Inside: l N.J. Ukrainians confer with Rep. Bill Pascrell – page 3 l Our community stands with the Maidan – pages 4-5 l UCCA urges support for interim government – page 9

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXII No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 $1/$2 in Interim government Ukraine on brink of economic collapse, to be led by Yatsenyuk pro-Russian forces call for secession by Zenon Zawada – An interim Ukrainian gov- Yanukovych flees country, ernment was elected this week to reported to be in replace the ousted administration of Ukrainian President . by Zenon Zawada It will serve until the next government is formed after the May 25 presidential KYIV – After three months of a peaceful elections. protest that turned into a bloody battle, the Parliament began approving the Euro-Maidan movement achieved its revo- first nominees on February 22, the day lution on February 21 by forcing former President Viktor Yanukovych and his after Mr. Yanukovych’s flight, before entourage to abandon the Ukrainian gov- approving the bulk of the appoint- ernment and flee the country, fearing inevi- ments on February 27. Upon his elec- table criminal prosecution. tion as prime minister, Arseniy The collapse of the Yanukovych adminis- Yatsenyuk declared it “the government tration ignited conflicts nationally as pro- of political kamikazes.” Russian forces took over the Crimean par- “We stand before inconceivable liament and shot at Euro-Maidan activists economic challenges and in order to in eastern cities. conquer them I declare from this high The prime concern, however, was the tribune: we don’t have any other way catastrophic condition of the economy left out besides making extremely unpop- behind by Mr. Yanukovych and his cronies, Aleksey Ivanov, UNIAN ular decisions,” he said. “These deci- who reportedly embezzled $70 billion off- sions will apply to [state] subsidies, Chair Oleksander Turchynov, who is also the acting president of shore in their three years in power while Ukraine, addresses the Maidan on February 26. That night the nominations of mem- these decisions will apply to [utility] bleeding the nation’s financial reserves dry. bers of the interim government were announced. rates, these decisions will apply to cuts Interim officials warned of economic col- in social programs, and these deci- lapse if the West didn’t offer aid. It took six days since Mr. Yanukovych’s Svoboda factions, as well as the Economic sions will apply to preserving the “Ukraine hasn’t had such economic and flight for Parliament to approve a new gov- Development and Sovereign European country’s financial system.” political catastrophe for all the history of its ernment on February 27. (See sidebar for Ukraine groups of independent deputies Dr. Olha Bohomelets, who gained independence.” told a the list of new officials.) and a handful of defectors. heroic status for leading the Euro- February 24 meeting of state officials, three Parliament also formed a new majority In the time it took to form the new gov- Maidan’s medical brigade, said she days before he was elected prime minister. called the European Choice Coalition, con- ernment, the Ukrainian hryvnia lost more “The state treasury has been plundered and sisting of the Batkivshchyna, Ukrainian (Continued on page 3) the country has been brought to bankruptcy.” Democratic Alliance for Reform (UDAR) and (Continued on page 14)

Religious, political, community leaders meet in New York’s Ukrainian Village

by Irene Jarosewich ed from within. This was a civic revolt, that’s what these protests, the Maidan, have NEW YORK – Quoting Scripture, Rabbi been about. ...The indomitable spirit of the Yaakov Dov Bleich, chief rabbi of Kyiv and Ukrainians will continue... they will not go Ukraine, began his remarks here at a home.” February 23 press conference with the “[Viktor] Yanukovych thought that he words “Thy princes are rebellious, and could use violence and people would companions of thieves: every one loveth retreat. But Ukrainians are not Russians,” gifts, and followeth after rewards. ...And I, he added, “this is the mistake that (said the Lord), will restore thy judges... Yanukovych made. Every time he beat peo- and thy counselors.... afterward thou shalt ple, more people came out.” be called The City of Righteousness, the The desire by millions is to live in a nor- faithful city.” mal country, with a normal government, Although originally intended for Zion, free of corruption, is something that every- said Rabbi Bleich, these words reflect the body in Ukraine wants, said Rabbi Bleich. Ukraine that he has come to know during At the press conference, he was joined the past few years – a country that has been by U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), overwhelmed by thieves and greed, corrup- Tamara Olexy, the president of the tion and abuse of power. Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, Describing the Maidan movement, the and Dania Lawro, the head of the New York three-month long demonstration in the Irene Jarosewich City chapter of the Ukrainian American center of Kyiv and throughout Ukraine, the At a press conference in New York (from left) are: Dania Lawro, head, New York chap- Youth Organization (UAYA). rabbi said that this was not a political battle ter, Ukrainian American Youth Association; Rabbi Yaakov Dov Bleich, chief rabbi of The speakers stood outdoors on the side- between ideologies, nor was it a religious Kyiv and Ukraine; Tamara Olexy, president, Ukrainian Congress Committee of or ethnic struggle. “The system disintegrat- America; U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney; and Tom Birchard, owner, Veselka Restaurant. (Continued on page 17) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9

ANALYSIS

Rada wants Yanukovych tried at Hague close entourage,” Mr. Bryhynets said. Ukraine’s ruling party faces defections (Ukrinform) KYIV – The Verkhovna Rada has voted in favor of having ousted President Viktor A government of people’s trust by Oleg Varfolomeyev whose service was suspended on February 18, apparently in order to disrupt supplies Yanukovych and others brought to trial Eurasia Daily Monitor KYIV – The main priority for the to the protesters’ camp (5 Kanal TV, before the International Criminal Court February 21 Ukrainian Parliament, which “in essence February 20). (ICC) in The Hague for serious crimes. The has remained the only legitimate authority The Ukrainian authorities and the main- Although the defections made the PRU Parliament on February 25 overwhelmingly in the country,” is restoration of executive stream opposition leaders signed a deal on faction numerically smaller and weakened backed a resolution saying Mr. Yanukovych, power in the country’s center and locally. February 21 in Kyiv to settle the political Mr. Yanukovych personally, their signifi- former Internal Affairs Minister Vitaliy Verkhovna Rada Chairman and acting crisis continuing since November 2013. cance should not be overestimated. Most of Zakharchenko, former Procurator-General President Oleksander Turchynov told U.S. They agreed to undertake constitutional the defectors joined the faction in recent Viktor Pshonka and others should be tried Deputy Secretary of State William Burns in reform, form a coalition government, con- years and were not senior MPs. As for Mr. at the ICC for “crimes against humanity” duct early presidential elections by Makeyenko, he joined the PRU about 10 allegedly committed during the brutal Kyiv on February 25, according to Mr. December and, most importantly, put an years ago, after defecting first from the crackdown on anti-government protesters. Turchynov’s spokesman. “Virtually all the end to the violence (, February Communists, then from the Socialists and More than 100 people were killed in clash- power is concentrated here, in Parliament, 21). The deal reflects the building pressure then from the nationalists. Born and edu- es between protesters and riot police. Mr. but it cannot be directly involved in the President Viktor Yanukovych’s government cated in Russia, he has never been close to Yanukovych, who was ousted by parliament work of the executive branch,” Mr. was under in recent days and weeks the PRU’s Donetsk core (http://file.liga. on February 22, is on the run. Messrs. Turchynov said, adding that on February caused by escalating street violence, which net/person/245-vladimir-makeenko.html). Zakharchenko and Pshonka are also being 26 the Verkhovna Rada intends to vote for culminated with a number of high-level Mr. Tigipko is a special case. He was sought by Ukrainian authorities. Andriy a government of people’s trust. Mr. and parliamentary defections from the rul- viewed by many as a successor to then- Kliuyev, a former chief of Mr. Yanukovych’s Turchynov also expressed his belief that ing party. president Leonid Kuchma in the early presidential administration, who is also on the new government will resume the Several national deputies have quit 2000s, but Mr. Kuchma preferred Mr. the run, has reportedly been shot. His course of European integration, “which Ukraine’s ruling Party of Regions (PRU) Yanukovych. After his surprising perfor- spokesman, Artem Petrenko, said he was was blocked by the previous government,” since the start of the mass anti-government mance in the 2010 election, when he came told that Mr. Kliuyev had come under fire by and cooperation with the International protests in Kyiv last November. But the exo- in third after Mr. Yanukovych and then- unknown attackers and was wounded, but Monetary Fund. “We are going to imple- dus has accelerated in response to the out- Prime Minister , Mr. that his life was not in danger. Mr. Petrenko ment deep reforms of economic, adminis- break of violence on February 18-20, when Tigipko disbanded his own party and said he had not spoken to Mr. Kliuyev him- trative and law enforcement agencies and at least 77 protesters and policemen were joined the PRU, harboring ambitions to self and did not know where he was. Mr. modernize the judiciary, which is actually killed. The PRU has consequently signifi- become the party chairman (UNIAN, Yanukovych was last reported seen in completely destroyed,” he said. (Ukrinform) cantly reduced its comfortable majority in September 10, 2011). However, he was . The ICC says it needs a request Presidential election campaign begins Parliament, which it has controlled since demoted to secondary roles in the govern- from Ukraine’s government giving it juris- early 2010 jointly with its allies, the ment and had to return to Parliament in diction to investigate Mr. Yanukovych and KYIV – The presidential election cam- Communist Party. 2012. others over deaths during the protests. paign began in Ukraine on Tuesday, However, the PRU is unlikely to split or On February 20, Mr. Tigipko said on his (RFE/RL) February 25. It started automatically on the Facebook page that Verkhovna Rada Chair lose its prominent position in Ukrainian basis of a Verkhovna Rada resolution on Volodymyr Rybak should be replaced with Yanukovych hiding at monastery? politics in the short to medium term. Most scheduling early presidential elections in someone from the opposition and that a of those who had left the PRU faction in KYIV – The monastery in which fugitive Ukraine for May 25, the press service of the new prime minister should be urgently Parliament by midday February 21 were ex-President Viktor Yanukovych is now Central Election Commission (CEC) report- rather fellow travelers who joined the rul- appointed. He said the authorities had lost hiding is located in the town of Volnovakha, control over the situation. Mr. Tigipko was ed. On February 24, the CEC published the ing party in order to pursue their career , on the territory of the schedule of organizational measures on goals and business interests. The Donetsk also among the initiators of the urgent Forest Park, Batkivshchyna National Parliament meeting on the same day, which preparing for and holding the elections. region core of the party apparently remains Deputy Oleksander Bryhynets of the issued a resolution condemning the use of According to the schedule, the nomination intact. Also, those deputies who have Batkivshchyna party, reported on February force against the anti-government protest- of presidential candidates begins on expressed disagreement with the party’s 24. St. Nicholas Monastery of the Ukrainian ers, and outlawed the “anti-terrorist” oper- February 25 and will last until March 30. line on the protests, like former presiden- Orthodox Church – Patriarchate is ation declared by the security service (see Candidates may be nominated by parties or tial candidate Sergey Tigipko, do not intend where Mr. Yanukovych’s confessor lived “Hot Issue – Ukrainian Protests and the self-nominated. It is necessary to make a to leave it but are rather pursuing their and died, he said. “This monastery has a Armed Forces: Will the Military Stay in Its deposit of 2.5 million hrv to register a can- own ambitious goals within the party. three-story underground bunker, such as Barracks?” in The Jamestown Foundation, didate. For this purpose, the CEC has pub- Deputies started to defect from the PRU those that were built for Hitler or Himmler, February 20). However, neither Mr. Tigipko lished the number of a special account faction in early December, when three and it is fully equipped. There are several nor other PRU deputies who backed the opened for the placement of deposits by hundred guards together with Yanukovych members of Parliament (MPs) quit in pro- resolution said they would quit the PRU. (Continued on page 12) test against the brutal dispersal of a peace- Later on, Mr. Tigipko posted that there was there, as well as some persons from his ful pro-European protest in Kyiv’s a group of 31 people within the PRU faction Independence Square on November 30, with a “special position,” but he noted the 2013. On February 20-21, at least 20 depu- group was not going either to quit the PRU ties said they would quit the PRU faction. or to back Mr. Yanukovych’s impeachment. The Ukrainian Weekly FOUNDED 1933 Also two of Yanukovych’s key allies have Mr. Tigipko, who is reportedly linked to left him. Serhiy Lyovochkin, who headed Mr. Lyovochkin, may become the leader of An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., the presidential administration since Mr. the PRU’s liberal wing. He may eventually a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. Yanukovych’s election in 2010, submitted become the leader of the PRU, if Mr. Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. his resignation reportedly in early Yanukovych’s Donetsk core is demoralized Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. December and was replaced with Andriy by what currently looks like a defeat of the (ISSN — 0273-9348) Kliuyev on January 24 (liga.net, January party’s hardliners due to the failure to sup- 24). On February 20, Volodymyr The Weekly: UNA: press the mass protests. Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 Makeyenko, who was recently appointed as Separately from Mr. Tigipko, a group of Kyiv city administrator, quit the PRU. He 12 deputies issued a statement on Postmaster, send address changes to: also showed his disobedience to Mr. February 20, urging a return to the 2004 The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz Yanukovych by restarting the subway, Constitution, which Mr. Yanukovych’s team 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas abolished in 2010 in order to strengthen P.O. Box 280 his presidency. They voiced their “support Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] Correction for the Ukrainian people,” and called on The caption to the photo on page 8 that “both sides” to stop the bloodshed, thus The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com accompanied our main story of February dissociating themselves from the govern- 23 should have read Serhiy Didych (not ment (, February 20). The Ukrainian Weekly, March 2, 2014, No. 9, Vol. LXXXII Didenko). Also in this case, the signees did not say Copyright © 2014 The Ukrainian Weekly Credit for the photo that appeared on they would quit the PRU faction, and most page 1 with the story headlined “Patriarchs of them are rather businessmen who band- Filaret, Sviatoslav attend National Prayer waggoned with the PRU in 2010-2012 in ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA Breakfast in D.C.” (February 16) should order to further their business interests. have been given to Yaro Bihun, not the On February 21, Vitaly Khomutynnyk Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 USUF (U.S.-Ukraine Foundation), which said on his Facebook page that he also had e-mail: [email protected] hosted a meeting at its headquarters. decided to quit the PRU. This is, indeed, a Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 The errors have been corrected in our e-mail: [email protected] online edition. (Continued on page 15) No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 3 N.J. Ukrainian community discusses Ukraine concerns with Rep. Bill Pascrell by Matthew Dubas PATERSON, N.J. – “The agreement reached today is a positive step towards ending future bloodshed and pre- serving democracy for the Ukrainian people,” Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.) wrote on his Facebook page on February 21. “The call for new elections in this agreement is the right course for the future and will allow the voice of the Ukrainian people to be heard. However, we cannot relent on the need for change. This is why I continue to call on President Obama and his administration to keep up the pressure on the current Ukrainian government including the threat of sanctions if necessary. It is vital that the U.S. remain engaged in the future of Ukraine and its people.” More than 30 Ukrainian Americans attended a meeting on February 20 called by Rep. Pascrell at his office in Paterson, N.J., at the Robert A. Roe Federal Building, to dis- cuss the developments in Ukraine following the Euro- Maidan protests. Representatives of the Ukrainian community included: Tom Hawrylko Tamara Olexy, president of the Ukrainian Congress Ukrainian community members with Rep. Bill Pascrell. Committee of America (UCCA); Kenneth Wanio, president of the UCCA Passaic branch; Roma Lisovich, treasurer of fund violence against protesters.” During the Orange The violation of agreements places responsibility on the U.S. the Ukrainian National Association; and others. Revolution, Rep. Pascrell stated, it was “who is with us” and We cannot have a discussion of a “good” dictator or a “bad” The meeting was opened with an invocation by the Rev. “who is against us,” and there were calls for all the bandits one – all are bad. “The longer it takes to stabilize the situation, Oleh Zhownirovych, pastor of Holy Ascension Ukrainian to be jailed. However, under the Yanukovych administration, the more likely for outside military intervention and more Orthodox Cathedral in Clifton, N.J. how many needed to go to jail on politically motivated people will be killed. The objective is a true democracy.” Rep. Pascrell noted that H.R. 447, “Supporting the demo- charges for a response? “Our options now is to push the However, the U.S. is against sending arms to Ukraine, cratic and European aspirations of the people of Ukraine, authorities responsible and strengthen the people’s Rep. Pascrell said, as these could end up in the wrong and their right to choose their own future free of intimida- resolve,” Rep. Pascrell said. hands and be used against the U.S. tion and fear,” was voted on February 10 and passed by the Myroslav Smorodsky underscored, “Russia is the main Dr. Michael Lewko told Rep. Pascrell that the U.S. needs House. It called for targeted sanctions against Ukraine’s problem. Targeted sanctions against Russia for violating its to counter the disinformation campaign out of Moscow government officials and those in Ukraine’s business com- human rights commitments, including barring Russia from against the protesters, who have been misidentified as fas- munity who are responsible for committing violence economic clubs like the G8 and blocking its WTO accession, cists and anti-Semitic Banderites. against peaceful protesters of Euro-Maidan. and this should be a team effort.” Ukraine gave up the third Peter Paluch of Clifton, N.J., said,, “Ukraine’s indepen- The legislation, sponsored by Edward Royce (R-Calif.), largest nuclear arsenal in the world, and the security charter dence means a strategic partner for the U.S., and indepen- Sander Levin (D-Mich.), Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), William R. signed by the U.S., Russia and Ukraine obliges the U.S. to dence also means a dwindling of Russian influence in Keating (D-Mass.) and Jim Gerlach (R-Pa.), with 58 co-spon- defend the territorial integrity of Ukraine against all invad- Ukraine. The theaters of conflict are formed by Russia’s con- sors, passed with a vote of 381-2. (208 Republicans and 173 ers, even Russia. Russia, Mr. Smorodsky added, has already flicting agenda with the U.S. Ukraine has had a rich history of Democrats voted in favor; two Republicans voted against. A violated that agreement by applying economic pressure. democracy, including the first [democratic] constitution,” Mr. total of 48 representatives did not vote, 21 Republicans and Ukraine needs security assurances based on the interna- Paluch added. “We don’t need to be taught democracy. It is 27 Democrats.) tional treaties it has signed, he underscored. the removal of certain elements that hinder that Ukraine Ms. Olexy highlighted the almost minute-to-minute develop- Rep. Pascrell said that the radical elements have made needs help with. ments in Ukraine and called for targeted sanctions, and possi- negotiations more difficult, with agitators attacking police. Rep. Pascrell commented that Ukraine has become a bea- bly a peacekeeping mission, and expressed Rep. Pascrell also voiced concern for former Prime con of hope for other countries. the Ukrainian community’s preference for European Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and called for the shifting of Ms. Lisovich explained that her son is in Kyiv during the Union, rather than Russian, mediation of the situation. Cabinet positions among the opposition factions. protests and how he has been relaying information about Ms. Olexy added that following the $15 billion Russian Mr. Smorodsky urged Rep. Pascrell to push for economic the situation on the ground there and the changing devel- bailout, Russia will pay more attention to Ukraine after the pressure on Russia and Mr. Putin, as well as targeted sanc- opments, including the shootings of peaceful protesters. Olympics, and “hitting them in their pockets is the only way” tions. Rep. Pascrell said he was ready to institute immediate to protect against the potential encroachment by Russia. Rep. Pascrell noted that Russia did not celebrate the Soviet strong economic sanctions against those responsible. Rep. Pascrell noted that, at the center of all of this is Mr. collapse or Ukraine’s declaration of independence. Noting that Ms. Lisovich added that perhaps U.N. peacekeepers Putin, whose role is felt not only in Ukraine, but in Syria globalization shows that what happens in Ukraine, China, should be sent to Ukraine, as SBU (Security Service of and other places, he added. Syria or Egypt, affects the world, he said the U.S. should not Ukraine) snipers had killed unarmed students and target- “We need to prevent troops from outside and let the respond individually, but collectively. with other countries. ed average citizens. Ukrainians handle this, but I am ready to vote for sanctions When strategic to U.S. security, the U.S. must respond – not against the people – but directed against those who directly, otherwise it is “not a priority,” Rep. Pascrell added. (Continued on page 5)

