US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton reassured Ukraine that the possibility of joining NATO was still available, despite the country's new leadership no longer prioritizing alliance membership. She emphasized that the United States supported Ukraine's improved relations with Moscow and criticized those who tried to force Ukraine to pick sides between Russia and the West. Clinton also encouraged President Viktor Yanukovich to continue on a democratic path and subtly raised concerns about potential limitations on media freedom in the country. "We would urge the Ukrainian government to protect these essential freedoms," she stated during a press conference with Yanukovich. 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 reform, combating corruption, and upholding the rule of law. Clinton's subtle avoidance of openly criticizing pro-Russian actions by the newly-elected Yanukovich was consistent with the Obama administration's strategy of improving relations with Moscow. Despite reducing interactions with the U.S.-led military alliance, Yanukovich has aligned Ukraine more closely with Moscow by increasing commercial ties and prolonging the Russian navy's presence in a Ukrainian Black Sea port for 25 years. Clinton emphasized Ukraine's sovereignty and right to choose its own alliances, including with NATO, but left the decision up to the country to pursue its own security interests. Yanukovich has decided not to pursue NATO membership, which pleased Moscow. He stated that his country will not join any military alliances. Despite this, he mentioned that Kiev will continue to work with NATO on defense reform and peace-keeping. Clinton later commended Ukraine's efforts to balance its relationships with the US, EU, and Russia, stating that it makes sense. Yanukovich was likely happy to receive approval from Washington for his pragmatic approach that considers both Russia and the West, as well as Ukraine's efforts to stabilize its economy with help from global financial institutions. Clinton also praised Yanukovich's election in February as a significant step in strengthening Ukraine's democracy. She later encountered Yulia Tymoshenko, the ex-Prime Minister who is now in opposition and may have a differing perspective. Tymoshenko, who is facing potential prosecution for supposed wrongdoings during her time in office, contested Yanukovich's election but later abandoned a legal effort to halt his inauguration. There are concerns about media freedoms and democratic rights under Yanukovich's leadership, with US Ambassador John Tefft expressing worry about alleged pressure on journalists since he took office. She emphasized the importance of freedoms such as speech, press, petitioning governments, and assembly, stating that they are fundamental rights of every individual. Clinton mentioned discussing these issues with Yanukovich and highlighted his previous commitments to democracy, rule of law, and human rights. She also noted that words must be backed up with actions in order to bring about real change. Clinton is beginning a tour of five countries and was scheduled to visit Krakow, Poland, on Saturday for a meeting of the Community of Democracies, an organization that supports democratic principles. In addition, she will also travel to Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia.