Inside: l UCCA National Council welcomes UABA – page 4 l Koliadnyky from Kryvorivnia perform in New York – page 9 l Reflections: Ukrainians and the NYC Marathon – page 11

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association, Inc., celebrating W its 125th anniversaryeekly Vol. LXXXVIII No. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 $2.00 A difficult start to the New Year in Ukraine Ukrainian plane crashes in Iran,

by Bohdan Nahaylo and to give a new look and feel to the tradi- killing all 176 people aboard tional speech from the country’s leader. It KYIV – For Ukraine, the New Year has contained few details and did not elaborate started with a roller-coaster effect, moving any precise plans for the year ahead. from seasonal festive joy to tragedy and The main message was the need for mourning. unity at a time of war, economic difficulties It began with an upbeat, unconventional and efforts to get reforms back on track. Mr. New Year’s Eve address to the nation by the Zelenskyy challenged his listeners to reflect country’s new president, Volodymyr Zelens­ on what it is to be Ukrainian today, what kyy, which was warmly received by many, should unite Ukrainians and what threatens but antagonized those in opposition to him. to perpetuate mutual distrust, misunder- And, following Christmas celebrations standing and antagonism, what should be according to the old Julian calendar, it was the priorities today in this regard, and what followed by a very different presidential can be addressed later or more gradually. message to the Ukrainian people – a decla- Mr. Zelenskyy pleaded for understand- ration of a Day of Mourning on January 9 ing and tact, patience and goodwill and, for the victims of the Ukraine International recognizing the diversity in the country, Airlines plane that crashed for unexplained urged unity based on inclusive rather than reasons on January 8 after takeoff from exclusive values or premises, be they root- Tehran, killing all 176 people on board. ed in history, religion, ethnicity or regional In between, other controversies were differences. “In the new year, we need to be stirred up at home, and a number of note- a single country every day,” he stressed. worthy developments occurred on the “This should be our national idea. Learning Vyacheslav Ratynskiy/UNIAN external front, all overshadowed by the to live together in respect. For the future of National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksiy Danilov (left) and Prime escalation of tensions between the U.S. and the country.” Minister Oleksiy Honcharuk at a press briefing in Kyiv on January 8 following the Iran. Understandably, President Zelenskyy Mr. Zelenskyy was immediately attacked crash of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 in Iran. has since been discussing the air disaster by his political opponents, who accused RFE/RL On January 9, unidentified U.S. officials with the Iranian president, and the leaders him of diluting patriotic Ukrainian ele- said they were confident that Iranian air of Canada, Sweden, Afghanistan and the ments in his address and promoting an atti- A Ukrainian commercial airliner crashed defense systems accidentally downed the United Kingdom, whose citizens were tude of “who cares” as regards Ukrainian on January 8 soon after taking off from Boeing 737-800, based on satellite, radar aboard the ill-fated aircraft. national attributes. In his speech he had Iran’s capital, Tehran, killing all 176 people and electronic data. Newsweek quoted a In his first New Year’s address, Mr. on board, mostly Iranian nationals, but also Zelenskyy sought to break with tradition (Continued on page 14) Western and Ukrainian citizens. (Continued on page 9) Building Ukraine Together project celebrates five years by Roman Tymotsko KYIV – In 2014, after the first months of Russian armed aggression in the east of Ukraine, volunteers cooperated to help locals with restoring the damage Russian forces did in their towns and villages. The Building Ukraine Together project (known by its Ukrainian acronym as BUR) emerged as a volunteer action to rebuild houses damaged by war. Over time, BUR has become a volunteer movement all across Ukraine, forming and uniting a new generation of responsible Ukrainians who are making change. Therefore, BUR is about building, still not only houses but bridges of communication between Ukrainians. On December 21, 2019, the initiative celebrated its fifth birthday and shared its insights, presented achievements and announced its plans. “Ukraine desperately needs more responsible and bold people who would dare to start their businesses, go into the government or politics. Unfortunately, there are very few programs that teach those social skills and give moti- vation. BUR is among those few,” said Yurko Didula, a co- founder of the initiative and the leader of the BUR develop- ment team. “We provide young people with an opportunity to prac- tice responsibility. We give them a chance to fall in love with Ukraine and build a desire to make it a better place. Anna Yutchenko/BUR Volunteers and friends at the celebration of the Building Ukraine Together project’s fifth birthday. (Continued on page 4) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 No. 2

ANALYSIS

Th e OSCE in 2019: Epitaphs New chargé d’affaires at U.S. Embassy Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP) doesn’t recognize Kristina Kvien, deputy chief of the U.S. and opposes the Orthodox Church of diplomatic mission in Ukraine, has been to cooperative security doctrines Ukraine, which was granted independence appointed as the interim charge d’affaires have found their way into public state- in January 2019 by the Patriarchate of by Vladimir Socor at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv. In a video post- ments by senior OSCE officials (Opening of Constantinople in Istanbul. Epifaniy was Eurasia Daily Monitor ed on Facebook on January 2, Ms. Kvien the OSCE Ministerial Council, Bratislava, installed as the new church’s metropolitan said that the U.S. “policy of strong support The Organization for Security and December 5, 2019). This can also lead to a on February 3 after an election by high- for Ukraine remains steady.” She noted: Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has marked form of self-censorship in the OSCE’s inter- ranking clergy in Kyiv. (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian “Our Embassy team will continue to part- this year the 25th anniversary of the nal reporting. For example, the SMM’s Service) ner closely with the Ukrainian government OSCE’s Code of Conduct on Politico-Military internal reporting refers to Ukraine’s “non- and civil society and support Ukrainian Aspects of Security, 25th anniversary of the government controlled areas” and the Two Ukrainian soldiers killed in Donbas sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Budapest Memorandum on Security (unnamed) “armed formations” there, support reforms that will help Ukraine Ukraine’s military has said that two of its Assurances to Ukraine (both pacts adopted tongue-tied (pen-tied in this case) about build its prosperous European future.” Ms. soldiers were killed during the previous 24 at the OSCE’s 1994 Budapest Summit), as Russia’s responsibility. Kvien replaced William Taylor, who hours while on a combat mission in the well as the 20th anniversary of the Charter The previous year-end ministerial con- stepped aside earlier on January 2 after country’s eastern Donbas region. According for European Security, the 20th anniversary ference, in December 2018, in Milan, occa- to a post on Facebook by the Ukrainian of the signing of the Adapted Treaty on sioned a German proposal to extend the serving in the post since May 18, 2019. Ambassador Taylor said good-bye to Defense Ministry, one of its soldiers was Conventional Forces in Europe (CFE OSCE SMM’s mandate to cover the Azov Sea killed as Russia-backed separatists violated Treaty), and the 20th anniversary of and the Kerch Strait. German Chancellor Ukrainians in a video statement on a ceasefire deal four times since January 5. Russia’s commit- Angela Merkel and December 31, saying he was “very optimis- Another soldier was killed inside a military ments to withdraw Foreign Affairs tic” about Ukraine’s future. Mr. Taylor was truck that ran over an explosive device near its forces from Russia has turned Minister Heiko Maas launched into the forefront of the impeach- the frontline town of Khutir Vilnyi in the Georgia and pursued this idea ment hearings against U.S. President eastern Luhansk region. Another soldier Moldova (all three the OSCE into an during January Donald Trump in November when he testi- traveling in the vehicle also was seriously pacts adopted at the 2019. There is no fied that one of his staffers overheard organization unable wounded, the statement said. The OSCE’s Istanbul indication in the Trump ask U.S. Ambassador to the Summit). to implement its public domain that European Union Gordon Sondland about Ukrainian Defense Ministry said ceasefire Russia has turned the OSCE’s hierarchy “investigations” against Joe Biden, one of violations by separatists also included the all these pacts into own resolutions on rallied to this pro- the president’s main political rivals. During firing of 82-millimeter mortar rockets, gre- dead letters in posal; rather, it his testimony, Mr. Taylor also criticized Mr. nade launchers, heavy machine guns and Europe’s East. They security affairs in seemed to take a Trump’s decision to delay military aid to different types of firearms at Ukrainian Ukraine and a White House invitation to are also epitaphs to Europe’s East. wait-and-see atti- positions in the conflict zone. Ukrainian cooperative security tude so as to avoid a Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, forces liberated the town of Khutir Vilnyi, doctrines. Russian veto. Russia saying it ran counter to U.S. foreign policy also known as Zolote-5, in late September Russia has passed another year blocked the proposal anyway, not inside the goals in the region and damaged 2018 in the Luhansk region. Russian- obstructing the OSCE on matters concern- OSCE but in the bilateral discussions with Washington’s relationship with Kyiv. Mr. backed forces had often fired on Ukrainian ing security in Europe’s East. In that con- Germany (see Eurasia Daily Monitor, Taylor’s appointment was set to expire in positions from the town, Kyiv had said. It tested area, the OSCE’s operations and even December 13, 2018; January 21, 22, 24, early January but the State Department did currently has less than 20 civilian resi- its choice of words are subject to Russia’s 2019). not extend his stay. (RFE/RL) dents. Nearly 14,000 people have been killed in the conflict and 1.5 million more statutory veto rights; while the organiza- In Georgia, the OSCE has seen both of its 600 UOC-MP parishes convert to OCU tion’s hierarchy is reduced to diplomatic missions forced out: by Russia acting have been displaced. (RFE/RL) silence over this state of affairs. The OSCE’s directly in 2003 and by Russia through Some 600 parishes in Ukraine belonging Languages being squeezed in Crimea year-end ministerial conference, in South Ossetian proxies in 2008. Eleven to the Orthodox Church aligned with the Bratislava on December 5-6, 2019, con- years later in Bratislava, Georgia called the Moscow Patriarchate have in one year The last remaining Ukrainian-language formed to this pattern. ministerial meeting’s attention to Russia’s switched over to the newly formed school in Russian-occupied Crimea doesn’t Russia’s veto of the Slovakian chairman- continuing occupation, militarization, land- Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), the provide instruction in the eastern Slavic ship’s draft declaration on Ukraine – a grabbing (“borderization”) and ethnic dis- new Church’s leader says. Metropolitan language, Eskender Bariyev, head of the deliberately cautious draft, acceptable to crimination of the remaining Georgians in Epifaniy told RFE/RL in an interview over Crimean-Tatar Resource Center, told RFE/ practically all countries – naturally attract- the occupied territories (Address by the weekend that he foresaw another RL in a radio interview on January 1. Seven ed attention, but it had no material impact Foreign Affairs Minister Davit Zalkaliani, “wave” in the future of “such massive con- Ukrainian schools functioned on the penin- and was irrelevant in that sense (except to OSCE Ministerial Council, Bratislava, versions.” However, “we want them to con- sula before Russian President Vladimir the OSCE’s credibility). December 5-6, 2019). tinue to be peaceful, calm, and voluntary... What happens in the field matters far Addressing the OSCE’s year-end meeting we do not need confrontation,” he said. The (Continued on page 10) more. There, Russian and proxy forces in Bratislava, the United States reminded make it impossible for the OSCE’s Special the participants, “Russia continues its mili- Monitoring Mission (SMM) to monitor the tary deployments in Transnistria and the ceasefire effectively or even safely. The mis- occupied regions of Georgia without the he krainian eekly FOUNDED 1933 sion’s personnel and vehicles are systemat- consent of the Moldovan and Georgian gov- T U W ically harassed and threatened, their move- ernments. The people of Moldova still await An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., ments restricted or blocked outright and Russia’s implementation of its commit- a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. their surveillance drones jammed, in order ments made [at the OSCE summit] 20 years Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. to obstruct the SMM’s reporting on Russian ago, in Istanbul in 1999” (Assistant Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. and proxy breaches of the ceasefire. The Secretary of State Philip Reeker to the OSCE (ISSN — 0273-9348) SMM’s mandate is a restrictive one to begin Ministerial Council, Bratislava, December 5, with; that was Moscow’s price for not using 2019). The Weekly: UNA: its right to veto the mandate and kill the Russia’s breach of those 1999 commit- Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 mission. But the SMM is being prevented ments, and the OSCE’s acceptance of the from fully carrying out even the Russian- breach, dealt the first major blow to the Postmaster, send address changes to: approved mandate. OSCE’s credibility. In 2002, the OSCE post- The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas The OSCE’s hierarchy avoids speaking poned the deadline for Russia to withdraw P.O. Box 280 up publicly about this from its Vienna its troops from Moldova and Georgia; and, Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] headquarters or in year-end ministerial at the 2003 year-end conference, the OSCE meetings, as just held in Slovakia. lifted the withdrawal deadline, so as to The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com Individual countries (first and foremost the avoid further embarrassment from Russia’s United States) as well as the European noncompliance. This turned the OSCE into The Ukrainian Weekly, January 12, 2020, No. 2, Vol. LXXXVIII Union collectively do speak up forcefully an organization unable to implement its Copyright © 2020 The Ukrainian Weekly about the SMM’s predicament, but they do own resolutions on security affairs in so in their own name not the OSCE’s, Europe’s East (Russia seemingly accepted whereas, the organization’s own officials resolutions but would not comply with seem to be unfree to do so. them). And in the next stage, Russia took to ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA The OSCE’s internal consensus rules – or blocking such initiatives from the outset, Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 Russia’s abuse thereof – seem to extend to abusing the OSCE’s consensus rules against and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 e-mail: [email protected] word usage in some cases. Moscow’s offi- the organization itself. cial terms such as “the crisis in and around Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 e-mail: [email protected] Ukraine” and “conflict in Ukraine’s east” (Continued on page 4) No. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 3