Acting Defense Minister Ihor Teniukh Interim government... Acting Foreign Affairs Minister Andrii Deshchytsia (Continued from page 1) Finance Minister Oleksander Shlapak had declined her nomination as vice prime Economy Minister Pavlo Sheremeta minister for humanitarian affairs after her National Bank of Ukraine Chair Stepan demands for transparency from the Health Kubiv (Batkivshchyna) Ministry weren’t met. Justice Minister Pavlo Petrenko No one met to discuss with her what her (Batkivshchyna) authority would be either, she told journal- Education Minister Serhiy Kvit ists on February 27. She was also disap- Social Policy Minister Liudmyla Denysova (Batkivshchyna) pointed the government didn’t include any Culture Minister Yevhen Nishchuk Afghanistan war veterans or Pravyi Sektor Ecology Minister Andrii Mokhnyk members, “without whom these results (Svoboda) would not have been achieved.” Health Minister Oleh Musii Ukraine’s interim government Fuel and Energy Minister Yurii Prodan Sports and Youth Minister Dmytro Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk Bulatov (Batkivshchyna) Agriculture Minister Ihor Shvaika First Vice Prime Minister for Law (Svoboda) Enforcement Vitalii Yarema (Batkivshchyna) Vladislav Musienko/UNIAN Infrastructure Minister Maksym Burbak Vice Prime Minister for European National Deputies applaud Arseniy Yatsenyuk on his election by the Verkhovna Rada (Batkivshchyna) Integration Borys Tarasyuk (Batkivshchyna) as prime minister in Ukraine’s interim government. Anti-Corruption Bureau Chief Tetiana Vice Prime Minister for Regional Policy Chornovol Volodymyr Hroisman (Sovist Ukrayiny) (Batkivshchyna) Valentyn Nalyvaichenko (Ukrainian Lustration Committee Chair Yegor Parliament Chair Oleksander Turchynov Procurator General Oleh Mikhnitskyi Democratic Alliance for Reform) Sobolev (Batkivshchyna) (Svoboda) National Security and Defense Council National Security and Defense Council Internal Affairs Minister Security Service of Ukraine Chief Secretary Andrii Parubii (Batkivshchyna) Deputy Secretary Viktoria Siumar 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9 Demonstrators gather in Washington to honor, and mourn, Kyiv protesters Ukraine’s ambassador in Washington, Olexander Motsyk. Ambassador Motsyk and 31 staffers of Ukraine’s Embassy in the United States on February 20 had released a statement on the Embassy’s Facebook page that stated, “We are with our people, we stand for our people’s genuine European future.” The full text of the statement read: “It is impossible to keep silent when your motherland is on fire, people are dying from bullets, there is shock, pain and suffering, and a real threat to the sover- eignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We express our sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and share their pain. Ukrainians fought for centuries for their right to live in a free, democratic and independent country, which our generation must build. We are with our people, we stand for our people’s genuine European future. At this tragic time, wisdom must Yaro Bihun prevail, there must be an immediate end to Ukrainian Americans from Washington, Baltimore and Philadelphia gather in front of the White House on February 23. bloodshed and fratricide. We call for a peaceful resolution of the confrontation for by Yaro Bihun Catholic and Orthodox churches and ad hoc Shevchenko monument for a candlelight the sake of the entire people of Ukraine, for choir in a brief requiem service for those vigil in honor of the close to 100 killed and the unity and the future of our country.” WASHINGTON – On the day Ukraine’s who perished and, with the accompani- thousands injured on the Maidan that The same statement was issued by Parliament announced a number of major ment of two guitarists, sang some of the week. Among the estimated 100 people Consul General Igor Sybiga and the staff of changes in the make-up of the country’s songs sung by the protesters on Kyiv’s cen- who came to pay their respects was Ukraine’s Consulate General in New York. government – Sunday, February 23 – hun- tral square, the Maidan. dreds of Ukrainian Americans from They were addressed by representatives Washington, Baltimore and Philadelphia of a few Ukrainian organizations, as well as gathered here in front of the White House of a few other nations also interested in and the Taras Shevchenko monument to how things develop in Ukraine – Georgia, honor the protesters in Kyiv who fought for Belarus and Syria – who called on Europe those reforms and the fallen heroes who and the United States to help Ukraine gave their lives in that effort. achieve its goal of becoming a truly inde- The crowd, estimated at about 500, pendent, democratic European country. including seniors and babies in carriages, That evening, a smaller group of these joined with priests of the local Ukrainian demonstrators gathered in front of the

A candlelight vigil near the Taras Shevchenko monument in Washington in the evening of February 23. N.J. community attends prayer service for Maidan

Christine Syzonenko WHIPPANY, N.J. – Flanked by altar servers, the Very Rev. John Lyszyk (left) of Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Irvington, N.J., and the Rt. Rev. Mitred Protopresbyter Roman Mirchuk of St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church co-celebrate a prayer service for Ukraine on Wednesday, February 19, at St. John Church that was attended by many Ukrainian Americans from Morris, Essex and Somerset counties, and beyond. No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 5 UNA stands with brethren in Ukraine Human chain of freedom crosses Brooklyn Bridge

Ukrainian National Association representatives at the February 23 demonstration in New York: (from left): Sviatoslava Kaczaraj, Sofia Derzko, UNA President Stefan Kaczaraj and UNA Treasurer Roma Lisovich. Below is the text of remarks delivered by Ukrainian National The entire world is in awe of the Ukrainian people who Association President Stefan Kaczaraj on February 23 in New rose up and demanded that the tyranny must stop. We York at a demonstration in support of the people of Ukraine. rejoice that new presidential elections have now been scheduled for May 25 and that steps toward a free and On behalf of the Executive Committee of the Ukrainian real democracy of the people are taking hold. National Association, today we stand with our Ukrainian But these are only the first steps. Much more has to be brethren. done. There will continue to be elements that will work Yari Skalchuk Today, Ukraine and all of us here in America simultane- toward crushing the people’s spirit and democracy. NEW YORK – Close to 1,000 area Ukrainians walked ously mourn and celebrate. Our mood is somber, but at the Ukraine must remain vigilant and we must continue to across the Brooklyn Bridge on Saturday, February 22, same time joyful. Because yesterday and today, the blood- advocate for its humanity, dignity and right of the people to demonstrate their support for Ukraine in an action shed has stopped and it appears that the individuals respon- of Ukraine to live in a free and democratic society. called Human Chain of Freedom that was organized sible for the taking of innocent lives, for trampling on democ- For all the fallen heroes, we bow our heads. They will by the recently established group Razom for Ukraine. racy, for creating a dictatorship, are no longer in power. not be forgotten. Vichnaya pamiat! The demonstrators held a 50-meter-long Ukrainian national flag. Among the participants were many young people of the Fourth Wave of immigrants from Ukraine, who organized the event, as well as representatives of the Belarusian, Georgian and Jewish communities. Boston community joins in prayer Above, the marchers are seen on the Brooklyn Bridge with the Freedom Tower in the background.

U.S. Embassy Kyiv offers condolences

Yuri Petriv BOSTON – Boston area community members attend an ecumenical prayer service and “panakhyda” at Christ the King Ukrainian Catholic Church in Boston on Saturday evening, February 22.

The Rev. Zhownirovych offered the benediction to N.J. Ukrainian... close the meeting. Immediately after the meeting, Rep. Pascrell sent a let- (Continued from page 3) ter on to President Barack Obama urging targeted sanc- Jaroslaw Fedun stated that Moscow, not Kyiv, was the tions “It is vital that the U.S. act now to prevent Ukraine problem, and that the sanctions should target the gang- from descending into further chaos,” Rep. Pascrell wrote. sters who are fomenting fear among the citizenry. Mr. “We cannot allow this situation to devolve into all-out civil Fedun called Rep. Pascrell a true friend of Ukrainians. war, as we have seen in Syria. Again, I urge you to impose “Our heroes are dying, but you have become our hero.” immediate sanctions on Ukrainian government officials U.S. Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt lit a candle at a Mr. Wanio urged Rep. Pascrell to pressure Ukraine’s and those in the Ukrainian business community who have memorial erected on Institytutska Street, commenting “Renewed democracy can ensure they did not die in authorities to grant amnesty to the political prisoners, apply enabled heinous acts of violence against protesters.” In the letter, Rep. Pascrell also called for visa bans and vain.” The photo was posted on the U.S. Embassy targeted sanctions against those responsible for violence Kyiv Facebook page on February 25. against protesters and call for U.S. adherence to its treaty asset freezes against those who have been complicit in obligations to defend the territorial integrity of Ukraine. the violence against peaceful protesters. KYIV – The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv on February 20 Ms. Olexy underscored U.S. State Department state- Rep. Pascrell noted: “I am proud to represent a large issued the following statement of condolences. ments about Ukraine and the support necessary to and active Ukrainian American community in New Jersey’s “The United States offers sincere condolences to the ensure lasting change, including election observer mis- 9th Congressional District. I held a meeting today with a families of those killed in the tragic events of last week. sions and the rebuilding of civil society structures in number of prominent Ukrainian American organizations We will continue to honor the memory of all the victims Ukraine. Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S. Olexander and they expressed a deep desire for a solution to this cri- of the last three months. From the Carpathians to the Motsyk, she said, should be called to the White House for sis which respects the fundamental rights of their sisters Donbas, from the Crimean cliffs to the Kyiv Sea – the consultations. and brothers in Ukraine to free speech, free press and United States stands with the Ukrainian people. We will Rep. Pascrell said that he would again meet with peaceful assembly. They also made clear to me that they support Ukrainians in their efforts to write a new chapter Ukrainian community representatives on February 24 at believe that current President Viktor Yanukovych must in their history that leads to a Ukraine that is democratic, his Paterson, N.J., office before he returned to step down in order for the Ukrainian people to come sovereign, prosperous, and in Europe.” Washington. together to form a lasting political solution to this crisis.” 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9

