INSIDE:  Poroshenko dismisses ambassador to the U.S. – page 3  Polish president pledges support for Ukraine – page 5  Canada announces new military aid for Ukraine – page 5

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXIII No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 $2.00 13 ethnic organizations send joint letter Rada approves historic bills to part with Soviet legacy by Zenon Zawada off, streets named after the red devils. against Yulia Tymoshenko, whom Mr. Eternal glory to those who fought for, and Yushchenko considered his nemesis. But to President Obama KYIV – Ukraine’s Parliament approved are fighting for, Ukraine’s will,” he wrote. Mr. Yushchenko never led an effort to grant NEW YORK – Following a series of several historic bills on April 9 that take Never had Ukraine’s Parliament had state recognition to the UPA as a force fight- ongoing discussions with the American unprecedentedly decisive steps to part with attempted such radical de-Sovietization, ing for Ukrainian independence. Jewish Committee (AJC), the Ukrainian the country’s Soviet legacy, which is widely which was constantly undermined by the The bill approved on April 9, “On the Congress Committee of America blamed for the inability to reform and Party of the Regions and the Communist Legal Status and Honoring the Memory of (UCCA), the representative organiza- strengthen Ukraine despite more than two Party, both aligned with Russian President Fighters for Ukrainian Independence in the tion of the over 1 million Americans of decades of independence. Vladimir Putin. The Verkhovna Rada was 20th Century,” recognizes all those who Ukrainian descent, initiated a joint let- One of the bills recognizes on fought for Ukraine’s independence ter to President Barack Obama to the state level all those who fought in armed, paramilitary, under- underscore that the risks for the for Ukrainian independence in the The bill “On the Legal Status and ground or political organizations – “United States and the wider demo- 20th century, most notably the Honoring the Memory of Fighters for as well as those who fought indi- cratic world could not be higher in the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) vidually – including the UPA, the ongoing aggression by the Russian Ukrainian Independence in the 20th that was launched in 1943 to fight Ukrainian Sich Riflemen, the Federation and its proxies against both the Germans Nazis and the Century” recognizes all those who Ukrainian National Republic, gov- Ukraine’s territorial integrity.” Soviet Red Army. fought for Ukraine’s independence ernment bodies of Carpatho- The letter, which was also signed by Another bill requires the Ukraine, the Ukrainian Helsinki leaders of 11 other ethnic organiza- in armed, paramilitary, underground removal of all public Soviet sym- Union and dozens of others. The tions in the U.S., underscored the belief or political organizations. measure drew 271 votes – 45 that “the United States must prevail in bols and monuments, and the more than was necessary for the defending the rights of Ukraine and renaming of all cities, towns and bill’s passage. other nations in the region to live free villages bearing Soviet names. The largest only able to approve such measures after Adding to the poetic justice of this of unwanted outside involvement, to to be affected is Dnipropetrovsk, the city of both parties were swept out by the October moment – during which Ukrainians are yet protect their sovereignty and indepen- 993,000 residents named after Grigory 2014 elections. again waging a war for their independence dence.” Petrovsky, a leader in the Red Terror of Former President Viktor Yushchenko – was the fact that the bill’s sponsor and The letter was signed by executive 1918-1923 and the Holodomor of 1932- was the first to begin de-Sovietization author was National Deputy Yurii officers of national organizations, 1933. efforts on the national level, issuing decrees Shukhevych, the 82-year-old son of the leg- including the AJC, Armenian Assembly “From now on, children won’t ride on car- that ordered the removal of Soviet monu- endary UPA commander. of America, Belarusian-American ousels in parks named after executioners, ments from public spaces. It was Mr. “The main goal of this bill is fulfilling the Association, Czechoslovak National students won’t study in institutes named Yushchenko who granted posthumous testament of the fighters for Ukraine’s will Council of America, Estonian American after terrorists, and lovers won’t arrange Hero of Ukraine status to UPA Commander- in the 20th century regarding the Ukrainian National Committee, Georgian their dates on squares named after killers,” in-Chief Roman Shukhevych in 2007. state’s official recognition and honoring of Association in the United States, National Deputy Yuriy Lutsenko, head of the He gave the same status in early 2010 to all fighters for Ukraine’s independence,” Hungarian American Coalition, Joint Petro Poroshenko Bloc parliamentary fac- Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists according to the bill’s explanatory note Baltic American National Committee, tion, wrote on his Facebook page. (OUN) leader Stepan Bandera, in what was authored by Mr. Shukhevych, a member of Lithuanian American Community, Inc., “Goodbye Lenin, USSR and the widely acknowledged as a cynical gambit to Oleh Liashko’s Radical Party. Communist Party of the Soviet Union. So boost voter turnout for Viktor Yanukovych, (Continued on page 18) long, Dnipropetrovsk and Kirovohrad. Die then running in the presidential election (Continued on page 18) At U.N., Ukrainian women speak about consequences of Russia’s aggression