NEWS ANALYSIS Ukraine’s leaders further jeopardize suspected Maidan killers’ trial

by Halya Coynash tors who had in proper manner and non-appointment, disciplinary measures, structure for the State Bureau of Kharkiv Human Rights through all these years represented the etc.) for their refusal to go against their Investigations be handed to the president Protection Group prosecution in this case – Oleksiy Donsky, conscience and approve the suspected for confirmation, with this including the Ihor Zemskov, Yanis Simonov, [Denis Maidan killers’ release. creation of a department on Maidan cases, In releasing five suspected Maidan kill- Ivanov] and the others in the group who This is not the only concern over the with a staff of 100. ers in the December 29, 2019, prisoner did not come to court, but also carried out investigation of Maidan cases. Other inter- People should not be appointed to man- swap, Ukraine’s leaders also gave Russia important work in preparing for the court views are also due in January of investiga- agerial posts within the State Bureau of potent ammunition for its propaganda war hearings, gathering evidence, etc. – were tors and prosecutors in Maidan cases who Investigations who have a conflict of inter- against Ukraine. The clear efforts to totally thrown off the case and replaced by puppet have expressed the wish to transfer from ests. Although the appeal does not mention rewrite the facts about the Euro-Maidan prosecutors.” the Prosecutor General’s Office to the State names, Maidan lawyer Yevhenia Zakrevska make it all the more imperative that the It is clear, they and the NGO representing Bureau of Investigations in connection with has reported that Oleksandr Babikov, who men’s trial is properly concluded, even if the families of slain Maidan activists the law finally passed on December 3, represented former President Viktor this is now in absentia. believe, that this was done because the real 2019, to prevent Maidan investigations Yanukovych in his trial (in absentia) on Although Ukraine’s President Volodymyr prosecutors opposed any change in the sus- from collapsing. charges of treason, has been appointed a Zelenskyy has sworn that this will happen, pects’ restraint measures. They were Despite the clear provisions of that law, deputy head of SBI. the replacement of the prosecutors running removed by Prosecutor General Ruslan there is at least one candidate, Oleksiy Ukraine’s leaders were warned well the case from the outside by puppet prose- Riaboshapka, and replaced by Serhiy Kutsy, Bekhovets, who has not been a Maidan before the exchange that Russia was insist- cutors on December 27, 2019, give very Oleksandr Shevelenko and Denis Subotnin. prosecutor before and is not familiar with ing that Ukraine release Maidan suspects, real grounds for doubting the sincerity of These new prosecutors were brought in to the cases. The Advocacy Advisory Panel the men convicted of the Kharkiv terrorist such assurances. The families of the activ- support the political decision to release the also notes that there appear to be other attack that killed a child and three adults, ists gunned down in February 2014 and men from custody, which they did, even people on the list who only formally meet and similar, in order to divide and destabi- their lawyers have issued an urgent appeal, though they acknowledged the risk that the the requirements of the law, but who would lize Ukraine. stressing the danger to Ukraine’s most men would abscond and, therefore, the fact not fulfill its main objective, namely to Moscow clearly wanted the Maidan sus- important trial if this is allowed to happen. that the detention ruling from December ensure continuity and efficiency of the pects freed for another reason as well, As reported, the Kyiv Court of Appeal on 19, 2019, had been justified. Maidan investigations. They ask the State namely to intensify attempts at distorting December 28, 2019, released from custody It is these new prosecutors, who also Bureau of Investigations [SBI] to not allow the facts about Euro-Maidan and the gun- three former Berkut officers charged with have no experience of the case, who are the transfer of people who do not meet the ning down of protesters on February 18 the mass murder of 48 Maidan activists, and now entrusted with carrying the trial requirements of the letter and the spirit of and 20, 2014. State-controlled media, such freed from house arrest two other defen- through to a just conclusion. the law, and to publish the list of members as the TV channel Rossiya 24 and RIA dants. All five men (Serhiy Tamtur, Serhiy The Advocacy Advisory Panel has now of the commission who will be holding Novosti have already taken interviews with Zinchenko, Pavlo Abroskin, Oleh Yanishev­ learned that interviews are due in early these interviews, as well as a list of the can- some of the men. These are entirely uncriti- sky and Oleksandr Marynchenko) were January which could result in Mr. Kutsy also didates and of the criteria for assessing cal, with no inconvenient questions asked, handed over to the Russian-controlled being appointed head of the department their suitability. meaning that the suspects’ claims about Donbas “republics” the following day. The within the Prosecutor General’s Office on The authors call on SBI to hold a meeting what happened on the Maidan are likely to court’s ruling was issued at the end of a Maidan cases. The lawyers and the NGO with Maidan victims and their lawyers to be believed by the audience. In their alter- “hearing” that lasted two days although the note that the selection commission hear their views on the situation and the native reality, Berkut officers only shot back result was known in advance. includes representatives of the Prosecutor problems with the investigations into “in self-defense,” and the shootings were The men being allowed to escape justice General’s Office, which is a clear conflict of Maidan cases and that their position be some kind of “provocation by the opposi- is only part of the problem. The Advocacy interests. They believe that this gives taken into account with respect to the tion.” They themselves have consistently Advisory Panel points out that at the begin- grounds for fearing that three of the old above-mentioned and other appointments denied having taken part in any shooting, ning of the appeal hearing, the entire prose- prosecutors – Messrs. Ivanov, Simonov and linked with Maidan. cution team was removed: “The prosecu- Zemskov – could be “punished” (through They ask that a new organizational (Continued on page 7)

Russia and Ukraine reach American companies studying purchase five-year gas-transit deal of Ukraine’s Motor Sich, U.S. diplomat says RFE/RL cates that it is possible to discuss and reach by Todd Prince as he gets set to leave his post on January 2. an understanding even on the most difficult RFE/RL “They’re doing some due diligence, check- Russia and Ukraine have signed a five- issues,” he added. ing balance sheets, visiting the plant, talking William Taylor, the outgoing top U.S. dip- to the owners. They’re doing some serious year, $7 billion deal on the transit of “Pump or pay” Russian natural gas to Europe following lomat in Ukraine, has said that “serious evaluation,” Ambassador Taylor said. intense negotiations ahead of a year-end Under the new contract, Kyiv next year American” companies are studying the pos- He did not disclose the names of the deadline. is expecting to ship a minimum of 65 bcm, sible purchase of Motor Sich, one of the American companies. The deal, negotiated in Vienna, was con- or about 22 bcm less than it did in 2018. world’s top makers of aircraft engines. The Wall Street Journal reported last firmed by the respective Russian and Minimum volumes will decrease further to The United States, which has provided month that Erik Prince – a private defense Ukrainian state gas companies, as well as 40 bcm in 2021-2024. Ukraine with more than $1.5 billion in mili- contractor whose company is registered in Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy The new deal has a “pump or pay” tary aid over the past five years, has lob- Beijing and Hong Kong and who is an infor- in a social-media post on December 30. clause, meaning Russia must pay the mini- bied against the possible sale of the strate- mal adviser to President Trump – had been The current agreement was set to expire mum gas-transit fee even if it doesn’t pump gic company and its advanced technology in talks to acquire Motor Sich. on December 31, risking Europe’s vital link the contracted volumes through Ukraine, to China. A founder of the defense contractor for- to billions of cubic meters in gas from said Yuriy Vitrenko, executive director of Motor Sich is privately owned by its merly known as Blackwater, Mr. Prince had chief executive, Vyacheslav Bohuslayev. The reportedly been to Ukraine nine times Russia via Ukrainian pipelines in the Ukrainian state-run Naftogaz, on Facebook. 81-year-old said he agreed to sell the bulk since 2014 and visited the advanced air- depths of winter. Russian state Gazprom CEO Aleksei of his shares to Chinese companies because craft-engine maker’s headquarters in About 40 percent of the 200 billion cubic Miller described the set of agreements as a “big package deal that restored the balance they were willing to invest the hundreds of Zaporizhzhya. meters (bcm) of gas that Russia has sent to of interests between the parties.” millions of dollars necessary to keep the Citing U.S. officials briefed on the matter, Europe annually has been transmitted via Additionally, according to Mr. Vitrenko, aging plant in Zaporizhzhya running and its The Wall Street Journal reported on Ukraine’s vast network of pipelines. transit fees for additional volumes beyond thousands of workers employed. November 5, 2019, that the U.S. administra- Energy relations between the two neigh- the minimum amount “would substantially However, the deal has yet to receive tion had allegedly approached Mr. Prince boring countries are part of a bigger geopo- increase.” Ukrainian government approval. and at least one other potential buyer to litical tussle involving military occupation – Russia has twice cut off gas supplies to U.S. President Donald Trump in August acquire the company, which possesses sen- Russia invaded and annexed Ukraine’s Ukraine – in 2006 and 2009, leaving house- 2019 dispatched then-National Security sitive technologies. Crimean peninsula in 2014 and has backed holds and businesses there and in coun- Adviser John Bolton to Kyiv to dissuade militants in the eastern part of the country tries farther west out in the cold. Ukraine from allowing the sale to the With reporting by the Kyiv Post and The – alleged cyberwarfare, propaganda, and But as Russia has moved closer to com- Chinese. Mr. Bolton subsequently “ener- Wall Street Journal. international lawsuits on human rights pleting a second underwater gas pipeline gized” the dialogue between U.S. companies Copyright 2019, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted abuses and misappropriated assets. project to feed Germany, known as Nord and Ukrainian officials about the purchase with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medve­ Stream 2, Ukraine’s role as a vital gas-tran- of Motor Sich, Ambassador Taylor said. Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, dev described the deal as “a compromise sit country for Europe has been imperiled. “There are some serious American and Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see that had to be reached” in comments posted Russia has 10 percent left to complete other companies interested in Motor Sich,” https://www.rferl.org/a/american-compa- on his VKontakte page on December 31. the envoy said in an interview on Decem­ nies-interested-buying-motor-sich-ukraine/ “The signing of these documents indi- (Continued on page 6) ber 26, 2019, in Kyiv with Ukrainian media 30346748.html). 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 No. 2

UCCA National Council welcomes UABA

UCCA National Association’s president/CEO. of Ukrainian American causes, established newest member organization, and look for- The high point of the afternoon, howev- a legal scholarship fund, provided assis- ward to their active involvement and to the NEW YORK – The Executive Board of the er, was the report of UCCA’s Membership tance to Ukrainian Embassy and consular many contributions they will make. I would Ukrainian Congress Committee of America Committee, which is authorized and offices in the United States, and held multi- also like to thank UCCA’s Membership (UCCA), the representative assembly of required to review each applicant for mem- day conferences at the U.S. Capitol attended Committee and the leadership of the UABA nearly 30 regional and national associations bership. On the recommendation of the by members of Congress, U.S. diplomats, in getting us to this historic vote. It is a of Ukrainian Americans representing the committee’s chair, Marie Duplak, the UCCA judges, U.S. State Department and foreign prime example of how, in working together, interests of nearly 2 million Americans of National Council, the highest ruling body policy experts, and representatives from we can wield much more influence on the Ukrainian descent, has announced that the between the UCCA’s quadrennial conven- the Embassy of Ukraine in Washington and political process in the United States, and Ukrainian American Bar Association (UABA) tions, unanimously voted to admit the guests from Ukraine, on issues relevant to have a greater ability to assist our vibrant has been accepted as the newest member UABA as its newest member organization. Ukraine’s security from foreign aggression community and our brethren in Ukraine,” organization of the UCCA National Council. Founded in 1977, the Ukrainian and continued development as a sovereign added Mr. Futey. Assembling in New York City on American Bar Association (UABA) is a democracy governed by the rule of law. Bohdan Shandor, newly elected presi- December 7, 2019, UCCA National Council national bar association whose members “We have been fortunate that in the past dent of the UABA, commented on the new delegates – representing Ukrainian are U.S. judges, attorneys and law students few years several prominent national orga- relationship with the UCCA by saying, “The Churches and Ukrainian American religious of Ukrainian descent and those American nizations have returned to the UCCA, giving UABA is both excited and enthusiastic at associations, educational institutions, attorneys with an interest in Ukrainian our community a better opportunity to becoming a member, and we look forward national and central member organiza- matters. speak with one voice to foster a greater to working closely with UCCA, an organiza- tions, and local UCCA chapters – reviewed a Over four decades, UABA members have understanding of and stronger advocacy tion with a stellar history that over the year’s worth of UCCA activities at a meeting developed working relationships with for Ukraine,” stated UCCA President Andriy years has worked tirelessly for the presided over by National Council Chair Ukrainian judges, jurists and government Futey. Ukrainian American community and the Stefan Kaczaraj, who is the Ukrainian officials, led pro bono initiatives on behalf “I am delighted to welcome UABA as our freedom-loving people of Ukraine.”

