Ronald Reagan actually said...

Mr. Gorbachev can change this; he can set in train a policy of arms reductions and lasting peace.

A tragedy like this reminds us that the desire to be a good neighbor is basic to the American character and to our foreign policy.

We're doing all we can to support the efforts to make this vision a reality.

We must not raise false hopes, but during my meeting with Mr. Shevardnadze, I will express the good will of the United States.