CURRENT POLITICS IN UKRAINE The Ukrainian Weekly The new Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych: From For 11 years, a single man obsessed with accruing power and using it to enhance his family’s wealth (to the tune of $12 billion, according to Ukraine expert Dr. Anders partner to violent kleptocrat Aslund) was a dominating force on the Ukrainian political scene. Viktor Yanukovych and the Party of Regions he led were a menace to independent Ukraine ever since he by Taras Kuzio sultants or would be no different than became prime minister in November 2002. President Leonid Kuchma (1994-2004). Over the course of four years, a highly Policymakers reserved their criticism, arguing First came the fraudulent presidential elections of 2004. Then came his attempt negative view of Ukraine’s President Viktor to force Viktor Yushchenko from the presidency in 2007, which almost became Mr. Yanukovych needed to be given a chance Yanukovych has evolved from one espoused to prove himself. Mr. Yanukovych attended the Ukraine’s first armed civil conflict. Let’s not forget the 2010 Constitutional Court by only a minority to one that is now uncon- decision overturning the 2004 constitutional amendments dividing power between April 2010 nuclear summit in Washington, tested. This was because much of what where he offered to give up Ukraine’s the presidency and Parliament. It was this cynical destruction of checks and balanc- United States and policy- es that enabled Mr. Yanukovych to establish his authoritarian rule. The next year, Mr. stockpile of highly enriched uranium. makers had believed about Mr. Yanukovych Wishful thinking papered over demo- Yanukovych arranged for the courts to ensure that his main political rival, former was wishful thinking rather than based on Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, was thrown in jail. Then came the parliamentary cratic regression, the transformation of facts or intelligence. Links between Mr. Parliament into a rubber-stamp institution, elections of 2012 that failed to meet international standards. Yanukovych, the Party of Regions and crime For too long, Ukrainians allowed a psychopath to make a disaster of the country. corruption of the Constitutional Court and have been long known to U.S. policymakers local election fraud. It also sidestepped the Finally, a new generation of patriots stepped up to the plate and gave the schoolyard as seen in U.S. cables from Kyiv that are bully a dose of his own medicine. first signs of selective justice against defeat- available in Wikileaks. At least 18 Party of ed opposition candidate and Prime An ultimatum was declared from the Maidan stage the evening of February 21, after Regions deputies continue to hold criminal Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and former Ukraine’s opposition politicians failed their constituents for the umpteenth time. They ties according to Hennadiy Moskal, deputy Internal Affairs Minister Yurii Lutsenko. wanted the Maidan protest to keep going until presidential elections in December. No, head of Parliament’s Committee on The U.S., to its credit, condemned Mr. they responded. Either Yanukovych goes by the next morning, or we go after him. Organized Crime and Corruption. Lutsenko’s imprisonment on New Year’s Meanwhile, the Russian government and its media lackeys condemned the “vio- Attitudes towards Ukraine’s president Eve 2010. Wishful thinking was mixed with lent mobs” in Ukraine. But they weren’t particularly bothered when Mr. Yanukovych have evolved through four stages. lobbying by U.S. journalists and consultants monopolized power, rigged the 2012 parliamentary elections, wrecked the opposi- The first stage – wishful thinking – domi- tion media, and threw his political and business opponents in jail. In fact, the nated 2010, when Mr. Yanukovych became who praised the reformist and democratic Russians supported all of Mr. Yanukovych’s moves towards building his dictatorship president in the last free election Ukraine has credentials of Yanukovych. – illegally overturning the 2004 constitutional amendments, destroying the free held‚ with policymakers either believing he The second stage – thaw – began with press and restricting individual rights – which is why the majority of Ukrainians had changed under the influence of U.S. con- Freedom House downgrading Ukraine want no part of any Russian integration. And now Russia is conducting military exer- from free to partly free and continuing to cises on its territories close to the border with Ukraine, and there are threats of Dr. Taras Kuzio is research associate at issue highly critical reports. Although Russian intervention, as separatists protest against the new Ukrainian authorities – the Center for Political and Regional Ukraine’s democracy was being rolled back approved, we hasten to underline, by the only remaining legitimate power in Studies, Canadian Institute of Ukrainian and opposition leaders were being perse- Ukraine, the Verkhovna Rada. Studies, University of Alberta, and non-resi- cuted, the EU continued to negotiate with Mr. Yanukovych’s departure creates a new era of Ukrainian politics in which he dent fellow at the Center for Transatlantic Ukraine for an Association Agreement (AA) and the Party of Regions will no longer be the dominating factor. That’s a relief, Relations, School of Advanced International and a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade because their politics were destructive. But naturally, there’s great concern regard- Relations, Johns Hopkins University. Agreement (DCFTA). ing what comes next. The article above is reprinted from the EU and U.S. comments became more Now, we don’t rule out that it wasn’t just the ultimatum and the threat of storming blog “Current Politics in Ukraine” (http:// critical from the summer of 2011 and cul- the Presidential Administration that prompted Mr. Yanukovych to abandon ship. ukraineanalysis.wordpress.com/) created minated in a crescendo of condemnations Ukraine’s oligarchs also played a role in Mr. Yanukovych’s demise. His brewing civil by the Stasiuk Program for the Study of when Ms. Tymoshenko was imprisoned in war threatened the stability and value of their billions of dollars worth of assets in Contemporary Ukraine, a program of the October of that year. The EU, in what could Ukraine. and Dmytro Firtash are widely believed to have pressured Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies at be only described as a slap on Mr. him to agree to early presidential elections and a return to the 2004 Constitution, the University of Alberta. It was posted on which became the first cracks in his demise. But that doesn’t mean they should get February 17. (Continued on page 15) off scot-free. They need to pay a price for Ukraine’s current financial ruin. The interim government that will lead Ukraine will have to find money from vari- ous sources. Dr. Aslund of the Peterson Institute for International Economics in Washington suggested tapping Mr. Yanukovych’s billions. We also suggest tapping WINDOW ON EURASIA the resources of those very oligarchs who financed the Party of Regions, got their dividends during Mr. Yanukovych’s rule beginning in 2010 and maintained their support for the ruthless thug during the Euro-Maidan movement – even as protest- ers were being beaten and bloodied. Absorbing Ukraine would destroy Many of their current assets were privatized in rigged auctions of state properties during the last three years, which include such lucrative enterprises as the state Russia, Moscow commentator says landline communications monopoly Ukrtelecom, and large stakes in the nation’s big- by Paul Goble The Ukrainian economy would be gest electricity generators, most notably Dniproenergo and Donbasenergo. They reduced to being a fiefdom of Russian should also be forced to sell their assets abroad, which they gained from their rape would view drawing monopolies, Ukrainian politics “to a branch of the Ukrainian economy that has left the population destitute and the country Ukraine into a single economic and political of the Kremlin,” and “Ukrainian culture to nearly bankrupt. What’s more, newly confirmed Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk arrangement with Russia as an enormous be a rudimentary part in an all-Russian told the Verkhovna Rada on February 27: “About $70 billion has been withdrawn geopolitical achievement, but if he were to mass culture.” It would be left insulted and from Ukraine’s financial system to offshore accounts over the last three years. Now succeed initially, the Kremlin leader would injured, and it would become a far bigger it’s clear that they withdrew the funds that were raised as loans under state guaran- be setting the stage for the demise of the problem than many in Moscow now real- tees and stolen by representatives of the previous government.” Russian Federation itself, according to a ize, Mr. Ikhlov suggests. And thus, the new Ukraine faces difficult challenges on all fronts. It needs, and Moscow commentator. He asks his readers to consider for a deserves, the strong support of the West as it begins its necessary course correction. In an essay on the Forum-MSK.org por- moment what would happen if Canada tal published on February 9, Yevgeny Ikhlov were to become part of the United States. says that “the creation of a Russian- All Canadians and not just those in Quebec Ukrainian confederation would be the most “would feel themselves to be second-class grandiose foreign policy victory of [post- Americans.” Dissatisfaction among them Mar. Turning the pages back... 1991] Russia.” But “at the same time [it and among other Americans who would would be] a terrible national defeat of have to bear the costs of absorption would Nine years ago, on March 6, 2005, Roman Solchanyk wrote a Ukraine” and ultimately for Russia too quickly grow. 6 brief analysis of the Orange Revolution that had brought (forum-msk.org/material/fpolitic/ Consequently, even though initially such President Viktor Yushchenko to power and relegated then Prime 10229277.html). a combination would make the United 2005 Minister Viktor Yanukovych as the de facto loser of the presiden- States “a super-super power” from the out- tial election after millions came to Independence Square Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on side, it would set in motion forces that (Maidan) to protest the falsified election results. ethnic and religious questions in Eurasia would undermine that status both inside Mr. Solchanyk wrote: “Now that the tents have been dismantled in Kyiv’s Independence who has served in various capacities in the the country and in its relations with others, Square and the Orange revolutionaries have gone home to attend to more mundane mat- U.S. State Department, the Central the threat of which is clearly enough to ter, it’s time for a sober look at what Ukraine’s Orange Revolution has changed and, no less Intelligence Agency and the International restrain anyone from pushing this idea. importantly, what it has not changed.” Broadcasting Bureau, as well as at the Voice “The inclusion of Ukraine in the Russian Ukraine’s Orange Revolution did not give birth to a “new Ukrainian nation” – if only of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio financial-economic, political and cultural because nations are not born, but made, Mr. Solchanyk stated. The final round of the Liberty and the Carnegie Endowment for system would lead to [that system’s] rapid December 2004 elections, which the international community touted as “free and fair,” International Peace. Mr. Goble writes a blog national collapse” as well, Mr. Ikhlov con- showed that half of Ukraine’s voters still pined for the “Soviet way of life.” called “Window on Eurasia” (http://windo- tinues. A “confederal” Ukraine would soon woneurasia2.blogspot.com/). This article (Continued on page 9) above is reprinted with permission. (Continued on page 15) No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 7 NEWS AND VIEWS PERSPECTIVES In Ukraine it’s ‘Hromadske’ by Andrew Fedynsky by Dora Chomiak But public radio refused to take root. The nearest thing was the efforts of my late Ukraine now has public radio. It’s called friend Oleksandr Kryvenko, who built an Hromadske Radio. I’m very excited about amazing team of journalists, but was Поклін тобі, Тарасе – this, even though it took 22 years to launch blocked at every turn by Ukraine’s National it. Council on Broadcasting. Sashko Kryvenko Twenty-three years ago I went to Ukraine died in an auto accident shortly after the A bow to thee, Taras to work with the new independent media. “Ukrainian FCC” again refused him a radio Ukrainian presidents, ambassadors, enter- In those days in our International Media frequency. The team kept working, but was by Andrew Fedynsky Center and elsewhere people began talking not able to build a sustainable organization tainers, religious leaders and tourists of all about the need for public radio in Ukraine, of public broadcasting. It fizzled. Taras Shevchenko and I go way back. I kinds. and no one really knew what public radio Now it’s a whole new ballgame. Now was a first grader in 1954 at Cleveland’s Half a century ago, it was a big controver- was. Paying for it, as we do in the U.S. with Ukrainians have computers and access to “Ridna Shkola” Saturday school when I sy. The declared its construc- tax money and private donations, or as in the Internet via broadband. And now my old learned to sing “Cherry orchard by the tion an unfriendly act – not that they were Britain, where receivers were licensed to friends from 1991-1994 created Hromadske house…” and, of course, “Testament,” which against Shevchenko, at least as they defined support BBC, was abhorrent to my friends. Radio – yes, NPR in Ukrainian. And exhorts Ukrainians to rise up and sprinkle him. Rationalizing his contempt for Russian Don’t forget, my new colleagues had just because broadband is broadband – wheth- liberty with their oppressors’ blood. imperialism and censoring his revolution- worked on Soviet and Soviet Ukrainian er in Makiyivka or Solitude, Utah, or in my A couple of years later, I recited “Ivan ary Ukrainian message, they claimed him as radio and TV, where they were salaried and West Village condo – we all can hear it. Pidkova” from the Merrick Settlement a proto-communist, one of their own. No, funds to transmit their productions came I urge you to sample it. Hromadske House stage: “…cannons once roared and the problem the Soviets had was how the from somewhere. And I was talking about Radio broadcasts in Ukrainian, English and Zaporizhians, garnering liberty and glory, monument would define Shevchenko for American listeners paying for public radio. Russian. Its motto is “Slukhayte. Dumayte.” knew how to command…” By 1839 when the world: as a fighter for Ukraine’s inde- Soon – “na nashykh ochakh” (before our (Listen. Think.) Find out more at www. he wrote the poem at the age of 25, all that pendence and liberty, which indeed he was. very eyes) – a lot of commercial, non-gov- HromadskeRadio.org. You can listen to the was gone, Shevchenko notes, Ukraine hav- That’s why the tsar arrested him and why ernmental FM radio stations went on the stream from the site, from the TuneIn ing long since become a Russian colony; the Soviets distorted his meaning. air, and some of my colleagues were hired Radio App and on SoundCloud. And, yes, descendants of Kozaks relegated to serf- And so, in typical style, Soviet spinmeis- by them. (FM stations were becoming like the public radio in our country, the lis- dom, bound to the soil with no more rights ters smeared the monument’s sponsors as accessible and cheap.) Our center, estab- teners support it. Last fall, they ran a suc- than a tree or a cow. neo-Nazi, anti-Semitic nationalists – disin- lished by American foundations and by the cessful crowd funding campaign in Ukraine. “Ivan Pidkova” is about 75 lines. I formation virtually identical to what’s been U.S. Agency for International Development (You can read the names of the donors on rehearsed it over and over under my moth- thrown against the . (USAID), began supplying programs and the site.) The team also got grants from sev- er’s patient but stern supervision. Wearing The Ukrainian Congress Committee of equipment to these independent, non-gov- eral foundations. an embroidered shirt and baggy Kozak America would have none of it. Led by Prof. ernmental stations, and we established an Now a group of us in the U.S. have come “sharavary” pants, I sailed through the first Lev Dobriansky of Georgetown University, information center in Kyiv to advise the together to lead a crowd funding campaign 60 lines, and then my brain locked. I stood the UCCA won overwhelming congressio- new media owners about their rights as to collect support from around the globe helplessly: the final stanzas lost. Seeing my nal approval for the monument, raised mil- broadcasters. for Hromadske Radio. Please contribute at distress, my classmate and scouting buddy, lions for its construction and had President igg.me/at/publicradio. Yurko Huk, who was following in his own Dwight D. Eisenhower for the unveiling. Dora Chomiak is a partner at Inflection Keep public radio on the air in Ukraine copy of Kobzar, slammed the book shut and The Washington Post, which had waged an Point Strategy in New York City. now. announced, “That’s it!” I bowed and, both editorial campaign against the monument relieved and chagrined, walked off. as a Cold War provocation, put the event on Today, I can still recite a couple hundred the front page, conceding that 40,000 had lines of Shevchenko’s verse, but nothing attended. Organizers counted more like FOR THE RECORD will ever be as memorable as in 1970, just 100,000. outside of Rivne, Ukraine, when three What I remember from that day was the Bildt: “a dark day in Europe” friends and I, having secured a rare camp- huge crowd, stifling heat and friendly ing visa to the Soviet Union, stopped at the African American neighbors on the parade The following statement by Carl Bildt, reform program. And the door to only gas station on the “highway” between route generously offering cold water for Sweden’s minister of foreign affairs, was European political cooperation, and the Kyiv and Lviv. The attendants, flabbergast- the parched marchers, including me. No released on February 19. political solidarity that goes along with ed to have four Americans speaking doubt many of them had attended Martin it, had been opened. Ukrainian pull up in a Volkswagen micro- Luther King’s March on Washington, 11 It is a dark day in Europe. On the streets Not all of the problems had been bus, questioned us at length: who were we; months earlier. I doubt they knew who of one of our capitals, people are being resolved. But Ukraine was, with broad who were our parents; how many hours in Shevchenko was, but they respected how killed. Their demands were simple and European and international support, America do you work to buy a van, a shirt, people came long distances to honor a natural: democracy, reforms and European clearly on a path to a better future. But a pair of shoes; how we had the freedom to poet’s legacy. cooperation. Their desire was, for a long this future of European cooperation was a travel; and what we’d do when we flew I’ve had many other Shevchenko time, the desire expressed by the entire future that powerful forces did not want home at the end of the summer, etc. encounters. In 1977 in Rome, I saw the Ukrainian nation. And this was why we in to see. And that is where the responsibili- Then the big question: “Khloptsi statue where he’s clad in a classical toga. In the European Union, through the Eastern ty for the killings on the streets of Kyiv (guys)…have you ever heard of Taras 1988 on our honeymoon, my wife and I Partnership, opened the door to coopera- clearly and ultimately lies. Shevchenko?” Of course, we replied. Okay, stumbled upon a monument to him on the tion, trade, reforms and integration. Today, President Yanukovych has blood Who was he? Ukraine’s national poet. Boulevard St. Germaine. I’ve sat next to We did so because we too were con- on his hands. And I am afraid that the path That’s when one of them began reciting the Shevchenko’s bust at the Ukrainian vinced that this was in the interests not he has now taken will lead to even more “Testament,” and then broke off after a cou- National Association’s Soyuzivka Heritage only of Ukraine, but of the whole of suffering and violence. He was the only ple lines. In unison, we continued from Center and bowed to his statue in Kyiv at Europe. But let us be clear about what one who could have prevented the killing where he’d stopped. the university named in his honor. I’ve vis- happened. Last summer, Russia launched – by extending a hand of genuine coopera- That was it. They closed the station and ited him a couple hundred times at a single-minded pressure offensive to tion to the democratic opposition. produced onions, tomatoes, pickles, radish- Cleveland’s Cultural Gardens, and nearly make Ukraine deviate from its chosen Instead they were shown a fist. People es, bread and multiple bottles of vodka. In a every day I see his plaster image, crafted by course. Brutal trade barriers were com- have been shot dead with live ammuni- room with the hammer and sickle and por- Alexander Archipenko’s hands, at the bined with open threats. And a wavering tion. Peaceful demonstrators. But police traits of Leonid Brezhnev and Alexei entrance to the Ukrainian Museum- leadership in Ukraine gave in. officers and others have also been Kosygin on the wall, we spent hours telling Archives. Indeed, there are more than But when they gave in, it was seen as a harmed in the violence that broke out. I stories, laughing, singing and bonding over 1,000 monuments to Shevchenko in betrayal by all those people who had am afraid that Ukraine is now heading the Kozak legacy we shared across an Ukraine and major world cities. hoped for a better future. The European for dark times. The crisis in the country ocean, a continent and 350 years. It was Regrettably, I’ll never see them all. flag flew in Maidan Square as a symbol of will become deeper and longer. I am one of the most memorable parties of my On the bicentennial of his birth, it’s the desire for a better future. People deeply concerned. wanted to move forwards alongside the But the outcome of the violence will life. Thank you, Taras. impossible to overestimate Shevchenko’s rest of Europe – not backwards towards be precarious and short-lived. It will die If you’re Ukrainian American, you cer- importance. Without him, Ukrainians the all too well-known. Without those away like a storm on the steppes. What tainly have your own Shevchenko memo- would have long since disappeared from threats from Moscow and the wavering has happened, and is happening, in ries; and if you’re of a certain age, chances history. That didn’t happen, and today the in Kyiv, Ukraine could today have been Ukraine also demonstrates the power of are one of those is the 1964 Shevchenko nation plays a key role in geopolitics. And clearly on its way to a better future. the European dream. A Europe of peace monument unveiling in Washington. Today, Shevchenko’s there. Watching live Internet The International Monetary Fund, and freedom and cooperation. the monument is an obligatory stop for coverage of the Maidan – a couple of hun- with support from us all, was prepared And sooner or later, it will triumph in dred yards from where he lived on the to offer an economic assistance and Ukraine too. Andrew Fedynsky’s e-mail address is [email protected]. (Continued on page 15) 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9 Russia accuses Kyiv of using ‘dictatorial,’ ‘terrorist’ means

RFE/RL formed through elections. Mr. Yanukovych’s that in essence is a result of an armed revolt.” the orders [to disperse protesters with vio- decision not to sign those accords in After Mr. Yanukovych rejected the EU lence].” Russia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has November 2013 led to the movement that accords, Moscow extended a $15 billion aid Acting Internal Affairs Minister Arsen alleged that “dictatorial and sometimes ter- last week forced him to abandon his office package to Kyiv aimed at helping the govern- Avakov said that Mr. Yanukovych was last rorist methods” are being used in Ukraine and residence and flee Kyiv. ment overcome Ukraine’s debt crisis. That seen in the pro-Russian Black Sea peninsu- to pressure dissenters against the coun- aid package now appears to be in doubt. la of Crimea late on February 23 in a pri- Russian concerns try’s new authorities. vate residence in the Balaklava region. Warrant for Yanukovych It accused the Parliament that ousted Earlier on February 24, Russian Prime He said that Mr. Yanukovych arrived President Viktor Yanukovych of pushing Minister said Moscow Ukraine’s acting government has issued there earlier that day accompanied by his through constitutional reforms without had “serious doubts” about the legitimacy an arrest warrant for Mr. Yanukovych, head of administration, Andriy Kliuyev. Mr. proper debate, and passing legislation cur- of many of Ukraine’s government bodies accusing him of mass murder over the kill- Avakov said that Yanukovych relinquished tailing the rights of ethnic Russians. following President Yanukovych’s ouster. ings of dozens of anti-government protest- his state-appointed bodyguards, then drove A ministry statement called for a “crack- Mr. Medvedev said there was no one to ers by police. off to an unknown location. down on the extremists who are trying to deal with in Kyiv, as “masked men carrying , one of the former oppo- get established in power” in Ukraine. Kalashnikovs” could not be partners for dia- sition’s leaders, accused Mr. Yanukovych of With reporting by , AP, AFP, ITAR- The ministry also accused Western logue. He said recognizing the new authori- going into hiding to escape responsibility. TASS, Interfax, and RFE/RL’s Tatar-Bashkir states, saying they were not worried about ties in Ukraine would be an “aberration.” “It’s a remarkable situation when the and Russian services. Ukraine’s fate but instead engaged in “uni- “Some of our foreign partners, Western most sought-after character in the country Copyright 2014, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted lateral geopolitical calculations” in support partners, think otherwise – they consider is the , who is hiding with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ of their own interests. these authorities legitimate. I don’t know and doing everything to flee from the coun- Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, Western reactions which Constitution and what legislation they try and to avoid the responsibility that he Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (for are reading from,” Mr. Medvedev said. ”I must bear,” Mr. Klitschko said. “I would like the full text of the story above, see http:// While the United States said Mr. think it is an aberration of consciousness of to emphasize that hundreds of victims are www.rferl.org/content/ukraine-yanu- Yanukovych was not “actively leading” some kind to give legitimacy to something the responsibility of Yanukovych, who gave kovych-arrest-warrant/25274993.html). Ukraine as president, the White House stopped short of endorsing anyone else as the country’s legitimate leader. Spokesman Jay Carney said on February Ukraine’s acting president warns of ‘signs of separatism’ 24 the Obama administration believed the Ukrainian Parliament lawfully elected a RFE/RL other people in Ukraine to swiftly obtain Russian citizenship. new speaker, Oleksander Turchynov. Ukraine’s acting president said on February 25 that he’s con- “This is a very sensitive issue,” he said. “It has to be worked on But Mr. Carney declined to say whether cerned about “signs of separatism” and threats to Ukraine’s ter- by a number of federal departments. This has to be decided by Washington considers Mr. Turchynov to be ritorial integrity following the upheaval that has rocked the the highest authorities in Russia. And, of course, we should Ukraine’s legitimate acting leader since Mr. country in the past week. understand that if such proposals are legally approved in Russia, Yanukovych fled Kyiv in the face of deadly The comments by acting President Oleksander Turchynov fol- the reaction of Kyiv will be very negative. We can’t do anything mass protests. Mr. Carney said the United low protests in Crimea, where many residents are pro-Russian, which could provoke armed response and bloodshed, especially States did not know Mr. Yanukovych’s against Ukraine’s new authorities following the ouster of against our compatriots.” whereabouts. Moscow-backed President Viktor Yanukovych. Speaking to activists in Symferopol, the capital of the Crimea The U.S. spokesman added that the Both Russia, and Western countries, which backed the oppo- region, Mr. Slutsky said the elected Mr. Yanukovych remains United States is prepared to help Ukraine sition movement, have warned of the threat of growing instabili- Ukraine’s only legitimate leader. regain economic stability by providing sup- ty linked to a split between Ukraine’s Western-leaning and Arseniy Yatsenyuk, the chairman of the former opposition fac- port that complements assistance from the Russian-speaking regions. tion Batkivshchyna, urged Moscow not to meddle. He said the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei Lavrov said on situation in Crimea is “very complicated.” The European Commission, meanwhile, February 25 that Moscow has no intention of interfering in said on February 24 that it recognized Mr. Ukraine’s internal affairs. With reporting by the Associated Press, Agence France-Presse, Turchynov, an ally of formerly jailed Prime However, later on the same day, a top Russian lawmaker said Reuters and Bloomberg. Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, as Ukraine’s Russia “will not stay aside” if the lives of its compatriots in Copyright 2014, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted with the permission of legitimate acting president. Ukraine were in danger. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, The commission also said Ukraine could Leonid Slutsky, deputy chairman of the Russian Duma’s Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org ((for the full text of the story sign EU political cooperation and free- Foreign Affairs Committee, said the Russian Parliament is consid- above, see http://www.rferl.org/content/ukraine-separatism- trade accords after a new government is ering a bill that would clear the way for residents of Crimea and warning-bailout/25277140.html).