Shining examples of such communities but eventually, he realized that this is nor- Building... that emerged very recently could be seen mal and life goes on.” at the BUR birthday celebration. The team Mr. Yanchuk saw in Mr. Chubai the (Continued from page 1) from Pereyaslav (Kyiv region) arrived at potential of a pyrography artist. When Mr. We provide young people with tools and the birthday party and brought a gift – a Chubai became a member of Jam Toloka, he resources to launch their projects. And it painting by Oleksandr Chubai, a person attracted both private customers and works. Thus, they learn responsibility and with a disability. The artwork now deco- orders from social city projects. And one of confidence. That’s what motivates us – not rates the wall in BUR’s Lviv office and is his paintings, of course, he gifted to BUR. the homes we rebuild, but the people we reminiscent of the warm autumn when Mr. “There is so little practical training in reinforce on the way,” he explained. Chubai and BUR volunteers cooperated to Ukrainian education that we are forced to On Saturday evening, December 21, create the youth art space Jam Toloka. make ‘learning by doing’ possible,” 2019, more than 100 volunteers and BUR Then BUR helped Mr. Chubai to repair his explained Mr. Didula, speaking about the friends gathered at the platform of art and house. Mr. Chubai met his future wife main principles of BUR training. “Project science Ostriv (Island) to celebrate half a while working on the project. As a result, teams, with meager funds, learn to plan, set decade of the project’s dynamic activity. several BUR volunteers combined a work KPIs [key performance indicators] and Between partying, coordinators summa- trip to Pereyaslav with attending Mr. evaluate their work. Most Ukrainians lack rized the achievements of BUR. During Chubai’s wedding. entrepreneurial thinking and fear responsi- these five years, around 2,800 volunteers “I have known Oleksandr since child- bility, but not our volunteers. We are deeply were involved in different activities of the hood. We live in one area, almost neigh- changing Ukraine.” movement. BUR reached 22 of Ukraine’s 25 Anna Yutchenko/BUR bors. But only after his injury did we “The youth centers that have emerged regions. Sixty-two towns or villages were became closer,” recalled BUR local camp after the Building Ukraine Together camps Yurko Didula, a co-founder of the locations of two-week BUR camps, which coordinator Ihor Yanchuk. “He became a play a role similar to that of the Ukrainian Building Ukraine Together project. are platforms for community engagement stronger person. Doctors said that there Catholic University in Lviv. They form an for rural and urban spaces development. ties. Our engagement with volunteers does was little chance of surviving the operation, environment of people who trust each “We help families to rebuild housing, cre- not end at camp. Among the hundreds of but Sasha (as friends call Oleksandr) not other and share common values. And this, ate open spaces in abandoned areas, and young people who come to the volunteer only survived but also started an active life- in turn, gives one a sense of belonging and have a cultural and educational program for camps, many have their project ideas,” Mr. style, despite his wheelchair. After his inju- a desire to work for something greater than volunteers and communities where we Didula said. “We build young leaders’ ry, a lot of friends lost contact with him. oneself,” Mr. Didula underscored. “We not learn, communicate and share the experi- capacity for learning and applying new Then his mother died. I pulled him into Jam only dream of a better Ukraine, but we are ence,” related Khrystyna Dubnytska, head of knowledge and skills in the field of social Toloka. At first, he was ashamed to go out, building it with our own hands.” the BUR communications team. activism through participation in a training At BUR camps, volunteers repaired 214 program for 50 called the ‘BURLAB damaged houses, created fifty-two public Responsibility Laboratory’ and subsequent ing Chisinau and Tiraspol as politically and spaces, painted 60 murals or graffiti, and implementation of their mini-projects in The OSCE... morally equivalent. Thus, the OSCE’s partic- ipating states “commend the Sides for fur- created 24 youth platforms in the five years communities.” (Continued from page 2) since the project emerged. Hundreds of vol- BURLAB is a 10-day project manage- ther consolidating the achievements since unteers do not hesitate to spend their vaca- ment school for BUR volunteers, where Moldova is the last remaining European the Vienna ministerial meeting,” “encour- tions at a camp to build physical walls and they learn how to implement their own country where the OSCE is still trying its age the Sides to develop joint proposals for destroy metaphorical ones. social and business projects. The school hand at conflict-mediation through a locally confidence-building measures,” and For those who do not have enough time provides maximum information and tools based mission. The effort is 26 years old “applaud the commitment, leadership and for this kind of activity, the Building on project management, fund-raising and and undertaken jointly with Russia since political will of the Sides to the resolution Ukraine Together movement has a public relations. As part of BURLAB, the 1997. From that point onward, the OSCE of a number of long-standing issues [the “BURCHYK” – a mini-version of the classic team holds the “Leadership in Mountings,” adopted Russia’s definitions of the latter are mainly of a social nature]” BUR camp which brings values of mutual a two-day teambuilding program where Transnistria conflict: an internal conflict, (Ministerial Statement on the Negotiations assistance and good neighborliness to the they focus on teamwork, responsibilities Chisinau and Tiraspol as “the Sides” to this on the Transdniestrian Settlement Process, community. “We develop civic awareness and roles based on BUR values, trust and conflict, Russia ostensibly being a mediator Bratislava, December 6, 2019). through short-term initiatives: we help understanding of the BUR-mission. (like the OSCE itself) between Chisinau and Russia has no intention to fully paralyze families in need, create public spaces,” the Thirteen teams participated in the most Tiraspol, and the solution being a “special the OSCE as a security actor in Europe’s BUR website notes. recent BURLAB and presented their mini- status” for Transnistria (mirror case to East. Russia is, rather, interested in keeping Another part of the December celebra- projects at the end of the training. The team Russia’s “special status” project in the OSCE where it is on the ground, unable tion was a discussion on volunteering. will continue mentoring BURLAB mini- Ukraine’s eastern Donbas since 2014). to seriously interfere with Russia’s conflict BUR’s Mr. Didula and Roman Sakh, creator project teams in 2020. By the same token, Moldova is the only undertakings, but providing a token of of Ostriv (the platform where the party was “The Building Ukraine Together project, contested country on which the OSCE is Western presence on a Russian leash. With held), were joined by journalist Roman which began with a simple desire to help, able to adopt resolutions fairly easily at the the OSCE already holding (pre-empting) that niche, organizations unconstrained by Skrypin and co-founder of the Leaders has evolved into a national mechanism for year-end ministerial meetings, including Russia’s direct influence, such as the Fund Denys Andrushchenko. They spoke aid and community development,” Mr. this year in Bratislava. This largely reflects European Union, are given excuses to keep about how to be an effective volunteer, in Didula continued. “Ukraine is full of ideas. the OSCE’s acceptance of Russia’s defini- out from conflict-resolution and peace- particular of BUR, and make an impact There is often a lack of people with the con- tions of the Transnistria conflict (as noted keeping activities in Europe’s East. without necessarily participating in a camp. fidence and resources to bring these ideas above) and the roles of both the OSCE and “We focus on the identification, develop- to life. And when volunteers from all over (officially) Russia as mediators. This year’s The article above is reprinted from ment and strengthening of the BUR volun- Ukraine come together, communities can resolution stands out, not for its practical Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from teer network and enabling its members to accomplish more than they thought possi- recommendations or goals (these are its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, initiate positive changes in their communi- ble.” phrased abstractly), but especially for treat- www.jamestown.org. No. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 5

UNA CELEBRATES 125 YEARS: A snapshot from history, 1991

Above, in a photo taken in 1991 at Soyuzivka, are the members Supreme Auditors Wasyl Didiuk and Stefan Hawrysz; (second row) A photo archive of UNA of the UNA Supreme Assembly elected at the Ukrainian National Supreme Advisors Genevieve Zerebniak, Helen Olek-Scott, Anya history has been launched Association’s 32nd Convention in 1990. Seen above are: (seated Dydyk-Petrenko, Roma Hadzewycz, Anne Remick, Tekla Moroz on the UNA website. It is a from left) Supreme Auditors Taras Szmagala Sr., Anatole Doroshenko and Walter Kwas, Honorary Member of the Supreme Assembly work in progress that will be and William Pastuszek, Supreme Vice-Presidentess Gloria Paschen, Mary Dushnyck, Supreme Advisors Vasyl Luchkiw and Andrew expanded and refined. To Supreme Director for Canada John Hewryk, Supreme President Jula, and Honorary Member Anne Chopek; (third row) Supreme take a look, go to unainc. Ulana Diachuk, Supreme Vice-President Nestor Olesnycky, Supreme Advisors Pawlo Dorozynsky, Andrew Keybida, Alex Chudolij, Wasyl org/una/the-una-is-125- years-old/. Secretary Walter Sochan, Supreme Treasurer Alexander Blathitka, Liscynesky, Walter Korchynsky and Eugene Iwanciw.

UNA Home Offi ce mails ballots for special vote on amended UNA By-Laws PARSIPPANY, N.J. – The Ukrainian National Association’s Home Office has mailed a voting pack- age to all delegates to the last UNA Convention, held in May 2018, and to current members of the UNA General Assembly. The package contains proposed changes to the UNA By-Laws and a ballot that is to be returned via the mail by January 21. Delegates and General Assembly mem- bers are being asked to vote on proposed changes to the UNA By-Laws, a draft of which was presented to delegates at the UNA’s 2018 Convention. The voting takes place as the UNA celebrates the 125th anniversary of its founding. As noted in a letter from UNA President/CEO Stefan Kaczaraj that was sent with the ballots, “The passage of these By-Laws is an important and crucial step to ensure the UNA’s viability for the next 125 years.” Also included in the packet sent by certified mail to convention delegates and General Assembly mem- bers were the Proposed Amended Charter and By-Laws of the Ukrainian National Association, Inc., as well as a summary of the key highlights of the pro- posed amendments. In the event that any delegate or General Assembly member did not receive the packet, they are urged to phone the Home Office at 973-292-9800. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 No. 2

