Ukrainian Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak has said he is grateful to U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis for his intention to visit Kyiv on the occasion of the 26th anniversary of Ukraine's independence.

"Ukraine greatly values the visit by a U.S. delegation led by the U.S. defense secretary on the occasion of the celebration of the 26th anniversary of Ukraine's independence. Participation in the festivities is an extremely powerful message by the U.S. indicating the continuation of consistent support for Ukraine," Poltorak said on his Facebook page on Monday.

The U.S. is Ukraine's main strategic partner in the political, military, and economic dimensions, he said.

"The U.S.' comprehensive support is a decisive factor of restoring Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders. This is especially important for Ukraine, taking into consideration the development of the security situation in Europe and in the world," he said.

It was reported earlier that U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis would visit Kyiv on August 23-24, during which he planned, in particular, to meet with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko and Defense Minister Poltorak.