UOC-MP Synod elects new locum tenens for Kyiv Metropolitan See PARSIPPANY, N.J. – The Synod of the memoration of the Holodomor. and past, present and future generations.” called the protesters fallen heroes of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church–Moscow During a meeting at the Synod, chaired The UOC-MP assured that it does not “Heavenly Brigade” and assured that their Patriarchate (UOC-MP) voted Metropolitan by Metropolitan Onufriy, the UOC-MP dis- divide its faithful along political, territorial, love of others will grant them eternal life in Onufriy (Berezovsky) to the post of locum cussed the appeal by the Ukrainian ethnic, linguistic or social lines and supports the kingdom of heaven. tenens in a secret ballot on February 24. Orthodox Church – Kyiv Patriarchate (UOC- the territorial integrity of the Ukrainian The prayers were led by leaders of the The previous head of the UOC-MP in KP) on overcoming the divisions within the state; it urged the government to prevent UAOC, UOC-KP, the Ukrainian Greek- Kyiv was Metropolitan Volodymyr Orthodox Church in Ukraine. The Synod the collapse of the country. “We have to keep Catholic Church, the Roman Catholic (Sabodan), who for a while now has been ill resolved: that it is ready to continue the a single united Ukraine for future genera- Church, the Jewish community and and unable to fulfill his duties. dialogue with the UOC-KP and the UAOC, tions. In the current situation of severe Protestants. An archpriest of the UOC-MP Metropolitan Onufriy is the titular bishop and called for the creation for a commis- social stress, we must make every effort to was also present. of Chernivtsi and Bukovyna. Born in sion for the dialogue. Members of the com- preserve religious peace in Ukraine,” the Patriarch Filaret of the UOC-KP, who was Chernivtsi in 1944, he was the son of a mission would include: Archbishop statement concluded. warmly greeted by the people, warned that priest, attended the Moscow theological Mytrofan of Luhansk and Alchevsk, After celebrating divine liturgy in the fight was not over. “We need to be care- Seminary and was a member of the Trinity- Archbishop Feodor of Kamianets-Podilskyi Moscow on February 23, Russian Orthodox ful,” he said, “because the evil forces are try- St. Serhiy Lavra in Moscow, then the and Horodok, Bishop Filaret of Lviv and Patriarch Kirill said that the schism of ing to break our unity. We need to cease hos- Pochayiv Lavra of the Holy Assumption in Halych, Archpriest Mykolay Danylevych Ukraine’s Orthodox Churches should be tilities and to stand firmly on the principles Ukraine. He has served as bishop for 23 and Prof. Volodymyr Bureha of the Kyiv overcome by returning to the principles of of truth. For there can be no reconciliation years and in 1992 refused to sign a request Theological Academy and Seminary. canonical church life. “Only such unity will between good and evil. There can be nothing to Patriarch Alexei II that would have grant- The Synod also adopted an appeal to the be strong and salutary.” On February 22, in common between light and darkness.” ed autocephaly to the UOC-MP. Metropolitan government in connection with the Euro- the Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Patriarch Filaret also called for the cre- Onufriy also denies that the Holodomor was Maidan events. The Synod condemned the Church–Kyiv Patriarchate published an ation of one national Ukrainian Church. “The Synod of the Church appeals to the genocide against Ukrainians. “criminal actions of the government that appeal calling for the UOC-MP and part of episcopate of the UOC-MP with a proposal “Holodomor was a correction from God, provoked the bloodshed on the streets and the Ukrainian Autocephalous Orthodox to unite in one Church. They do not realize suppression of our pride that rebelled squares of gold-domed Kyiv” and assured of Church to unite in one national Ukrainian whom they serve. They must serve their against ourselves, against human existence. prayers for the dead and care of the wound- Orthodox Church. people and be independent from other There’s a Ukrainian expression, it’s a bit ed. The appeal stressed the importance of Service on the Maidan states. Love them, but above all their coun- vulgar, ‘katuzi po zasluzi’ (an executioner “building a new country on the principles of try. Because the enemies are using our divi- gets what he deserves). Thus, we got what good and justice, territorial integrity and Ukrainian clergy gathered on sion, and this division is not only in the we deserved,” Metropolitan Onufriy told consolidation of society” and said that “the Independence Square in Kyiv on February Church, but in the entire nation. Therefore, the Interfax news agency on November 24, authorities should be aware of their respon- 22 to lead memorial prayers for protesters 2008, during the 75th anniversary com- sibility before God, their own consciences, who were killed there in the fighting. They (Continued on page 9) No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 9 UCCA calls on U.S. to support Ukraine’s new interim government The following statement was released by European Allies) to provide the interim a free and fair manner, in accordance with not work. Unless Ukraine is fully integrated the Ukrainian Congress Committee of Ukrainian government with the necessary international standards, so that the voice of into Europe and its structures, trans-Atlan- America on February 26. financing so that it can begin restructuring the people will be truly represented. tic security is simply an illusion. its economic institutions according to The United States must work to facilitate The Ukrainian Congress Committee of For the past three months, the Ukrainian OECD country norms; work with our allies the transformation of Russia’s lingering America, the umbrella organization repre- people have been the active front line of to establish a Marshall Plan for Ukraine. imperial ambitions into ambitions of dem- senting over 1 million Americans of defense for not only their own freedom, but ocratic statehood. With American support, Ukrainian descent wholeheartedly com- the freedom of the entire trans-Atlantic alli- binding security guarantees including, but a democratic, independent Ukraine can be mits itself to the rebirth of a truly demo- ance. While the world looked on, they cou- not• Actexclusively, upon the thepublic 1994 and Trilateralpolitically that keystone of freedom in the region. cratic and free Ukraine and to the people of rageously withstood bloody assaults, mur- Agreement which elicits, at the very least, However, anything less than a full commit- this freedom-loving nation and pledges, ders and executions. Still, they continued to Washington’s engagement when Ukraine’s ment to strengthening Ukraine as a bul- our support to them in the hopes of attain- stand together in their demand for the rule security is threatened. The agreement wark of freedom amounts to nothing other ing a future where true freedom, democra- of law and the right to live with dignity in a offered these assurances in exchange for than a policy of appeasement, and history cy and the rule of law will endure and civil society. Ukraine’s commitment to its renunciation has shown that appeasement simply does thrive. Now, the collapse of the Yanukovych of its nuclear weapons and its ascension to regime comes amidst reports that Russian Non-Proliferation Treaty as a non-nuclear warships are amassing off the Ukrainian state. These assurances were critical for coast and that the Putin regime is attempt- Ukraine and they included U.S. support for UCCA calls on international community ing to establish a pretense for a Hitleresque Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty and integ- Sudetenland option in Ukraine. rity, the non-use of force and the freedom to support Ukraine’s economic restructuring Additionally, the Russian government is from economic coercion. pursuing ever increasing, multi-vectored, The statement below was released by Ukraine needs much more substantial political, economic, informational, social, external attempts or threats that affect the Ukrainian Congress Committee of growth, which would allow the economic cultural and religious aggression and Ukraine’s• Publicly territorial condemn integrity, any stability internal and or America on February 22. structure to improve and to raise the encroachment directed against Ukraine’s political independence. standard of living of the average sovereignty. Vladimir Putin’s moves External financing is needed to stabi- Ukrainian. The per capita GDP in Ukraine towards re-colonization are rightly viewed the perpetrators of the massive violence in lize the situation in Ukraine. Not only is around $7,300, compared to $22,200 with alarm by our NATO allies, particularly Ukraine,• Expand to includethe list ofViktor visa sanctionsYanukovych against and have the events of the last three months in Poland and around $51,700 in the by those in Central Europe. They are under- his “clan,” as well as Russian officials actively disrupted the economy, but the events United States. Ukraine ranks 137th stood to be a threat to the stabilizing trans- threatening Ukraine. Institute asset freezes themselves were the results of Viktor worldwide, behind El Salvador, Namibia national, trans-Atlantic security framework for Ukrainian and Russian government offi- Yanukovych’s agreement with Russia and and Guyana. Yet, Universitas 21 ranked that first emerged in the years after the sec- cials and others implicated in the state-spon- not the European Union for the loans that Ukraine fourth in the proportion of ond world war and seemingly transformed sored crackdown on the peaceful protestors. he desperately needed. Ukraine’s klepto- workers with the highest level of educa- with the fall of the Soviet Union. - cratic governments have never had a tion in the workforce. Besides all the American geo-strategic interests depend tions to the Organization for Economic strategic economic plan for the country. political issues, the new government upon regional stability, which can only be Cooperation• Freeze Russia’s and Development membership and applica other Since 1991, the economic policy of faces a huge challenge to dramatically achieved by supporting the fragile democ- international organizations. Ukraine has proceeded from the notion increase the rate of growth of the econo- racy in Ukraine through its interim govern- that the metallurgical complex, agricul- my. If not, stagnation and unrest may last ment. The United States must take the lead Accountability Act, legislation that would ture and chemical industries of Ukraine for years. in promoting international norms. The ensure• Support that human the Global rights Human abusers Rights from would finance economic development. The Ukrainian Congress Committee of This also allowed the rise of the oligarchs, America calls on the United States to Ukrainian Congress Committee of America anywhere in the world are denied entry who became owners of many of these urge the International Monetary Fund to calls on the United States to: into the United States and barred from complexes, yet the government was left provide the interim Ukrainian govern- using our financial institutions. with the risks of compensating victims of ment with the necessary financing so multi-lateral economic assistance to accidents in privatized mines. that it can restructure its economic insti- Ukraine• Facilitate – in an all effort possible to stabilize unilateral the situa and- upcoming presidential elections slated for The present 2 percent growth of the tutions according to country norms of tion in Ukraine; including urging the May• Actively25, and provide engage technical in monitoring assistance the Ukrainian economy is almost stagnation, the Organization for Economic International Monetary Fund (and our where needed to ensure that they are held in since it is growing from a very low base. Cooperation and Development.

us a source of understanding truth and a of the nation! This is rubbish! The people deceived them and us. We oppose all kinds UOC-MP Synod... return to our dignity,” he wrote. look to you for protection, are relying on of lawlessness and violence,” they wrote. you,” the Rev. Yefimov said. “…The people are taking to the streets. (Continued from page 8) UOC-MP priest addresses Berkut On February 11 a group of priests of the On the other side of the barricades are the for the entire Ukrainian people to be one, “Religion in Ukraine” reported that the UOC-MP released a statement declaring government people who like all of us suffer the Orthodox Church must be one,” the Rev. Archpriest Oleksiy Yefimov, a parish their desire to have closer ties with from the gluttony of the officials. Those patriarch said. priest of the UOC-MP in Vasylkiv, held a “Christian Europe. …With the basic who, not of their own will, are taken to the On February 21 Bishop Borys Gudziak, prayer service in Kyiv on February 12 dur- European values, which are fundamentally ‘anti-Maidan’ are also our brothers and sis- eparch of Paris of the Ukrainian Catholic ing the Euro-Maidan protests. In his ser- Christian values. These are: truth, justice, ters. They just do not know who we really Church, urged that the Euro-Maidan heroes be mon, the Rev. Yefimov instructed the freedom, value of each individual.” are. That we are not enemies. We are not honored. “Greater love has no one than this: to Berkut to strictly abide by their commit- “Fighting for these ideas, we must our- against Donbas, , Luhansk or lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John ments, including the official oath, otherwise selves be normal people – people with Odesa. We are together. We are not here for 15:13). “I encourage everyone, especially jour- “you will doom your soul to damnation” whom we want to live nearby – together to the politicians who are on the podium. We nalists, to create the lives of the martyrs who and urged them to not switch to the side of build the future. We are not against those are against all kinds of evil, injustice and gave their lives for our dignity, for our liberty,” the protesters, whom he compared with who are on the other side of the Maidan. violence. And when we are together, we are Bishop Gudziak wrote on his Facebook page. the Nazis and drew a parallel with the We are not against those who were cheat- strength!” The statement was signed by 11 “Let their witness, death and eternal life be for Second World War. “This is not the people ed. We are opposed to the fact that they priests and three bishops of the UOC-MP.