WINDOW ON EURASIA The Ukrainian Weekly About swapping prisoners and justice By taking Zelenskyy’s calls, Putin hopes On December 29, Ukraine and the Russian-backed “authorities” in the Donetsk and Luhansk “people’s republics” carried out a prisoner exchange whereby 76 Ukrainian to spark civil war in Ukraine, says analyst captives – 12 military personnel and 64 civilians – were swapped for 127 people who by Paul Goble the little country to rule in his small place were released to Russia’s proxies. It certainly was not the “all for all” prisoner without obstacles.” This, of course, is “the exchange foreseen by the Normandy format talks of December 9, 2019, nor was it an By taking the New Year’s call from simple logic of a small man who became even swap. Moreover, no Crimean Tatars were among those released, nor were the Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Vladimir Putin hopes president of a large country fighting for its political prisoners held in Russia. Nonetheless, there was real joy in Ukraine upon the to deepen the split between those like the chance to exist and remain Ukraine,” Mr. return of those held by Russian-backed forces, some of them since 2015. Ukrainian president who feel they must Portnikov writes. But there was one aspect of the exchange that is deeply troubling, and controver- come hat in hand to the master in the “But the problem and tragedy of sial. Among the prisoners released by Ukraine were ex-officers of the Berkut impli- Kremlin and those who have been fighting Ukraine is that this logic is no accident. And cated in the killings of protesters during the Revolution of Dignity in February 2014 for five years against the Russian presi- Zelenskyy himself is no accident either,” and pro-Russian militants convicted of a terrorist attack in Kharkiv in February dent’s efforts to occupy and destroy given that “a large segment of the residents 2015. The Kyiv Court of Appeal on December 28 freed from custody five former Ukraine, Vitaly Portnikov says. of this big country view themselves as Berkut officers charged with killing 48 Maidan activists; that same day a Kharkiv And if that split becomes deep enough, small people in a small non-state.” For such court sentenced the three militants responsible for four deaths to life imprisonment, the Ukrainian commentator says, the people, the commentator notes, “the word but then promptly released them from custody. It was justice denied. Kremlin leader hopes that it will spark a ‘patriot’ has become just as much a curse Critics said President Volodymyr Zelenskyy – who called the swap “a great victory” civil war in Ukraine, something that will not word as the word ‘nationalist’ once was.” – had gone too far in his concessions and that including these men in the exchange only justify Mr. Putin’s own actions but At the same time, however, there are undermines ongoing criminal cases. Oleh Sentsov, who had been a political prisoner allow him to achieve his long-held and many Ukrainians who do not think like this before he was set free in a swap in September 2019, said Kyiv was giving up “real unchanging goal of destroying Ukrainian and do not support what Mr. Zelenskyy is murderers” and that “everything Ukrainians fought for” was being undermined. statehood (graniru.org/opinion/ doing. “Each such step by him ever more Mr. Zelenskyy responded by explaining that the transfer of the former Berkut offi- portnikov/m.278117.html). strongly deepens the gulf between the cers was a condition of the prisoner exchange and saying “it was a difficult decision” Mr. Zelenskyy said he called Mr. Putin in president and the patriotic part of society, and a “political” one. “If they had stayed, we would not have received our intelligence order to follow up on the recent exchange and this means between the patriots of officers, would not have received the guys who were defending Ukraine, who were in of prisoners, but he could have called about Ukraine and those who whose interests” Debaltseve,” he added. “We cannot bring the dead back. But we could bring those that on another occasion when the conver- Mr. Zelenskyy in fact represents. alive back,” he underlined, adding “that’s the main thing.” At the same time, he sation, the first new year’s exchange According to Mr. Portnikov, “the Kremlin pledged: “It will not affect the cases of Maidan in any way. As I promised, we will fin- between the presidents of the two coun- understands this perfectly.” And it hopes to ish the investigation of Maidan cases. Definitely.” tries in years, would not have been so use it to its advantage. Having failed to split The problem is, as pointed out in a joint statement from a coalition of groups, freighted with political meaning, Mr. Ukraine in 2013-2014, it now hopes to organizations and NGOs headed by the Anti-Corruption Action Center, the actions of Portnikov says. “ignite a real internal conflict among Ukraine’s authorities “are ruining the remaining trust in the justice system, and first In fact, the commentator continues, Mr. Ukrainians. Putin needs a civil war to justify of all in the recent attempts to reform the prosecutor’s office and the judiciary.” In Zelenskyy wanted to call Mr. Putin on New himself and establish control over Ukraine fact, “Ukraine risks making its justice system a hostage of the demands of the aggres- Year’s “for one simple reason: this was a after a new conflict.” sor state,” the statement emphasizes. “We urge the authorities to find a legal solution call to a ‘real’ president from someone who And because that is the case, he will to this situation, which will ensure the trust of the society and the citizens, as well as hardly considers himself a real president at always be willing to take “each new call of establish real independence of the prosecutor’s office and the judiciary.” all” and who still worse “hardly considers Zelenskyy’s.” While German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Ukraine a real state either.” Mr. Putin and Macron hailed the exchange as a “a long-hoped-for humanitarian gesture that Russia are entirely different. Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on should contribute to the restoration of trust between the two sides,” the European Mr. Putin, whose “office is located in a ethnic and religious questions in Eurasia Union noted the inclusion of the Berkut men and said, “We expect all accusations sacred place for every Soviet and post-Sovi- who has served in various capacities in the will continue to be investigated and the parties concerned to ensure that those et individual,” runs a state in which he acts U.S. State Department, the Central responsible are brought to justice.” without any doubts about his status and Intelligence Agency and the International If they are not brought to justice, Russia will once again get what it wants and suc- that of his country. He can punish those he Broadcasting Bureau, as well as at the Voice ceed in hiding its link to the Maidan killings that took place during the regime of its wants to, and he can pardon those who of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio puppet Viktor Yanukovych. appeal to him in the right way if that is Liberty and the Carnegie Endowment for what he wants. International Peace. The article above is Mr. Zelenskyy clearly hopes that “per- reprinted with permission from his blog haps” Mr. Putin will “stop shooting, release called “Window on Eurasia” (http://windo- prisoners and allow the little president of woneurasia2.blogspot.com/). Jan. Turning the pages back... part of a Stockholm arbitration court rul- Five years ago, on January 13, 2015, Russia-backed forces in Russia... ing, which Moscow did on December 27. Ukraine’s occupied territories launched their biggest military In turn, Naftogaz has promised to 13 (Continued from page 3) campaign against Ukrainian forces since the September 5 Minsk release seized assets belonging to Gazprom 2015 ceasefire protocols, staging hundreds of attacks in a fierce attempt the 2,460-kilometer pipeline project, which in Europe, and both parties have agreed to to take control of the territory of the ruined Donetsk airport. would in effect dispose of Ukraine’s trans- drop reciprocal court claims that haven’t In addition to the military attacks, terrorist attacks were mission network. concluded and sign an out-of-court settle- launched throughout Ukraine: on January 13 in Volnovakha 13 civilians were killed and However, U.S. sanctions earlier in ment. 17 injured; in Kharkiv on January 19, 14 were injured at a courthouse; and on the next day December 2019 forced underwater pipe- However, lawsuits on a state level, par- in the Zaporizhzhya region a bridge was blown up as a cargo train crossed it. The city of laying work to stop because they target ticularly Naftogaz’s claims against Russia Avdiyivka’s coke plant in the Donetsk region was targeted by the Russia-backed forces as companies involved in the project, the main for seizing the company’s assets during its well. one of which is a Swiss-Dutch company. annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula, Experts saw the move by Russia as intended to boost its negotiating position after fail- As a result, completion of Nord Stream 2 aren’t affected by the new transit contract. ing to gain concessions at a January 12 foreign affairs ministers meeting in Berlin. A could stretch to 2023 or beyond, Aleksei On December 21, Gazprom and Naftogaz planned January 15 meeting in Kazakhstan with France and Germany fell through after Rakhmanov, president of Russia’s United said that they had reached a preliminary preconditions weren’t met. Shipbuilding Corporation, said on agreement on the new deal to ship Russian “Russia, together with the separatists, is trying to revise the Minsk accords, while December 24. It would take Russia two gas through Ukraine’s pipelines. But techni- Ukraine and the EU are insisting on their fulfillment,” said Volodymyr Fesenko of the Penta years to design the ships needed for the cal and other talks on specifics continued Center for Applied Political Research in Kyiv. “Not having achieved their goal, Russia and project, and even more to build, he said. until the announcement of the signing. the separatists want to force Ukraine into a peace based on their conditions.” Some legal disputes settled, but not all Russia’s primary goal was for the separatists to be recognized as an official part in the Copyright 2019, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted negotiation process, rather than observers, as they had been previously designated. On The new deal, according to Mr. with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ the ground, Russia would attempt to move the contact line as far west into Ukrainian Zelenskyy, stipulates that “both sides Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, lands as possible. Other targeted cities included the train hub city of Debaltseve and the reserve the right to extend the contract for Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see Azov Sea port of Mariupol. another 10 years” after its expiration. https://www.rferl.org/a/long-russia- Russia suffered hundreds of casualties during the week of January 17-18, and after that, Also part of the new contract is Russia ukraine-reach-five-year-gas-transit-deal/ Russian armed forces dispatched two tactical groups into Ukrainian territory, reported the agreeing to pay $2.9 billion to Ukraine as 30353000.html). National Security and Defense Council on January 19. Reported hardware included tanks, howitzers, radio-electronic warfare systems, as well as Grad, Smerch and Buk rocket systems. Another round of talks was scheduled for January 21 in Berlin at the ministerial level in the Normany format (France, Germany, Ukraine and Russia). Foreign Affairs Minister Pavlo Klimkin expressed skepticism about the talks, as Russia would need to remove its The Ukrainian Weekly (Continued on page 14) LIKE on Facebook! No. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 7

