Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement today regarding Ukraine’s decision to suspend negotiations on the signature of the Association Agreement with the European Union (EU).

“I am disappointed to hear that the Ukrainian government has suspended negotiations on the signature of an Association Agreement with the European Union. This agreement would help to strengthen Ukraine’s democratic institutions, expand economic growth, and promote the rule of law. As such, it represents a historic opportunity for Ukraine to secure a more democratic and prosperous future for its people.”

“Ukraine already has made considerable progress, and it will be truly unfortunate if the Ukrainian authorities succumb to outside pressure and turn their backs on a partnership which so clearly benefits Ukraine and the wider region. At the same time, I am encouraged by the assurances from EU officials that the door to a closer relationship with Europe remains open. I urge Ukraine’s leaders to put the interests of their people first, and to firmly commit to a European future – which is the best guarantor of democracy and prosperity for Ukraine.”

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