"We are hopeful. We heard early, right around Christmas, that President Kiir was going to release eight of them."
"For 30 years the United States has been supporting the people of South Sudan, even before South Sudan became an entity."
"We feel we have to stand with the Sudanese people to take this to a conclusion that will lead the country back on the right track."
"I think we need to make sure we beef up their mandate, particularly on the peacekeeping side."
"Neither the United States nor the international community will countenance the armed overthrow of the democratically elected government."
"3 years ago today--and it is really important that it was 3 years ago today; this is the anniversary of South Sudan's independence."
"We think they will bring an added voice to the negotiations, they will bring some political views that are much more moderate."
"This crisis will not be solved on the battlefield."
"Hostilities must stop, any and all violence directed at civilian populations must end, and those responsible for perpetrating human rights abuses must be held accountable."
"The Ugandans have indicated, and they have said it publicly, that they support the government of Salva Kiir."
"We are committed to ensuring that Sudan does not fail."