The United States congratulated the people of Ukraine and the Ukrainian government for their "historic" May 25 election and will continue to support their efforts to create a secure democracy. "Ukrainians united to express their political will freely and to choose their own future together. The large turnout sends a clear message: the Ukrainian people want to live in a united, democratic, and peaceful Ukraine anchored in European institutions," Secretary of State John Kerry said Monday. "The successful conduct of these elections reaffirms Ukraine's commitment to the democratic process," the top U.S. diplomat wrote. "The United States will continue to work with the people of Ukraine and the newly elected president to build on this victory for democracy. We will support their efforts to determine their own future in a more united, secure, independent, and prosperous Ukraine," Kerry said. "The United States respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, condemns and rejects Russia's occupation and attempted annexation of Crimea, and remains committed to working with Ukraine and other partners to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict," Kerry said.