As President Trump attempts to bolster Eastern European nations against Russian belligerence while meeting in Europe this week, he is getting added support from his top diplomat. His message there, a senior State Department official said Wednesday, would be to support Ukraine's "sovereignty and territorial integrity." The State Department official sought to dispel suspicion that the U.S. and Russia might cut their own deal over Ukraine. Then he will travel to Istanbul, Turkey, for a meeting of the World Petroleum Council and sessions with Turkish leaders. The London-based World Petroleum Council is giving Tillerson its highest award for his "outstanding contribution to the oil and gas industry," according to the group's website.

Source: Los Angeles Times July 05, 2017 22:41 UTC