

Courageous Ukrainian civilians are making extraordinary contributions in support of their country’s freedom in the face of Russia’s aggression. A ShareAmerica series, Defending Ukraine, profiles some of the people who exemplify that indomitable spirit. In 2014, when Russia illegally invaded Ukraine, including parts of the Donbas region, Yana Zinkevych was a high school student planning to …

Read More»

Remarks by Chargè d’Affaires Crowley at 79th Allied Landing Ceremony

Thank you, Melanie. Admiral Ishee, VADM Gueglio, Ambassadors, mayors, and the family of Mr. Taurelli, good morning. Vorrei dare il benvenuto agli studenti dell’Istituto Comprensivo Nettuno III. Voi rappresentate il futuro dell’Italia, dell’Europa e dell’Alleanza Transatlantica. La vostra partecipazione qui oggi, è ciò che rende eterno il sacrificio di questi giovani uomini e giovani donne.  …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with G7+ Partners on Ukraine Energy Sector Support

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi co-hosted a meeting today with G7 and other key partners to reaffirm collective support for Ukraine’s energy sector.  The Secretary led discussion of ongoing efforts to expedite energy equipment deliveries to Ukraine, praised Ukrainian citizens’ continued resilience, and highlighted the new $125 million …

Read More»

Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellows Summer Institute

Are you a student (age 16 – 18) interested in learning about leadership, and exploring global issues, community activism, and American culture? Then apply for the 2023 Benjamin Franklin Summer Institute at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. The program takes place from June 24 to July 22, 2023. The application deadline is February 20, …

Read More»

Significant New U.S. Military Assistance to Ukraine

The United States is announcing a significant new security assistance package to help Ukraine continue to defend itself against Russia’s brutal war. Pursuant to a delegation of authority from the President, I am authorizing our 30 th drawdown of U.S. arms and equipment for Ukraine since August 2021. This assistance package will provide Ukraine with …

Read More»

Deputy Secretary Sherman’s Meeting with Italian Diplomatic Advisor Talò

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman met with Diplomatic Advisor to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Ambassador Francesco Talò, today in Washington. They discussed shared efforts to aid Ukraine’s self-defense and confront the Kremlin’s unconscionable aggression, as well as coordination to strengthen our supply chain resiliency and promote investment in clean energy. The Deputy Secretary …

Read More»

$125 Million for Support of Ukraine’s Urgent Energy Systems Needs

The United States announced today that we will work with Congress to program an additional $125 million in funding to support Ukraine’s energy and electricity grid against Russia’s continued attacks on utilities and other civilian infrastructure. This funding would come from the recently passed Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023.

Read More»

Honoring and Promoting Respect for Freedom of Religion or Belief Globally

This National Religious Freedom Day marks the 237th anniversary of the signing of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom in 1786.  Under the Virginia Statute authored by Thomas Jefferson, legislators for the first time endorsed the principles of freedom of conscience and separation of church and state.  Several years later, the Virginia Statute became the template …

Read More»

How do major political parties split control of Congress?

While presidents often first sweep into office with their party controlling both the House and Senate along with the executive branch, every president since 1980 has faced divided government, with the opposing party capturing the majority of at least one chamber of Congress, for at least some of his tenure. That sort of division is not …

Read More»

How the climate crisis affects gender equity and equality

As the climate crisis worsens, it will affect women and girls more than men and boys, studies show. Eighty percent of those displaced by the climate crisis are women, according to the United Nations. During times of conflict and crisis — such as after a natural disaster or during mass migration caused by water shortages and crop …

Read More»

Defending Ukraine: Dattalion founders fight disinformation

People outside Ukraine cannot experience the war directly, so two activists from Ukraine made it possible to see and hear the conflict’s sights and sounds. Nataliya Mykolska posted on social media images of Russia’s military attacking cities and towns across Ukraine in the days after the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. When people kept …

Read More»

Survivors work to prevent human trafficking, aid victims

Victims of  human trafficking  come from every region of the globe. Increasingly, survivors are taking the lead in the fight against the crime and in helping its victims to heal. To understand the scope of the problem, caused primarily by criminals subjecting victims to forced labor or sex trafficking, one need only see the  International Labour Organization  estimates, which say …

Read More»

Defending Ukraine: Oleksandra Matviichuk

Ukrainians are taking bold steps to preserve their nation’s sovereignty. A ShareAmerica series, Defending Ukraine, profiles some of the extraordinary people in Ukraine who exemplify that spirit. Ukraine’s sovereignty means enough to Oleksandra Matviichuk that she has devoted her career to protecting it. A human rights lawyer, she is one of many in her country …

Read More»

Readout of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s Call with Francesco Talò, Diplomatic Advisor to the Prime Minister of Italy

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke today with Francesco Talò, Diplomatic Advisor to the Prime Minister of Italy. The two officials condemned Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, including its strikes against Ukraine’s critical infrastructure. They reaffirmed their commitment to providing Ukraine with assistance, including support for Ukraine’s energy resilience and the military equipment needed to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty …

Read More»

More Than $3.75 Billion in U.S. Military Assistance to Ukraine and Countries Impacted by Russia’s Brutal War

In this first week of 2023, the United States continues to stand strongly behind Ukraine and our European allies and partners by announcing more than $3.75 billion in new military assistance.  This assistance includes a $2.85 billion drawdown from stocks of the Department of Defense to be provided immediately to Ukraine and $225 million in …

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken At Launch of the U.S. Strategy on Global Women’s Economic Security

Thank you.  Well, first of all, good morning, everyone, and welcome to the State Department.  A Happy New Year to everyone.  This is actually the first event that I’ve had an opportunity to do in this new year, and I think that’s very fitting, and only underscores the importance that this department attaches to it, …

Read More»

Statement on UN Group of Experts

The United States welcomes the midterm report by the United Nations Group of Experts released on December 30, and shares the concerns outlined in the report about the sharp increase in violence and the deterioration in the security and humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Read More»

Global health security matters to everyone

Diseases don’t respect borders. COVID-19 spread worldwide, killing more than 6.6 million people and inflicting costs on the global economy that could reach $12.5 trillion by 2024. The United States is committed to strengthening global health security to detect and treat existing diseases, prevent the next pandemic and save lives everywhere. It works with partners to train health care …

Read More»

Joint Statement from Foreign Ministers on the Taliban’s Ban on Afghan Women Working for National and International NGOs

The Foreign Ministers of Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States and the High Representative of the European Union are gravely concerned that the Taliban’s reckless and dangerous order barring female employees of national and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from the workplace puts at risk …

Read More»

Americans we lost in 2022

Many Americans who made outsized contributions to society died over the past 12 months. They include actress Angela Lansbury, jazz saxophonist Pharoah Sanders, physician/humanitarian Paul Farmer, rock ’n’ roll icon Jerry Lee Lewis and neurobiologist Ursula Bellugi.

Read More»

Inventions of 2022

Creative business inventions are about more than eventual profit. They can make life easier for individuals in need, improve public health or bolster environmental protection. U.S. inventions also are among the most useful and successful commercially. Here are some inventions from U.S. businesses during 2022 that exemplify a social mission. The companies’ products were recently included …

Read More»

Biden: U.S. support for Ukraine is ‘unequivocal and unbending’

On December 21, President Biden welcomed Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the White House and pledged continued U.S. support for the people of Ukraine. On the 300th day of Russia’s brutal assault on Ukraine, Biden commended Zelenskyy’s inspirational leadership and the people of Ukraine’s “unbreakable determination” to choose their destiny. “The American people have been with …

Read More»

Remarks by President Biden and President Zelenskyy of Ukraine in Joint Press Conference

We’ve spent an awful lot of time on the telephone as well as on video, but it’s good to see you in person again.  And we’ve been in close and frequent communication throughout this conflict from the very beginning, but particularly — it’s particularly meaningful to talk with one another in person — look each …

Read More»

$1.85 Billion in Additional U.S. Military Assistance, Including the First Transfer of Patriot Air Defense System

As Russia continues its brutal attacks against critical infrastructure in Ukraine, the United States welcomes President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Washington, D.C. today to underscore our enduring commitment to the people of Ukraine.  Over the past three hundred days, the Kremlin has tried and failed to wipe Ukraine off the map. Now, Russia is trying to …

Read More»

Statement by White House Press Secretary Karine on the Visit of President Zelenskyy of Ukraine

President Biden has invited President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine to visit Washington D.C. to underscore the United States’ enduring commitment to Ukraine. President Biden looks forward to welcoming President Zelenskyy tomorrow, December 21, at the White House, after which President Zelenskyy will address a joint session of Congress, demonstrating the strong, bipartisan support for Ukraine.