by Irene Jarosewich and Marta Kebalo economic destabilization from the Russian Federation, the WFUWO made a concerted effort this spring to ensure that UNITED NATIONS – The annual U.N. Commission on the Ukraine’s representatives be given ample opportunities to Status of Women (CSW), this year organized under the present at this international event at the United Nations theme Beijing+20, was held March 9-20 in New York City headquarters. WFUWO worked to ensure a visible and focused on progress made worldwide towards meeting Ukrainian presence at the CSW, and to provide Ukraine’s goals identified at the landmark Fourth World Women’s women forums to speak openly and bluntly about the vio- Conference in 1995 in Beijing. lation of their rights to peace and security, as well as about For Ukrainian women, the 1995 Beijing Conference holds their deteriorating conditions under the strain of Ukraine’s a unique place of significance. This event was the first time defensive military response. that women from Ukraine’s diaspora, who were being rep- The WFUWO, a network of diaspora women’s organiza- resented by the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s tions from 18 countries, has purposefully deepened organi- Organizations (WFUWO), had an opportunity to work zational connections with women’s organizations in alongside women from a newly independent Ukraine. It was Ukraine during the past year, supporting Ukraine’s women an uplifting and memorable experience. Together they in their fight for personal and national survival. began to address issues important to Ukraine’s women, The opening event of this year’s CSW, organized by U.N. such as maternal and child health 10 years after the Women, fell on March 8, International Women’s Day. Chornobyl disaster and the nascent challenge of trafficking Levchenko/Kyiv WFUWO President Orysia Sushko along with the WFWUO’s of Ukraine’s women. At the March 10 panel on “Women in Ukraine: The Right U.N. representatives and a large delegation of women from Now in 2015, 20 years later, with Ukraine facing aggres- to Peace and Security and Sustainable Development for Ukraine’s NGOs, joined in a march of several thousand sive violation of its territorial integrity, profound threats to All” (from left) are: Melanne Verveer, Kateryna national and cultural identity and purposeful political and Levchenko, Serhiy Kyslytsia and Olena Suslova. (Continued on page 4) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16

ANALYSIS

Pro-Russia instigations Ministers agree on weapons withdrawal Six Ukrainian soldiers killed in attacks BERLIN – Foreign affairs ministers from KYIV – Ukrainian military spokesman in Odesa Oblast defused Germany, France, Russia, and Ukraine have Andriy Lysenko said on April 14 that six agreed to push ahead with the withdrawal soldiers had been killed and 12 injured as by Vladimir Socor Russians, Ukrainians), that also is included of weapons from the front line in eastern fighting has flared in eastern Ukraine in the as a part of Bessarabia. As the choice of the Eurasia Daily Monitor Ukraine. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Laurent past 24 hours, despite a ceasefire. Col. term “Bessarabia” implies, the “BPR” seems Fabius, Sergei Lavrov and Pavlo Klimkin Lysenko said that the casualties were the President Petro Poroshenko recently designed to promote a centrifugal agenda met for about five hours in Berlin late on result of “serious provocations” by Russian- instructed the Security Service of Ukraine against Kyiv and Chisinau, respectively, on supported separatists. He said the situation (SBU) to “nip any separatist organizations either side of the border in southern April 13 for talks to assess the implementa- in eastern Ukraine was “unstable” with in the bud […] so that Ukraine should not Bessarabia. These territories are the most tion of a ceasefire. Speaking to reporters attacks “by the enemy continuing in almost again have to pay a heavy price later on,” as diverse, by far, in their ethnic composition after the talks early on April 14, Mr. all directions.” He added that the most is now the case in Donetsk-Luhansk both in all of Ukraine and all of Moldova. Steinmeier said the ministers agreed to (Dzerkalo Tyzhnia, March 25). In the spirit The “BPR” president, Dmitry Zatuliveter, continue with the withdrawal of heavy intense shelling occurred in the villages of of preventive action, Ukrainian law enforce- is concurrently the head of a “Union of weapons and to include weapons below Shyrokyne and Pavlopil, near the southern ment agencies have arrested some 20 