PICC Director Speaks to BBC Radio-4 on Current Frustrations in U.S. dealings with Ukraine

Amb. David Smith spoke with BBC Radio Dec. 11, discussing the situation in Ukraine as the U.S. considers sanctions following Ukraine crackdowns on protestors.  Smith supported the State Department's announcement that it would consider sanctions if the Ukrainian government continues the violence against the protestors in Maidan. 

Asked if sanctions might be a step too far, Smith answered that there is frustration in the United States because while there is a lot of talking, not much progress is being made.  Smith added that the real question becomes if the threat of sanctions is real and credible - will they happen, explaining that we know that we can't threaten with something we're not willing to follow through with.

Smith also touched on the Russian response, as the European Union is also considering measures.

The interview can be heard here, and the segment on Ukraine with Amb. Smith starts at approximately 33:00.