United States and European Union leaders strongly advocated for transatlantic unity in response to Russia’s “illegal annexation” of Crimea, in a lengthy 33-point joint statement that addresses everything from security, trade, and environmental issues to economic cooperation initiatives. “Today in Ukraine, the basic principles of international law and security in the 21st century are being challenged,” reads the statement, which was released March 26. “Further steps by Russia to destabilize the situation in Ukraine would lead to additional and far reaching consequences for the EU’s and United States’ relations with Russia in a broad range of economic areas,” it adds. US and EU leaders also urged strengthening of EU and NATO cooperation in areas of crisis consultation and “developing allies and member states capabilities.” (See also And Eight Become Seven and Obama Heads to Europe as Tensions Rise in Ukraine, as well.)
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth claimed “a historic military victory” after the U.S. and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire late April 7, even as he and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine said American forces will remain “ready” to resume operations should the ceasefire expire without a longer peace deal.