Transnistrians in Ukraine.” In his speech at 100 mm caliber, mortars, armored vehicles seaport of Mariupol, and in areas near the members of a centrifugal organization in “BPR’s” conference, he announced, “We see and tanks in the withdrawal. He said they rebel-held regional capitals of Donetsk and the Odesa Oblast, the latest such organiza- our mission as achieving a status of nation- also agreed to establish four working Luhansk. The six deaths were the highest tion to have emerged in Ukraine. The time- al-cultural autonomy for Bessarabia” groups to address security issues, the pro- toll in eastern Ukraine in 10 days. (RFE/RL, ly intervention also stopped the publicity (Rada-bessarabia.org, April 6). While the cess for holding local elections in rebel-held based on reporting by Agence France- bandwagon that had just started rolling priority target is clearly the Ukrainian part areas, the exchange of prisoners of war, and Presse and Reuters) from Moscow in support of the Odesa of this territory, the choice of the term improvement of the economic situation in Over 40 suspected saboteurs detained group (TASS, Nezavisimaya Gazeta, April 8). “Bessarabia” implies that the Moldovan Ukraine’s east. Under the ceasefire agree- On April 6 in Odesa, a “Narodnaya Rada part is the next potential target. ment brokered by the German and French KYIV – Ukrainian authorities say they Bessarabii” (Bessarabian People’s Council – Documents posted on “BPR’s” website have detained more than 40 alleged mem- “BPR”) held its inaugural conference, calling and approved at the conference – an intro- leaders in the Belarusian capital of Minsk in February, fighting was supposed to stop bers of a terror group in the Black Sea port for autonomy of that multi-ethnic territory. ductory statement, a program and a mani- city of Odesa. A spokeswoman for the The “BPR” emerged practically overnight, festo – include demands for: greater repre- and heavy weapons bigger than 100 mm caliber were to be pulled back from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), Olena its website’s domain name being registered sentation of ethnic groups in the adminis- Hitlyanska, wrote on Facebook on April 10 in the city of Moscow (rada-bessarabia.org). tration of Ukraine’s Odesa Oblast; promo- front lines. The German, French, Russian, that the suspects had planned a series of ter- The “BPR” is, from its inception, connected tion of the ethnic groups’ cultural identities and Ukrainian foreign ministers were also rorist acts in the city during celebrations with pro-Russia groups in Ukraine’s Odesa and schools; conferral of a “national-cultur- all willing to support the OSCE, which is marking the Julian-calendar Easter on April Oblast and in nearby Moldova. al special status” to Bessarabia; a free eco- monitoring the implementation of the 12. “A large number of weapons and explo- The “People’s Council” claims to repre- nomic zone, with specific reference to local ceasefire deal, with money and personnel sives” were confiscated from the suspects, sent the ethnic communities in the control over Ukraine’s Black Sea and over the coming weeks. Mr. Steinmeier Ms. Hitlyanska wrote. She added that search- Bessarabian part of the Odesa Oblast and Danube ports; no integration of Ukraine admitted the talks had been “very long, es were continuing. Last week, the SBU said demands a “special status” for this part. Its with the European Union, the “enslavement very intensive, and at times very conten- it detained three people suspected of multi-ethnic mix (Ukrainians, Bulgarians, practices of which would ruin the region tious” given the tense situation on the involvement in a series of bombings in Russians, Moldovans, Gagauz) is similar to and its agriculture”; and reinstatement of ground. But he said all participants agreed the mix across the border in southern Odesa, some of them targeting organizations there was no alternative to the Minsk Moldova (Moldovans, Gagauz, Bulgarians, (Continued on page 17) with ties to soldiers fighting against Russian- agreement. “We need to ensure that the backed rebels in eastern Ukraine. Ukrainian ceasefire is adhered to far more strongly as authorities blamed those blasts on Russia fully as possible,” Mr. Steinmeier said. In a and the rebels who hold parts of the regions joint statement, the four ministers of Donetsk and Luhansk. (RFE/RL) Is the Kharkiv Oblast expressed “grave concern at the recent out- break of fights over the last weekend.” This OSCE: Ceasefire violations increase included the use of heavy weapons around KYIV – The Special Monitoring Mission another enclave of separatists? the village of Shyrokyne, on the outskirts of (SMM) to Ukraine of the Organization for Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko stat- by Igor Rotar the port city of Mariupol and at Donetsk Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) ed after that attack that “inhuman mon- Eurasia Daily Monitor airport. The Ukrainian military said one of says it has seen a “massive” increase in the sters who organized the explosion during a its servicemen was killed and six others number of ceasefire