Russia’s perceptions of Ukraine had not first vice-minister for foreign affairs, said he EU touted as a “deepening” of relations, but Turning... changed following the Orange Revolution, would like to see Mr. Lavrov’s statements omitted any assurances of the possibility of with the majority of Russians still not pre- recorded in official bilateral documents eventual associate membership prospects. (Continued from page 6) pared to recognize Ukrainians as a legiti- governing Russia’s relations with the U.S. EU Commissioner for External Relations Opinion polls conducted at the end of mate and separate nation. Russia’s leading and the European Union. Benita Ferrero-Waldner described it as an 2004 showed that half of Ukrainians (and pollster, Yurii Levada, said that nearly 80 These assurances of mutual respect go EU door that is “neither open nor closed.” 67 percent of Russians) were saddened by percent of Russians were convinced that as far back as the Ukrainian-Russian treaty The U.S., along with Warsaw and Vilnius, the collapse of the Soviet Union. When Ukrainians (and Belarusians) are really of 1990, Mr. Solchanyk noted. had shown its support for Ukraine’s respondents were asked to choose between Russians; nearly 70 percent did not think The previous leadership under European aspirations at the 2004 NATO a union with Russia and Belarus or mem- that Ukraine is a genuine country. President Leonid Kuchma was fond of Summit in Brussels, where President bership in the European Union, slightly President Vladimir Putin told a press pointing out that “no one is waiting for us Yushchenko met with White House repre- more than half opted for the “outpost of conference in December 2004 that Ukraine, in Europe.” Europe’s sentiments on the sentatives as part of the NATO-Ukraine tyranny” in Minsk and Vladimir Putin’s including its western part is “completely Orange events were positive, Mr. Solchanyk Commission. “managed democracy.” Russian speaking,” while Russia’s Foreign added, but various Eurocrats had indicated Indicating “old” Europe’s sentiments, In a commentary on the poll, Oleh Affairs Minister Sergei Lavrov announced a that the European house was full at the France’s President Jacques Chirac walked Ryabchuk, newly appointed vice prime “turnaround” in Moscow’s approach to moment, and Ukrainians needed not apply. out of the NATO meeting directly after Mr. minister for European integration, told relations with Kyiv, asserting that it now However, the EU would entertain petitions Yushchenko’s speech at the summit. Izvestia news that Russians need to aban- viewed Ukraine (and Georgia) as “absolute- from Albania and Turkey, who seemed to don the notion that they are “almost ly sovereign,” and that the term “near qualify as “European.” Source: “What the Orange Revolution did Ukrainians” and Ukrainians should stop abroad” was no longer applicable. An Action Plan between the EU and Kyiv not revolutionize,” by Roman Solchanyk, The saying that they are “almost Russians.” However, Oleksander Chalyi, Ukraine’s offered some economic concessions that the Ukrainian Weekly, March 6, 2005. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9 No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 11 Ukraine’s biathlon team wins gold by Ihor N. Stelmach The Ukrainian women’s biathlon team gave its country a momentous victory on Friday, February 21 – a victory that a nation marred by deadly political protests desperately needed. The quartet won the Olympic 4x6-kilometer relay for its first gold medal of the Sochi Games. Defending champion Russia was 26.4 seconds behind for the silver medal, and Norway won the bronze medal. The Semerenko twins, Vita and Valj, Juliya Dzhyma and anchor Olena Pidhrushna missed five targets, but avoided penalty loops to finish in 1 hour, 10 minutes, 2.5 seconds. It was Ukraine’s second medal in these Games and second medal in women’s biathlon with Vita Semerenko having won a bronze medal in the women’s 7.5-kilometer sprint. This was Ukraine’s first gold medal at a Winter Olympics in 20 years, since Oksana Baiul’s figure skating gold in Lillehammer, Norway, in 1994. The 4x6-kilometer relay requires all four athletes to be at the top of their game both on skis and taking aim at their targets. No one was better than the Ukrainian women, who NOCU were not considered a gold medal favorite. Ukraine’s women’s biathlon team with gold medals. Ukraine was third at the first exchange, trailing Italy by six seconds. After Italy lost its lead, Dzhyma hit all 10 tar- withstanding the pressure and bringing home the gold women joined hands and flung their arms in the air prior gets, giving third starter Valj Semerenko a 26-second head medal. to taking bows, like stage actors acknowledging a standing start. Semerenko stayed clear in her first shooting and left At the finish line Pidhrushna collapsed face down after fin- ovation. For that moment their performance seemed to the range 40 seconds ahead of Russia and Norway, a min- ishing the last leg and was immediately swarmed by her transcend the sport. ute ahead of the remaining field. She went on to extend the teammates and coaches. In the crowd Ukrainian flags flapped “It is the dream of a whole lifetime,” said Vita Semerenko lead, but had to reload three times in her second shooting, frantically, and the crowd’s roar lasted at least a full minute. during a February 21 press conference from Sochi, Russia. forfeiting some 30 seconds. Anchor Pidhrushna missed Any doubt Ukraine had the top women’s biathlon team “Our dream and the dream of the whole of Ukraine have once in her first round, then was flawless in her second, at these 2014 Winter Olympics disappeared when the four come true.” Ukraine’s Olympians show promise ly, could not overcome their two struggling teammates. Mariya Panfilova lost nearly a minute and 36-year-old Andriy Derezemlya lost another 90 seconds in their respective legs of the event. An analysis of the bottom line sees progress being made. For the progress to continue in the future, several key ingredients must mesh together to form an elite winter Olympics team: young athletes need to be recruited and trained, training facilities must be built and maintained, high-level coaches need to be found and developed, and Ukraine’s government must allocate the proper funding for all of the above. The country’s leadership will ultimately decide how big a priority the National Olympic Team is in Ukraine’s continued growth as a nation. SOCHI SHORTS: Five-time Olympian and flag-bearer Valentina Shevchenko finished a respectable 14th out of 57 in the Ladies’ 30-kilometer mass start free cross-country skiing event…Canada’s Lucas Makowsky placed 28th in men’s 1,500-meter speed skating and his Team Canada relay squad finished fourth overall in the men’s team pur- suit, just missing the bronze medal. Cross-country skier Marina Lisogor, 30, who competed NOCU in two events (10-kilometer classic and women’s sprint) at A Ukraine fan at the biathlon awards ceremony. the Sochi Games, tested positive for trimetazidine, which is classified as a “specified stimulant” on the World Anti- by Ihor N. Stelmach 25-year-old Kharkiv native scored 109.5 points, improved Doping Agency’s prohibited list. These specified substanc- to 119.03 points in the first final and finished with a score es are considered more susceptible to inadvertent use and The accumulation of medals is not the sole criteria of of 113.12 points in his second final. can carry reduced penalties. During a disciplinary hearing successful participation at an Olympics. (Ukraine finished in Back to biathlon, where in one of the discipline’s final she told the commission that she had taken a medicine not 20th place at Sochi in the medal standings.) Granted, win- events, the women’s 2x6-kilometer and 2x7.5-kilometer knowing that it contained this banned substance. Two ning gold, silver and bronze is the ultimate reward for a men’s mixed relay, Team Ukraine finished eighth out of 16 other athletes who failed doping tests at Sochi were nation’s team of athletes. For Team Ukraine, which won nations. It was a solid performance spurred by the efforts German biathlete Evi Sachenbacher-Stehle and Italian bob- zero medals at Vancouver’s Winter Olympics in 2010, these of Natalya Burdyga and Serhiy Semenov who, unfortunate- sledder William Frullani. 2014 Games are a marked improvement in a couple of ways. Yes, the women’s biathlon team won gold and bronze medals. However, as important, or perhaps more important, is the ongoing upgrading of Ukraine’s winter athletes – Quotable notes younger, better trained, more competitive in the world’s “…What to say of the gormless press-agent twaddle conjured up to describe the Soviet Union? In its opening greatest sporting arena. Evidence of the above progress was video for the Olympic Games, NBC’s producers drained the thesaurus of flattering terms devoid of moral content: seen in Sochi with the following performances: ‘The empire that ascended to affirm a colossal footprint; the revolution that birthed one of modern history’s pivotal After finishing 41st in the men’s 10-kilometer sprint, experiments. But if politics has long shaped our sense of who they are, it’s passion that endures.’ … then 39th in the men’s 12.5-kilometer pursuit, Ukrainian “Watching the opening ceremonies of the Olympics, you’d have no idea that from the Moscow metro system to, Serhiy Semenov shocked the biathlon world with his ninth- literally, the roads to Sochi, the Soviet Union – the supposed epitome of modernity and ‘scientific socialism’ – was place showing in the individual 20-kilometer event. Ninth built on a mountain of broken lives and unremembered corpses. … place out of 89 total participants was the best Ukrainian “If it is conventional wisdom that the Nazi Holocaust was worse than the Soviet Terror, you would at least think men’s showing of these Sochi Games. The 25-year-old, earning the silver in the Devil’s Olympics would earn something more than feckless wordsmithery and smug eye- two-time Olympian’s final time was +1:36.2 minutes. rolling from journalists and intellectuals. Imagine if, instead of Sochi, these games were in Germany, and suppose the Three-time Olympian Oleksandr Abramenko surprised organizers floated out the swastika while NBC talked of the ‘pivotal experiment’ of Nazism. Imagine the controversy. observers at the men’s aerials free style ski competition “But when the hammer and sickle float by, there’s no outrage. There is only the evil of banality.” when he finished sixth out of 21 competitors after placing – Jonah Goldberg, “The Olympic whitewash of Soviet evil,” The New York Post, February 14. third in the Group 1 final. In his qualification run the 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9

“We are already working together with the Ashton urges Russian understanding NATO secretary general on Ukraine NEWSBRIEFS international community and international financial institutions to find ways to sup- KYIV – While visiting Kyiv, the European BRUSSELS – The secretary general of (Continued from page 2) port the country,” he said. Mr. Barroso stat- Union’s foreign policy chief, Catherine NATO, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, on February 23 released a statement on ed that the “winds of change are knocking Ashton, called on Russia to behave like a candidates for the Ukrainian president. The Ukraine. He noted: “I am closely monitor- again at Ukraine’s door.” (Ukrinform) good neighbor toward Ukraine and let it deadline for the submission of documents move forward in the way it chooses. ing the important developments in to the CEC for the registration of presiden- EU offers support of 20 B euros Speaking at a press conference on February Ukraine. The people of Ukraine must deter- tial candidates is April 4. The CEC has to 25, Ms. Ashton voiced “strong support” for mine their own future in freedom and create 225 district election commissions. KYIV – The European Union is prepared Ukraine’s new leaders. She is the first for- democracy. I continue to call for calm and The Verkhovna Rada allocated 1.965 billion to support Ukrainian reforms with 20 bil- eign leader to visit Ukraine since restraint, so that all sides can focus on pur- hrv to the CEC for the holding of early pres- lion euros after the country forms its new Parliament ousted President Viktor suing the path of democracy, stability and idential elections. (Ukrinform) government, European Parliament Foreign Yanukovych on February 22. Ms. Ashton prosperity through peaceful dialogue and Affairs Committee President Elmar Brok Barroso for guarantees of Ukraine’s unity also urged Ukraine’s new authorities to early elections. I commend the statement said on February 23. He told the 1+1 chan- form an “inclusive” government. She said of the Ukrainian army that it will in no way KYIV – European Commission President nel he believed that 20 billion euros would the new government must work out a intervene in the political crisis. It is impor- Jose Manuel Barroso urged international be on the table to back the reforms and the reform program so that the West could tant that this continues to be the case. partners, especially Russia, to guarantee support could be granted immediately to consider financial aid to the country’s bat- Ukraine is a close partner to NATO and Ukraine’s unity as a factor of stability in prevent Ukraine’s default. The European tered economy. She said the EU was consid- NATO is a friend of the Ukrainian people. Europe. Speaking in the European Parliament deputy expressed hope for the ering possible short-term and long-term We look forward to continued cooperation Parliament in Strasbourg on February 25, soonest possible formation of a new loans to Ukraine, but provided no details. with Ukraine based on the NATO-Ukraine he said, “I launch from here an appeal to all Ukrainian government, which would carry She said the EU would work with the Charter. (NATO) our international partners, in particular out the reforms. He promised the EU’s sup- International Monetary Fund, but that the Treasury secretary phones Yatsenyuk Russia, to work constructively with us to port for the new government and told IMF would make its own assessment of the guarantee a united Ukraine that can be Ukrainians they must not be afraid of situation. (RFE/RL) KYIV – U.S. Secretary of the Treasury effective for stability in the European conti- default or that a lack of support would pre- Jacob Lew on February 23 called Arseniy nent.” He also said that Ukraine should vent the reforms. The EU assistance will Doubts on Russian aid package Yatsenyuk to discuss financial assistance aim for the best economic conditions, have good relations both with its Western KYIV – Moscow has no legal obligation to for Ukraine. According to an official read- and Eastern partners. Mr. Barroso reiterat- which will prepare Ukraine for signing an pay further tranches of a $15 billion bailout out of the call: “Today Secretary Jacob J. ed that the EU supports Ukraine in con- Association Agreement with the European package for Ukraine that was agreed with Lew spoke by phone with Ukrainian lead- ducting political and economic reforms. Union, he added. (Interfax-Ukraine) ousted President Viktor Yanukovych, er Arseniy Yatsenyuk en route back to Deputy Finance Minister Sergei Storchak Washington, DC, from the G-20 meeting in said on February 25. He noted that Moscow Sydney, Australia. Secretary Lew noted believes there’s a “slight” risk debt-bur- the broad support at the just-concluded dened Ukraine will not repay the first G-20 meeting for an international assis- installment. Russia disbursed $3 billion in tance package centered on the IMF as TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL Walter Honcharyk (973) 292-9800 x3040 an initial tranche, but suspended the next soon as the transitional Ukrainian govern- or e-mail [email protected] $2 billion tranche after violence and politi- ment is fully established by the cal turmoil roiled Ukraine last week. Parliament. He encouraged Ukraine to begin discussions with the IMF as quickly SERVICES PROFESSIONALS Moscow has declined to recognize the for- mer opposition politicians who have taken thereafter as possible. Secretary Lew over as Ukraine’s authorities. Russia agreed noted that many of the Finance Ministers to the bailout in November 2013 after Mr. at the G-20 meeting made similar state- Yanukovych rejected signing cooperation ments. Secretary Lew expressed that the accords with the European Union. Ukraine’s United States, together with Europe and new authorities have estimated the country others in the international community, are will need $35 billion over the next two ready to supplement an IMF program to years to stave off financial ruin. (RFE/RL) cushion the impact of reforms on low- income Ukrainians. However, Secretary investigation of Yanukovych documents Lew underscored the need to implement reforms that could be supported by an KIV – On February 22, volunteer divers IMF program. Secretary Lew and Mr. found nearly 200 folders of documents in a Yatsenyuk agreed to stay in close contact lake at the Mezhyhiria residence of the for- over the coming days and weeks as mer president of Ukraine. They had been Ukraine moved forward rapidly to estab- thrown into the lake to destroy them as lish political and economic stability.” (U.S. people were escaping the compound. A Embassy Kyiv) group of journalists and activists has undertaken to rescue, systematize and Yulia to be treated in Germany investigate the enormous wealth of infor- KYIV – Freed former Prime Minister mation about the former owners of the res- Yulia Tymoshenko says she’s planning to idence. The recovered documents are being receive medical treatment in Germany. A published on a website to make them avail- OPPORTUNITIES statement on Ms. Tymoshenko’s website able to journalists and citizens around the said she had accepted an offer of treatment world. The investigations based on these from German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Earn extra income! documents also will be published at http:// The statement said Ms. Tymoshenko would yanukovychleaks.org/ and in Ukrainian The Ukrainian Weekly is looking media. (yanukovychleaks.org) for advertising sales agents. (Continued on page 13) For additional information contact Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. UNA BRANCH 450 ANNUAL MEETING Saturday, March 15, 2014 Run your advertisement here, UNA Branch 450 will hold its annual meeting on Saturday, March 15, 2014, at 11 а.m. at the Self-Reliance Association, 98 Second Avenue, (at East 6th in The Ukrainian Weekly’s CLASSIFIEDS section. Street) NYC. e meeting agenda will include o cers’ reports, election of new branch o cers as well as a delegate to the 38th UNA Convention. Adia Fedash – President Motria Milanytch – Secretary, tel. 917-841-0962

UNA BRANCH 277 ANNUAL MEETING Saturday, March 8, 2014 Hartford, CT. - e annual meeting of UNA Br. 277 - St John Society- Hartford will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2014, at 2:00 p.m., in the lower meeting room of the Ukrainian National Home of Hartford, 961 Wethers eld Avenue, Hartford CT 06114-3137. At the meeting a delegate will be elected to the 38th UNA Convention. All members are asked to attend. Myron Kolinsky, Branch President. No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 13

protest – including on the Maidan – is UCCA on “Bloody Thursday” Canada announces more sanctions NEWSBRIEFS essential. As we have said, there must be accountability for those responsible for NEW YORK – The Ukrainian Congress OTTAWA – Canadian Prime Minister (Continued from page 12) the violence and the casualties that have Committee of America, reacting to the Stephen Harper on February 20 announced events of February 20 , “Bloody, additional sanctions in response to the seek treatment in Germany after attending resulted since the crisis began, and we remain prepared to impose additional Thursday,” in a statement issued that day escalation of violence in Ukraine. His state- the European People’s Party congress, called on “the United States and the ment noted: “Canada continues to be out- which starts in Ireland on March 6. Ms. sanctions as necessary. The United States stands with the Ukrainian people as they European Union to immediately freeze the raged by the ongoing violence in Ukraine. Tymoshenko, who suffers from chronic assets of not only the criminal Our government has responded by intro- back pain, left prison on February 22 after work to restore peace, security, and human dignity across the country and Yanukovych regime but more importantly, ducing a travel ban on the regime’s senior Parliament voted on measures that result- determine the future course of their the assets of Putin and his imperialist leaders and announcing medical aid to ed in her release. (RFE/RL) nation.” (White House, Office of the Press regime.” The UCCA statement also said: assist the protestors in their time of need. “We call on U.N. Secretary General Ban Today, our government is taking additional U.S. on signing of agreement Secretary) Ki-moon and members of the U.N. action to increase pressure on the regime WASHINGTON – A February 21 state- OSCE chair welcomes agreement Security Council to refer the crimes to end the violence. …Today, we are impos- ment by the White House press secretary against humanity perpetrated by Putin ing an expanded travel ban which will pre- BERN – Didier Burkhalter, Swiss foreign welcomed the agreement signed that day and his proxy Yanukovych to the vent senior members of the Ukrainian gov- affairs minister and chairperson-in-office between Ukrainian President Viktor International Criminal Court in the Hague. ernment and other individuals, who bear of the Organization for Security and Yanukovych and opposition leaders. The We call on the International Community political responsibility for the violence, Cooperation in Europe, on February 21 to support a United Nations Peacekeeping from traveling to Canada. This expands the agreement, facilitated by Foreign Affairs welcomed the agreement reached between Ministers Laurent Fabius of France, Mission to Ukraine. We reject all Russian scope of travel restrictions announced on the parties regarding the settlement of the ‘mediators’ as nothing but a thinly veiled January 28. We will also be imposing eco- Radoslaw Sikorski of Poland and Frank- crisis in Ukraine. “The agreement is an Walter Steinmeier of Germany and wit- attempt to manipulate and control nomic sanctions on the Yanukovych regime important step towards the end of violence Ukraine.” Furthermore, the UCCA said, and its supporters. It is our hope that these nessed by Russia, “is consistent with what and the solution of the conflict,” Mr. we have advocated in calling for a de-esca- “We call on the international press corps serious steps will convince the Ukrainian Burkhalter said. He appealed to all sides to to help keep a free flow of information Government to seek a peaceful resolution lation of the violence, constitutional ensure its implementation and stick to the change, a coalition government and early about events transpiring in Ukraine and to the crisis. We will continue to monitor agreed settlement. He congratulated all to break any communications blockade developments in Ukraine, and, with our elections,” the statement said. The state- sides on their work to make this break- ment went on to note: “We support the that the thugs may try to put in place international allies, consider further through possible, including the contribu- around Ukraine.” (UCCA) options. …” (www.pm.gc.ca) efforts of all those who negotiated this tion of the Polish, German and French for- agreement, commend the courageous eign affairs ministers and the special envoy opposition leaders who recognized the of the Russian Federation. “The OSCE need for compromise, and offer the sup- Chairmanship is looking into options for port of the United States in its implemen- the organization to support the implemen- Nicholas Bobeczko tation. Now, the focus must be on concrete tation of the agreement. I reconfirm the action to implement this agreement, OSCE’s readiness to assist Ukraine in every 99, passed away which we will be monitoring closely. In way possible, including through the obser- Monday, February 10, this regard, we call for immediate imple- vation of elections and efforts to establish 2014 at Parker Place mentation of the initial steps – an end to facts on acts of violence and human rights Independent Living in the violence, amnesty and security nor- violations. Given the urgent need to rebuild Mentor, Ohio, where he had been malization, and passage of the constitu- trust between all parties involved, an OSCE living since July 2010. Mr. Bobeczko tional package in the Rada – to provide role as impartial witness and guarantor to married Mary Szmagala August 6, space for the negotiations to begin on for- the implementation of concrete steps 1938 in Sts. Peter & Paul Ukrainian mation of a technocratic coalition govern- agreed between the parties could also be Catholic Church in Cleveland, Ohio ment. Respect for the right of peaceful envisaged,” Mr. Burkhalter said. (OSCE) and remained married for 72 years until Mary’s passing in July 2010. У глибокому смутку повідомляємо все членство Спілки Nicholas was born in Chester, Pennsylvania December 1, 1914. He Української Молоді в Америці та українську громаду, що у graduated from Collinwood High School, Cleveland, in January, 1933 and п’ятницю, 7 лютого 2014 року, відійшла до вічности attended Cleveland Trade School where he studied tool and diemaking. сл. п. He also took courses at Fenn and Huntington colleges. Nick worked at his trade for more than 50 years, most of which were spent at The Murray подр. МАРІЯ П’ЯТКА Ohio Manufacturing Company and Quality Mfg. Company. Mr. Bobeczko retired in 1984 at the age of 70. народжена 3 січня 1918 року в Україні. Марія П’ятка була вірною дочкою України. Була членкинею ОУН з-під Mr. Bobeczko had been very active in the Ukrainian National стягу Степана Бандери. Одначе найбільше праці присвятила вона Спілці Association since 1947, holding the position of Financial Secretary of Української Молоді. Після приїзду у 1962 році з Франції до Нью Йорку, the Sts. Peter & Paul Brotherhood UNA Branch 102 for over 60 years. He була затруднена як керівник канцелярії КУ СУМ. На цьому пості гідно attended numerous UNA conventions as a delegate and served on the сповняла обов’язки поверх 30 років. Вона була учасницею багатьох Сві- elections committee at most of them. Nick was a member of the UNA тових та Крайових Конґресів, Злетів та Здвигів СУМ, кількакратно обира- Senior’s group and attended many annual meetings at the UNA resort, лась членом КУ СУМ в Америці, членом Контрольної Комісії та Товарись- Soyuzivka, in Kerhonkson, New York. кого Суду. За її довголітню та віддану працю на XV Конґресі СУМ у 1996 році вона була відзначена IV ступенем Суспільника. За її працю для КУ He remained active in his retirement years as a member of St. Andrew’s СУМ та за працю в місцевому Осередку СУМ ім. ген.-хор Тараса Чупринки Ukrainian Catholic Church in Parma, Ohio and volunteered at the Tri-City в Нью Йорку була відзначена званням “Визначного Члена” як Крайовою Senior Center in Middleburg Heights, St. Josaphat’s Ukrainian Seniors Управою так і Управою Осередку СУМ. Подруга П’ятка рівночасно була Club in Parma, and at St. Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church bingo in Solon. членом та сповняла ряд обов’язків в інших організаціях - ООЧСУ, УККА, Фундації УВУ. Улюбленою душевною розрадою для неї було належати до Nick was a great gardener, liked to travel, loved to play cards and watch церковного хору св. Юра в Нью Йорку. Вона була невтомним збірщиком westerns on TV. You could always find him in the activities room at Parker на національні цілі, а її дім на протязі довгих років був гостинним при- Place playing pinochle or bingo, helping to make rosaries or baking біжищем для всіх приїжджих з України та діяспори. Подруга П’ятка була невимовно жертвенною, часто анонімно, на різні цілі - допомагаючи чис- cookies. ленним церковним та суспільно - громадським організаціям та устано- Mr. Bobeczko was preceded in death by his parents Theodore and вам в Україні та діяспорі. Catherine Bobeczko; son, Taras (January 2-7, 1953); his beloved wife Mary Похоронні відправи відбулися у понеділок, 10 лютого, в похоронному (née Szmagala); brothers Steve and John; and sisters Mary Toth and Rose заведені Петра Яреми. Парастас, у присутності численних прихожан від- Popiolek. правили о. Вернард Панчук, ЧСВВ і о. Петро Шишка. Почесну варту біля домовини із сумівським пропором тримали члени КУ СУМ і місцевого Nick is survived by his sons Gerald (Mary Jo), and Daniel (Oxana); Осередку СУМ. Прощальні слова висловили о. Панчук , а від КУ СУМ та grandchildren Paul (Laura), Anne (Joe Callis), Karen (Paul Ridder), Daniel суспільно-громадських організацій та установ - Аскольд Лозинський. Jr. (Gary DiBianca), Andrea Gyure, and Gregory (Kristin). Траурно прозвучала пісня “Чуєш брате мій”, а на кінець було віддано по- друзі П’ятці останній сумівський салют – окликом “Гартуйсь!” Also surviving are great-grandchildren Alex and Zach Bobeczko, Emily Похоронні відправи відбулись в вівторок, 11 лютого, в церкві св. Юра, and Megan Callis, Drew and Katie Ridder, Delaney, Austin and Hayden а тлінні останки спочили на цвинтарі св. Духа, Гемптонбурґ, Н.Й. (секція Gyure and Quinlan, Justin, Griffin and Weston Bobeczko; brother-in-law членів ОУН-УПА). Taras Szmagala (Katherine); and many nieces and nephews. Висловлюємо наші найглибші співчуття доням Покійної з їхніми роди- Entombment was February 15, 2014 at St. Andrew’s Ukrainian Catholic нами – Лесі, Тересі і Стефі, і ближчій та дальшій родині. Нехай американ- Church Cemetery in Parma, Ohio. ська земля буде для неї пухом, а пам’ять про неї вічною! Крайова Управа СУМ в Америці May His memory be eternal! 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9

Parliamentary Committee Chair Elmar The violence on February 20 was Yanukovych administration, said Petro Ukraine on brink... Brok said the EU is ready to offer $27 bil- enough to prompt a stream of Party of Oleshchuk, a political science lecturer at Taras lion in aid once an interim government is Regions members to begin abandoning its Shevchenko National University in Kyiv. (Continued from page 1) elected and is ready to prepare for signing ranks, most notably Volodymyr Makeyenko, “After the agreement was approved the Association Agreement. who was appointed head of the Kyiv State between the opposition and Yanukovych, than 16 percent of its value, dropping to its “It seems to me that there will be 20 bil- Administration by Mr. Yanukovych a little which in particular required the removal of lowest level since its 1996 introduction, as lion euros on the table to conduct reforms less than a month earlier. military formations, the leader of these very investors and common folk alike bought up and that support can be offered immediate- He defied the Yanukovych administra- formations perceived it as permission to foreign currencies for safety. The hryvnia ly to prevent default,” he told the 1+1 televi- tion by ordering the Kyiv underground abandon the war,” Mr. Oleshchuk said. “They has plunged 25 percent since January, sion network on February 24. metro system to resume operations the began leaving the government quarter for becoming one of the world’s worst per- The day before, IMF Managing Director evening of February 20, after the entire sys- the entire second half of the day, since no forming currencies in that span. Christine Lagarde said her organization tem was ordered shut down as part of the one wanted to die for Yanukovych anymore.” “The timing of the government forma- will consider a loan should the Ukrainian “anti-terrorist” operation launched by the In conjunction with the pressure on the tion was much more important than its government turn to it for help. Security Service of Ukraine on February 19. streets, Western pressure on Ukraine’s big- personalities,” said Alexander Paraschiy, “Each day of delay looks risky for During the peak of the fighting, Mr. gest oligarchs, including Rinat Akhmetov the head of research at Concorde Capital Ukraine’s macroeconomic stability,” Mr. Yanukovych invited Dmytro Yarosh, the and Dmytro Firtash, likely led them to ask investment bank in Kyiv. “Current urgent Paraschiy said. “The West is very unlikely to leader of the Pravyi Sektor armed national- Mr. Yanukovych to surrender power as a problems that can’t be delayed by jostling provide financing unless a new govern- ist fighters, to the Presidential civil war threatened to ruin the value of for posts are the currency crisis, the ment is formed.” Administration, offering to sign a ceasefire their assets, observers said. approaching fiscal crisis and the Russian Judging by how long it took for the West agreement with him. The three opposition politicians – Mr. activity in Crimea.” to impose sanctions on the Yanukovych “I told him that we never were mario- Yatsenyuk of Batkivshchyna, Mr. Klitschko As much as 7 percent of total bank depos- administration, the wait for aid might be nettes and never will be, and Viktor of UDAR and Mr. Tiahnybok of Svoboda – its – or $3.1 billion worth of hryvni – were uncomfortably long as well. Fedorovych, remove your soldiers because signed the critical settlement agreement withdrawn during the week of bloody clash- The Euro-Maidan activists achieved a partisan war will erupt throughout with Mr. Yanukovych. es, reported Stepan Kubiv, a Lviv banker who their goal of removing Mr. Yanukovych in Ukraine,” Mr. Yarosh told the tyzhden.ua “The West pressured Akhmetov and was appointed on February 24 as the new spite of Ukrainian politicians and Western news site. The embattled president looked others, who in turn pressured Yanukovych,” chair of the National Bank of Ukraine. diplomats, who were ready to allow Mr. exhausted and startled, he said. Mr. Oleshchuk said. He had been among the Euro-Maidan’s Yanukovych to remain as president until an “The matter was we won’t back down, Mr. Sikorski met with them Euro-Maidan commanders and belongs to the early presidential election which was to we won’t put away our arms, and we will civic leaders, among the National University Batkivshchyna party. Indeed Parliament elect- take place by December. stand until the end,” Mr. Yarosh said. “I don’t of Kyiv Mohyla Academy politics professor ed numerous members of Batkivshchyna, Not only would that have postponed an claim credit for this, since diplomats were Olexiy Haran, who complained the agree- Ukraine’s biggest pro-Western party, to key inevitable conflict, in the view of Euro- pressuring him too, but it’s possible that ment should have demanded more from the posts in the interim government. Maidan activists such as Yevhen Nishchuk was also a certain signal for him, when he Ukrainian government. The Polish foreign Oleksander Turchynov was elected and commander Andrii Parubii, but it could decided to halt the so-called anti-terrorist affairs minister responded that this was the Verkhovna Rada chair on February 22, have given Mr. Yanukovych plenty of time operation and remove his forces.” best that could be achieved. which means he will also serve as acting to regroup and wreck the political opposi- That night, Parliament met to prevent When leaving the meeting, Mr. Sikorski president until the elections. Since 1998, tion through ruthless persecution methods. the eruption of a civil war in Ukraine. At told the activists, “If you don’t support this, Mr. Turchynov has been the right-hand Mr. Yanukovych’s demise was triggered about 10:20 p.m., it approved a resolution you will have a state of emergency, there’ll man to former Prime Minister Yulia by the mass murder of activists on the calling for a ceasefire on both sides and for be an army and you will all die.” Tymoshenko, who gained her freedom on Maidan and surrounding area on February Berkut special forces and Internal Army Yet the Euro-Maidan fighters weren’t as February 22 after serving two and a half 20, when armed conflict escalated between soldiers to withdraw from Kyiv’s central intimidated by Mr. Yanukovych as the poli- years of a seven-year prison sentence. the government, defended by Berkut spe- streets. It was signed next morning by ticians. They vented their outrage with the As acting internal affairs minister cial forces, and its Euro-Maidan opponents. Parliament Chair Volodymyr Rybak. three political opposition leaders when Parliament chose Arsen Avakov, a Kharkiv Its leaders claimed the police violated a It also called for the state armed forces they appeared on the Euro-Maidan stage at mega-millionaire who led the party’s city ceasefire declared and law enforce- about 8 p.m. to explain their agreement organization and served as a Euro-Maidan by the president at ment organs to with Mr. Yanukovych. commander. Mr. Yatsenyuk, who led about 8 a.m. Euro- Ukraine’s government stop fulfilling the Each leader was jeered when he attempt- Batkivshchyna during Ms. Tymoshenko’s Maidan fighters – needs $35 billion dur- government anti- ed to justify the agreement. Mr. Tiahnybok imprisonment, was elected prime minister led by Afghanistan terrorist opera- pointed out that 16 of his party members on February 27. war veterans and ing the next two years. tions and for public had died during the three days of violence What’s left of the Party of Regions, led by nationalists – transportation to and he didn’t want any more bloodshed. oligarchs Oleksander Yefremov and Sergey staged an armed insurgency that pushed resume normal operation. Mr. Klitschko allowed the leader of a “sot- Tigipko, declared their opposition to the gov- the Berkut soldiers further up the heights That night, rather than supporting the nia” (brigade), Volodymyr Parasiuk, 26, to ernment and the parliamentary coalition. they were shooting from. ceasefire, dozens of Party of Regions interrupt his speech and come on stage. He Meanwhile, UDAR said it would not join But while these organized units didn’t national deputies were abandoning the delivered an impassioned plea that helped the government (with the exception of Mr. tread too far into the Berkut’s line of fire, Ukrainian capital, many of them hopping change the course of Ukrainian history. Nalyvaichenko) in preparation for Mr. inexperienced fighters did press forward, on flights to go abroad. It had become “We created a turning point. We gave the Klitschko’s presidential candidacy. His likely only to be killed by the dozens. If they had apparent that the Yanukovych administra- politicians a chance to become future minis- competitors are Oleh Tiahnybok of Svoboda, rifles (many didn’t), they were no match for tion was nearing its end. ters and presidents, but they don’t want to ful- Ms. Tymoshenko and , an the AK-47s the Berkut were shooting with. At the same time, top EU diplomats were fill one condition: that the convict goes away,” independent billionaire businessman. In one such incident, a dozen activists meeting with Mr. Yanukovych and Ukraine’s Mr. Parasiuk yelled from the stage. “Friends, I The interim government includes only were killed and dozens injured inside and three opposition leaders in all-night talks. won’t say much. I don’t want to dilute these three nationalists from the Svoboda party near the lobby of the Hotel Ukrayina that The EU contingent consisted of German stupid words that they’ve been feeding us and none from the Pravyi Sector coalition, overlooks the Maidan, from which snipers Foreign Affairs Minister Frank-Walter for two and a half months. I don’t believe in which played a key role in the use of force were shooting. Steinmeier, Polish Foreign Affairs Minister these heavy political processes they’ve tak- in the Euro-Maidan movement. Additionally, dozens of Euro-Maidan Radoslaw Sikorski, French Foreign Affairs ing about. Seventy-seven people gave their Svoboda National Deputy Oleh activists were killed or injured even though Minister Laurent Fabius and EU Foreign lives, and they’re making agreements!” Makhnitskyi, a former investigator in the Lviv they had no involvement in the armed con- Affairs Parliamentary Committee Chair Brok. “I deeply plead with you: support this prosecutor’s office, was elected Procurator flict but merely were present on the The Russians dispatched Russian thing. I tell you from my sotnia, which General by Parliament on February 24. Maidan. More than 100 were reportedly Ambassador to Ukraine Mikhail Zurabov includes my father who came here: If you Part of the reason the new government killed and more than 700 injured from both and Russian Human Rights Ombudsman don’t demand by 10 a.m. that Yanukovych has kept the nationalists on the sidelines has sides during the three-day battle. Vladimir Lukin. steps down, we are going on an armed been the urgent need for Western funds. Among them was Serhii Bondarev, a The first concessions from Mr. assault, I promise you.” EU-Russia Cooperation Parliamentary computer programmer with Global Logic, a Yanukovych were revealed around 1 p.m. His words drew a roar of approval and Committee Chair Knut Fleckenstein said the U.S.-based software development firm. A on February 21, declaring pre-term presi- applause from the Euro-Maidan crowd. Ukrainian government would have difficulty native of in the Donetsk Oblast, dential elections by December and a return Another Euro-Maidan activist, Dmytro attracting funds if it includes nationalists. he suffered four bullet wounds on February of the 2004 constitutional amendments Hnap, told the political opposition leaders “The EU doesn’t support forces such as 18. He left behind his wife who is eight that divided authority between the they had betrayed the Euro-Maidan, partic- Pravyi Sector,” Mr. Fleckenstein said, as months pregnant. Parliament and the president. ularly when signing the agreement with its reported by the Kommersant-Ukraina news- Bohdan Solchanyk, 29, was a native of “During these tragic days when Ukraine consent. Mr. Yarosh declared that the Euro- paper on February 26. “As a member of The Staryi Sambir and a history lecturer at endured such heavy losses, when people Maidan was not surrendering its arms, in European Parliament from Germany, I feel Ukrainian Catholic University in Lviv. He died on both sides of the barricades, I violation of the agreement that had just particular responsibility for not allowing into was fatally shot in the neck by a sniper on believe it’s my duty in light of the memory been signed. government right-wing extremist parties.” February 20. He was with the students beat- of the deceased to announce that there’s After the venting of disappointment, Mr. The Ukrainian government needs $35 en by the Berkut on November 30, 2013, the nothing more important than human life Klitschko apologized for shaking Mr. billion during the next two years, according violent incident that thrust the Euro-Maidan and there aren’t any steps that we shouldn’t Yanukovych’s hand. At one point, all the to an estimate cited on February 25 by then movement onto the national level. take together to renew peace in Ukraine,” political leaders expressed their solidarity Finance Minister Yurii Kolobov, who pro- Red Cross medic Olesya Zhukovska, 21, of Mr. Yanukovych said in a statement. with the disappointed crowd by kneeling posed holding an international donors’ the Ternopil Oblast miraculously survived a Within the next few hours, special forces on one knee before them. conference to enable the Ukrainian govern- wound to her neck with a bullet that was and internal army soldiers abandoned their But by the time the crowds were done ment to conduct reforms and moderniza- banned by the Hague conventions of 1907. posts in Kyiv’s central streets and at the jeering, Mr. Yanukovych had already ordered tion, including fulfilling the Ukraine-EU At one point, she was attached to a respira- Presidential Administration by the busloads. his staff at his Mezhyhiria suburban man- Association Agreement. tor and tweeted, “I’m dying.” She had been More than 35 buses had left by 2:40 p.m., The European Union’s Foreign Affairs on the Maidan since its earliest days. which was the final nail in the coffin of the (Continued on page 15) No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 15

