US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton reassured Ukraine that the possibility of joining NATO is still open, even though the country's new leadership no longer sees alliance membership as a priority. However, she emphasized that the US supports Ukraine's closer ties with Moscow and believes that Ukraine should not have to choose between Russia and the West. Clinton also encouraged President Viktor Yanukovich to continue on a democratic path and expressed concern about reports of media freedom violations, urging the Ukrainian government to protect these essential freedoms. She supported Ukraine's efforts to secure a new International Monetary Fund program worth up to $19 billion and urged the country to improve its investment climate through economic reforms, anti-corruption measures, and upholding the rule of law. Clinton refrained from openly criticizing pro-Russian actions by newly-elected Yanukovich, aligning with the Obama administration's strategy of improving relations with Moscow. Despite reducing ties with NATO, Yanukovich has strengthened Ukraine's ties with Moscow through increased trade relations and extending the Russian navy's presence in a Ukrainian Black Sea port. Clinton emphasized that Ukraine has the right to choose its own alliances, including with NATO, but ultimately it is up to Ukraine to decide on its security interests. Yanukovich has abandoned the goal of NATO membership, which pleased Moscow, and stated that Ukraine will not join any military alliances. However, he mentioned that Kiev will continue to work with NATO on defense reform and peace-keeping. Clinton commended Ukraine's efforts to balance relationships with the US, EU, and Russia, calling it a sensible approach. She also praised Yanukovich's pragmatic policy that aims to maintain good relations with both Russia and the West, as well as Ukraine's efforts to stabilize its economy with assistance from global financial institutions. Clinton also applauded Yanukovich's election in February as a significant step towards strengthening Ukraine's democracy. She later encountered his main competitor, former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, who is now in opposition and may have a contrasting opinion. Tymoshenko, who is potentially facing prosecution for supposed wrongdoings during her time in office, challenged Yanukovich's election but subsequently withdrew a legal effort to prevent his inauguration. The only issue where Clinton almost criticized Yanukovich was in relation to media freedoms and democratic rights. Recently, US Ambassador to Kiev John Tefft voiced worry about allegations of intimidation of journalists since Yanukovich assumed power. She stated that the rights of freedom of speech, press, petitioning governments, assembling, and participating in politics are not secondary considerations but fundamental rights of every individual. Clinton mentioned discussing these issues with Yanukovich and reminded that he had promised to uphold democracy, enforce the rule of law, and respect human rights. She emphasized that words alone are not enough and that concrete actions are needed to back up these statements. Clinton is embarking on a regional tour of five countries and will make a stop in Krakow, Poland, for a meeting of the Community of Democracies, an organization that advocates for democratic principles. Additionally, she will be visiting Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia during her tour.