violations in eastern On March 6, the car of the commander of peaceful march in Kharkiv attempted to wounded on April 13. (RFE/RL, with Ukraine in recent days. Michael Bociurkiw, the Ukrainian special police battalion expand the territory of terrorism.” reporting by Reuters, the Associated Press Slobozhanshchyna, Andriy Yanholenko, Investigators believe that the so-called and Deutsche Presse-Agentur) (Continued on page 12) exploded in the government-controlled “Kharkiv guerrillas,” who apparently have eastern city of Kharkiv. The commander and ties to the Russian security services, staged his spouse were inside the car at the time of the mid-February terrorist attack. Law enforcement agencies have detained four the explosion, and both were hospitalized. FOUNDED 1933 Mr. Yanholenko received medium-level inju- suspects, who admitted they had received The Ukrainian Weekly ries, but his wife is in critical condition. instructions and arms from Russia The internal affairs minister of Ukraine, (Rosbalt, February 24). An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., Arsen Avakov, said that the government Earlier, in January, another explosion a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. would respond with greater resolve to the took place at a Kharkiv court building: 14 Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. terrorists’ attempts to destabilize Kharkiv. people were wounded. In November 2014, Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. “No, not for the sake of fueling exasperation an explosion took place at a bar, Stena, (ISSN — 0273-9348) where activists of Ukraine’s patriotic and and revenge, but in order to prevent repeat- The Weekly: UNA: democratic movements often gathered. ing the tragedy – [faced now by an] ordinary Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 person from Donetsk and Luhansk, where Eleven people were injured in that violent people lost everything [because of the war] incident. In addition, several other terrorist Postmaster, send address changes to: attacks have taken place in the city that did – in Kharkiv and throughout Ukraine,” the The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz not claim any casualties. minister stated (Segodnya, March 6). 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas According to Ukraine’s Ministry of Internal In his capacity as the commander of the P.O. Box 280 Affairs, over 700 pro-Russia separatists have Slobozhanshchyna police battalion, Mr. Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] been detained in Kharkiv in the past several Yanholenko fought the militants in Luhansk months. Many of them were members of The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com and Donetsk oblasts (together known as underground groups (Rosbalt, February 24). the Donbas region). Therefore, the state The so-called “prime minister” of the The Ukrainian Weekly, April 19, 2015, No. 16, Vol. LXXXIII prosecutor’s office is inclined to regard the unrecognized, Moscow-backed Donetsk Copyright © 2015 The Ukrainian Weekly explosion of Mr. Yanholenko’s car as a ter- People’s Republic (DPR), Alexander rorist attack (Segodnya, March 6). Zakharchenko, has openly promised his In recent months, terrorist attacks in the supporters “to liberate all of the territory of Kharkiv region have become nearly rou- DPR,” by which he meant the entire Donetsk ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA tine. The previous and the most powerful Oblast of Ukraine (RIA Novosti, October 10, attack to date took place on February 22. Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 2014). Currently, well over half of the and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 As a result of the explosion, which was Donetsk Oblast is under the control of the e-mail: [email protected] timed to coincide with a march commemo- authorities in Kyiv. Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 rating last year’s Euro-Maidan movement, e-mail: [email protected] three people died and 15 were injured. (Continued on page 17) No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 3 President Poroshenko dismisses Ambassador Motsyk by Carl Schreck to help. There are ambassadors here I can e-mail right away and get stuff right away when I need it. They just RFE/RL weren’t it. The crisis demanded more,” the aide told RFE/ WASHINGTON – Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko RL on condition of anonymity. has dismissed his ambassador to the United States, whose Another senior Senate staffer speaking on condition of tenure in Washington began under ousted former anonymity said that while he did not “engage too much” President Viktor Yanukovych and spanned the duration of with Mr. Motsyk, he was “pretty impressed” with the diplo- Kyiv’s year-long conflict with Russia. mat’s staff, which has been “quite plugged in” to legislative Mr. Poroshenko relieved Ambassador Olexander Motsyk action in Washington concerning the Ukraine conflict. of his post as Ukraine’s envoy to the United States in an April “That’s at the staff level,” the staffer said. “With the ambas- 14 decree that