Press Releases: On the Passing of Vanuatu’s President Lonsdale


Press Statement

Rex W. Tillerson

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

June 19, 2017


On behalf of the Government of the United States, I want to convey my personal condolences to President Lonsdale’s family and the people of Vanuatu on the passing of Womtelo Reverend President Lonsdale.

President Lonsdale served your country and people admirably, and leaves a legacy of strong, just leadership. His background as an Anglican priest clearly guided his decisions, and his firm action to ensure a more corruption-free society in Vanuatu stands as a shining example for the rest of the world.

In this time of national mourning, please accept our deepest sympathy and reassurances that the United States stands with Vanuatu as an enduring friend and partner.



Press Releases: Attack on Hotel Kangaba in Mali


Press Statement

Heather Nauert

Department Spokesperson

Washington, DC

June 19, 2017


The United States expresses its condolences to the victims and their families of the June 18 terrorist attack at Hotel Kangaba “Le Campement” outside Bamako, Mali. We appreciate the efforts of Malian, French, and United Nations peacekeeping forces in responding to the attack and securing the compound.

The United States reiterates its firm resolve in the fight against terrorism worldwide and its solidarity with the government and people of Mali in that effort.



Press Releases: Statement on Government of Hungary’s Legislation Impacting Non-Governmental Organizations


Press Statement

Heather Nauert

Department Spokesperson

Washington, DC

June 19, 2017


The United States is concerned by the Hungarian parliament’s passage of legislation that unfairly burdens and targets Hungarian civil society, which is working to fight corruption and protect civil liberties. By portraying groups supported with foreign funding as acting against the interests of Hungarian society, this legislation would weaken the ability of Hungarians to organize and address concerns in a legitimate and democratic manner. If signed into law, this would be another step away from Hungary’s commitments to uphold the principles and values that are central to the EU and NATO.



Press Releases: On Otto Warmbier


Press Statement

Rex W. Tillerson

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

June 19, 2017


Today we received with deep sadness the news that Otto Warmbier has passed away.

On behalf of the entire State Department and the United States government, I extend my condolences to the Warmbier family, and offer my prayers as they enter a time of grief no parent should ever know.

We hold North Korea accountable for Otto Warmbier’s unjust imprisonment, and demand the release of three other Americans who have been illegally detained.



Press Releases: United States Condemns Attack Outside of London Mosque


Press Statement

Heather Nauert

Department Spokesperson

Washington, DC

June 19, 2017


The United States strongly condemns last night’s attack that appears to have targeted Muslim worshippers in London. We extend our sympathies to the families and community of the victims and our hopes for the quick recovery of those wounded.

We commend the work of the first responders, and the courage of bystanders who apprehended the attacker and held him until authorities arrived. The United States stands ready to provide any assistance that UK officials would find helpful in this difficult time.

The United States stands in solidarity with the United Kingdom in the face of this terrorist attack and emphasizes our shared resolve to counter the plague of terrorism.