US Ambassador to OSCE: Russia’s military presence in Georgia, Moldova contradicts fundamental principles

US Ambassador to OSCE Michael Carpenter  says that ‘Russia’s unwanted military presence on the territory of Georgia and Moldova continues to contradict fundamental principles’.  

 

“The bottom line is this: we need a serious discussion about what we can do to reduce insecurity and build trust, and we are ready to get down to work.,” he said.

 

He stated that the US is committed to expressing ‘frank concerns’ about Russia’s actions, notably its threats against Ukraine,’ but also to looking for areas where we could have overlapping interests with Russia.’ 

 

“We are engaged in a discussion within the framework of the U.S.-Russia bilateral Strategic Stability Dialogue.  We have  re-engaged in the NATO-Russia Council.  And we are ready to begin engaging here at the OSCE.  We come prepared for a serious discussion, even though – or perhaps, precisely because – we see Russia’s recent actions in Ukraine, and its purported annexation of Crimea, as inherently dangerous and destabilizing,” he said.