Read More»

Standing with Afghanistan’s Women and Girls

The United States condemns in the strongest terms the Taliban’s indefensible decision to ban women from universities, keep secondary schools closed to girls, and continue to impose other restrictions on the ability of women and girls in Afghanistan to exercise their human rights and fundamental freedoms. Education is a human right. It is also essential …

Read More»

Countries rally to help Ukraine through the winter

More than 70 countries and institutions have pledged over 1 billion euros to help Ukrainians through the winter amid the Kremlin’s ongoing military attacks on civilian infrastructure, including the electricity grid. The funding was announced during the “Standing with the Ukrainian People” conference in Paris December 13. It will support Ukraine’s infrastructure and improve access to electricity, …

Read More»

U.S. towns named for Christmas

Whether by accident or inspiration, certain towns across the United States — from North Pole, Alaska, to Christmas Cove, Maine, and Garland, Texas — get extra attention each December and in some ways embody the spirit of the holiday season. One Christmas Eve in the 1850s, families in Santa Fe, Indiana, gathered in a log …

Read More»

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman’s Remarks at LUISS University

Buona Sera. What a wonderful day and a wonderful way to end my first day in Rome — with young people who will shape Italy’s future and the future of the U.S.-Italy relationship, and shape the world. Thank you, Marta, for that lovely introduction.  Allow me to thank all the members of our youth council, …

Read More»

G7 Leaders’ Statement

We, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7), met on 12 December, to reflect on progress of our cooperation under Germany’s Presidency to jointly address global challenges at a time of severe geopolitical crisis and critical moment for the world economy. We were joined by Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This year in the face …

Read More»

Deputy Secretary Sherman’s Meeting with Italian Secretary General Ettore Sequi

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman met with Italian MFA Secretary General Ettore Sequi today in Rome. Deputy Secretary Sherman and Secretary General Sequi highlighted the strength of the U.S. partnership with our NATO Ally Italy, ongoing collaboration in support of Ukraine, our joint efforts to address energy security, and our opposition to unilateral efforts …

Read More»

Deputy Secretary Sherman’s Meeting with Italian Diplomatic Advisor Francesco Talò

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s Diplomatic Advisor, Ambassador Francesco Talò, today in Rome to discuss issues of mutual concern.  They underscored our shared determination to support the transatlantic alliance and the deep and enduring bilateral partnership between the United States and Italy.  They also stressed the importance …

Read More»

Readout of President Biden’s Call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., spoke today with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine to underscore ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine’s defense as Russia continues its assaults on Ukraine’s critical infrastructure.  President Biden highlighted how the U.S. is prioritizing efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense through our security assistance, including the December 9 announcement of $275 …

Read More»

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman’s Remarks at the Aspen Ministers Forum

Good evening, and thank you, Foreign Minister Avila, for that kind introduction. What a privilege to speak before so many titans of foreign affairs—keepers of the flame of diplomacy and democracy in so many parts of our planet. All of you know how decisions are forged, because you’ve made them. All of you understand how …

Read More»

$275 Million in Additional U.S. Military Assistance for Ukraine

In recent weeks the Kremlin has increased its attacks against critical infrastructure, attacks that are causing widespread suffering for the people of Ukraine. But as winter deepens, so does our support for Ukraine. Today, the United States continues to support Ukraine with additional military assistance to help defend itself from Russia’s ongoing brutal and unprovoked …

Read More»

Supporting human rights defenders

Ei Thinzar Maung remains in hiding from authorities for her work defending human rights in Burma. “They will kill me if I ever get arrested,” she told the Coalition For Women in Journalism. She is a symbol of the peaceful public resistance that emerged following the Burmese military’s 2021 coup. The post-coup regime issued a warrant …

Read More»

U.S.-EU Joint Statement of the Trade and Technology Council

The U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) met outside Washington, D.C., on December 5, 2022.  The meeting was co-chaired by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager, and European Commission Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis, joined by U.S. …

Read More»

Russia’s playbook to gain influence

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s attempts to annex Ukrainian territories under the guise of protecting Russian speakers living in those areas are strikingly familiar. Moscow has been rolling out the same playbook it used in 2014 when Russia invaded Crimea and forcibly seized parts of eastern Ukraine. As it did in 2014 in Crimea, Russia installed pro-Putin officials …

Read More»

Working to keep electricity on in Ukraine

The United States is providing an additional $53 million in assistance to repair Ukraine’s electrical systems after Russia’s military attacks repeatedly targeted Ukraine’s power sector. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the new funding November 29 on the sidelines of the NATO foreign ministers meeting in Bucharest. The assistance will deliver critical electricity grid equipment, …

Read More»

National Christmas Tree celebration turns 100

A White House Christmas tradition — with lights, decorations, music and an appearance from the sitting president — turns 100 this year. President Biden lit the National Christmas Tree this week (November 30) on the Ellipse near the White House, and the centennial event included hip-hop icon LL Cool J, country singer Shania Twain and “The President’s Own” …

Read More»

34th Commemoration of World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day reminds us that HIV/AIDS continues to pose a threat to global health and global health security. With 650,000 people having lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses last year, the United States government remains committed to working with our global partners to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Read More»

Deputy Secretary Sherman’s Travel to London, Rome, Vatican City, Paris, Berlin, and Prague

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman will travel December 5-11 to the United Kingdom, Italy, Vatican City, France, Germany, and the Czech Republic to further strengthen our bilateral relationships, deepen our unified support for Ukraine, coordinate on our response to the Russian Federation’s unprovoked war, and discuss our strategies in the Indo-Pacific.

Read More»

Energy Security Support to Ukraine

In the midst of Russia’s continued brutal attacks against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Secretary of State Blinken announced today during a meeting of the G7+ on the margins of the NATO Ministerial in Bucharest that the United States government is providing over $53 million to support acquisition of critical electricity grid equipment. This equipment will be …

Read More»

The global scourge of gender-based violence

The World Health Organization estimates that one in three women have experienced or will experience gender-based violence (GBV) during their lifetimes. Since the pandemic started, 38% of women have personally experienced online violence and 85% of women know someone who has been targeted for online violence, a study by the Economist Intelligence Unit found. GBV prevention and …

Read More»

A program for the world’s hungry

About a week before Americans and friends would gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, a convoy of trucks rolled to a stop in the war-ravaged Tigray region of Ethiopia. Humanitarian workers began to unload hundreds of tons of food. Fighting and instability had made the work dangerous, but now sacks heavy with wheat and split peas and …

Read More»

Life in Russia-occupied Ukraine

The people of Ukraine are fighting to maintain their daily routine despite Russia’s brutal attempts to deny Ukraine’s sovereignty and suppress their identity and culture. Russia’s “annexation playbook” seeks to undermine all aspects of civilian life in Ukraine. As it did in 2014 in Crimea, Russia implemented tighter controls when it staged sham referenda in four of Ukraine’s …

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken Remarks to the Press

Good afternoon, everyone.  I just had an opportunity to visit Camp As Sayliyah.  This is the joint Department of Defense, State Department operation to help bring Afghans, Afghan allies to the United States.  It’s where we’re working to screen them medically, to vet them for security purposes, and to finish the consular processing that goes …

Read More»

Scientists in Africa working to end hunger

Addressing the global food crisis requires sharing the harvest — and knowledge. Scientists in Africa are doing just that. Through Feed the Future, a U.S. program to combat global poverty and hunger, scientists harness local solutions to expand local crop yields and feed more people. Meet four scientists in Africa involved in Feed the Future programs …

Read More»

G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, condemn in the strongest terms the brazen launch of another Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) conducted on 18 November 2022 by the DPRK. This missile launch is another …

Read More»

Transgender Day of Remembrance

On Transgender Day of Remembrance, the world pauses to remember the lives of the many transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming persons killed in acts of targeted, transphobic violence.  On every continent, transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming persons confront violence, harassment, and discrimination that shock the conscience, simply based on their gender identity or expression.  For far too many, their own governments …

Read More»

G20 Bali Leaders’ Declaration

Fourteen years ago, the Leaders of the G20 met for the first time, facing the most severe financial crisis in our generation. We recognized, as large global economies, that collectively we carry responsibilities and that our cooperation was necessary to global economic recovery, to tackle global challenges, and lay a foundation for strong, sustainable, balanced, …

Read More»

International Cooperation in NASA’s Artemis I Program

NASA’s Artemis program is inspiring the world as it seeks to land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon and conduct a historic first crewed mission to Mars. The Artemis program, comprising a series of robotic and crewed science and exploration missions, is intended to be the broadest and most diverse …

Read More»

Readout of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.’s Meeting with Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni

President Biden met today with Prime Minister Meloni of Italy on the margins of the G20 Summit in Bali to coordinate responses to a range of global challenges, including those posed by the People’s Republic of China, the climate crisis, and Russia’s use of energy as a weapon. The two leaders also discussed their commitment to continue providing …

Read More»

Joint Statement of NATO and G7 Leaders on the Margins of the G20 Summit in Bali

Today, the Leaders of Canada, the European Commission, the European Council, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States met on the margins of the G20 Summit in Bali and released the following statement:   We condemn the barbaric missile attacks that Russia perpetrated on Ukrainian cities and civilian infrastructure on Tuesday.

Read More»

Statement by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Russia’s Missile Strikes

The United States strongly condemns Russia’s latest missile attacks against Ukraine, which appear to have struck residential buildings in Kyiv and additional sites across the country. It is not lost on us that, as world leaders meet at the G-20 in Bali to discuss the issues of significant importance to the lives and livelihoods of people around the world, Russia again threatens those lives and …

Read More»

U.S. Feed the Future program expands in 8 African countries

Justine Konde wanted to remove pests from her small farm in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, especially the pesky fall armyworm that damages her crops. She learned about effective pest control at a farmer field school organized by Feed the Future, a U.S. government program to combat global poverty and hunger. Having learned to control pests …

Read More»

NATO’s 2022 Cyber Defense Pledge Conference

On November 9 and 10, 2022, NATO’s 2022 Cyber Defense Pledge Conference will take place in Rome, at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.  The event is co-hosted by Italy and the United States with the support of the NATO International Staff. At the Madrid Summit in June, Allies reaffirmed that resilience …

Read More»

G7 launches plan to boost global infrastructure investment

When disasters like the COVID-19 pandemic strike, developing countries that lack essential infrastructure suffer more and take longer to recover, President Biden said. “In our deeply connected world, that’s not just a humanitarian concern, it’s an economic and a security concern for all of us,” Biden told the Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Schloss …

Read More»

Young innovators aim to boost global development

After an invasive plant species destroyed his grandfather’s rice farm in India, Nathan Elias wanted to help. Elias, who lives in Texas, developed a system to help farmers detect and identify invasive species using their smartphones. Through a smartphone camera and mobile app, Elias’ tool sends farmers’ images to experts who can quickly identify invasive …

Read More»

COP27 takes place in a moment of challenge and opportunity

Soon, more than 190 nations will address climate crisis solutions at the 27th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27) in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. From November 6 through 18, at least 35,000 people are scheduled to attend public and private sector talks to advance efforts to implement climate …

Read More»

What has the U.S. done since COP26?

Heading into the 27th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27) in November in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, the United States is on track to meet its climate commitments toward the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. “Glasgow was just the kickoff for a decade of ambition, action, …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Italian Foreign Minister Tajani

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani today in Munster, Germany. Secretary Blinken thanked Foreign Minister Tajani for his commitment to sustain Italy’s strong support for Ukraine. The ministers discussed ways to mitigate the impact of rising energy prices on consumers, shared concerns over the People’s Republic of China, …

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken With Italian Foreign Minister Tajani Before Their Meeting

Well, good morning, everyone.  It is a great pleasure to be able to spend time with Mr. Tajani, Antonio.  We – I think it’s fair to say we’ve really hit the ground running here at the G7.  It’s as if we’ve been working together for months or years, not just a few days or a …

Read More»

Readout of President Joe Biden’s Call with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy to offer his congratulations on her appointment. The leaders underscored the strong relationship between the United States and Italy, and expressed their readiness to work together within the transatlantic alliance to address common challenges.

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Italian Foreign Minister Tajani

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. Secretary Blinken congratulated Foreign Minister Tajani on his appointment, and expressed his eagerness to work together to strengthen the Transatlantic partnership. The ministers discussed the ongoing need to support Ukraine and respond to Russia’s brutal war of choice, defend human rights …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba to reaffirm the United States’ steadfast support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.  Secretary Blinken expressed to Foreign Minister Kuleba that the United States rejects Russian Defense Minister Shoygu’s transparently false allegations that Ukraine is preparing to use a dirty bomb on its own territory and that the world would see …

Read More»

Statement from President Joe Biden on Giorgia Meloni Becoming Prime Minister of Italy

I congratulate Giorgia Meloni on becoming the new Prime Minister of Italy. Italy is a vital NATO Ally and close partner as our nations together address shared global challenges. As leaders in the G7, I look forward to continuing to advance our support for Ukraine, hold Russia accountable for its aggression, ensure respect for human rights and democratic values, and …

Read More»

World Food Day

On this World Food Day, food systems and global food security are at a critical moment.  The compounded impacts from a global pandemic, growing pressures from the climate crisis, high energy and fertilizer prices, and armed conflicts, including Russia’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine, have disrupted production and supply chains and dramatically increased global food …

Read More»

How climate change affects the food crisis

Food is an essential, but scarce, resource in many parts of world. Global conflicts, climate change and supply disruptions from COVID-19 have exacerbated the problem. This article takes a closer look at the impact of climate change on today’s food crisis. Extreme weather is a driver of world hunger. As global temperatures and sea levels rise, the result …

Read More»

Message for U.S. Citizens: Absentee Voting Week is October 1-8, 2022

In some states voter  registration  and ballot request deadlines for the November 2022 are as early as October 5th.  Whether you are a first-time voter or have already received ballots and voted absentee in past elections, we recommend that you complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)  each year to ensure you are able to …

Read More»

Statement of President Joe Biden on the United Nations General Assembly Vote Condemning Russia’s Illegal Attempts to Annex Ukrainian Territory

Today, the overwhelming majority of the world—nations from every region, large and small, representing a wide array of ideologies and governments – voted to defend the United Nations Charter and condemn Russia’s illegal attempt to annex Ukrainian territory by force. 143 nations stood on the side of freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity—even more than the …

Read More»

G7 Statement on Ukraine, 11 October 2022

We, the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7), convened today with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Our meeting took place against the backdrop of the most recent missile attacks against civilian infrastructure and cities across Ukraine, leading to the death of innocent civilians. We condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms and recall that …

Read More»

COVID-19 testing, oxygen programs launched

The pandemic strained global supplies of medical oxygen, needed for treating patients with severe COVID-19. Before the pandemic, roughly half of inpatient facilities in Africa had reliable access to medical oxygen, Thomas-Greenfield said. The U.S. government has already committed $50 million to provide medical oxygen, install oxygen storage tanks and upgrade medical infrastructure that delivers oxygen …

Read More»

How the U.S. promotes gender equality around the world

The United States works with international partners to advance gender equity and equality around the world. Speaking on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York, Katrina Fotovat, senior official of the U.S. State Department’s Office of Global Women’s Issues, said supporting women’s economic empowerment, peace and security, and addressing gender-based violence are …

Read More»

U.S. Support for Ukraine in the Face of Russian Strikes

The Kremlin’s strikes against Ukraine today again place the stakes of Russia’s brutal war into stark relief. Russian bombs hit children’s playgrounds and public parks in Kyiv; wave after wave of missiles struck Kyiv’s city streets and damaged heating and targets without military purpose throughout Ukraine. I extend my deepest sympathies to the people of …

Read More»

U.S. steps up climate investments in Pacific islands

President Biden announced $810 million in funding for Pacific island nations, part of an increasing U.S. commitment to long-standing partners. “Security in the Pacific and for the Pacific Islanders remains as critical as ever to us,” Biden said September 29 at the first U.S.–Pacific Island Country Summit in Washington, which drew 15 countries.

Read More»

Russia’s efforts to annex parts of Ukraine denounced worldwide

“The United States does not, and will never, recognize any of the Kremlin’s claims to sovereignty over parts of Ukraine that it’s seized by force and now purports to incorporate into Russia,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken said September 30. Moscow’s latest illegal bid to change Ukraine’s borders by force prompted a quick international rebuke.

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke by phone today with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Ukraine’s continued defense of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.  They discussed Moscow’s latest illegal and illegitimate efforts to change Ukraine’s borders by force as well as mounting atrocities committed by Russia’s forces against the people of Ukraine, including …

Read More»

Imposing Swift and Severe Costs in Response to Russia’s Violations of Ukraine’s Sovereignty

The United States unequivocally rejects Russia’s fraudulent attempt to change Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders, including by holding sham “referenda” in Ukraine’s Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya regions. This is a clear violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. In response, the United States and our allies and partners are imposing swift and severe …

Read More»

G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Illegal Annexation of Sovereign Ukrainian Territory

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, are united in our condemnation in the strongest possible terms of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and its continued violations of Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and Independence. …

Read More»

Special Envoy for Global Food Security Cary Fowler’s Travel to Rome September 29-October 5, 2022

U.S. Department of State Special Envoy for Global Food Security, Dr. Cary Fowler, will travel to Rome September 29 to October 5 for meetings and consultations at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the World Food Programme (WFP).

Read More»

Russia’s Sham Referenda in Ukraine

The Kremlin’s sham referenda are a futile effort to mask what amounts to a further attempt at a land grab in Ukraine.  To be clear: the results were orchestrated in Moscow and do not reflect the will of the people of Ukraine.  The United States does not, and will never, recognize the legitimacy or outcome …

Read More»

More Ukrainian grain reaching developing countries

Ukraine exported more than 4 million metric tons of food in August, reaching hungry people in Africa, Asia and other parts of the world. Prior to Russia’s February 24 invasion, Ukraine shipped 6 million metric tons of grain a month. The recent shipments are the result of a deal brokered by Türkiye and the United Nations between Ukraine and …

Read More»

Alaska Seafood Culinary Experience in Milan

The Office of Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Rome and Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute’s Italy representatives organized a first-time Alaska Seafood Culinary Experience at the restaurant Chic’n Quick in Milan, featuring Italian starred chef Claudio Sadler and U.S. celebrity chef Marc Murphy. Italy’s leading seafood importers, food retailers, restaurateurs, hoteliers, journalists, and food bloggers …

Read More»

How conflicts fuel the food crisis

Food is an essential, but scarce, resource in many parts of world. Global conflicts, climate change and supply disruptions from COVID-19 have exacerbated the problem. This article takes a closer look at the impact of recent conflicts on today’s food crisis. Ongoing conflicts in several nations contribute to the global food crisis and to increased …

Read More»

G7 Leaders’ Statement

We, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7), strongly condemn the sham referenda that Russia attempts to use to create a phony pretext for changing the status of Ukrainian sovereign territory, which is subject to an ongoing Russian aggression. These actions clearly breach the United Nations Charter and international law and go diametrically against the rule …

Read More»

Statement from President Biden on Russia’s Sham Referenda in Ukraine

The United States will never recognize Ukrainian territory as anything other than part of Ukraine. Russia’s referenda are a sham – a false pretext to try to annex parts of Ukraine by force in flagrant violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter. We will work with our allies and partners to impose additional swift …

Read More»

Remarks by President Biden Before the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

Mr. President, Mr. Secretary-General, my fellow leaders, in the last year, our world has experienced great upheaval: a growing crisis in food insecurity; record heat, floods, and droughts; COVID-19; inflation; and a brutal, needless war — a war chosen by one man, to be very blunt.  Let us speak plainly.  A permanent member of the …

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken at the Global Food Security Summit

Merci beaucoup, Monsieur President.  President Michel, President Sall, Chancellor, thank you all so much for being part of this today.  Let me actually start by inviting another colleague to the stage, President Petro of Colombia.  Would you please join us if you’re here?  And maybe he’s not.  Ah, there we are.  Mr. President.  (Applause.)  Good …

Read More»

Building on the U.N.’s success

The United Nations has helped countries worldwide improve human rights, limit nuclear proliferation, negotiate peace and lift over 1 billion people from poverty. At the 77th United Nations General Assembly September 13–27 in New York, the United States aims to build on the U.N.’s success and help prepare the institution to tackle 21st century challenges. …

Read More»

These Americans helped Russians improve their English

Born to immigrant parents and raised in the New York City area, Gabriel Garbar has always been curious about other cultures. Earlier this year he learned about Russia’s culture and education system as he helped teachers and students in Russia hone their English skills. Garbar was among 80 Americans participating in the State Department’s Virtual English …