the proposition that the police despotism leader who would take Ukraine into Absorbing Ukraine... and latest imperialism of Moscow are Viktor Yanukovych... Europe would outweigh his fear of Ms. themselves the main enemies of Russia, Tymoshenko and that she would be freed (Continued from page 6) (Continued from page 6) then America [becomes] the objective ally (http://www.jamestown.org/single/?tx_ be swept by “a new wave of separatism, the of anti-Putinism, just as 70 years ago it was Yanukovych’s wrist, postponed the initial- ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=38631&no_ logical outcome of which would be another the objective ally of German democratic ing of the AA from December 2011 to the cache=1#.UvJO-GJdUrU). anti-Russian uprising.” anti-fascism.” following March but continued to hope it At the end of November 2013 the That is all the more likely, he continues, “There is nothing miraculous in this would be signed in late 2012. Ukrainian government, without public con- because it is precisely “through the territo- uniqueness of the U.S.,” he continues. It The third stage – stagnation – dominat- sultation or warning, abruptly cancelled ry of Ukraine” where “the civilizational bar- reflects the fact that “the American [demo- ed 2012 with efforts to end selective use of European integration and locked Ukraine rier between ‘maternal’ European civiliza- cratic] branch of Anglo-Saxon culture won justice and free Ms. Tymoshenko and Mr. into a Russian loan agreement. tion and Russian civilization passes.” The the competition of civilizations,” having Lutsenko. Mr. Yanukovych was only invited Incompetent and corrupt policies by Party latter, Mr. Ikhlov says, should be called defeated all comers, including “the aristo- to one Western country – Cyprus – as he of Regions leader and Prime Minister cratic Anglo-Saxon [British], the French, the “Byzantine” rather than “Eurasian” as it became internationally isolated. Additional had brought Ukraine to German and the Russian.” typically is now. criminal charges, including murder, were bankruptcy. Russian “enemies of the Euro-Maidan” That is why he says he is “categorically added against Ms. Tymoshenko, which did The decision ended Western illusions against drawing Ukraine into a common challenge those who support it by asking: about Mr. Yanukovych’s commitment to “How can you defend ethnic nationalism?” not prevent the EU from continuing to political and economic space with Russia” negotiate with Ukraine. Meanwhile, the U.S. Europe and most came to believe his choice and “categorically for a peaceful and demo- One need not cite Lenin’s notion about the adopted a different policy and placed First of foreign policy partner was linked not to cratic Euro-Maidan” there. difference between the nationalism of the Deputy Procurator Rinat Kuzmin, who Ukrainian national interests but to what Attitudes among Russians toward oppressor nation and the nationalism of oversaw selective use of justice, on a visa would be best for his re-election the follow- Ukraine reflect “the conflict of two forms of the oppressed to recognize that today “Russians in the Russian Federation are not blacklist. ing year. Russian loans with fewer condi- Russian patriotism,” Mr. Ikhlov says. One is tions – rather than unpopular reforms convinced that including Ukraine “in a the oppressor nation,” but rather they are Attacks on democratic rights and media demanded by an International Monetary Russian megasystem is the highest goal of despite their numbers oppressed by “the freedom continued to escalate and Fund agreement – would be more likely to Russia and opposition to this is a betrayal ruling ‘oprichnik’ nomenklatura.” Parliament adopted a highly controversial secure his re-election. of national interests.” But the other is cer- That nomenklatura over the last 20 years language law in July 2012 that raised tain that doing so threatens the interests of has been “powerless” to establish “a super- Russian to the same level as Ukrainian. The occupation of downtown Kyiv and the Russian people. ethnic civic nation,” he writes. “Therefore, Transparency International (TI) reported massive popular protests that reached a Mr. Ikhlov says he is firmly in the second integration with Russia would be con- on rampant growth of corruption and million people at its peak – in freezing win- camp and believes most Russians should demned to be carried out exclusively in the emergence of “the Family,” a new clan of ter weather – were also fueled by four be as well, particularly if they reflect on format of Russification,” something that presidential loyalists from Mr. Yanukovych’s years of attacks on democracy and their history, including the consequences of would exacerbate Ukrainian nationalism home region headed by his eldest son, Ukrainian national identity, and rapacious seeking to absorb Poland and Finland or and isolate Russia from the rest of the world. Oleksander, who, although a dentist by pro- corruption. Unwillingness to compromise conquering the Caucasus. Also indicative, Only if Russia were able to offer a unity fession, entered the ranks of the top 50 added fire to the protests as did the use of he suggests, “is the history of the 40-year- like that which is taking place in Europe wealthiest people in Ukraine list. In the for- vigilantes working with the police who long Soviet control over Eastern Europe.” under NATO and the European Union, a mer USSR, only four Central Asian coun- beat, kidnapped and tortured protesters. But there is another reason that a unity which “does not threaten the identi- tries had worse levels of corruption than Protests turned violent after “Black Ukrainian-Russian super state would be a ties of European peoples,” could a unifica- Ukraine, according to TI, while the Heritage Thursday” (January 16) when what was disaster for the Russian people. The United tion of Russia and Ukraine work. But “the Foundation ranked Ukraine as having the left of Ukraine’s democracy was destroyed States, he says, is “categorically” against the entire experience” of Russia since 1991 least economic freedom in Europe. in the space of 21 minutes when Party of expansion of Moscow’s zone of influence and “especially the Putin era” shows that is The Organization for Security and Regions and Communist national deputies “in a Western direction.” not what is on offer, Mr. Ikhlov notes. Cooperation in Europe, the Council of voted by an illegal show of hands rather In many ways, the U.S. is playing a role in Instead, Putinism “with its legal and cul- Europe and Western governments criti- than using the electronic system. Ukraine that regard like the one Great Britain tural unification, its ‘single textbook,’ its cized the November 2012 parliamentary had become a dictatorship. played in the 19th century in resisting the forced imposition of state mythology on elections as not meeting democratic stan- The image of Mr. Yanukovych and his expansion of the Russian empire to the the basis of the autocratic and Stalinist dards. The Svoboda nationalist party that administration dramatically changed to south. “Therefore, the anti-American imperial traditions and the struggle with was predicted to barely scrape into that of a violent kleptocrat after a tally by Russian propaganda [of today] almost the ‘lezginka’ [a dance from the Caucasus Parliament received 10 percent of the vote mid-January of seven dead (including an exactly repeats its anti-English antecedent.” region] shows that the integration of as Ukrainians turned to it in protest against Armenian and a Belarusian), 2,000 protest- Whether one likes it or not, he continues, Ukraine would in fact mean an attempt to attacks on their national identity and lan- ers wounded, 136 journalists attacked, 30 deprive it of its national identity.” “America is the only great power in the guage. Svoboda and other nationalist protesters kidnapped and 120 detained. Consequently, Mr. Ikhlov says, those con- world,” and its often “demagogic” policy of groups entered national politics just ahead This was reinforced by images of Auto- cerned about the future of Russia and the giving “priority to human rights [for of the following year’s crisis, where they Maidan leader who had Europeans] objectively turns out to be the Russians must support the aspirations of been kidnapped and tortured and crucified Ukrainians who want to join Europe rather played an important role. main opponent of Putin’s imperialism. The fourth stage – violent kleptocracy – in what Amnesty International described Therefore, if one puts an equal sign between than Mr. Putin’s Eurasia. Any other approach was a long time in coming because news as a “barbaric act.” Russia and empire, the U.S. is the enemy.” carries the risk that Russia will have absorbed was dominated by negotiations over the AA U.S. and EU policymakers took four “But,” Mr. Ikhlov says, “if one starts from something that will lead to its own demise. and whether Ms. Tymoshenko would be years to come to view Mr. Yanukovych as a released or permitted to travel abroad for violent and corrupt kleptocrat who had no medical treatment. Mr. Lutsenko’s release allegiance to European values. With Mr. burn buildings, offices. More than 200 offic- in April 2013 had been insufficient to satis- Yanukovych now persona non grata in es were burned in Ukraine.” Ukraine on brink... fy U.S. and EU demands for an end to selec- Europe and North America, it is time for That same day, Parliament approved a tive use of justice. Many believed Mr. the EU to follow the United States and (Continued from page 14) resolution dismissing Mr. Yanukovych on Yanukovych’s desire to enter history as the Canada in introducing targeted sanctions. the basis that he removed himself unconsti- sion to pack several trucks – as released tutionally from fulfilling his constitutional video surveillance evidence later showed – authority, which threatens the state’s gov- with many of the luxurious belongings he ernability, territorial integrity and sover- to put in a plug for Peter Fedynsky’s trans- had accumulated over the years. eignty, as well as violated the rights and A bow to thee... lation of the Kobzar into English – the first “By nightfall, Yanukovych understood that complete edition, from the most famous freedoms of its citizens. (Continued from page 7) there’s no one between him and the Maidan,” Later that evening, the State Customs poems to the obscure – and suggest you get Mr. Oleshchuk said. “The Maidan’s radicals Service reported that it denied permission when he was arrested in a copy and perhaps donate one to your had already promised to go to him demand- for a charter plane with Mr. Yanukovych 1847 – I saw his portrait behind the speak- local library or school. You can find it on ing his resignation. Obviously, that became a aboard to fly from a Donetsk airport. A ers’ podium. No doubt he’d approve of the Amazon or the gift shop at http://www. motive for him to flee, worrying about his group of armed men had offered a large people rising for their nation and liberty. umacleveland.org. (Full disclosure: Peter is own safety. His demonstration of fear, having bribe in exchange for allowing the plane to Me? I’m a more than half a century my brother, and I’m proud of him.) As for left hanging the Congress of Southeastern depart without the required documenta- removed from public recitations of Shevchenko, every Ukrainian can claim him Deputies [scheduled for the next day in tion, the service reported. Shevchenko’s work and now plan to enjoy as a father, which is why I say to Batko Kharkiv], became a catalyst of a steep ruin- There were various reports suggesting his verse privately. On that note, allow me Taras: Happy birthday and thank you! ation of the system. The regime’s core that that the ex-president was in the Donetsk had long rotted away disintegrated.” Oblast, and he was last rumored to have left On February 22, the day after his flight, a Crimean port bound for Turkey. There Mr. Khomutynnyk, head for the exit. Mr. Yanukovych released a video statement was no confirmation of his whereabouts, Ukraine’s ruling... Support for the PRU from Ukraine’s richest businessman and Mr. Yanukovych’s long- declaring he was not resigning and would and Mr. Yanukovych was subject of an (Continued from page 2) not abandon the country. international manhunt. time ally Rinat Akhmetov is also essential. “I will call upon all international observ- On February 27, reports surfaced that real blow to the PRU, as Mr. Khomutynnyk Thus far, there have been no indications ers, all intermediaries who participated in Mr. Yanukovych was in Russia, which – although only in his late 30s – is one of from Mr. Akhmetov that he disagreed with this political conflict to stop the bandits. apparently had given him sanctuary, and those Donetsk politicians who have been in Mr. Yanukovych. This isn’t an opposition, these are bandits,” that he would give a press conference in the leading positions in the PRU since its he said, comparing them to Nazis. “They Rostov-on-Don the next day. Via Russian creation. In Parliament, Mr. Khomutynnyk The article above is reprinted from banned parties, just as now they’re banning media, he released a statement insisting chairs the influential Committee on Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from the Party of Regions, the Communist Party. that he continued to be the lawful presi- Taxation. The PRU will be seriously weak- its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, They create stereotypes, persecute, beat, dent of Ukraine. ened if more people from its old guard, like www.jamestown.org. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9 No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 17

have been some incidents of anti-Semitic Religious... graffiti, but it is not an organized effort. ... Everybody is on the Maidan. The people on (Continued from page 1) the streets – regular everyday people. They walk in front of the UAYA headquarters at care about the future and want to make 136 Second Ave., beside a makeshift memori- change. They are not fascists. They are not al made to honor the defenseless activists neo-Nazis.” violently murdered while on the Maidan. The “We [the Council] have been working memorial, made of candles, wreaths and with leaders of the opposition, with photos of the victims, was constructed by the Klitschko, Yatsenyuk and some even with young members of the UAYA on February 22, Tiahnybok,” Rabbi Bleich continued. “I have under the direction of Ms. Lawro. been asked, but probably will not meet Congresswoman Maloney confirmed her with Svoboda, Tiahnybok, because of state- personal commitment and the commit- ments they have made, but Svoboda and ment of members of Congress “to support other right elements are not reflective of all those people who are putting their lives the whole. ... One of my colleagues was mis- on the line for a free and democratic quoted, said that we said to evacuate. This Ukraine. ...The whole world is inspired by is not true. Our rabbinical seminary is still the peaceful efforts to achieve democratic working. One mile from Maidan. Of course, change and the human liberties, the free- we say to be cautious. Everybody should be doms that are the bulwark of our American cautious.” life. ...You are not alone, we support your Then he added, “Ukraine has the spirit of efforts, you are in our hearts, in prayers... to fighting for freedom. ...Ukraine is blessed.” remember the heroines, heroes, those who The press conference was originally have died and were wounded.” scheduled to be held a few doors away at The UCCA welcomes the cessation of the Veselka Restaurant, an East Village violence and the establishment of an inter- landmark. Although moved outdoors to the im government in Ukraine, stated Ms. memorial, Veselka owner Tim Birchard nonetheless opened the press conference, Olexy, who called for the May 25 elections Irene Jarosewich greeting speakers, assembled media and to be free so “that the voice of the people A makeshift memorial constructed in the Ukrainian Village section of New York by will be truly represented in government.” approximately 30 members of the children of the Ukrainian American Youth Association to honor those killed on the “We urge the global community to hold Ukrainian American community. Maidan in Ukraine. an international tribunal in The Hague... in order to bring to justice Yanukovych and other officials in Ukraine who are responsi- ble for crimes against humanity,” added the UCCA president. Recognizing the economic crisis before Ukraine, Ms. Olexy urged the West to pro- vide Ukraine with the necessary financing to begin restructuring its economic institu- tions according to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development country norms. Rabbi Bleich concurred that the largest challenge before Ukraine is salvaging the economy. “As they say here in New York, ‘it ain’t over ‘til it’s over.’ There are many chal- lenges ahead. The economy is in shambles. It is my hope that the EU and the U.S. will work together to bring the economy back.” Commenting on the violence inflicted upon protesters in recent days in Kyiv, Ms. Lawro explained how the children who con- structed the memorial have been following events in Ukraine with their parents, with the community, and wanted to honor the sacrifice made by the victims of the Maidan. Many have family members in Ukraine who were on the Maidan and the children were acutely aware that the risk, although thou- sands of miles away, was really close to hearts and homes here in New York. Rabbi Bleich, an active member of the All Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations in Kyiv, underscored that the council has consistently opposed the use of violence. “There is no excuse for anybody to be shot,” adding, “we must remember that people gave their lives, remember that the freedom did not come cheap.” He is proud of the work of the council, calling it “the most powerful NGO in Ukraine right now,” noting the strong involvement of religious leaders on the Maidan. “We have met with Yanukovych, traveled to the European Union to explain the aspirations of the people of the Maidan, met with foreign visitors. We strongly support the move towards to more democracy in Ukraine.” Although the Russian Orthodox Church and its leader, Patriarch Kirill, have come out vehemently opposed to the Maidan, Rabbi Bleich said that, in contrast, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church–Moscow Patriarchate has been working with the council, advocating council positions. Asked about Russian President Vladimir Putin and Mr. Yanukovych’s portrayal of the protesters on Maidan as “violent fascists and Nazis,” he immediately rejected that characterization. “This is not the Ukraine that I know. The Ukraine that I have known for 24 years is open, welcoming. There 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9