FOR THE RECORD Secretary of State on UIA crash U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo International Airlines flight PS 752. The released the following statement on January United States will continue to follow this 8. incident closely and stands prepared to The U.S. Department of State extends offer Ukraine all possible assistance. The our deepest condolences to the families United States calls for complete coopera- and friends of the 176 passengers and tion with any investigation into the cause 2020 visions crew killed in the tragic crash of Ukraine of the crash. It’s New Year’s Eve in a tony East Coast “Unfortunately, you can’t. But how can suburb. you not impeach someone who’s playing “Old Shchur must have done well this Russia’s game? Or at least put him out of year,” declares Danko, swirling his caber- the running in November?” UCC on crash of UIA Flight 752 net. “He used to serve plonk from Modesto. “But impeachment is part of Russia’s The Ukrainian Canadian Congress issued Alexandra Chyczij, president of the UCC. Now it’s Napa Valley, and the best.” game too,” argues Romko. “It makes us look the release below on January 8. “We are deeply saddened and shocked by “You’ve got to admit the economy’s weak and stupid. Just watch – next year, this devastating tragedy, and join Ukraine, doing well,” replies Romko. “Robust while we’re fixated on impeachment, Putin The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) Canada and the international community in growth, low interest rates, and the Dow is will pull another fast one. Maybe in Ukraine.” expresses its deep condolences to the loved mourning. It is particularly tragic to see up. Even we Ukes have come up in the “Professor Schmetterling thinks Putin ones of the victims of the Ukraine that so many of the victims were young world. Globalization is our friend.” won’t last,” remarks Irka. International Airlines airplane crash. UIA people. May the memory of the victims be “It’s not floating all boats,” counters “He said that ages ago.” Flight 752 crashed minutes after takeoff Danko. “Look at those miners and steel- “And it’s still true.” from Tehran, Iran, on the night of January 7, In Kyiv this morning, flowers were being workers in the Rust Belt. They’re not even “It’s not just Putin,” sighs Danko. “Russia 2020. placedeternal. Вічнаяat the пам’ять.”doors of the Embassy of looking for jobs. That’s why they don’t won’t stop until they’ve taken over According to reports, 63 Canadians were Canada to Ukraine to honor and remember show up in the statistics. They’re getting Ukraine.” among the 176 victims who died in the the many Canadian victims. addicted to opioids, getting divorced and “I think they’d rather just control it, sub- crash. While the cause of the plane crash has killing themselves. There’s a lot of descen- verting its government, fomenting chaos,” “On behalf of the UCC, I express my con- not yet been established, we urge all of the dants of our old immigrants there… And observes Romko. “And keeping it out of dolences to the families and friends of the national governments involved to work guess who they’ll vote for next year.” NATO. Let’s face it, NATO is an appendage victims of this terrible event,” stated cooperatively on a full investigation. “And for good reason. But you and I must of America. The Russians want to be a big be living in different universes. Because in player. They want to cut us down to size. reality, those workers have been doing bet- And whatever happened to the multi-polar ter these past three years. Employment is world? Our liberals used to criticize up, wages are up… Now that we’re playing America being the world’s policeman. Prisoner exchange: the real cost tough with China and putting up tariffs, When we tried to stop communism in deregulating our industries, limiting immi- Vietnam, they said you can’t spread democ- The following statement was released by forces, Russia can no longer deny its gration, our workers have a chance. We racy from the barrel of a gun. Now we’ve the Ukrainian World Congress on December responsibility for the atrocities committed needed a little creative destruction.” had troops in Afghanistan and Iraq for how 29, 2019. during Ukraine’s Revolution of Dignity, nor “It’s destruction all right, but I wouldn’t many years, and what have we accom- its control over proxies and mercenaries of call it creative,” interjects Irka, drifting in plished?” After the December 9 Normandy sum- the so-called LNR and DNR. from Shchur’s dim library. The federal gov- “I don’t think America can spread democ- mit in Paris, the Ukrainian World Congress The UWC calls on the president and gov- ernment isn’t just a bunch of bean-counting racy in the Middle East or Africa,” admits (UWC), together with millions of ernment of Ukraine to uphold the rule of bureaucrats. Decades of hard work have Danko. “But it should defend democracy Ukrainians around the world, continues to law and remain committed to the indepen- been thrown to the winds. Environmental where it already exists.” follow the implementation of its key resolu- dence and integrity of the judicial system in protection, health and safety regulations…” “That idea’s past its prime,” says Romko tions. The agreement as announced by Ukraine. The global Ukrainian community “Besides, immigrants aren’t taking away bitterly. “We can’t be the only superpower. President Zelenskyy to an “all for all” pris- stands with the citizens of Ukraine in those jobs,” adds Danko. “Immigrants have We’ve got to share power with Europe, oner exchange between Ukraine and Russia demanding that justice is finally brought been doing the hard, dirty work that no one India, even undemocratic regimes like was one of the most anticipated immediate upon those responsible for war crimes and else wanted to do since the Irish potato fam- China…” steps. While the UWC welcomes the return crimes against humanity committed ine. The guys who mow our lawns and wash “And Russia?” snaps Danko. “That’s not of 76 Ukrainian political and military pris- against the Ukrainian people. We must our windows didn’t take those jobs away good news for Ukraine.” oners to their families, the global Ukrainian honor the sacrifices and protect the values from industrial workers in the Rust Belt.” “Ukraine doesn’t have to be an American community shares the deep concern of of the Revolution of Dignity. “As if either party cared,” muses Irka. proxy,” comments Romko. “Our politicians Ukraine’s civil society about the actual cost “The Ukrainian World Congress, and the “There’s no dignified work for Americans think they can tell Ukrainians whom to of this exchange and its future implications. global Ukrainian community, stood shoul- with a high-school education, and you can’t investigate or not investigate, whom to fire, These concerns relate to the exchange by der to shoulder with the people of Ukraine just re-train them for high-tech jobs. Wall whom to elect. It’s shameful. Ukraine needs Ukraine of suspects accused of torturing and in 2014 during the Revolution of Dignity Street and Big Tech love globalization, to stand on her own feet. And she belongs killing peaceful protesters during Ukraine’s and continue to support Ukraine as its peo- because it means they can abandon entire in Europe.” Revolution of Dignity in 2014. This demand ple bravely defend their homes and families communities if there’s cheaper labor in Asia. “But Ukraine can’t trust the Europeans,” by Russia further demonstrates its direct against Russia’s continued military aggres- And Wall Street and Big Tech fund both par- Danko points out. “They don’t care about involvement in the crimes committed sion. The world needs to be reminded that ties. The Republicans are fixated on eco- Ukrainians. They’re certainly not going to against the 2014 peaceful demonstrations in brave Ukrainian men and women continue nomic growth and investors’ bottom line. stick their necks out for them simply Ukraine, which they continue to deny. This is to die and be wounded almost on a daily The Democrats, who used to support labor, because they have better ‘European values’ another glaring example of the hybrid war basis by Russian-controlled forces. We urge are fixated on the oppressed minority du than Europe itself.” Russia wages against Ukraine. the international community to support jour. No one cares about fat middle-aged “Remember,” Romko adds, “Europe isn’t The UWC once again calls on the inter- Ukraine in the face of continued Russian white men who don’t fit into the new econo- even a nation. And the EU is coming apart. national community to declare Russia as an hybrid aggression which takes many my.” It’s lost its focus. It’s an unelected bureau- aggressor state, and maintain pressure and shapes and forms. Implementation of the “So, who would you vote for?” asks cracy that tells national electorates what to sanctions to prevent further hostage-taking Normandy resolutions is necessary for Danko. do. And no one benefits but the global elite. and ensure effective implementation of the peace in Ukraine, but it must be fair and not “No one from the big parties,” answers Your Polish coalminer in Silesia resents Normandy summit resolutions. With its at all costs,” stated Paul Grod, UWC presi- Irka. “You know how elections work. They them for the same reasons his cousin in demand for the exchange of these security dent. pick the candidate and the program that’s Pennsylvania resents people like us.” most likely to win the election. Then they “And Putin exploits that,” mutters Irka. forget the program and start delivering on “He wanted Brexit, and he got it.” lous efforts by the prosecutors from the the promises they made to their donors. I’ll “We scream about populism,” remarks Ukraine’s leaders... now-dissolved Special Investigations just vote for the best local candidates. Romko, “but one man’s populism is another Department to ensure that the case would (Continued from page 3) Democracy can only be local. Jefferson knew man’s democracy. People want to run their stand up at all court levels, including inter- that. The Zaporozhian Sich knew that!” own affairs, without Brussels telling them and in one of the interviews it was claimed national, not for want of evidence. “Well, you know the litmus test for a how many centimeters long they have to that the fact the trial was taking so long If the trial is now allowed to become an presidential candidate. Is he good for grow their cucumbers. The problem isn’t was proof that there was no evidence empty formality, and other investigations Ukraine?” illiberalism. The problem is ill liberals.” against them. left to quietly die, there is a real danger that “Or she,” Irka reminds him. “Or they. But It is nearing midnight. A grinning Shchur All of the above is in conflict with vast this will be used by Russia, together with who’s good for Ukraine? Not someone who approaches with a tray of shot glasses of amounts of video footage, witness testimo- certain individuals in Ukraine, like Andriy doesn’t think it’s a real country.” clear, cold horilka. And they toast a new ny and material evidence (ballistic reports, Portnov, a former aide to Viktor “Or someone who thinks socialism is year filled with dissension and doubt. etc.). The trial was taking so long because Yanukovych, to actively push their own, still a workable idea,” points out Romko. of the enormous number of victims who “alternative” narrative about what hap- “But we’ll see how the impeachment trial Andrew Sorokowski can be reached at needed to be questioned, and the scrupu- pened on the Maidan. goes. If you can call it a trial.” [email protected]. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 No. 2 No. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 9 Koliadnyky from Kryvorivnia present music from the Carpathian Mountains

by Ihor Slabicky audience joined the ensemble for a hearty “Dobryi Vechir Tobi, Pane Hospodariu.” NEW YORK – Friday and Saturday, “Ishly Molodtsi,” a very old koliadka, fol- December 6 and 7, 2019, proved to be lowed, sung by Mr. Kytasty, as he played on exceptionally active days at The Ukrainian his Kharkivska bandura accompanied by Museum in New York City. There was the the Koliadnyky. Soloing on the tsymbaly, Mr. annual Christmas Bazaar, where one could Tymchuk played a selection of Hutsul buy books, embroideries and woodcuts, dance melodies, displaying his mastery of and select from a huge variety of delicious the instrument and technique with ever- home-made pastries, medivnyky and cook- quickening finger work. ies. Lubow Wolynetz and other baking spe- With Mr. Kytasty playing an overblown cialists led a workshop in Ukrainian sopilka, and accompanied by Ms. Voloshyna Christmas Traditions. The exhibit by paint- on a hand drum, the duo sang “Stone Age er Mikhail Turovsky, “From Darkness to Carol (Na Chystim Poli),” a piece developed Light,” was available for viewing in the by Mr. Kytasty and Alexis Kochan. main gallery. “The Impact of Modernity” When the duo departed, the Koliadnyky was up in the second floor gallery, and an launched into a Hutsul dance medley, exhibit of “Selected Works” by Alexander which again allowed Mr. Tymchuk to dis- Archipenko in the entry gallery. The “piece play his mastery of the tsymbaly. They then de resistance” were the Koliadnyky from performed the “Kruhlyak” ritual round Kryvorivnia, who had last been at the dance for the bees, so that they may have museum in 2015. robust hives and proliferate in the pollina- “Koliada and Music from the tion of flowers. Carpathians” presented the traditional win- Ihor Slabicky The Koliadnyky left the house accompa- nied by the “Plies (My Kolidnychky)” and ter ritual of songs that are performed at Koliadnyky from Kryvorivnia – Ostap Kostyuk, Mykola Ilyuk, Vasyl Tymchuk, Ivan each household to ensure health, love, Zelenchuk and Mykola Zelenchuk – with Julian Kytasty at The Ukrainian Museum the “Teche Richka” spivanka. Their depar- wealth and happiness for all members of in New York City on December 7, 2019. ture was heralded by a round of soundings the household and a bountiful harvest for of the trembita. The audience’s response the homestead in the coming year. Kolidnychky.” Next, “Tsy Doma, Doma, Tsey Dressed in beautifully embroidered tra- was a heartfelt and passionate standing The Koliadnyky consist of Ivan Pan Hospodar” inquired if the master of the ditional folk costumes, Iryna Voloshyna, ovation. The Koliadnyky simply had to Zelenchuk (the “bereza” or lead singer), house was in and would he invite them in. Laryssa Czebiniak, Ezra Halleck and Asia return, and they did, singing “Slavni Mykola Zelenchuk (singer, trembita [moun- Mr. Kostyuk then played a tantalizing melo- Mieleszko of the Ukrainian Village Voices Kolidnychky,” extolling their fame. The tain long horn], drymba [jaw harp] and dy on the duda. With Mr. Ilyuk on violin, the entered, their four voices brilliantly blend- audience joined them to sing a rousing bubon), Mykola Ilyuk (singer, fiddle, drym- koliadnyky sang “A My Sobi Zaspivayem” ed on “Shcho Na Richtsi, Shcho Na Yordani.” “Nova Radist Stala” and after several more ba, and folk flutes), Vasyl Tymchuk (tsym- finishing with the “Trypotinnya,” its rhyth- In response, Mr. Kostyuk and Mykola well-deserved ovations, the musicians sat baly), and Ostap Kostyuk (duda [goatskin mic footwork meant to shake off the snow Zelenchuk greeted them with a lively “Plies down and performed a lively Hutsul dance bagpipes], floyara [overtone flute], drymba, from their garments. z Dzvinkamy” stepping dance. The melody to end the evening. flutes and trembita). Certain songs in this ritual are directed response to the Koliadnyky was the shche- Besides performing at The Ukrainian On both Friday and Saturday evening to a specifc person who is mentioned by drivka “Shcho v Pana Khazayina,” sung as a Museum, earlier that Saturday the before sold-out houses, they performed the name in the song. “V Nashoho Pana” is to round, with the foursome now in two duos Koliadnyky held a “Hutsul Winter Songs” traditional koliada as they have done for the hospodar of the house, in this case, an creating an intricate and lyrical weaving. workshop in conjunction with the Ukrainian countless years in the Carpathian Moun­ esteemed gentleman in the audience. After Ms. Czebiniak concluded the quartet’s visit Village Voices. Sunday, December 8, saw tains. These events, presented by artistic their “vinshuvannia,” in which they wished with a vinshuvannia for the koliadnyky. them performing with Julian Kytasty and the director Virlana Tkach, are the first of a year- him much plenitude and wealth and boun- Continuing the festive tone, the trio of Accolada Chamber Choir at the Ukrainian long celebration that marks the 30th year of ty in the coming year, Mr. Kostyuk played a Mr. Kostyuk, Mr. Ilyuk and Mykola Educational and Cultural Center in the Yara Arts Group, which she heads. melody on the floyara. The koliadnyky sang Zelenchuk performed a medley of folk mel- Jenkintown, Pa. They again performed with This ritual began with the Koliadnyky “V Nedilyu Rano” to the hospodynya of the odies on their drymby. The four musicians Julian Kytasty on Sunday, December 15, at ringing hand bells and blowing blasts on house, in this case Maria Shust, the director then performed a sensuous “Hutsulka” that the Hudson River Museum in Yonkers, NY. the trembita, casting a mystical spell on all of the museum. segued into a very lively “Arkan.” On December 21, they appeared with the who heard them. They announced their With these greetings concluded, the four Renowned bandurist and composer Nova Opera from Kyiv and the Yara Arts presence outside the “house” (the perfor- musicians played a Hutsul melody on tylyn- Julian Kytasty joined the Koliadnyky. He sang Group in Ms. Tkach’s production of “Winter mance space at the museum) with a “Plies” ka, tsymbaly, violin and bubon, starting the “Oy Krasenyu Yasniy” a koliadka from the Songs on Mars” at the LaMama Experi­ (a winter dance) and then sang “My festive portion of the evening. steppes of the Sumy region of Ukraine. The mental Theater in New York City.