Read More»

Documenting Russia’s Destructive Impact on Food Storage in Ukraine

President Putin’s unjustified war against Ukraine puts millions around the globe at risk of increasing food insecurity. The Kremlin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, one of the world’s largest exporters of food, has led to the damage or outright destruction of many of Ukraine’s arterial roads, railways, ports, and food storage facilities that are essential to …

Read More»

Commemorating the International Day of Democracy

This International Day of Democracy, we underscore our commitment to democracy as we strive for a more inclusive, equitable, and peaceful world.  As President Biden has emphasized “…we must start with diplomacy rooted in America’s most cherished democratic values:  defending freedom, championing opportunity, upholding universal rights, respecting rule of law, and treating every person with …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Italian Prime Minister Draghi

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi. The Secretary thanked the Prime Minister for his exemplary leadership during one of the most challenging periods in recent history and for Italy’s strong support for Ukraine. The Secretary underscored the importance of maintaining solidarity and resilience in the face of …

Read More»

United States Announces Additional Humanitarian Assistance for the Syrian People

At today’s Syria Political-Humanitarian Briefing at the UN Security Council, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Representative to the United Nations, announced more than $756 million in additional humanitarian assistance to continue our unwavering support for the Syrian people. This funding is in addition to the nearly $808 million announced by Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield in Brussels earlier in …

Read More»

Exposing human rights abuses associated with Russia’s filtration operations in Ukraine

“Filtered. The word does not begin to convey the horror and the depravity of these pre-meditated policies,” said U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield during a September 7 U.N. Security Council Meeting. Thomas-Greenfield detailed for the council the numerous mounting and credible reports of the Russian government’s filtration sites in parts of eastern Ukraine …

Read More»

Readout of the President’s Call with Allies and Partners

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke by video conference today with Allies and partners to underscore continued international support for Ukraine, including through the ongoing provision of security and economic assistance and the sustained imposition of costs on Russia to hold the Kremlin accountable for its aggression.  The leaders also discussed Russia’s weaponization of energy and the need for further coordination …

Read More»

Statement of President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on the Death of Queen Elizabeth II

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was more than a monarch. She defined an era. In a world of constant change, she was a steadying presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons, including many who have never known their country without her. An enduring admiration for Queen Elizabeth II united people …

Read More»

$2.8 Billion in Additional U.S. Military Assistance for Ukraine and Its Neighbors

It has been seven months since President Putin’s February invasion of Ukraine, and the war’s terrible toll continues to mount. Thousands of civilians killed or wounded, 13 million Ukrainian civilians forced to flee their homes, historic cities pounded to rubble, horrifying reports of ongoing atrocities, nuclear power stations put at risk, food shortages, skyrocketing food …

Read More»

Kremlin plans sham referendums to annex parts of Ukraine

The Kremlin is orchestrating sham referendums in parts of Ukraine currently under its military control in a bid to legitimize Russia’s hold on these territories. Moscow is rolling out the same playbook it used in 2014 when Russia invaded Crimea and forcibly seized parts of eastern Ukraine. As it did in 2014 in Crimea, Russia has installed …

Read More»

Advancing workers’ rights through trade

The U.S. government works with trading partners to protect workers’ rights worldwide. Safeguarding worker rights has been a core principle of U.S. trade policy since 1988. The Biden administration’s worker-centered trade policy furthers that effort, seeking to ensure that prosperous trade benefits workers at home and abroad. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai said in June 2021 that trading partners …

Read More»

$1 billion in U.S. emergency food security aid rushed to Africa

The U.S. government has provided nearly $1 billion in emergency food security assistance to countries in Africa suffering from extreme hunger and malnutrition. That is part of the $2.76 billion in U.S. funding that President Biden announced in June to address global food insecurity. The remaining funds are expected to be provided by year’s end to countries …

Read More»

Ukrainian grain reaches Africa with U.S. assistance

The first shipment of Ukrainian grain to transit the Black Sea since Russia’s unprovoked invasion arrived in Africa August 30 and will help feed people in the Horn of Africa. The estimated 23,000 metric tons of Ukrainian wheat was delivered though the U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) with assistance from the U.S. government. That amount of grain …

Read More»

Faces of Kremlin propaganda: Margarita Simonyan

To succeed in Russia’s state media environment, individuals need to promote the Kremlin line. Margarita Simonyan learned that lesson at a young age. As a reporter covering the war in Chechnya in the early 2000s, she promoted the Kremlin’s viewpoint. The Kremlin seemed to reward Simonyan for her loyalty by appointing her head of Russia’s first …

Read More»

Report: Russia’s filtration operations violate international humanitarian law

The Russian government is potentially engaging in torture and forced labor at filtration areas in eastern Ukraine, according to a new report from Yale’s Humanitarian Research Lab. Satellite imagery also indicates the potential presence of graves at one facility. The report used open-source data cross-referenced against recent high-resolution satellite imagery. Only sites whose location and activities …

Read More»

Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Remains Strong Despite Russian Obstructionism

After weeks of intensive but productive negotiations, the Russian Federation alone decided to block consensus on a final document at the conclusion of the Tenth Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Russia did so in order to block language that merely acknowledged the grave radiological risk at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in …

Read More»

Why Protecting the High Seas Matters

Representatives from countries around the world and dozens of civil society organizations are huddled and working around the clock at UN headquarters in New York this week for negotiations “on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ).” 

Read More»

G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement in Support of the IAEA’s Efforts to Promote Nuclear Safety and Security

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, reiterate our strongest condemnation of the ongoing unprovoked and unjustifiable war of aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. The Russian Federation must immediately withdraw its troops …

Read More»

American generosity stays high, study shows

The figures were reported recently by the Giving USA Foundation, using research from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. The fact that Americans gave nearly half a trillion dollars per year in the past two years is particularly impressive, and important, because the pandemic hurt many people economically in the U.S. and around the …

Read More»

Galvanizing the world to reduce hunger in Africa

Higher energy costs, climate change, COVID-19 and global conflicts are fueling the food crisis, especially in Africa, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, said August 5. That is why President Biden announced in June $2.76 billion in U.S. funding to help protect the world’s most vulnerable populations and mitigate the impacts of growing food …

Read More»

Signing of U.S. Instruments of Ratification of Finland and Sweden’s NATO Accession Protocols

Today President Biden signed the United States Instruments of Ratification of the Accession Protocols to the North Atlantic Treaty for the Republic of Finland and the Kingdom of Sweden, which the U.S. Senate approved on August 3. We celebrate this historic moment, which underscores the U.S. commitment to our shared Transatlantic security.

Read More»

This U.S. diplomat fights systemic racism worldwide

Desirée Cormier Smith, the newly appointed special representative for racial equity and justice at the U.S. Department of State — the first person to hold that position — is ready to tell anyone who will listen exactly what she does and how racial equity relates to U.S. foreign policy. As Cormier Smith explains, her job …

Read More»

Statement by President Biden on the Ceasefire in Gaza

I welcome the announcement tonight of a ceasefire between Israel and Gaza-based militants after three days of hostilities.  Over these last 72-hours, the United States has worked with officials from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, Egypt, Qatar, Jordan, and others throughout the region to encourage a swift resolution to the conflict. I thank President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi and the …

Read More»

Anniversary of the Russian Invasion of Georgia

Fourteen years ago today, Russia invaded the sovereign nation of Georgia.  As we have done since 2008, we remember those killed and injured by Russian forces.  For decades, the citizens of Georgia in Abkhazia and South Ossetia have lived under Russian occupation and tens of thousands have been displaced, persecuted, and impoverished.  Lives and livelihoods …

Read More»

G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on Energy Security

We, the Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, are steadfast in our condemnation of Russia’s brutal, unprovoked, unjustifiable, and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. We condemn and will not recognise Russia’s continued attempts to re-draw …

Read More»

Statement from President Biden on Senate Ratification of the NATO Accession Protocols for Sweden and Finland

Today, the Senate overwhelmingly endorsed our close partners Finland and Sweden joining NATO. This historic vote sends an important signal of the sustained, bipartisan U.S. commitment to NATO, and to ensuring our Alliance is prepared to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. I thank the members of the Senate – especially Majority Leader Schumer, Minority …

Read More»

Worldwide Caution: August 2, 2022

On July 31, 2022, the United States conducted a precision counterterrorism strike in Afghanistan that killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s deputy and successor as leader of al-Qa’ida.  Al- Zawahiri was one of the masterminds of the attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001, and had continued to urge his followers to attack …

Read More»

From litter to limbs

Eureka moments come to entrepreneurs in different ways — for Marta Vânia Uetela of Mozambique, her idea arose when a friend who lost his leg in a car accident had to find an affordable prosthetic to be able to walk again. He found that prosthetics were too expensive or the wait time to obtain one …

Read More»

Remarks by President Biden on a Successful Counterterrorism Operation in Afghanistan

My fellow Americans, on Saturday, at my direction, the United States successfully concluded an airstrike in Kabul, Afghanistan, that killed the emir of al Qaeda, Ayman al-Zawahiri.    You know, al-Zawahiri was bin Laden’s leader.  He was with him all the — the whole time.  He was his number-two man, his deputy at the time …

Read More»

Investment Climate Statements

The U.S. Department of State’s Investment Climate Statements provide information on the business climates of more than 160 economies and are prepared by economic officers stationed in embassies and posts around the world. They analyze a variety of economies that are or could be markets for U.S. businesses. The Investment Climate Statements are also references …

Read More»

America’s unwavering support for nuclear nonproliferation

For more than 50 years, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) has helped prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, enabled progress on disarmament, and allowed peaceful nuclear technologies to contribute to global sustainable development. The United States is committed to upholding this landmark treaty, one that is never more important than in times …

