Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) today released the following statement on the resignation of the U.S. Ambassador to Russia, Michael McFaul:

“I thank Ambassador McFaul for his service and commend him for his tireless efforts to improve the U.S. relationship with Russia. I have been deeply disturbed by the campaign of harassment the Russian government initiated and supported against Ambassador McFaul throughout his admirable service in Moscow. In my view, such conduct by the Russian government warrants concern for other U.S. officials working in the country.

“Despite the Administration’s best attempts to reset ties with the Russian government, led by Ambassador McFaul, such actions by the Russian government are part of a broader pattern of behavior suggesting that President Vladimir Putin is less than committed to strengthening his country’s relationship with the U.S. and working together in good faith towards that aim. U.S. policy must proceed on this unfortunate but realistic basis. I urge the Administration to make clear that similar treatment of any of our diplomats will not be tolerated and condemn such actions in the strongest terms.”

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