did not specify the reasons for the dismissal. sador, it’s harder for me to say.” Mr. Motsyk, 59, had served as Ukraine’s ambassador in Other sources in U.S. policy-making circles said Washington since June 2010, when he was appointed by Ambassador Motsyk’s dismissal may simply be part of a President Viktor Yanukovych, who was chased from office standard personnel rotation given that he had already by protests in February 2014. served five years in Washington. The United States has been a crucial ally for Kyiv follow- The White House referred questions on Mr. Motsyk’s ing Russia’s annexation of Ukraine’s Crimea territory in dismissal to the State Department and the Embassy of March 2014 and Kyiv’s battle with Moscow-backed sepa- Ukraine in Washington. ratists in eastern Ukraine. The State Department did not provide a comment when Ukrainian media have speculated that Valeriy Chaly, dep- contacted by RFE/RL, and the Ukrainian Embassy did not uty head of President Poroshenko’s administration, could respond to an April 14 inquiry. replace Mr. Motsyk. Mr. Chaly indicated on April 3 that he Ukrainian American advocacy groups welcomed President would accept the post should Mr. Poroshenko offer it. Poroshenko’s move to replace Ambassador Motsyk. Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Minister Pavlo Klimkin said in an “We needed somebody who can get results done, and April 14 interview with Ukraine’s Kanal 5 television that Mr. frankly, at this time, I can’t say that we saw results coming Motsyk’s replacement “will be well known to all of Ukraine.” out of his office,” Andrij Dobriansky, a spokesman for the “It will be, I believe, the best choice for Washington and Ambassador Olexander Motsyk in a file photo from 2013. Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, a New York- for our representation in the United States,” Mr. Klimkin said. based advocacy group, told RFE/RL. Like Mr. Klimkin, Mr. Motsyk is a career diplomat who Motsyk publicly accused the Yanukovych government of The organization has been waiting for an ambassador served under President Yanukovych, a Kremlin ally whose trying to “silence the protesters with guns.” with a “stronger voice” in Washington, Mr. Dobriansky added. government faced accusations of massive corruption from Since then he has publicly appealed to U.S. officials to In December, President Obama signed legislation passed political opponents and Western officials. supply weapons Ukraine says will help it defend itself with bipartisan backing that authorizes – but does not Ambassador Motsyk was a loyal envoy for Mr. against separatists in eastern Ukraine. Western govern- require – the U.S. president to provide lethal military aid to Yanukovych who publicly lauded reforms undertaken by ments accuse Russia of backing the rebels with arms and Ukraine. the former president and dismissed suggestions that Kyiv personnel, which Moscow denies. But Mr. Obama has resisted providing these weapons was backsliding on issues like human rights, civil liberties, In January, Mr. Motsyk asked EU foreign policy chief despite the pressure from U.S. lawmakers and statements and political plurality. Frederica Mogherini in Washington whether Brussels by top military brass supportive of such assistance. Steven Pifer, a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, told would follow Kyiv’s lead in deeming the rebels terrorists The Obama administration so far has earmarked nearly The Washington Diplomat in 2011 that he felt “some sym- comparable to Islamic State militants. $200 million in nonlethal military aid for Kyiv, though crit- pathy” for Mr. Motsyk. “One of his jobs is to defend Ukraine, But sources in the U.S. Congress, which has aggressively ics say this equipment will do little to help Ukraine defend and that’s not an easy case to be defending lately,” pushed U.S. President Barack Obama to provide weapons itself against Russia. Ambassador Pifer told the monthly newspaper, adding that to Kyiv, gave Mr. Motsyk’s efforts to secure American assis- Ambassador Motsyk is “very professional.” tance mixed reviews. With reporting by Voice of America’s Ukrainian Service Also like Mr. Klimkin, Mr. Motsyk sided with the country’s One senior Senate aide said Ambassador Motsyk and his and korrespondent.net. new pro-Western leadership that took power after the deadly embassy staff were not “hitting the pavement” in Copyright 2015, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted with the permis- February 2014 street protests in Kyiv that prompted Mr. Washington and “engaging almost daily here like they sion of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Yanukovych to flee to Russia, which portrays the former presi- needed too” given the enormity of the crisis Ukraine faces Ave. NW, Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see http:// dent’s ouster as an illegal coup orchestrated by the West. in its standoff with Russia. www.rferl.org/content/ukraine-ambassador-to-washington- In a March 2014 letter to U.S. lawmakers, Ambassador “I have nothing personal against the guy. And we wanted dismissed-motsyk-chaly/26955810.html).