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken At a Press Availability

This week, President Putin’s war on Ukraine entered its sixth month.  Costs continue to climb – thousands of civilians killed or wounded; 13 million Ukrainians forced to flee their homes; historic cities literally pounded into rubble; food shortages, skyrocketing food prices around the world – all this because President Putin was determined to conquer another …

Read More»

Remarks by President Biden on COVID-⁠19

As I was walking out, I thought I heard a rumbling in my staff saying, “Oh, he’s back.”  (Laughter.)  Thanks for sticking around. Hello, everyone.  I’ve just tested negative for COVID-19 after isolating for five days.  (Applause.)  Thankfully, I’ll now be able to return to work in person. But I — I want to thank …

Read More»

Putin’s latest crackdown on dissent and information

Russians who dare to speak out publicly against the war in Ukraine face long prison terms. Alexei Gorinov, a municipal deputy in Moscow, received a seven-year prison sentence July 8 for “spreading false information” about the Russian military. His crime? Gorinov called for “stopping the war and withdrawing Russian troops from Ukraine’s territory” during a March council …

Read More»

U.S. Women, Peace, and Security Congressional Report 2022

In March 2021, President Biden released Executive Order 14020 , Establishment of the White House Gender Policy Council, which mandated a whole-of-government strategy to promote gender equality, and corresponding Department and Agency Action Plans within nine months of the Strategy’s release. The U.S. National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality  was released in October 2021, with the aim of …

Read More»

Disability Pride Month celebrates Americans with Disabilities Act anniversary

There are an estimated 1 billion people with disabilities worldwide. Their contributions benefit us all. In the United States, July is Disability Pride Month. It marks the 1990 enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a landmark U.S. rights law that extended civil rights protections to persons with disabilities and assured that all Americans would benefit from their talents.

Read More»

Here’s where new businesses launch

Several U.S. business hubs are among the world’s best places to launch a business. Startup Genome, a research organization that supports small businesses, places three American hot spots in the top five of its latest global startup ecosystem ranking: Silicon Valley (located in California’s Santa Clara Valley), New York City and Boston.

Read More»

The United States Strongly Condemns the Russian Missile Attack Against Odesa

The United States strongly condemns the Russian missile attack on the Ukrainian port of Odesa today. Just 24 hours after finalizing a deal to allow the resumption of Ukrainian agricultural exports through the Black Sea, Russia breached its commitments by attacking the historic port from which grain and agricultural exports would again be transported under …

Read More»

Heroes in the worldwide fight against human trafficking

“The scale of this problem is vast,” said Secretary of State Antony Blinken, announcing the report’s findings July 19 at the State Department, noting that nearly 25 million people are currently victims of trafficking. “The United States is committed to fighting it because trafficking destabilizes societies, it undermines economies, it harms workers, it enriches those who exploit …

Read More»

COVID-19 Global Action Plan Ministerial

As the world continues to grapple with COVID-19’s far-reaching impacts and the emergence of new variants, there remains an urgent need for political and diplomatic engagement and coordination to accelerate progress to end the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen health security.  Accordingly, the United States and Japan will jointly host a virtual …

Read More»

Webb telescope shows dazzling cosmic images

Just-released brilliant and detailed images of distant parts of the universe taken by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope will help people better understand the cosmos. The Webb’s first, full-color image (at right) shows thousands of galaxies. This infrared image of the universe, the deepest and sharpest ever produced, was released on July 11 at the White House …

Read More»

OSCE Releases the Second Expert Mission Report on Human Rights Abuses and International Humanitarian Law Violations in Russia’s War Against Ukraine

With Ukraine’s assent, the United States and 44 other countries invoked the OSCE Moscow Mechanism for a second time on June 2, establishing an expert mission to examine the further human rights abuses and humanitarian impacts of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine. In the report released at today’s OSCE Permanent Council meeting, the mission …

Read More»

Russia’s “Filtration” Operations, Forced Disappearances, and Mass Deportations of Ukrainian Citizens 

On the eve of the Ukraine Accountability Conference, the United States calls on Russia to immediately halt its systematic “filtration” operations and forced deportations in Russian-controlled and held areas of Ukraine.  The unlawful transfer and deportation of protected persons is a grave breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention on the protection of civilians and is a war crime.  Russian …

Read More»

Outcomes of the 50th Session of the UN Human Rights Council

In line with the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to robust re-engagement and leadership in multilateral institutions, the United States marked its second session back on the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) by actively advancing respect for and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms during the body’s 50th regular session.

Read More»

Protecting Ukraine’s internet access and critical data

The U.S. government and private sector are providing critical cybersecurity assistance to Ukraine, helping the country stay online during Russia’s brutal and unjust war. The Kremlin’s further invasion of Ukraine has used information warfare tactics, including cyberattacks on core infrastructure and dissemination of disinformation through state-sponsored malign networks, as well as mass disruption of internet service, according …

Read More»

To Vilify Ukraine, The Kremlin Resorts to Antisemitism

One of the Kremlin’s most common disinformation narratives to justify its devastating war against the people of Ukraine is the lie that Russia is pursuing the “denazification” of Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin has referred to Ukraine’s democratically elected government as a “gang of drug addicts and neo-Nazis,” while Russian state media and propagandists have repeatedly called for the “denazification” of the entire …

Read More»

Biden: NATO is ‘more united than ever’

The United States and its trans-Atlantic allies have agreed to a bold vision for NATO’s future to ensure a strong NATO alliance. The White House called the June 29–30 NATO Summit in Madrid “an historic moment for the Transatlantic Alliance.” For the first time, leaders from partner nations in Asia, including Australia, Japan, New Zealand and …

Read More»

Disarming Disinformation: Our Shared Responsibility

Disinformation is one of the Kremlin’s most important and far-reaching weapons.  Russia has operationalized the concept of perpetual adversarial competition in the information environment by encouraging the development of a disinformation and propaganda ecosystem.  This ecosystem creates and spreads false narratives to strategically advance the Kremlin’s policy goals.  There is no subject off-limits to this …

Read More»

Additional Humanitarian Assistance for the People of Ukraine

I announced earlier today that the United States is providing nearly $368 million in additional humanitarian assistance to support those affected by Russia’s brutal war on Ukraine. To date, more than11 million people– over a quarter of Ukraine’s population – have been forced to flee their homes due to Russia’s unjustified war, while 15.7 million people require …

Read More»

G7 launches plan to boost global infrastructure investment

When disasters like the COVID-19 pandemic strike, developing countries that lack essential infrastructure suffer more and take longer to recover, President Biden said. “In our deeply connected world, that’s not just a humanitarian concern, it’s an economic and a security concern for all of us,” Biden told the Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Schloss …

Read More»

Protecting planet Earth from asteroids

Sixty-five million years ago, an asteroid collided with Earth and killed two-thirds of life on the planet, ending the reign of the dinosaurs. Now scientists at NASA and space agencies in Europe are figuring out how to prevent future asteroids from threatening humans. “The threat of asteroids is real,” NASA scientist Elena Adams said during …

Read More»

How the Kremlin spreads disinformation in Africa

When the Kremlin wants to gain influence in Africa or support a repressive leader without scrutiny, it often works with key oligarchs aligned with Russian President Vladimir Putin. A Kremlin favorite is Yevgeniy Prigozhin, known as “Putin’s chef” because of his numerous catering contracts with the Kremlin. Prigozhin is best known for financing the Internet …

Read More»

Helping countries vaccinate children against COVID-19

The United States and international partners have begun shipping pediatric COVID-19 vaccine doses to help other countries protect children and to end the acute phase of the pandemic. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced June 15 at a COVID-19 Global Action Plan meeting at the State Department that the United States is sending 2.2 million doses of …

Read More»

U.S. museums celebrate Ukrainian culture

More than a million people of Ukrainian descent live in the United States, primarily in New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles. U.S. museums across the country elevate Ukrainian culture, history and art. “One of the things that President Putin’s war is trying to accomplish is to somehow erase Ukrainian identity,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken …

Read More»

Putin’s war sends global food prices skyrocketing

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine is contributing to rising food prices and threatening food supplies around the world. In Ukraine, Russia’s forces have destroyed farms, bombed warehouses, ruined fields, and seized tractors and other equipment for fortifications, according to news reports. Land mines have forced Ukrainians to abandon their farms, and a Russian Navy blockade of Ukrainian …

Read More»

Reaffirming Our Commitment to the Treaty of the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons

On this day 54 years ago, the Treaty of the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) opened for signature in London, Moscow, and Washington, DC.  Today, the United States reaffirms its commitment to this critical treaty and celebrates the immeasurable contribution it has made to the security and prosperity of the nations and peoples of the …

Read More»

United States Hosts U.S.– EU Space Dialogue

As part of our deep ongoing collaboration on outer space issues, officials from the United States and the European Union met for the 11th U.S.-EU Space Dialogue in Washington, D.C.  Officials discussed cooperation on Earth observation and disaster response, global navigation satellite systems, spaceflight safety and space situational awareness, and opportunities for trans-Atlantic cooperation to …

Read More»

FACT SHEET: The 2022 NATO Summit in Madrid

The June 29-30, 2022 NATO Summit in Madrid, Spain will be an historic moment for the Transatlantic Alliance. Building on the President’s first NATO Summit on June 14, 2021, and extraordinary Summits held on February 25, 2022 and March 24, 2022 in response to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, this Summit in Madrid will …

Read More»

Targeting Russia’s War Machine

The United States reaffirms our commitment to working alongside our allies and partners to further impose severe consequences on President Putin and his supporters for Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war against the government and people of Ukraine.  Today, the Departments of State and the Treasury are imposing sanctions on additional entities and individuals, including Russia’s …

Read More»

Statement by President Biden on Trilateral Agreement Between Turkey, Finland, and Sweden

I congratulate Turkey, Finland and Sweden on signing a trilateral memorandum, which paves the way for Allies to invite Finland and Sweden to join NATO at the Madrid Summit. When I welcomed President Niinistö and Prime Minister Andersson to the White House last month, I told them that the United States strongly supports their membership. …

Read More»

Today’s Supreme Court Decision

As Secretary of State, I usually avoid commenting on Supreme Court rulings. But today’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade has raised understandable questions and concerns across the world and within our workforce. So let me be clear: under this Administration, the State Department will remain fully committed to helping provide access to reproductive health services …

Read More»

$1 Billion of New U.S. Military Assistance for Ukraine

Today, we announced an additional $1 billion in additional military assistance for Ukraine.  Pursuant to a delegation of authority from the President, I am authorizing our twelfth drawdown of arms and equipment from U.S. Department of Defense inventories for Ukraine’s defense since August 2021, valued at up to $350 million.  This authorization, combined with $650 …

Read More»

Statement by President Joe Biden on Support for Ukraine and Call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine

This morning, I spoke with President Zelenskyy to discuss Russia’s brutal and ongoing war against Ukraine. I reaffirmed my commitment that the United States will stand by Ukraine as it defends its democracy and support its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of unprovoked Russian aggression. I informed President Zelenskyy that the United States …

Read More»

Virtual Workshop on Innovative Biotechnology

On June 14, 2022, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service at the U.S. Embassy in Rome hosted a regional virtual workshop entitled: “Innovative Biotechnology – A Tool for Climate Change Mitigation, Food Security, and Alternative Energy Sources”. Two U.S. scientists were accompanied by experts from Italy, Greece, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ghana, and Nigeria. The scientists …

Read More»

The climate crisis threatens these marine creatures [photo gallery]

Around one-third of all marine life will face extinction within 300 years if global temperatures keep rising, says a new report in Science. The extinction of ocean creatures would weaken global economies, harm land-based ecosystems and change life on Earth as we know it. “The ocean is our lifeblood, impacting a $500 billion global economy and …

Read More»

LGBTQI+ people: Making history throughout history

Members of the LGBTQI+ community in the United States and around the world have established an impressive legacy in art, history, literature, math, science and politics. Over the years, LGBTQI+ figures took significant risks to enter and succeed in competitive fields, knowing their identities could jeopardize their own careers or those of others. Despite discrimination and harassment, …

Read More»

World Day Against Child Labor

On World Day Against Child Labor, we renew our commitments and efforts to combat child labor and protect children. The United States was one of the first countries to sign the international treaty against child labor.  When President Clinton signed what is known as the Worst Forms of Child Labor Convention in 1999, he recognized that to …

Read More»

How the U.S. supports workers’ rights around the world

The United States partners with other countries and international organizations to protect and empower workers around the world. By supporting international labor groups and leveraging trade and development projects, the United States contributes to the protection of workers’ rights and better working conditions for many of the world’s workers. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken …

Read More»

The Russian military’s history of atrocities

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s forces in Ukraine have destroyed apartment buildings, schools, hospitals, shopping centers and ambulances, leaving thousands of civilians killed or wounded. Mounting evidence indicates that the Russian Federation’s forces are torturing and killing civilians in the cities they capture. After Russia’s forces withdrew from the Kyiv suburb of Bucha, city officials recovered …

Read More»

Russia’s National Day

On behalf of the United States of America, I express my wish for a more peaceful, open future for the people of Russia as they commemorate Russia Day.  June 12, 1990, marked an important step in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Russia for freedom, democracy, and the breaking down of barriers that separate …

Read More»

Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Rome, Italy, June 10, 2022

As of June 12, 2022, the CDC order requiring all persons to show a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before boarding a flight to the United States, is rescinded. Starting at 12:01 a.m. on June 12, 2022, the CDC will no longer require air travelers to show a negative COVID-19 …

Read More»

World Ocean Day 

The health and productivity of our ocean is under threat. Greenhouse gas emissions are making our ocean warmer, higher, more acidic, and less productive. Meanwhile, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is threatening fish stocks and marine biodiversity, while plastic pollution is choking our ocean.

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken With Maria Ressa on Digital Diplomacy and Human Rights Online

It’s so important from our perspective that the United States, likeminded governments, but especially with civil society, with NGOs, with think tanks, with the private sector, work to protect human rights online, work to demonstrate that our democracies can deliver for people as we navigate this extraordinary digital transformation that is having an impact on …

Read More»

How U.S. food recalls protect consumers

In the United States, several government agencies work together to ensure food safety through a system many consider to be one of the best in the world. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration work together to protect consumers …

Read More»

D-Day anniversary prompts reflection

June 6, 2022, marks the 78th anniversary of D-Day, when the largest amphibious military operation of modern times landed 156,000 Allied soldiers by sea and air on five beachheads in Normandy, France. D-Day was the start of Allied operations in World War II that would liberate Western Europe and defeat Nazi Germany 11 months later. Most of …

Read More»

U.S. Action Plan on Global Water Security

Water is the source of life, and it nurtures and sustains livelihoods and civilizations. Secure and sustainable access to safe water is an essential element of national security, and the Department of State is working together with our partners and allies to facilitate water cooperation and engagement on water management across our development programming and …

Read More»

2021 Report on International Religious Freedom

The annual Report to Congress on International Religious Freedom – the International Religious Freedom Report – describes the status of religious freedom in every country. The report covers government policies violating religious belief and practices of groups, religious denominations and individuals, and U.S. policies to promote religious freedom around the world. The U.S. Department of …

Read More»

The Anniversary of the Founding of the Italian Republic

On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Italy on the 76th anniversary of the founding of the Italian Republic. On this day, Italy and the United States celebrate our shared heritage and values including freedom, democracy, rule of law, and our flourishing cultural ties. Millions of Americans proudly claim …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Italian Foreign Minister Di Maio

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio. Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Di Maio discussed Russia’s brutal and unprovoked war against Ukraine and affirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine and others suffering from the effects of the war. The Secretary and the Foreign Minister also stressed the …

Read More»

With liberty and justice for all: The advancement of LGBTQI+ rights in the U.S.

The movement to safeguard the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI+) people in the United States is part of a larger U.S. tradition of ensuring minority rights. That tradition began when President Ulysses S. Grant signed into law the Civil Rights Act of 1871. Now recognized as the world’s first legislation aimed …

Read More»

Advancing America’s long tradition of welcoming refugees

President Biden is ensuring the United States remains a safe haven for refugees and that those who apply to immigrate to the country under humanitarian programs are treated with dignity and respect. In a February 4, 2021, executive order, Biden took steps to strengthen the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), a collaboration between government and community groups that reflects …

Read More»

What Memorial Day means to Americans

Memorial Day honors America’s military men and women who lost their lives in service to their country. The holiday is observed on the last Monday of May, a time of year when weather is turning warmer and schools and universities are adjourning for summer break. To Americans, Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of …

Read More»

G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Launch of an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile by the DPRK

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, condemn in the strongest terms the test of yet another Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) conducted on May 25, 2022, by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). …

Read More»

How Arlington became a final resting place for veterans

One of the most significant sites for such commemoration is Arlington National Cemetery, the final resting place for U.S. military personnel of every major American conflict since the Revolutionary War. The cemetery sits across the Potomac River from Washington in Northern Virginia. In 2021, President Biden visited there on Memorial Day and said, “May the light …

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken Remarks at a Reception in Recognition of Eid

And a big thanks to start to our colleagues at the Office of International Religious Freedom for getting us all together tonight, for organizing this reception, and Rashad, especially to you for your leadership, which has been extraordinary. Just over the past few months, Rashad and his team have helped drive our foreign policy priorities …

Read More»

Biden: U.S. welcomes Finland, Sweden’s bids to join NATO

President Biden supported and welcomed Finland’s and Sweden’s applications to join NATO, saying the two democracies will strengthen the alliance and bolster trans-Atlantic security. “I am proud to welcome and offer the strong support of the United States for the applications of two great democracies and two close, highly capable partners to join the strongest, …

Read More»

Launch of the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group (ACA) for Ukraine

The United States, along with the European Union and the United Kingdom, has created the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group (ACA).  This joint initiative will directly support the efforts of the War Crimes Units of the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine (OPG) to document, preserve, and analyze evidence of war crimes and other atrocities …

Read More»

Joint Statement from the EU, U.S., and UK on the establishment of the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group (ACA) for Ukraine

Today, the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom announced the creation of the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group (ACA), a mechanism aimed at ensuring efficient coordination of their respective support to accountability efforts on the ground. The ACA will reinforce current EU, US and UK efforts to further accountability for atrocity crimes in the context …

Read More»

Joint Statement Between the United States and the European Commission on European Energy Security

Russia has demonstrated that it is an unreliable supplier of energy to Europe through unjustified and unacceptable actions such as cutting off electricity and natural gas to Finland, halting natural gas exports to Poland and Bulgaria, and threatening similar actions against other European nations. The United States and the European Commission condemn Russia’s use of …

Read More»

U.S. rushes humanitarian aid to Ukraine

The U.S. government has provided more than $688 million in humanitarian assistance to help the people of Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion began on February 24. The aid comes as Russia’s war of aggression has displaced 7.7 million people within Ukraine and forced more than 6 million to flee to neighboring countries. This humanitarian assistance — through the U.S. Agency for …

Read More»

War in Ukraine damages major cultural sites

Russia’s war against Ukraine has damaged more than 260 sites important to Ukraine’s culture, new reports show. “This is a struggle for our cultural heritage,” said Ihor Poshyvailo, general director of the National Memorial and the Maidan Museum, during an online discussion April 28 hosted by the National Museum of American Diplomacy. The Russian military’s constant bombing of Ukraine …

Read More»

Countries step up global fight against COVID-19

Countries and organizations around the globe are redoubling efforts to vaccinate the world against COVID-19, save lives now, and prepare for future pandemics and other health crises. At the Second COVID-19 Summit, held virtually May 12, leaders of numerous countries, the private sector and nongovernmental groups committed a total of $3.2 billion to expand access …

Read More»

Global Food Security Ministerial

In order to mobilize action to address global food insecurity, Secretary Blinken will host a ministerial-level meeting in New York on May 18, bringing together a broad, regionally diverse group of 30-35 countries, including those most affected by food insecurity and those in a position to take action to strengthen global food resilience and security. …

Read More»

The United States Leads Days of Action on Global Food Security at the United Nations

The United States is committed to ending hunger and malnutrition and building more sustainable, equitable, and resilient food systems around the world. In support of these ongoing efforts, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken is traveling to New York City May 18-19 to convene meetings to mobilize action on global food security.