that he was breaking off his visit to Oman to return to Kyiv. been suspended indefinitely. The company said in a state- Ukrainian plane... Iran and Ukraine agreed “to coordinate further actions ment that most passengers were in transit and due to con- of our investigation groups closely to determine the cause nect to other flights on arrival in Ukraine. (Continued from page 1) of the terrible plane crash,” according to Ukrainian Foreign The plane’s two black boxes have been retrieved and are Pentagon and a senior U.S. intelligence official, as well as an Affairs Minister Vadym Prystaiko. being investigated by Iranian aviation experts, the semioffi- Iraqi intelligence official, as saying they believed the National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksiy cial ISNA news agency reported. Ukrainian plane was hit by a Russian-made Tor missile. Danilov said Kyiv was examining whether a missile strike The public prosecutor’s office in Tehran said the Debris and smoldering parts from the aircraft belonging had brought down the aircraft. remains of all passengers had been brought to forensics to Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) were strewn across In a statement, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau experts. a field southwest of the Iranian capital’s Imam Khomeini said his government will “work closely with its internation- Airline manufacturers usually assist in crash investiga- International Airport as rescue teams with face masks al partners to ensure that this crash is thoroughly investi- tions, but such an effort could be affected in this case by retrieved bodies. gated, and that Canadians’ questions are answered.” U.S. sanctions reinstated after President Donald Trump The crash of UIA Flight 752 came just hours after Iran U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United unilaterally withdrew from Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal with launched a ballistic-missile attack targeting two bases in Iraq States was prepared to offer Ukraine “all possible assis- world powers in May 2018. housing U.S. forces in retaliation for the killing of Iranian tance... with any investigation into the cause of the crash.” Iran’s semiofficial news agency Mehr quoted the head of the country’s civil aviation authority as saying Iran would Revolutionary Guards Corps commander Qasem Soleimani. Early reports about crash The three-year-old aircraft was en route to Kyiv. not give the black boxes to Boeing. Ukrainian authorities said the victims included 82 Iranians, Ukraine’s Embassy in Tehran initially blamed engine The Boeing 737-800 is a common single-aisle, twin- 63 Canadians, 11 Ukrainians, including all nine crew, 10 failure but later removed the statement. An Embassy offi- engine jetliner used for short- to medium-range flights. Swedes, four Afghans, three Britons and three Germans. cial said Iranian authorities had asked it to rescind an earli- Thousands of the planes are used by airlines around the er statement from Iran based on preliminary information. world. Introduced in the late 1990s, it is an older model Ukraine takes action Iranian TV said the crash was due to unspecified techni- than the Boeing 737 MAX, which has been grounded for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy­ said in a cal problems, and Iranian media quoted a local aviation nearly 10 months following two deadly crashes. statement that he had instructed the country’s prosecutor official as saying the pilot did not declare an emergency. general to open criminal proceedings over the crash. He State media reported that the plane caught fire after With reporting by AP, AFP, Reuters, Newsweek, Fars, DPA declared January 9 as a day of mourning. crashing, but a video aired by the state broadcaster and IRNA. Ukraine sent a team of experts to Iran to investigate the appeared to show the plane already on fire as it fell from Copyright 2020, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted with the permis- circumstances of the crash. “Our priority is to establish the the night sky. sion of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut truth and those responsible for this terrible catastrophe,” In a comment on Facebook, Mr. Zelenskyy warned Ave. NW, Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see original Mr. Zelenskyy wrote on Facebook. against speculation about the crash. “I ask everyone to news story at https://www.rferl.org/a/reports-ukrainian- Mr. Zelenskyy also said the airworthiness of Ukraine’s keep from speculating and putting forth unconfirmed theo- plane-with-at-least-170-aboard-crashes-near-tehran-in- entire civilian fleet will be tested. ries about the crash,” he wrote. iran/30365544.html and updated information at https:// “My sincere condolences to the relatives and friends of UIA said the plane underwent its last technical mainte- www.rferl.org/a/reports-ukraine-plane-was-brought-down- all passengers and crew,” Mr. Zelenskyy said, announcing nance on January 6. It also said all flights to Tehran have by-iranian-missile-u-s-officials-say/30368793.html). 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 No. 2

About 3 percent of 200,700 schoolchildren with Crimean Tatar instruction and five between the two adversaries. Mr. Putin NEWSBRIEFS there were taught in the Crimean Tatar lan- schools provide teaching in Ukrainian in expressed a positive opinion about Mr. guage in 2018-2019, the peninsula’s educa- eight classes. As recently as December 30, Zelenskyy during a meeting with business (Continued from page 2) tion authority reports. Mr. Bariyev noted 2019, Russia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry leaders last week, saying the Ukrainian Putin gave an order to send troops in early that the status of 16 Crimean Tatar lan- issued a statement on Crimea: “The leader was trying to build dialogue with 2014 to seize the Ukrainian territory. The guage schools have also been altered since [Foreign] Ministry’s official position, which Russia, Forbes reported, citing one of the school is registered in the southeastern annexation. Seven preserved instruction in has been voiced many times, is that the participants. However, the Russian presi- coastal town of Feodosiya and, according to Crimean Tatar, while five have been trans- proclamation of the independence of the dent said he did not expect a breakthrough, Mr. Bariyev, local residents say the formed to instill instruction in Russian. Republic of Crimea and its unification with the business news magazine added. During Ukrainian language isn’t taught there. Four have been designated schools that the Russian Federation was a legitimate their December 31 call, the two leaders According to Article 10 of the Russian- offer a “general education.” Only 249 exercise of the right of the people of Crimea agreed “to immediately proceed” to imposed constitution on the peninsula, schoolchildren, or 0.2 percent of pupils, for- to self-determination following an armed approve lists for the release of Ukrainians, there are three official languages in Crimea: mally learned Ukrainian in 2018-2019. coup in Ukraine with foreign support.” including Crimeans, held in Crimea and Crimean Tatar, Ukrainian and Russian. Twenty-seven schools offer 126 classes (Crimea Desk, REF/RL’s Ukrainian Service) Russia, and Russians held in Ukraine, Mr. Zelenskyy’s press service said in a state- Putin, Zelenskyy discuss another prisoner swap ment. The Kremlin readout made no men- Russian President Vladimir Putin has tion of a new prisoner exchange. Ukraine spoken with Ukrainian President has confirmation that 100 Ukrainians are Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss another still being held captive in the nongovern- prisoner swap as tensions ease between ment-controlled parts of the Donbas, the two neighbors. The two leaders also according to Valeriya Lutkovska, Ukraine’s exchanged holiday greetings, according to a envoy to a humanitarian negotiation group With deep sorrow we announce statement by Mr. Zelenskyy’s press service attached to the peace process. Kyiv believes that our dear mother that was later confirmed by the Kremlin. another 200 Ukrainians are held in captivi- The call was initiated by Mr. Zelenskyy, ty but no documentation is available for Rosalie Hawryshkiw according to the Kremlin’s readout. them, she said. Presidents Putin and Marking the first time in six years that Mr. Zelenskyy also expressed hope to complete née Hyriak Putin has exchanged holiday greetings with the ceasefire agreement reached in Paris his Ukrainian counterpart, the conversa- “in the near future,” the Ukrainian presi- passed away on September 30, 2019. dent’s statement said. (RFE/RL) She was born April 14, 1922 in Zahutyn, Poland tion testifies to a gradual thaw in relations Rosalie arrived in the US in 1949, following 10 years in Germany as a forced laborer and Displaced Person. She married Hryhoriy Hawryshkiw JOB OPPORTUNITY in 1953 and raised their family in Auburn, NY. She was active in CYM, NATIONAL YOUTH ADMINISTRATOR UNA Branch 283 ‘‘Zaporozhka Sicz Society’’, and Sts. Peter and Paul Position Title: National Youth Administrator Ukrainian Catholic Church. Organization: CYMK-UOY (Canadian Ukrainian Orthodox Youth Association)

Remaining in deep sorrow: Salary Range: $45,000 to $52,000 daughter - Mary, Philadelphia, PA Report to: SUS Foundation of Canada daughter - Darka, Rochester, NY Work Location: Toronto, Ontario or Winnipeg, Manitoba nephew Orest Sudyk and nieces Oksana Petrivna and Lida Stasiv POSITION SUMMARY in Ukraine as well as many other family members in Ukraine and the U.S. SUS Foundation of Canada is seeking a dynamic, results-oriented individual to coordinate the activities of CYMK-Ukrainian Orthodox Youth (UOY) and increase Вічна Їй пам’ять! its membership across Canada. CYMK-UOY is a national youth-led organization affiliated with the Ukrainian Self Reliance League and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada. The administrator will report directly to SUS Foundation of Canada. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES • work with directives developed by CYMK-UOY National Executive and its advisors TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL Walter Honcharyk (973) 292-9800 x3040 • establish and maintain data bases, contact lists membership lists archive or e-mail [email protected] records • develop leadership and fellowship programs as well as operating procedures • monitor and report on programs as directed SERVICES PROFESSIONALS • assist the National Executive in maintaining the website and social media presence • assist National Executive with newsletter development and distribution • help organize conferences, convention programs, and retreats • work with National Executive to liaise with CYMK branches, USRL and UCC organizations • Work with National Executive, USRL and UOCC parishes to increase CYMK membership and locals across Canada • liaise with clergy, hierarchy and administration of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada as directed • visit branches as directed by the National Executive • participate in National CYMK-UOY regular meetings OPPORTUNITIES QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS • postsecondary degree • strong oral, listening and communication skills Earn extra income! • familiarity with social media platforms The Ukrainian Weekly is looking • team player, but able to work independently for advertising sales agents. • good computer skills For additional information contact • ability to communicate in both English and Ukrainian Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. • Ability to travel and work flexible hours • Ability to think strategically • Ability to plan programs and projects APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to: SUS Foundation of Canada, 620 Spadina Ave.,Toronto, Ontario M5S 2H4 or by email to [email protected]. The deadline for receiving applications is January 31, 2020. In your cover letter tell us how your background, both personal and professional, makes you an excellent candidate. Only successful candidates will be contacted.

Run your advertisement here, in The Ukrainian Weekly’s CLASSIFIEDS section. No. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 11

