Category: Dec-2014

James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 1:26 P.M. EST MR. EARNEST:Good afternoon, everybody.I trust you all had a peaceful and relaxing Thanksgiving holiday. Q We did. MR. EARNEST:Glad to hear it. Q And yours? MR. EARNEST:It was very nice.Thank you for asking.We did not, at the end of last week, put out a week ahead,…

President Obama called President Donald Tusk today to congratulate him on his first day as President of the European Council.  President Obama underscored the importance of continued U.S.-EU cooperation and noted the need for policy action to strengthen European economic growth.  The two leaders affirmed their determination to achieve an ambitious and comprehensive Transatlantic Trade…

I welcome today’s announcement on the formation of a new Ukrainian government. The Ukrainian people demonstrated their clear preference for democracy, political and economic reform, and self-determination at the ballot box during the October 26 parliamentary elections. Today’s announcement on the formation of a new government sets the stage for the difficult but necessary process…

The United States strongly condemns yesterday’s attacks in Wajir and Mandera counties in Kenya as well other recent attacks by the terrorist group al-Shabaab targeting innocent civilians.  We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the at least 38 individuals killed yesterday.  The United States will continue to support Kenya and…

Vice President Biden called President-elect Tabare Vazquez of Uruguay today to congratulate him on his victory. The Vice President and President-elect Vazquez reaffirmed the important and longstanding ties between the United States and Uruguay. The Vice President also highlighted President Obama’s partnership agenda in the Western Hemisphere, Uruguay’s principled and pragmatic leadership on regional and global issues,…

Five years ago today Alan Gross was arrested for his efforts to help ordinary Cuban citizens have greater access to information through the Internet.  The Administration remains focused on securing Alan’s freedom from a Cuban prison, and returning him safely to his wife and children, where he belongs.  We remain deeply concerned for Alan’s health,…

Vice President Joe Biden spoke today with Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk to congratulate him on forming a new government and to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine. The two leaders discussed Russia’s continued refusal to abide by its commitments under the Minsk agreements to withdraw its troops and heavy weapons, return Ukrainian hostages, return…

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, President Obama, Vice President Biden, and the First Lady will join college presidents and other education leaders from around the nation at the second White House College Opportunity Day of Action, where organizations will announce over 600 new actions to help more students prepare for and graduate from college.  Today’s participants…

Vice President Joe Biden spoke today with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko to congratulate him on the formation of a new government and to discuss Ukraine’s financial and energy situation, as well as developments in eastern Ukraine. The Vice President noted the United States would continue to engage with our European and other partners to provide…