Read More»

Raising the Flag at U.S. Embassy Kyiv

Three months ago, we lowered our flag over the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine, just days before Russian forces streamed across Ukraine’s border to carry out President Putin’s unprovoked, unjustified war of choice.  When we suspended operations at the embassy, we made the point clear: while we would relocate U.S. embassy personnel for their safety …

Read More»

Promoting Accountability for War Crimes and Other Atrocities in Ukraine

The U.S. Department of State is announcing the launch of a new Conflict Observatory to capture, analyze, and make widely available evidence of Russia-perpetrated war crimes and other atrocities in Ukraine.  The program encompasses the documentation, verification, and dissemination of open-source evidence regarding the actions of Russia’s forces during President Putin’s brutal war of choice.

Read More»

Promoting Accountability for War Crimes and Other Atrocities in Ukraine

The U.S. Department of State is announcing the launch of a new Conflict Observatory to capture, analyze, and make widely available evidence of Russia-perpetrated war crimes and other atrocities in Ukraine.  The program encompasses the documentation, verification, and dissemination of open-source evidence regarding the actions of Russia’s forces during President Putin’s brutal war of choice.

Read More»

Background Press Call by Senior Administration Officials on the U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council Meeting in Paris

Thanks very much, and thanks to all of you for joining us today.  As you all might remember, last June at the U.S.-EU Summit, President Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel established the U.S. and EU Trade and Technology Council.  The U.S.-EU TTC, as we call …

Read More»

U.S. supports countries amid Putin’s food crisis

Russia’s war in Ukraine has resulted in more than 5.7 million refugees fleeing Ukraine into neighboring countries while an estimated 7.7 million people are internally displaced in the country, according to the U.N. A major consequence of this war is that, while Russian President Vladimir Putin destroys farms in Ukraine, people around the world go …

Read More»

G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on Russia’s War Against Ukraine

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, are steadfast in our solidarity with and our support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s unjustifiable, unprovoked and illegal war of aggression, a war in which …

Read More»

Transcript of Pelosi Remarks at Photo Opportunity with His Excellency Mario Draghi, Prime Minister of the Italian Republic

I most recently saw him in Rome, when we were there for G20, as a lead-up into the Glasgow COP26 Conference on Climate, where Italy was a – the prime co-sponsor with the U.K.  That was a very productive meeting.  Countries from well more than 20 countries, some – some guests were there as well. …

Read More»

Joint Readout of the Meeting Between President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and Prime Minister Mario Draghi

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. of the United States and Prime Minister Mario Draghi of Italy met today at the White House. The leaders reaffirmed the strong and broad U.S.-Italian partnership reflected in the deep and enduring ties between our people and our countries, of which our alliance through NATO and the U.S. partnership with …

Read More»

Europe Day

On this day, 72 years ago, French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman put forward the idea for what would eventually become the European Union.  His vision became real 30 years ago with the signature of the Treaty on European Union in Maastricht.  Schuman’s animating principle was that closer cooperation and creative thinking could bring about lasting …

Read More»

G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Hong Kong Chief Executive Selection

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, underscore our grave concern over the selection process for the Chief Executive in Hong Kong as part of a continued assault on political pluralism and fundamental freedoms.

Read More»

G7 Leaders’ Statement

Today, on 8 May, we, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7), alongside Ukraine and the wider global community, commemorate the end of the Second World War in Europe and the liberation from fascism and the National Socialist reign of terror, which caused immeasurable destruction, unspeakable horrors and human suffering. We mourn the millions …

Read More»

Fact Sheet: U.S. and G7 Partners Impose Severe Costs for Putin’s War Against Ukraine

Our unprecedented sanctions are already exacting an immense toll on Russia’s economy and our export controls have strangled Russia’s access to critical technology and the supply chains it needs to sustain its military ambitions. Putin’s war is projected to wipe out the last 15 years of economic gains in Russia. As a result of our …

Read More»

Statement by President Joe Biden on the Occasion of World Press Freedom Day 2022

We live in perilous times for press freedom. At least eleven journalists have been killed in Ukraine in recent weeks. Another 11 have been wounded by gunfire. Others have been kidnapped and assaulted, and at least one remains missing.  In Russia, the Kremlin has tightened its vice-grip on civil society, including through passage of a …

Read More»

U.S. Mission to Italy and the Phillips Collection Collaborate with Italian Museums

Supported by a grant from the United States Embassy to Italy to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in museums, professionals from The Phillips Collection in Washington, DC will conduct a week of collaborative workshops from May 2 – 9 with Italian contemporary art museums in Turin (GAM – Galleria Civica d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea), Rome …

Read More»

Statement by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on the Occasion of Eid al-Fitr

As Muslims in the United States and around the world conclude the month of Ramadan and celebrate Eid al-Fitr, Jill and I extend our warmest wishes to all who are celebrating this joyous occasion. Eid marks the completion of a holy month dedicated to devotion and reflection, when families and communities come together to celebrate …

Read More»

Partnering to counter ISIS in Africa

ISIS has made significant inroads into Africa. An 84-member coalition committed to countering ISIS globally is working to deter further advances on the African continent by ISIS affiliates. The Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS will hold its annual ministerial in Marrakesh, Morocco, on May 11 to address the growing threat from ISIS in Africa and …

Read More»

Countries expel Russian diplomats in protest over Ukraine

Nations are sending a loud message in response to Russia’s February full-scale invasion of Ukraine: They’re ordering Russian officials to leave. An estimated 400 Russian diplomatic officials were expelled from Europe since the invasion, according to Foreign Policy magazine. Among NATO members, at least 24 out of 30 member states asked Russian officials to leave.

Read More»

Release of the First Annual Interagency Report on Advancing LGBTQI+ Human Rights

Today we released the first-ever public report on the U.S. government’s implementation of the 2021 Presidential Memorandum on Advancing the Human Rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex Persons (LGBTQI+) Around the World.  The report details our efforts to protect and promote the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons globally over the past year.  …

Read More»

Remarks by President Biden on the Request to Congress for Additional Funding to Support Ukraine

Hello, everybody.  Good morning.  I just signed a request to Congress for critical security, economic, and humanitarian assistance to help Ukraine continue to counter Putin’s aggression and — at a very pivotal moment. We need this bill to support Ukraine in its fight for freedom.  And our NATO Allies, our EU partners — they’re going …

Read More»

Statement by WH Press Secretary Psaki on the Bilateral Meeting between President Biden and Prime Minister Draghi of Italy

President Biden looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Mario Draghi of Italy to the White House on May 10, 2022.  The visit will reaffirm the deep bonds of friendship and strong partnership between the United States and Italy.  The leaders will discuss their ongoing coordination with Allies and partners on measures to support of the people …

Read More»

The European Democratic Resilience Initiative

On March 24, President Biden announced  the launch of the European Democratic Resilience Initiative (EDRI) to bolster democratic resilience, advance anti-corruption efforts, and defend human rights in Ukraine and its neighbors in response Russia’s war of aggression.  Working with Congress, the Biden Administration aims to harness the EDRI to provide up to $320 million in new funding …

Read More»

Biden Administration Increases Access to COVID-⁠19 Treatments and Boosts Patient and Provider Awareness

Driven by President Biden’s comprehensive COVID-19 response, there are now more tools than ever before to protect people from the virus, including highly-effective treatments. Over the past 15 months, the Administration has pulled levers across the federal government and deployed resources Congress provided to expedite the development, production, and procurement of COVID-19 treatments. As a …

Read More»

International Travel Recommendations

U.S. citizens considering international travel should plan ahead and be informed about travel requirements before making decisions or firm travel plans.  We urge U.S. citizens considering international travel to check their passport expiration date early and if renewal is needed, to submit applications as far ahead of their travel dates as possible.  Travelers should check …

Read More»

A Proclamation on Earth Day, 2022

Fifty-two years ago, millions of people gathered across our country in a rally to protect our planet.  This collective action gave birth to a new movement and spurred the creation of landmark environmental laws that protect the air we breathe and the water we drink.  Today, we must recapture that spirit and, as I said in my Inaugural …

Read More»

Deputy Secretary Sherman’s Call with French, German, Italian, and UK Counterparts

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman spoke today with French MFA Secretary General Francois Delattre, German MFA State Secretary Andreas Michaelis, Italian MFA Secretary General Ettore Sequi, and UK Minister of State for Europe and North America James Cleverly. Deputy Secretary Sherman condemned Russia’s unjustified and unprovoked war of choice against Ukraine and its brutal …

Read More»

Biden-⁠Harris Administration Creates Cost-Saving Clean Energy Opportunities to Combat Climate Crisis

Since taking office, President Biden has prioritized expanding clean energy technologies as part of his historic efforts to tackle the climate crisis – all while helping American families lower their energy costs and creating good-paying, union jobs. Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) – like rooftop solar, battery storage, heat pumps, and electric vehicles – will cut …

Read More»

Working to stop food waste

Food waste worsens world hunger and adds to greenhouse gas emissions, a leading cause of the climate crisis. The United Nations estimates that roughly one-third of all food is wasted or lost globally each year. Worldwide, thrown-out food accounts for 8% of all greenhouse gas emissions. In the United States, activists and organizations promote food recycling. Their …

Read More»

Promoting Accountability for Human Rights Abuses in Russia and Belarus and Taking Action Against Sanctions Evaders

President Putin’s unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine, conducted with the complicity of the Lukashenka regime, continues to cause needless suffering and thousands of civilian casualties.  The world has witnessed the horrors of this war in the images from the Ukrainian towns of Bucha, Irpin, and Hostomel, and in Ukrainian towns and cities still occupied or under …

Read More»

Readout of the President’s Call with Allies and Partners

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. hosted a videoconference today with Allies and partners to discuss international support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, including the ongoing provision of security, economic, and humanitarian assistance.  The leaders affirmed their solidarity with the Ukrainian people and condemned the humanitarian suffering caused by Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified …

Read More»

United States Pledges $600 Million to Combat Global Environmental Threats

On April 8, the United States pledged $600.8 million over the next four years to support the eighth replenishment of the Global Environment Facility (GEF-8).  This is the United States’ largest GEF pledge ever.  This pledge aligns with continuing U.S. priorities and supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to addressing climate change, conserving global carbon sinks and other critical …

Read More»

Readout of the April National Climate Task Force Meeting

Today, National Climate Advisor Gina McCarthy held the eleventh meeting of the National Climate Task Force to launch a week of Administration actions leading up to Earth Day that build on President Biden’s historic progress to tackle the climate crisis and reduce emissions across every sector of the economy – furthering the President’s efforts to …

Read More»

Muslim Americans celebrate Ramadan

Muslim Americans, like all Americans, represent diverse cultures and traditions found around the world. Ramadan displays this diversity in many ways, including the food prepared for early morning suhoor and sunset iftar meals. Of the estimated 3.45 million Muslim Americans of all ages living in the United States in 2017, 58% were born in another country, according to the Pew Research …

Read More»

COVID-19 Travel Advisory Updates

The Department of State has no greater responsibility than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas.  We are committed to providing U.S. citizens with up-to-date and timely information, so they are informed as they make international travel plans and when they are abroad.

Read More»

Analyzing a fake Kremlin video used to justify war with Ukraine

The Kremlin is claiming the atrocities committed by Russian forces in Bucha, Ukraine — documented by satellite imagery — were a provocation staged by the West. Here’s what a staged provocation really looks like. Evidence suggests Russia used a staged incident to justify its full-scale further invasion of Ukraine on February 24. The Kremlin has …

Read More»

2021 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices

The annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices – the Human Rights Reports – cover internationally recognized individual, civil, political, and worker rights, as set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international agreements. The U.S. Department of State submits reports on all countries receiving assistance and all United Nations member states …

Read More»

Green Shipping Corridors

Greenhouse gas emissions from the shipping sector are significant and rising.  Shipping would be the eighth largest emitter if it were a “country,” and by 2050, emissions from the sector are projected to increase by up to 50% from 2018 levels under a business-as-usual scenario.  This trajectory is not compatible with the goals of the …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken to Release the 2021 Human Rights Report

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken will deliver on-camera remarks on the release of the 2021 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices at 1:30 p.m. on April 12, 2022, in the Press Briefing Room at the U.S. Department of State. Acting Assistant Secretary Lisa Peterson of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor will take questions in the Briefing Room immediately …

Read More»

G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on Russia’s War of Aggression Against Ukraine

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, condemn in the strongest terms the atrocities committed by the Russian armed forces in Bucha and a number of other Ukrainian towns. Haunting images of civilian deaths, …

Read More»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken Press Availability at the Meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers

Two weeks after my last trip here with President Biden, we’re back in Brussels as part of this administration’s ongoing and urgent efforts with allies and partners to counter the Russian Government’s war of aggression in Ukraine and to stand up for the principles necessary to maintaining international peace and security. Together, we are sustaining …

Read More»

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with French, German, Italian, and UK Counterparts

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio, and UK Foreign Secretary Elizabeth Truss today in Brussels, where they reiterated their commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion.

Read More»

Targeting Additional Russian Financial Institutions, Officials, and Other Individuals

The United States is united with our allies and partners to ensure the Government of Russia pays a severe price for causing such death and destruction in Ukraine, and particularly for the horrors in Bucha and elsewhere.  In furtherance of this goal, today we are implementing full blocking sanctions on two key Russian financial institutions: Sberbank, …

Read More»

Advancing security and prosperity for Israelis and Palestinians

The United States supports peace and prosperity for Israelis and Palestinians and is committed to preserving the possibility of a two-state solution. “Israelis and Palestinians deserve to enjoy equal measures of freedom, security, opportunity, and dignity,” U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said following a March 27 meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett in Jerusalem. “And …

Read More»

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Report on Mitigation

This morning’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report on mitigation  makes clear what we can do to stop or slow planetary warming.  The report also reveals how current global efforts to mitigate the climate crisis fall far short of what is needed.  Without full implementation of current national pledges and robust, aggressive, and ambitious further action we cannot keep …

Read More»

Putin’s poisons: 2017 attack in Syria

Days after Syria’s government launched a chemical weapons attack upon its citizens in the town of Khan Shaykhun on April 4, 2017, the Russian government began a disinformation campaign to protect Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ally, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The 2017 sarin gas attack in Syria killed 90 people, including 30 children.

Read More»

Additional Sanctions on Russia’s Technology Companies and Cyber Actors

The United States will continue to impose severe costs on the Russian Federation in response to President Putin’s illegal war.  Today, we are targeting entities and individuals in our efforts to shut down the Kremlin’s sanctions evasion networks, which play an important role in the Russian Federation’s ability to continue its unconscionable war on the citizens …

Read More»

FACT SHEET: President Biden’s Plan to Respond to Putin’s Price Hike at the Pump

Americans face rising prices at the pump because of Putin’s Price Hike.  Since Putin accelerated his military build-up around Ukraine, gas prices have increased by nearly a dollar per gallon.  Because of Putin’s war of choice, less oil is getting to market, and the reduction in supply is raising prices at the pump for Americans.  …

Read More»

United States Announces Additional Humanitarian Assistance for the People of Afghanistan

During today’s High-Level Pledging Event on Supporting the Humanitarian Response in Afghanistan, the United States announced we are providing nearly $204 million in additional humanitarian assistance to help the people of Afghanistan, bringing the total amount to more than $720 million since August 2021.  This new funding includes nearly $134 million from the Department of …

Read More»

Deputy Secretary Sherman’s Call with French, German, Italian, and UK Counterparts

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman spoke today with French MFA Secretary General Francois Delattre, German MFA Political Director Tjorven Bellmann, Italian MFA Secretary General Ettore Sequi, and UK Minister of State for Europe and North America James Cleverly. The Deputy Secretary reiterated the United States’ support for Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire …

Read More»

Readout of President Biden’s Call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine

President Biden spoke today with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine about the ongoing work by the United States and its allies and partners to deliver military, economic, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and to impose severe costs on Russia for its brutal aggression against Ukraine. The leaders discussed how the United States is working around the …

Read More»

U.S.-EU Joint Press Release by the EEAS and Department of State on the First U.S.-EU High-Level Dialogue on Russia

The European Union and the United States held today in Washington, D.C., the first U.S.-EU High-Level Dialogue on Russia.  Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland represented the United States and European External Action Service Deputy Secretary General for Political Affairs Enrique Mora represented the European Union.  This high-level meeting follows the commitments …

Read More»

Biden, NATO allies pledge billions in new Ukraine aid

President Biden met with NATO allies March 24 to demonstrate unity with Ukraine and condemn Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war. During his first trip to Europe since Russia’s forces further invaded Ukraine, Biden announced more than $1 billion in additional U.S. humanitarian assistance for those affected by Vladimir Putin’s war. He also unveiled new measures to …

Read More»

President Joe Biden’s Call with President Macron, Chancellor Scholz, Prime Minister Draghi and Prime Minister Johnson

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with President Emmanuel Macron of France, Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, Prime Minister Mario Draghi of Italy, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson of the United Kingdom.  The leaders affirmed their determination to continue raising costs on Russia for its brutal attacks in Ukraine, as well as to continue …

Read More»

Racing to protect Ukraine’s cultural heritage

Art and culture professionals from Ukraine, the United States and around the world are rushing to save Ukraine’s most treasured sites from Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked war. The Russian military’s constant bombing of Ukraine has caused horrific human suffering. Bombs have hit communities throughout Ukraine, killing thousands and forcing millions of people to flee. “The situation for museums …

Read More»

Deputy Secretary Sherman’s Meeting with Italian MFA Secretary General Ettore Sequi

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy R. Sherman met today with Italian MFA Secretary General Ettore Sequi in Washington, D.C.  They discussed shared efforts to assist Ukraine in the face of Moscow’s unprovoked and unjustified war, to deliver humanitarian assistance to those fleeing Russia’s aggression, and to press the Kremlin to end its brutal attacks.

Read More»

Statement from President Biden on the Extraordinary NATO Summit

NATO leaders met today on the one-month anniversary of Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine to reiterate our strong support for the Ukrainian people, our determination to hold Russia accountable for its brutal war, and our commitment to strengthening the NATO Alliance. We had the privilege of hearing directly from President Zelenskyy, and we …

Read More»

War Crimes by Russia’s Forces in Ukraine

Since launching his unprovoked and unjust war of choice, Russian President Vladimir Putin has unleashed unrelenting violence that has caused death and destruction across Ukraine.  We’ve seen numerous credible reports of indiscriminate attacks and attacks deliberately targeting civilians, as well as other atrocities.  Russia’s forces have destroyed apartment buildings, schools, hospitals, critical infrastructure, civilian vehicles, …

Read More»