REFLECTIONS The soul of the big city awakens during New York City Marathon

by Tetiana Samokysh nyky for all runners to load up on at the Streecha Ukrainian Restaurant in the East Village. Every first Sunday morning in November, there is a hum This year’s marathon was probably the most suc- in the air of the largest city in the world. It seems to be cessful for the Ukrainian Running Club as 60 URCNY silently waiting for an important event to begin. It is the members ran, while 79 officially declared quiet before the storm, the eye of the hurricane. This event Ukrainians finished this year’s race. Our club has gathers tens of thousands participants from all over the runners representing several countries, starting world and millions of fans and spectators, including many with Ukrainian Americans, some born here and oth- Ukrainians. This worldwide event awakens the soul of New ers who have become U.S. citizens, and native York City. This momentous grand event is the New York Ukrainians, as well as runners from Mexico and City Marathon. China. The New York City Marathon is the largest running The whole club takes part in the marathon, so if event in the world. The race course runs through all five you are not running then you are out there on the boroughs of the city – Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, course supporting those who are. We have two offi- Manhattan and the Bronx – and ends at Central Park. The cial URCNY cheering spots: one at mile 6 in Brooklyn total marathon distance is 26.2 miles or 42.195 km. to get the runners off to a good start and the second If one decides to run the marathon, a recommended one at mile 24 to give them a last big boost of energy training schedule entails an average 16 weeks of running – with smiles, cheers, hugs, shouts of “Go, Ukraine!” that’s 40 miles per week, 160 miles per month and 640 and Ukrainian flags waving them all to the finish miles per training cycle, which equals more than 100 line. Thousands of stories full of happiness, suffer- hours of running. That is exactly what is needed to run this ing, pain and joy cross the marathon finish line, and long distance, to overcome oneself and to fulfill one’s among them are a few stories of our Ukrainians. dream of becoming a true marathon runner. Fastest Ukrainian NYC marathoners Tetiana Samokysh as she appeared in a poster used as an But you will not be alone while trying to pursue this online advertisement for the New York City Marathon. She is dream. New York City will not let you give up on it because For Roman Pyasta, originally from Ivano- wearing a Ukrainian Running Club New York tank top. not only is it the biggest marathon in the world but every Frankivsk, Ukraine, but currently living in Wisconsin, square inch of the course is filled with screaming, yelling, this New York City Marathon would be his 48th mar- Mr. Molchanov ran the whole race in a crown and a yellow banner-holding New Yorkers telling you to “Go, go, go!” athon overall. So he decided he was going to run it for the tutu. He is the URCNY King of the New York City Marathon. And if you write your name on your shirt, you will feel like fun of it. It is worth noting that, since Mr. Pyasta is a very It’s all about love a rock star on the red carpet hearing your name every cou- fast runner, he had about 2 hours and 45 minutes to ple of feet as the crowd supports you. New Yorkers bring “enjoy” this event. Vladyslav and Olena Bezuglov, originally from Odesa water, bananas, oranges and napkins to share with the run- But according to Mr. Pyasta, the marathon gods had a lit- and now living in Brooklyn, started running only a year ners. They even play live music all along the course to keep tle gift for him toward the end of the race… “On the last ago. They never expected to be running marathons, much everyone going. It truly is the biggest and friendliest run- long 23rd mile climb, I was overtaken by another less running and crossing the finish line of the New York ning party in the world. This year, 53,509 runners partied Ukrainian from our Ukrainian Running Club New York: City Marathon hand in hand together. and ran their way to the finish line. Yevhen Hodun, who flew in from Kharkiv [Ukraine], to par- “We fell in love with running here in New York – the Just as the New York City Marathon is the biggest day of ticipate in the marathon. This changed the potential slow heart of the world – and it has become our new life. We the year for the city, for the Ukrainian Running Club New ‘torture’ to the finish into a cool 5 km race. We both wanted dedicate this marathon to the strongest feeling in life – York (URCNY) the marathon is the biggest running event of to run well but also to have fun. So when he overtook me, it love, as well as to faith in ourselves and in our limitless the year. The fun all begins on Friday, two days before the woke me up and completely changed my mood: it became possibilities. New York, we love you!” big event. There is a special marathon opening ceremony – a one-on-one race. And so it began: I passed him, then he Ecstatically happy poster girl the Parade of Nations, which gathers more than 120 dele- passed me over the hills and turns of Central Park. We gations representing their countries. For the URCNY it is a sprinted faster than anyone, as if on two motorcycles, over- I must say that never in a million years did this writer wonderful opportunity to share our rich Ukrainian culture taking everyone, left and right. And the spectators were dream that I, once a little girl from Kherson, would end up with the world. frantically cheering for both of us: Go Ukraine for the on subway posters all over NYC and Internet advertising Every year the crowd looks forward to our Ukrainian whole 5 km! In the final sprint we both pushed our hardest for the New York City Marathon – the biggest and most dancers clad in traditional Ukrainian costumes dancing the and I overtook him by only 2 seconds, but we fought like famous marathon in the world. I guess you could even say I Hopak as they lead our delegation along the Central Park two lions for those seconds.” even became a little famous for my “It will excite you” post- parade route. This year we did not disappoint as our danc- Mr. Pyasta’s time: 2:46:28; Mr. Hodun’s time: 2:46:30. er. Let me tell you how this happened. ing friends at Art Studio Brewster joined us and wowed After the finish, both men shook hands, received their The New York City Marathon has my heart. I have a the crowd. medals and took a commemorative photo together. It is smile on my face and in my heart from start to finish. Every The next day, Saturday, according to marathon tradition, interesting to note that there is 20-year difference between second, as I am running the course, I am totally overcome runners should be carbo-loading with lots of pasta for them – Mr. Pyasta is 48 and Mr. Hodun is 28. When asked with love for all. For the crowd, for my fellow runners, for energy for the next day’s run. Our club organized a about the age difference, Mr. Pyasta said he didn’t even the whole magical experience. For me it is one big love fest. Ukrainian style pre-marathon dinner for all runners, family notice it, that his brain just ignores meaningless numbers. My dream is to run the marathon in New York every year, and friends. Besides the pasta there were plenty of vare- You can be young in body and heart at any age. but this year it was even more special as I got to share that love with the World as it was captured in a photo at the fin- Six major marathons in a year ish line. Yuriy Bezsonov, originally from Poltava, Ukraine, and Last year, about 100 meters from the finish, I saw my now living in Germany, is only the eighth Ukrainian in the friends from the Ukrainian Running Club cheering me on world to receive a Six Majors Medal. This medal is given to and I was completely overwhelmed with such warmth, love those who run the six largest marathons in the world in one and genuine joy that I just flew over the finish line. It was year. like my heart burst open right then and there – and click – Here are his impressions of all the marathons: “Six mara- this amazing moment was captured forever by a photogra- thons in one year is not easy – I had my ups and downs: pher at the finish line and that moment became a subway cold Tokyo, joyous Boston, calm London, unexpected Berlin, ad for the 2019 New York City Marathon. I am so happy that tough Chicago and beautiful New York. I am so happy that I that my heart-opening moment invites people to come to did it and even happier to receive my 6th major medal star watch or run with me in this incredible love event. Running here in New York, where I heard ‘Go, Ukraine!’ on almost changes lives, hearts and souls for the better. every street corner. New York is amazing!” Maybe after reading some of our running stories and meeting some of our URCNY running personalities, read- Running the marathon to help others ers will be tempted to come join us and awaken their run- The Ukrainian Running Club’s fast and well-known run- ning soul to have your own heart-opening run through ner Dmytro Molchanov ran the New York City Marathon New York City. The next New York City Marathon will be its this year as a pacer. A pacer is soneone who leads a group 50th jubilee, so this is a great opportunity to join the of runners in the marathon for a specific time. They run the Ukrainian Running Club and start training. Find us on entire distance evenly, by the clock, holding the same Facebook under Ukrainian Running Club New York or on speed. Instagram @urcny. The lottery for the next marathon Mr. Molchanov’s motivation was to help others achieve opens on January 13. their goals: “Being part of New York’s running community The URCNY and NYC are waiting for you! and supporting people on the way to the finish line is a facebook.com/Roman.Pyasta great experience. I am happy to have the opportunity to Tetiana Samokysh is a board member of the Ukrainian Roman Pyasta of Milwaukee is the 50th best marathon- help other runners.” But the best part that shows what a Running Club New York. er in the world in the 45-49 age category. great perspective he has on life and himself was this: our The article above was translated by Lada Lysniak. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 No. 2 No. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 13 Plast sorority “Ti, Shcho Hrebli Rvut” holds biennial conference at Soyuzivka

by Oksana Bachynsky-Tarasiuk elected to the Verkhovna Rada. Present at the Soyuzivka conference was Christina KERHONKSON, N.Y. – The senior and Maciw of Montreal, who lived in Kyiv for 28 young adult branches of Plast Ukrainian years and was active in Plast in Ukraine. Scouting Organization’s “Ti, Shcho Hrebli Since 2009, Hrebli have managed distri- Rvut” sorority held their biennial conference bution of the Bethlehem Peace Light across at Soyuzivka Heritage Center on November the United States, acting under the auspices 16-17, 2019, with the participation of mem- of the National Executive Board of Plast bers from throughout North America. U.S.A. Sorority members in Canada also are The program of the conference included involved in distribution of the Peace Light. joint and separate meetings of the two The leader of the senior sorority of “Ti, branches of “Hrebli,” as well as a get-togeth- Shcho Hrebli Rvut,” Dr. Christine Kochan, er on Friday evening, before formal confer- reported on two years of work and provid- ence sessions began the next morning. ed a summation of the recent meeting of During the Saturday morning session, the Conference of Ukrainian Plast the Hrebli were joined via Skype by repre- Organizations held in Germany. In addition, sentatives of the sorority from Ukraine and she commended the work of editor Olenka Argentina. Yurchuk in releasing two very fine editions Nataliya Kyyak related that there are of the Hrebli periodical Vistovyk. now 44 senior Hrebli in Ukraine and a like Among the topics of discussion were the number of younger adult members. The by-laws and regulations of the sorority, sorority is active in the Kyiv, Lviv and Ivano- Maya Lew Members of Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization’s “Ti, Shcho Hrebli Rvut” sorori- which need some updating, and the history Frankivsk oblasts, as well as in Uzhhorod, ty at Soyuzivka, near the statue of their patron, Lesia Ukrainka. The sorority’s tradi- of “Ti, Shcho Hrebli Rvut,” which is in the Chernivtsi, Rivne, Severodonetsk and tions are based on Ukrainka’s drama “Lisova Pisnia” (Forest Song). works. It was noted that preliminary plan- Kharkiv. ning for the upcoming 100th anniversary of Adriana Cham, who heads the Plast Germany and Australia, as well as Sweden, Ukraine. the sorority should be contemplated. national executive board in Argentina, said where Motria Fedoriw Jaremko (formerly Members of the sorority in Ukraine, Members of the young adult branch of that sorority members lead the Plast of the U.S.) organized Plast activities for cub Canada and the United States are active in Hrebli reported that they intend to become branch in Buenos Aires. She pointed out scouts. Thanks to her initiative, Plast now local, national and international bodies of more active in organizing and conducting that Plast in Argentina celebrated its 70th has a group in Sweden that encompasses Plast, as well as in community endeavors. the “Shkola Bulavnykh” camp counselor anniversary in 2019. both cub scouts and scouts, many of them In Ukraine, members assist the Joint Forces Sorority members are active also in children of families who have arrived from Operation and one sorority member was (Continued on page 14)

Roma Hadzewycz New candidates are accepted into the Hrebli sorority.

Bethlehem Peace Light ceremony held in Whippany, N.J. WHIPPANY, N.J. – The Bethlehem Peace Light was shared during a ceremony at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in Whippany, N.J., on Saturday, December 7. Participating were members of Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization, including senior members of the “Ti, Shcho Hrebli Rvut” sorority who organized and conduct- ed the ceremony, members of the area’s scout organizations, including Latvian and Polish scouts, as well as parishioners. The Peace Light arrived in the United States a day earlier, landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, where a special ceremony was held at Our Lady of the Skies Chapel. The light came from Vienna, brought there by Austrian scouts who light a lantern from the everlast- ing flame that burns in Bethlehem. Scouts worldwide, including Plast members in Ukraine, participate in distributing the light. Members of “Ti, Shcho Hrebli Rvut” trav- el to JFK Airport to receive the flame and Roma Hadzewycz Plast scouts sing the Bethlehem Peace Light song at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian then distribute it further, doing so at the Catholic church in Whippany, N.J. express request of the National Board of Directors of Plast U.S.A. pastor, also addressed the gathering. Keyvan, a Plast member in Ukraine, all The ceremonies at St. John’s Church As Plast scouts, directed by Kalyna present had the opportunity to light their were led by Larissa Wowk, and a talk was Boychuk, sang the beautiful Bethlehem lanterns and candles from the Bethlehem given by Lada Bidiak. The Rev. Stepan Bilyk, Peace Light song written by Solomiya Peace Light. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 No. 2 Columbia University’s Ukrainian Studies Program to offer eight courses in spring 2020 semester

Ukrainian Studies Program present-day Ukraine and study how urban Olena Martynyuk, will teach a course titled Leah Batstone (Hunter College, CUNY) will social space changed under the influence of “Periphery and Its Empires: Ukrainian and give a lecture titled “Between Serialism and NEW YORK – Columbia’s Ukrainian imperial powers, radical ideologies, and Russian Art from Peter the Great to the Suprematism: Nikolai Roslavets’ Modernist Studies Program at the Harriman Institute authoritarian or totalitarian regimes. Present.” The course will meet Mondays Music”; on March 26, Dr. Oksana Reme­ will offer eight courses focusing on Dr. Mark Andrycyzk will teach the and Wednesdays at 2:40-3:55 p.m. It will niaka (National Academy of Arts of Ukrainian history, political science, litera- course “The Aura of Soviet Ukrainian situate the development of Ukrainian art in Ukraine; University of Kyiv-Mohyla ture, language and visual art in the spring Modernism” (Tuesdays and Thursdays, dialogue with Russian culture within the Academy; Visiting Fulbright Scholar at 2020 semester. It will also organize a series 1:10-2:25 p.m.). This course studies the contexts of the Russian Empire, the Soviet Columbia University) will give a talk titled of lectures in Ukrainian studies at the uni- renaissance in Ukrainian culture of the Union and the post-Soviet era. While sur- “Nigra sed Formosa: Immersed in Sadness versity. 1920s – a period of revolution, experimen- veying major art periods and concepts However Beautiful: The Problem of Joining the program for the spring tation, vibrant expression and polemics. from parsuna portraiture to the avant- Returning Lost Artifacts”; on April 2, semester will be Dr. Oksana Vynnyk, the Focusing on the most important develop- garde, the course aims to create a more Markian Dobczansky (Harriman Institute, visiting assistant professor of history for ments in literature, as well as on the intel- nuanced vision of art produced in the Columbia University) will speak on “Soviet spring 2020 – a position supported by lectual debates they inspired, the course region, focusing not only on the predomi- Ukrainian Urbanism: Factories, Higher Ukrainian Studies Instructional Fund. Dr. will also examine the major achievements nantly Russian culture of the metropole but Education and Nationalities Policy in Vynnyk earned a Ph.D. in history in 2018 at in Ukrainian theater, visual art and film as also that of the provinces where the state- Kharkiv.” All of these events will take place the University of Alberta. Her research integral components of the cultural spirit less Ukrainian minority struggled to at noon in the Marshall D. Shulman focuses on the reintegration of World War I that defined the era. The course treats one express itself. Examining Russian art Seminar Room (Room 1219, International invalids in Lviv and, more generally, how of the most important periods of together with Ukrainian art and themes, Affairs Building) except for Nicholas disability is defined by the state. She has Ukrainian culture and examines its lasting the class will study the impact of the Denysenko’s talk which will take place in also studied minorities in Lviv of that peri- impact on today’s Ukraine. It will be com- national policies of the Russian Empire and the same venue but at 4 p.m. od, as well as sexual abuse during collectiv- plemented by film screenings, presenta- the Soviet Union on Ukrainian art and its Courses at Columbia are open to stu- ization and the Holodomor. tions of visual art and rare publications reception. dents from other universities in the New Dr. Vynnyk will teach two courses at from this period. Three levels of Ukrainian language York metropolitan area seeking credit. Columbia University this spring. The first, Ambassador Valeriy Kuchynskyi will instruction will be taught this spring by Dr. Readers are advised to contact the univer- titled “Topics in Modern Ukrainian History” teach a course titled “Today’s Ukraine: Yuri Shevchuk: Elementary II on Mondays, sity at which they are enrolled to deter- will take place Wednesdays, 4:10-5:25 p.m. Power Politics and Diplomacy,” which will Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11:40 a.m.- mine whether it participates in this manner This lecture course focuses on Ukrainian be held on Tuesdays 2:10-4 p.m. Ukraine is 12:55 a.m.; Intermediate II on Mondays, with Columbia University. Some courses history from the early 19th century to the at war, the country is in turmoil. What are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10:10-11:25 are also open to outside individuals inter- present day. Questions to be examined the chances of the new government to a.m.; and Advanced Ukrainian Through ested in non-credit continuing studies. include: What factors influenced the con- reach a “peaceful solution” in the Donbas, Literature, Media and Politics on Mondays Additionally, through the Lifelong Learners struction and transformation of Ukrainian eradicate corruption, improve the econom- and Wednesdays at 2:40-3:55 p.m. program, individuals over age 65 who are national identity(ies)? How did an indepen- ic situation and implement reforms? Is Several events have already been sched- interested in auditing courses may enroll at dent Ukrainian state emerge and why are there a future for the Minsk accords? uled for the spring semester. On February a discount rate as Lifelong Learners. Please its borders contested today? How does his- What’s the significance of the Normandy 6, Dr. Anna Procyk (professor emerita, visit the Columbia University School of torical memory influence Ukraine’s con- summit? These and other issues, including Kingsborough Community College of the Continuing Education (http://www.ce. temporary political and social life? What behind-the-scenes politics, power struggles CUNY) will present her monograph columbia.edu/auditing/?PID=28) for more role does Ukraine play in the broader histo- and diplomatic activities, are dealt with in “Giuseppe Mazzini’s Young Europe and the details. ries of Central and Eastern Europe? the newly revised course delivered by a Birth of Modern Nationalism in the Slavic January 21 is the first day of classes, and The second course, a seminar titled career diplomat. The course is aimed at World” (University of Toronto Press, 2019); January 31 is the final day to register for a “Urban Modernity on the Ukrainian Lands: both graduate and advanced undergradu- on March 5, Dr. Nicholas Denysenko class. For more information about courses Cities in the 19th and 20th Centuries,” will ate students. (Valparaiso University) will present his or the Ukrainian Studies Program at be held Thursdays 12:10-2 p.m. During this The Jacyk Postdoctoral Fellow in book “The Orthodox Church in Ukraine: A Columbia University, readers may contact seminar, students will examine the devel- Ukrainian Studies at the Harriman Institute Century of Separation” (Northern Illinois Dr. Andryczyk at ukrainianstudies@colum- opment of modern cities on the territory of of Columbia University for 2019-2021, Dr. University Press, 2018); on March 10, Dr. bia.edu or 212-854-4697.