NEWS ANALYSIS More competition, less expensive Russian gas in Ukraine’s market

by Vladimir Socor far-reaching changes on the energy mar- prom alternatives, the country’s overall 1,000 cubic meters, a discount of $100 Eurasia Daily Monitor kets in Europe and Ukraine. Those changes natural gas demand is down as a result of applies. At a sale price below $333 per are increasingly neutralizing Russia’s abili- war and recession. Planned energy conser- 1,000 cubic meters, a discount of 30 per- Part I ty to pressure Ukraine and Europe through vation measures promise to cap that cent applies in correlation with that price. On April 1, on President Vladimir Putin’s manipulation of gas supplies and transit. As demand after recovery from recession. The financial mechanism of applying the instructions (Kremlin.ru, March 31; Interfax, long as Ukraine carries a major portion of Gazprom’s sales to Ukraine have declined discount operates by deducting Russia’s gas April 1), Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev Russian gas exports to Europe, the Kremlin both in market share and in quantitative export duty from the price charged to prolonged the validity of the existing agree- can no longer impose extortionate gas pric- terms, with correspondingly shrinking rev- Ukraine. The Russian state budget absorbs ment on Russian natural gas supplies to es on Ukraine or threaten it with supply enues. In this situation Gazprom, and that loss (RIA Novosti, April 1). Ukraine until June 30, effective immediately. cutoffs, as in previous years. For Moscow to behind it the Kremlin, have little choice but This discount’s value and methodology Originally signed by Russian Gazprom do so in the currently evolving market con- to keep selling gas to Ukraine and be flexi- are based on the inter-state agreement of and Naftohaz Ukrainy last October, the ditions (see below) would be to risk ble on prices, even amid the Kremlin-led 2010 (gas price discount to Ukraine in agreement was in force from November 1, defaulting on Russia’s supply commitments war on Ukraine. return for long-term Russian naval basing 2014, through March 31 of this year (the to Europe and losing markets there. Moscow could not seriously prevaricate rights in Crimea). Russia, however, repudi- winter heating season) with a price dis- Thanks to EU market liberalization and at this time in the gas negotiations with ated that agreement shortly after annexing count. That “winter package” agreement Central Europe interconnections, European Ukraine. The EU-mediated negotiation to Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014. At (see Eurasia Daily Monitor, March 18) has energy companies are themselves gaining prolong the agreement proceeded relative- that time Moscow cited (inter alia) now been prolonged, including that dis- market share against Gazprom in Ukraine. ly smoothly. Ukrainian debts for past supplies of gas. count, until the end of the second quarter of No longer bound by Gazprom’s bans on re- On pricing, the “summer package” car- The “winter [2014-2015] package” 2015, as part of a “summer package.” This export to third countries, European compa- ries over the wintertime price discount for marked the resumption of Russian gas looks likely to be carried over into the third nies resell gas of Russian and other origins Ukraine. On volume, the agreement’s pro- sales to Ukraine. The winter agreement quarter. The European Commission is medi- in growing volumes to Ukraine. Ongoing longation should enable Ukraine to begin introduced, and the summer 2015 agree- ating these negotiations at each stage. expansion of reverse-flow pipeline capaci- storing sufficient Russian gas for subse- ment maintains, pre-payment by Ukraine While Russia persists with full-spectrum ties, particularly through Slovakia, makes quent delivery to Europe, in anticipation of for Russian gas supplies. Ukraine has conflict operations against Ukraine, there is this possible. This means differentiation of next winter’s heating season. recently been pre-paying in small install- overlapping interest on both sides to insulate the gas suppliers and routes to Ukraine. The Under Mr. Medvedev’s April 1 govern- ments, for a few days’ worth of gas supplies the Russia-Ukraine gas trade and the gas tran- Ukrainian gas market is becoming a compet- mental decision (postanovlenie), Gazprom at a time. Ukrainian pre-payments covered sit to Europe from the impact of the ongoing itive market with alternative import options. continues granting the price discount to Russian gas delivered until March 31, on conflict. The European Union encourages this In the bilateral Russia-Ukraine gas trade, Ukraine on the same terms as during the which date Gazprom halted its deliveries understanding of the overlapping interest. the Ukrainian market seems about to begin winter just past. The discount is relative to (Gazprom press release, March 31). Although the agreement’s prolongation turning from a seller’s into a buyer’s mar- the fluctuating price of the gas at any given looks like a short-term measure, it reflects ket. While Ukraine gains access to non-Gaz- time. At a sale price exceeding $333 per (Continued on page 17) 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16

