Secretary of State Pompeo says US rejects Russia's attempted annexation of Crimea. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says the U.S. Rejects Russia’s attempted annexation of Crimea and calls on Moscow to end its occupation of the territory. "In concert with allies, partners and the international community, the United States rejects Russia’s attempted annexation of Crimea and pledges to maintain this policy until Ukraine’s territorial integrity is restored," Pompeo said in a statement released in advance of his appearance Wednesday before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Ref. USAToday.