the Zelenskyy administration since the businesses that conduct international A difficult start... impeachment process was launched in Turning... financial operations. It also called for Washington. A few days later, it was European Union member states to provide (Continued from page 1) announced that Germany’s Chancellor (Continued from page 6) the Ukrainian government with arms. mentioned a situation, “Where it doesn’t Angela Merkel would be meeting with troops and weapons from Ukraine before Since then, the Avdiyivka Coke and matter what the name of the street is, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin on any meaningful talks could proceed. Chemical Plant has returned to full capacity because it is lit and paved. Where it makes January 19 and that she intended to discuss On January 15, the European Parliament output after coming back under Ukrainian no difference, at which monument are you the Russian-Ukrainian conflict with him. approved a resolution condemning Russia’s control. The plant has not been affected by waiting for the girl you are in love with. If Against this background, there was con- aggressive and expansionist actions against the naval blockade of the Azov Sea by we see the future equally, it should unite siderable surprise when on January 5 the Ukraine, including its information war and Russia because the plant receives its mate- us.” This was construed as showing insensi- Ukrainian news media began reporting cyberwarfare, as well as energy sector rials from Odesa, transported via railway to tivity, if not outright hostility, to efforts that President Zelenskyy had been spotted blackmail, economic pressure, and diplo- the Donetsk Oblast. In fact, RFE/RL aimed at fostering Ukrainianization and de- in Oman. His presidential office hurried to matic and political destabilization. The res- Ukrainian Service reported that the factory communization. provide an explanation for his unan- olution failed to name the Donetsk and is expanding its facilities. President Zelenskyy’s message about the nounced trip abroad and linked it to busi- Luhansk “people’s republics” as terrorist Source: “Russians launch biggest offensive need to put differences aside and cement a ness meetings with Omani officials. His crit- organizations, however, it did extend sanc- in Donbas since September ceasefire,” by political nation appears to have been well ics made political capital out of it. tions and strengthened them to include the Zenon Zawada, The Ukrainian Weekly, received, seen as timely and constructive, by Whatever the reason for his visit to nuclear sector and restrictions on Russian January 25, 2015. the majority of the country’s population Oman, private or official, Mr. Zelenskyy was who voted for him and who evidently by still there on January 8, when the crash of and large still continue to support him. His the Ukrainian airliner in Teheran was political detractors, however, sought to pres- reported. It was there that he presumably in the Main House lobby led by Andreya ent his address as unpatriotic. also received a message of condolences Plast sorority... Pencak, complete with Plast skits and songs. The following day, several thousand of from, among others, President Putin. He (Continued from page 13) the latter manifested their own particular flew back to Kyiv during the night, and in On Sunday morning all attended liturgy understanding of what it should mean to be the morning recorded a statement training program in the U.S., and that at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church a Ukrainian by holding rallies in Kyiv and addressed to the Ukrainian people. orders are being taken for sorority-themed with the Rev. Dr. Ivan Kaszczak, pastor and other cities on January 1, the 111th anniver- “Fellow Ukrainians,” he began. “The clothing and accessories. Plast chaplain, officiating. sary of the birth of Ukrainian nationalist morning of January 8, 2020, became a dark The younger Hrebli are very active in The final session of the conference was leader Stepan Bandera. In the capital, page in the history of both Ukraine and the Plast branches in the U.S. and in leading devoted to resolutions and recommenda- around 1,000 far-right activists and held a world…” Promising to ensure that the real Plast activities for scouts. Their leader is tions for the next two-year term, as well as traditional torchlight procession though the reasons for the crash will be established, he Ann Jaskiw. During the biennial conference, elections of a new leadership for the senior city center. Outside of Ukraine, both Poland requested “everyone – especially when seven new candidates for membership sorority. and Israel condemned the commemoration Ukraine is in conditions of information war- were accepted and initiated into the sorori- Dr. Kochan was re-elected to lead the of this controversial Ukrainian hero. fare – to refrain from manipulation, specula- ty’s ranks. Hrebli; her deputies are Chrystia Kowalyk The domestic controversies were rapid- tion, conspiracy theories, hasty categorical A highlight of the weekend was a cre- (Canada) and Roma Hadzewycz (U.S.) Also ly overtaken by events in the foreign evaluations and unverified versions… We ative scavenger hunt that had groups of elected were: Roksolana Slywynsky, secre- sphere. On January 1, U.S. Secretary of State need patience, endurance and wisdom.” Hrebli of all ages roaming the Soyuzivka tary; Oksana Stanko, treasurer; Marta Mike Pompeo postponed a visit to Kyiv He concluded: ”this dreadful story property to find listed items and informa- Kuzmowycz, archivist; Ms. Yurchuk, editor; because of rising U.S.-Iranian tensions in should teach all of us – every citizen of tion, and snap photos of their group per- Daria Darewych, researcher; and Chrystia the Middle East. It would have been the Ukraine and every world leader – to appre- forming assigned tasks. After dinner on Kolos, Sophia Kachor and Zoriana first meeting of a senior U.S. official with ciate human lives.” Saturday evening, all enjoyed a “campfire” Stawnychy, councilors. No. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 15

January 16 Photo exhibit, “Frontline-Peace Life: Ukraine’s February 7 Performance, National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine, through Revolutionaries of the Forgotten War,” by J.T. Blatty, Richmond, VA Carpenter Theater, 804-592-3330 March 8 Ukrainian Institute of America, 212-288-8660 or New York www.ukrainianinstitute.org February 8 Chervona Kalyna Cotillion Ball, Plast Ukrainian Scouting Pearl River, NY Organization, Hilton Pearl River, 845-735-9000 or January 18 Malanka celebration, Tavria Ukrainian Folk Dance www.kalynadeb.org Regina, SK Ensemble, St. Athanasius Parish, www.tavria.org February 15 Plast Cleveland Debutante Ball, Plast Ukrainian Scouting January 18 Malanka celebration, Ukrainian American Society of Cleveland Organization, Embassy Suites Hotel Cleveland-Rockside, Dallas/ Texas, Nuvo Room, www.uast.org or [email protected] Fort Worth, TX [email protected] February 15 Washington, D.C., Ukrainian Debutante Ball, Taras January 23 Alexander Dallin Lecture by Steven Hall, “Putin the Washington Shevchenko School of Ukrainian Studies of Greater Stanford, CA Chekist: Intelligence and Decision-Making in Russia,” Washington, The Washington Group, Omni Shoreham Stanford University, https://creees.stanford.edu or Hotel, www.ukrainianschooldc.org or [email protected] [email protected]

January 25 Presentation of Debutantes, Plast Ukrainian Scouting February 15 Spaghetti dinner, Ukrainian American Youth Whippany, NJ Organization (Newark Branch), Hanover Marriott Hotel, Syracuse, NY Association, Ukrainian National Home, www.plastnewarkdeb.com or 908-448-6389 [email protected] or 315-478-9272

January 25 Winter Ball and Presentation of Debutantes, Ukrainian February 22 Presentation of Debutantes, Ukrainian American Youth Dearborn, MI Engineers’ Society of America, Dearborn Inn Marriott, Rye Brook, NY Association, Hilton Westchester Hotel, [email protected] or 586-801-8905 www.cym.org/us/deb

January 26 Christmas concert, with Maestro Ihor Bohdan, February 29 Performance, National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine, Buffalo, NY Ukrainian Free Kozatsvo, St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Columbia, MO Jesse Auditorium, University of Missouri, 573-882-3781 Catholic Church, 716-873-5011 February 29 KLK Ski Races, Carpathian Ski Club, Hunter Mountain, January 31 “A Tribute to Mark L. von Hagen (1954-2019),” Hunter, NY www.klkusa.com or [email protected] New York Harriman Institute, Columbia University, https://harriman/columbia.edu or 212-854-4623 March 5 Book presentation by Nicholas Denysenko, “The New York Orthodox Church in Ukraine: A Century of Separatism,” February 1 Boston Malanka, “Welcome to the Roaring Twenties,” Columbia University, 212-854-4697 or Boston Ukraine Global Scholars, Venezia Restaurant Boston, [email protected] www.bostonmalanka.com

February 6 Book presentation by Anna Procyk, “Giuseppe Mazzini’s Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events New York Young Europe and the Birth of Modern Nationalism in advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions the Slavic World,” Columbia University, 212-854-4697 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].

National Board of ODFFU, Inc. Announces 31st National Convention

New York, December 27, 2019

ORGANIZATION FOR THE DEFENSE OF FOUR FREEDOMS OF UKRAINE

TO: Local Boards and Members of ODFFU, Inc. REF: 31st National Convention ODFFU, Inc.

Dear Members!

National Board of the Organization for the Defense of the Four Freedoms of Ukraine, Inc. (“ODFFU, Inc.”) noti es its local boards and all members that the 31st National Convention of ODFFU, Inc. will take place Sunday the 29th of March, 2020 at:

St. Vladimir Ukrainian Parish Center 226 Uniondale Avenue Uniondale, NY 11553.

Financial reports and summaries of activities will be presented.

The conference is scheduled to begin at 9 am.

Interested parties may obtain a copy of the notice, the bylaws and the agenda on our website at www.od u.org, by requesting a copy by email to od [email protected] or by calling (917) 794-5226 and leaving a message with your name and email or mailing address.

With respect and best wishes! Слава Україні – Героям Слава !

For the National Board of ODFFU, Inc. :

Alex Striltschuk John Yaworsky President Executive Secretary 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2020 No. 2

The Taras Shevchenko School of Ukrainian Studies of Greater Washington in cooperation with The Washington Group requests the pleasure of your company at the Washington DC Ukrainian Debutante Ball Saturday, February 15, 2020 Omni Shoreham Hotel 2500 Calvert Street, NW Washington, DC 20008 Musical entertainment by HRIM

Katherine Marie-Louise Valentyna Oleksiyivna Eva Solomia Boone Breslawec Ponos Tickets now available For tickets and more information visit: www.ukrainianschooldc.org Early bird pricing through January 20 For questions please email: [email protected]