MOSCOW - The new ambassador of the United States to Russia, John Tefft, said he will explain Washington's position to parts of the Russian society and defend the democratic values, but pointed to the differences between the U.S. and Russia over the situation in Ukraine.
“I will do my best to engage Russians from all parts of society. I will explain what the United States stands for and promotes respect for the dignity of every citizen, democratic values, good governance, and rule of law,” Tefft said in a statement obtained by Interfax after the ceremony of presenting credentials to the Russian president.
“The United States and Russia are now facing important challenges in our relationship. We have serious differences over Russia’s policy in Ukraine,” the statement said.
The embassy staff are set to do whatever they can to achieve the goals outlined by U.S. President Barack Obama at the G20 summit in Brisbane, Tefft said.
“As President Obama said at the G20 summit in Brisbane, we hope Russia will choose “a different path, to resolve the issue of Ukraine in a way that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and is consistent with international law…we would prefer a Russia that is fully integrated with the global economy; that is thriving on behalf of its people; that can once again engage with us in cooperative efforts around global challenges. Our embassy staff and I stand ready to do everything necessary to achieve that goal,” the U.S. diplomat said.
“Despite the ups-and-downs of the official links over the years, the human connection between our peoples always has remained strong,” Tefft wrote.
“As Ambassador, an important part of my role is helping to strengthen those people-to-people ties,” he said.
The U.S. ambassador also announced his intention to foster broader cultural ties between Russians and Americans.
“My wife Mariella and I welcome the opportunity to renew and deepen our knowledge of Russia’s rich history and cultural heritage. And we look forward to engaging with our many friends in Russia and promoting expanded cultural ties between the Russian and American people,” Tefft said.