NOTES ON PEOPLE Polish award in honor of a sacrificial Brazilian is a hand reached out to us UCU vice-rector Ukrainians in a warm feeling of brother- hood,” added the laureate. receives award The recipients are selected by a special CHICAGO – Myroslav Marynovych, for- committee that includes representatives of mer dissident and current vice-rector for the president of Poland, the ambassadors university mission at the Ukrainian of Brazil and Sweden, the United Nations Catholic University (UCU), received the Refugee Agency, the Ministry of Foreign 2013 Sergio Vieira de Mello Humanitarian Affairs of Poland and Institute of National Award “for service in the matter of peace- Memory and the speaker for civic matters, ful coexistence and the cooperation of soci- as well as the establishers of the award, the eties, religions, and cultures.” He received director of the Villa Decius Association. the award in Krakow, Poland. Sergio Vieira de Mello was born in Brazil “For me it is a great honor to be in 1948 and began to work for the United acknowledged with this distinguished Nations while he was studying philosophy award,” Mr. Marynovych said at the awards and the humanities at the Sorbonne. ceremony on October 17. “It is perfectly Beginning in 1971 he took part in U.N. clear that my contributions are all too hum- humanitarian missions in Bangladesh, ble to honor them so highly. The value of Sudan, Cyprus, Mozambique and Peru. this award is not to foster the vanity of the Starting in 1981 he held high positions in laureate. Rather, it gives an opportunity Irena Woycicka, secretary of state of the Chancellery of the President of the Republic the U.N. leadership and was a special again to recall with noble words the person of Poland, presents the Sergio Vieira de Mello Humanitarian Award to Myroslav ambassador to Lebanon, Cambodia, Kosovo after whom the prize was named. The sac- Marynovych. and East Timor. rifice of Sergio Vieira de Mello has always In 2002 he was appointed U.N. high ensured the gratitude of those who respect At the initiative of the Villa Decius ries: to an individual and to a non-govern- commissioner for human rights. In 2003 human dignity and his place among those Assocation, the Polish prize of Sergio Vieira mental organization. Candidates can be Mr. Vieira de Mello was appointed the spe- who will fight for human rights in the de Mello was established in 2003. Every individuals and institutions in Poland or cial representative of the U.N. secretary future.” year awards are presented in two catego- abroad. general to Iraq, where he was to engage in According to Mr. Marynovych, the pre- high-level discussions for four months. He sentation of this award gave him the great died on June 19, 2013, in the terrorist-relat- Brazil. She studied in New York City in the honor of representing his fellow country- ed bombing of the Canal Hotel in Baghdad. Dancer honored 1970s with the renowned dancer and cho- men and those of like mind. “This,” he said, reographer Roma Pryma-Bohachevsky, and “is one more opportunity for all of us to Translation of UCU Press Office text by was the co-founder of the Ukrainian Folk ‘enjoy the luxury’ of human solidarity. For a Matthew Matuszak. in local paper Dance camp in Lehighton, Pa. GLENSIDE, Pa. – The Times Chronicle Among her favorite memories are per- featured the area’s doyenne of Ukrainian forming at the Garden State Arts Center in “Notes on people” is a feature geared toward reporting on the achievements of members folk dance, Halyna Kozak, in an article on 1980, with then-presidential candidate of the Ukrainian community and the Ukrainian National Association. All submissions the front page of the paper’s February 17 Ronald Reagan and his wife, Nancy, in should be concise due to space limitations and must include the person’s UNA branch edition. The piece was the 10th and final attendance, and being part of a concert number (if applicable). Items will be published as soon as possible after their receipt. story in a series of articles titled “Art Talk,” honoring distinguished dance instructor profiling local artists. Valentyna Pereyaslavets. Ms. Kozak, 62, a resident of Abington, Ms. Kozak called dance her vocation and Pa., described dance as “the fun part of life,” her joy, and shows no signs of slowing – a part that’s been there since she was 7 down. Recently she choreographed a work years old. commemorating the 80th anniversary of Ms. Kozak was a soloist and dancer in the Holodomor; the dance was performed various groups, including The Dancing in Philadelphia as part of the Holodomor Sopilka and the Ukrainian American Youth commemorations in November. Association, and has danced on three conti- Readers may view the article, as well as nents: North America, South America and photos and a video, at http://www.mont- Europe. She has directed Ukrainian folk gomerynews.com/articles/2014/02/17/ dance groups in Pennsylvania and New glenside_news_globe_times_chronicle/ Jersey, and directed and taught dance news/doc52fe664b8e5cc935361512. workshops in Sao Paulo and Curitiba, txt?viewmode=fullstory. No. 9 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 19

March 5 Literary evening dedicated to Lesia Ukrainka, Ukrainian March 11 Concert, “Shevchenko and Shakespeare,” featuring New York Institute of America, [email protected] Cambridge, MA selections from the Ukrainian Art Songs Project, Swedenborg Chapel, Harvard University, 978-254-5070 March 7-April 27 Exhibit, “Honoring the 200th Anniversary of the Birth of or 617-864-4552 Chicago Taras Shevchenko,” Ukrainian National Museum, 312-421-8020 March 14-15 Symposium, “Ukraine: Lessons of the Past and Outlook March 8 Taras Shevchenko 200th anniversary concert, Ukrainian Toronto for the Future,” University of Toronto, San Francisco American Coordinating Council – Northern California [email protected] Branch, Koret Auditorium, San Francisco Public Library March 15 Presentation by Terrence Moore, “The New Educational (Main Branch), 650-281-6927 Palatine, IL System Called ‘Common Core,’” Ukrainian American March 8 Ukrainian Heritage Hockey Night, N.J. Devils versus the Veterans 1st Lt. Ivan Shandor Post 35, Palatine Library, Newark, NJ Carolina Hurricanes, Prudential Center, 973-919-1322 or [email protected] or 847-910-3532 [email protected] March 15 Concert, “Shevchenko 200 Concerts,” featuring March 8 Concert, “Shevchenko and Shakespeare,” featuring the Edmonton works by Mykola Lysenko and Mykhailo Verbytskyj, West New York selections of the Ukrainian Art Songs Project, Ukrainian End Christian Reformed Church, www.westendcrc.ca Institute of America, 212-288-8660 or www.ukrainianinstitute.org March 15 Taras Shevchenko Bicentennial Celebration, featuring Cambridge, MA the Joint New England Church Choir, bandurist Julian March 8 Lecture by George Grabowicz, “Shevchenko Studies Kytasty, Olga Lisovskaya and Antonio Stroud, Edward M. New York Today: A Framing of the Problem,” Shevchenko Scientific Pickerman Concert Hall, Longy School of Music, Society, 212-254-5130 www.shevchenko200.org or 781-277-7037 March 9 Taras Shevchenko 200th anniversary concert, featuring a March 16, 23, 30, Pysanka classes, Ss. Cyril and Methodius Ukrainian Perth Amboy, NJ performance of the play “Naimychka” and selections by April 6 Catholic Church, 570-383-0319 (reservations only) the Boyan choir, Assumption Ukrainian Catholic Church, Olyphant, PA or www.stcyril.maslar-online.com www.assumptioncatholicchuch.net or 732-826-0767 March 18 Concert, “Starlight on Stage,” featuring pianist Larysa March 9 Commemorative concert, marking the 200th anniversary Morristown, NJ Krupa Slobodyanik and cellist Wanda Glowacka, Montreal of the birth of Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian Canadian Mayo Performing Arts Center, 973-539-8008 or Congress – Montreal Branch, Ukrainian Youth Center, www.mayoarts.org 514-259-7162 or 514-481-5871 March 21 Varenyky dinner, Ukrainian American Youth Association, March 9 Concert, featuring pianist Thomas Hrynkiw, The Whippany, NJ Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey, Alexandria, VA Washington Group Cultural Fund, The Lyceum, 973-479-8715 or [email protected] 301-229-2615 or [email protected] March 10 Seminar with Yohanan Petrovsky-Shtern, “Equal Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events Cambridge, MA Opportunity Violence: Everyday Life in the Ukrainian advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions Shtetl,” Harvard University, 617-495-4053 from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors or [email protected] and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected].

Support the Ukrainian Heroes: A non-pro t organization “Social Development Institute” is raising funds to provide humanitarian aid to the citizens of Ukraine united in “” – heroes that are defending the liberty and dignity of the Ukrainian people at Euromaidan in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine.

ose willing to support the Ukrainian cause can donate at http://sdinstitute.weebly.com/

e corpses of an elderly woman and a man, murdered by “Berkut” near the exit of subway “Khreschatyk” on Instytutska street 02/18/14 People, wounded and just operated LIKE in the middle of the night, sleep on the  oor of St. Michael’s Golden- The Ukrainian Weekly Domed Cathedral. on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/TheUkrainianWeekly 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 No. 9

PREVIEW OF EVENTS

Thursday-Sunday, February 27-March 9 Kosenko and Bortniansky at 3 p.m. For infor- choir. A highlight of the program will be the University of California; and the Indiana mation call 301-229-2615 or e-mail events@ Strathcona String Quartet and the perfor- University Contemporary Vocal Ensemble. NEW YORK: La MaMa Experimental Theater twgculturalfund.org. Suggested donation is mance of two choral cantatas, “The Raging For tickets, visit the Carnegie Hall website, and Yara Arts Group present “Capt. John Smith $20; free admission for students. A reception Rivers” by Mykola Lysenko and “Testament” http://www.carnegiehall.org For more infor- Goes to Ukraine.” In 1607 Captain Smith to meet the artist will follow the performance. by Mykhailo Verbytskyj. The event is spon- mation call 925-586-9348 or e-mail univcho- founded Jamestown, the first English settle- sored by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, [email protected]. ment in America, but in 1603 he was in MONTREAL: The Ukrainian Canadian Alberta branch, and the Ukrainian Music Kolomyia. Directed by Virlana Tkacz, the show Saturday, March 22 Congress, Montreal branch, invites you to Society of Alberta. It will take place at 7 p.m. is a comedy/musical/historical epic-in-an- Montreal’s commemorative concert marking in the West End Christian Reformed Church, NEW YORK: The Chamber Chorus of the hour with three characters: John Smith, creat- the 200th anniversary of the birth of Taras 10015 149th St. Admission is $15 in advance, University of California, led by Marika Kuzma, ed by poet Bob Holman; Susan Hwang, comic/ Shevchenko (1814-2014) to be held at the $20 at the door and $10 for students. Tickets will perform at the Church of St. Luke in the performance artist and accordion player; and Ukrainian Youth Center, 3270 Beaubien East, are available at Orbit, Meest and from mem- Fields, New York City (487 Hudson St. at Julian Kytasty, legendary Ukrainian bandurist. at 3 p.m. Guest speaker will be Nadia Olijnyk. bers of the UCC executive. Christopher Street) at 4 p.m. Their concert of Show times: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 7:30 Admission is $10. For further information call colorful a cappella music will include works p.m.; Sunday, 2:30 p.m. La MaMa Experimental Bohdanna, 514-259-7162; Zorianna, 514-481- PALATINE, Ill.: The Ukrainian American in English, Ladino, Spanish, Tagalog and Theater is located at 74 E. Fourth St. 5871; or e-mail [email protected]. Veterans 1st Lt. Ivan Shandor Post 35 invites Ukrainian, including the Kyiv composer Lesia Admission $18; $13 for seniors and students. Shevchenko commemorations will continue the members of the community, veterans and Dychko’s stunning “Vesna” from her “Pory For tickets call 212-475-7710 or log on to with the erection of a statue of Taras patriots to a social/informational meeting on Roku.” The chorus will accept suggested www.lamama.org. Shevchenko in Quebec City and a gala concert a new educational system called “Common donations of $20 at the door. For more infor- Saturday, March 8 in the province’s capital at the end of May, with Core” presented by Prof. Terrence Moore of mation call 925-586-9348 or e-mail univcho- details to follow. For information contact Hillsdale College. Prof. Moore served with [email protected]. NEW YORK: In the program “Shevchenko & Orest, 514-255-6021. distinction in the United States Marine Corps. Shakespeare,” world-renowned bass baritone He received his Ph.D. from the University of Sunday, March 23 Pavlo Hunka and pianist Albert Krywolt per- PERTH AMBOY, N.J.: Assumption of the Edinburgh and is the author of “The Story- CAMBRIDGE, MA: The Chamber Chorus of form a concert of Ukrainian art songs by Blessed Virgin Mary Parish and the Boyan Killers,” a common sense case against the the University of California, led by Marika Lysenko, Stepovyi, Liudkevych and Turkewich choir of Perth Amboy, N.J., invite all to cele- Common Core. The presentation takes place Kuzma, will perform at Memorial Church on based on Shevchenko’s poems. Also, hear the brate Taras Shevchenko’s 200th anniversary. at the Palatine Library located at 700 N. the Harvard Campus at 7 p.m. Their concert world premiere of contemporary Ukrainian The program will start with the celebration of Court, Palatine, IL 60067 at 2pm to 4pm. of colorful a cappella music will include composer Oleksandr Jacobchuk’s composi- divine liturgy in Ukrainian at 10 a.m. in the There is no charge for this event. For addi- works in English, Ladino, Spanish, Tagalog tion “Song of Love,” a song cycle of church. After the Liturgy, at noon, in the parish tional information, contact Col. Roman G. and Ukrainian, including the Kyiv composer Shakespearean sonnets. The event is spon- school auditorium, a concert marking the Golash (ret.) at [email protected] Lesia Dychko’s stunning “Vesna” from her sored by Music at the Institute and will take 200th anniversary of Shevchenko’s birth will or call 847-910-3532. “Pory Roku.” The chorus will accept suggest- place at 8 p.m. at the Ukrainian Institute of ed donations of $20 at the door. For more feature a short production of his dramatic play Tuesday, March 18 America, located at 2 E. 79th St. Admission is “Naymychka” (The Servant Girl). Afterwards, information call 925-586-9348 or e-mail uni- free. For information call 212-288 8660 or Boyan will present a moving concert of songs, MORRISTOWN, N.J.: The Mayo Performing [email protected]. visit www.ukrainianinstitute.org/events.php. poems and recitations. Free admission. Arts Center (MPAC) will present a concert by Address: 684 Alta Vista Place, Perth Amboy, NJ pianist Laryssa Krupa Slobodyanik and her TORONTO: At the “Shevchenko 200 Concert,” NEW YORK: The Shevchenko Scientific 08861; telephone, 732-826-0767; website, colleague cellist Wanda Glowacka in a pro- Pavlo Hunka, international operatic bass- Society (NTSh-A), jointly with the Ukrainian www.assumptioncatholicchurch.net. gram of Beethoven, Prokofiev and Franck. baritone, and the award-winning Gryphon Academy of Arts and Sciences in the U.S. This last concert of the “Starlight on Stage” Trio, will join a combined choir to celebrate (UVAN) and the Harvard Ukrainian Research Tuesday, March 11 series will begin at 7:30 p.m. at MPAC, located the 200th anniversary of the birth of Taras Institute (HURI) invite all to a lecture on CAMBRIDGE, Mass.: In the program at 100 South St. Tickets are $40. For more Shevchenko. Program highlights include the ”Shevchenko Studies Today: A Framing of the “Shevchenko & Shakespeare,” world- information visit mayoarts.org or call 973- world première of “The Dream” by Bohdana Problem” by George G. Grabowicz, president of renowned bass baritone Pavlo Hunka and pia- 539-8008. Frolyak, as well as cantatas for Mykola the Shevchenko Scientific Society, dedicated to nist Albert Krywolt perform a concert of Lysenko and Mykhailo Verbytskyj. The event the bicentennial of Taras Shevchenko. Opening Ukrainian art songs by Lysenko, Stepovyi, Friday, March 21 is sponsored by Ukrainian Canadian remarks will be by Anna Procyk, vice-presi- Liudkevych and Turkewich based on NEW YORK: The Chamber Chorus of the Congress, Toronto branch, and the Vesnivka dent and learned secretary of the Shevchenko Shevchenko’s poems. Also, hear the world pre- University of California, led by Marika Kuzma, Choir. Tickets are available online at https:// Scientific Society in the U.S. Greetings from the miere of contemporary Ukrainian composer will take part in a special concert at Weill tickets.rcmusic.ca/public/. The concert will World Council of Shevchenko Scientific Oleksandr Jacobchuk’s composition ”Song of Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall at 8 p.m. The take place at 3 p.m. in Koerner Hall, Telus Societies will be delivered by Leonid Love,” a song cycle of Shakespearean sonnets. concert, titled “a cappella NEXT,” features Center for Performance and Learning, 273 Rudnytzky. Concluding remarks will be by The event is sponsored by the Harvard three choirs: the Ad Astra Singers from Bloor St. W. For tickets call the Koerner Hall Albert Kipa, president of UVAN. The lecture Ukrainian Research Institute. Admission is Wichita, Kansas; the Chamber Chorus of the box office, 416-408-0208. will take place at the society’s building, 63 free. The event will take place in the Fourth Ave. (between Ninth and 10th streets) Sweedenborg Chapel, 50 Quincy St. For infor- at 5 p.m. For additional information, call 212- mation call 617-864-4552. PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES 254-5130. Saturday, March 15 Preview of Events is a listing of community events open to the public. It is a service Sunday, March 9 provided at minimal cost ($20 per listing) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the Ukrainian EDMONTON, Alberta: “Shevchenko 200 community. Items should be no more than 100 words long. ALEXANDRIA, Va.: The Washington Group Concert. World-renowned bass-baritone Cultural Fund will present pianist Thomas Pavlo Hunka performs Ukrainian art songs Information should be sent to: [email protected]; payment should be sent to Hrynkiw in a recital of works by Beethoven based on Taras Shevchenko’s poems accom- Preview of Events, The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ and Bach, as well as piano solos by Ukrainian panied by pianist Dr. Joachim Segger. Maestro 07054. NB: If e-mailing, please do not send items as attachments; simply type the composers Lysenko, Revytsky, Ludkevych, Laurence Ewashko will conduct a combined text into the body of the e-mail message. Subscribe to The Ukrainian Weekly $90 per year $80 for UNA members

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