On Friday, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton reassured Ukraine that the opportunity to join NATO was still available, despite the country's new leadership no longer prioritizing alliance membership. Clinton emphasized that the United States supported Ukraine's closer relationship with Moscow and criticized those who insisted on Ukraine choosing between Russia and the West. She also encouraged President Viktor Yanukovich to uphold democratic principles and indirectly expressed worry about limitations on media freedom in the country. Clinton urged the Ukrainian government to protect these important freedoms during a joint news 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 reforms, anti-corruption measures, and upholding the rule of law. Clinton's subtle avoidance of openly criticizing pro-Russian actions by President Yanukovich aligned with the Obama administration's strategy of improving relations with Moscow. Despite diminishing ties with NATO, Yanukovich has strengthened Ukraine's ties with Moscow by increasing commercial relations and extending the Russian navy's presence in a Ukrainian port for 25 years. Clinton emphasized that Ukraine has the right to choose its own alliances and decide on its security interests, including potential NATO membership. Yanukovich has decided to no longer pursue NATO membership, which has pleased Moscow. He stated that Ukraine will not join any military alliances. However, he mentioned that Kiev will continue to work with NATO on defense reform and peacekeeping. Clinton expressed support for Ukraine's efforts to balance relationships with the US, EU, and Russia. She praised Yanukovich for his pragmatic approach that considers both Russia and the West, and for stabilizing the economy with help from global financial institutions. Clinton also commended Yanukovich's election in February as a positive step for Ukraine's democracy. She subsequently encountered Yulia Tymoshenko, the former Prime Minister who is now in opposition and may have a contrasting perspective. Tymoshenko, who is potentially facing prosecution for alleged misconduct while in office, contested Yanukovich's election but later 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 John Tefft voiced apprehension about reports of journalist intimidation since Yanukovich assumed power. She stated that freedom of speech, press, petitioning government, assembly, and participation in politics are fundamental rights of every individual, not just secondary considerations. Clinton mentioned discussing these issues with Yanukovich and pointed out his previous commitments to democracy, rule of law, and human rights. She emphasized that words alone are not enough and concrete actions are necessary to bring about meaningful change. Clinton is beginning a regional tour of five countries and will be making a stop in Krakow, Poland, on Saturday to attend a meeting of the Community of Democracies, an organization that advocates for democratic principles. Additionally, she will be visiting Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia.