Readout of the President's call with President-elect Yanukovych of Ukraine

President Obama called Victor Yanukovych of Ukraine today to congratulate him on his election and wish him success in carrying out his mandate.  The President commended the Ukrainian people on the conduct of their February 7 vote.  This peaceful expression of the political will of Ukrainian voters is another positive step in strengthening democracy in Ukraine.  They agreed on the importance of continuing cooperation on nuclear non-proliferation.  They also wished each other’s athletes success in the Vancouver Olympic Games.     

The strategic partnership between the United States and Ukraine is based on shared interests and values.  These include expanding democracy and prosperity, protecting security and territorial integrity, strengthening the rule of law, promoting non-proliferation, and supporting reform in Ukraine’s economic and energy sectors.  The United States looks forward to working with President-elect Yanukovych and continuing to strengthen our cooperation with Ukraine’s government and its Parliamentary leaders.