At the U.N. ... (Continued from page 1) through Manhattan to Times Square. Expressing support for the well-being of all women in the world, Ukrainian women also carried banners in protest against Russia’s war in Ukraine and distributed literature explaining the courage of Lt. Nadiya Savchenko and her hunger strike to draw attention to Russia’s violations of all norms. During the two-week CSW, WFUWO programming priori- ties focused on a few key issues: revealing the dramatic effects of Vladimir Putin’s aggression on Ukraine’s popula- tion; providing a strong showing of support for Ukraine’s indigenous Crimean Tatar community displaced in large numbers after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine’s Crimean penin- sula; engaging in a frank discussion of the barbaric wartime violence against women in eastern Ukraine that has been lit- tle acknowledged or verbalized; and promoting awareness of the dire need to protect the most vulnerable and marginal- ized in Ukraine, those who find themselves in need of medi- cal care while being isolated or displaced by the conflict. On March 9, at the Permanent Mission of Ukraine to the Joe Messaoud United Nations, guests were greeted by Ambassador Yuri Representatives to the U.N. of the International Council of Women and the World Federation of Ukrainian Sergeyev at the opening of an exhibit of photos titled Women’s Organizations at The Ukrainian Museum reception on March 14. “Women and Conflict in Ukraine.” The exhibit was com- posed of several dozen photographs depicting Ukraine’s The panel “Women in Ukraine: The Right to Peace and to the position of director of strategic communications at women in different roles during these challenging times for Security and Sustainable Development for All” was present- Ukraine Today, and Tatyana Pushnova, the Ukraine Today Ukraine. When the exhibit was originally displayed in Kyiv ed to a capacity crowd at the U.N. Church Center on March producer responsible for the film, were at The Ukrainian in December, Ukraine’s First Lady Maryna Poroshenko 10. The WFUWO-sponsored event was moderated by attor- Museum in New York for the WFUWO-organized viewing commented, “These photos depict women’s strengths and ney Kateryna Levchenko of the anti-trafficking organization of the film and discussion. Dontesk residents Svitlana weaknesses, courage and vulnerabilities, worries and pain. LaStrada and included Olena Suslova of the Women’s Moroz and Olena Chervonik, curator of the Izolyatsiya – All the women are very different, but similar in one main Information and Consultative Center; Dr. Liudmyla Platform for Cultural Initiatives, spoke about their experi- aspect – they do not surrender to difficulties.” Porokhniak Hanowska, physician and president of the ences in the eastern oblast war zone. Also on March 9, WFUWO members and representatives National Council of Women of Ukraine; Serhij Kyslytsia, A reception, hosted by WFUWO to commemorate from Ukraine’s delegation attended a panel sponsored by vice-minister of foreign affairs of Ukraine and chair of the Ukrainian participation in the 1995 Beijing Conference fol- organizations from Russia. The panelists described the obsta- Council of Europe’s Gender Equality Commission; and Irina lowed the film and discussion. WFUWO representatives cles faced by civil society advocates in Russia from an unre- Lutsenko, Ukrainian national deputy. Audience members, active in the U.N. were honored, as were two women who sponsive and oppressive government. Then, in response to including special guest Melanne Verveer, former U.S. ambas- were among those participating in Beijing: Iryna laments by Russian representatives about the disintegration sador-at-large for global women’s issues, received unfil- Kurowyckyj of New York City, who in 1995 was the vice- of Russia’s empire, the WFUWO U.N. representation made a tered, first-hand accounts of conditions on the front in the president of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of passionate appeal, as members of the audience, for the war with Russia, the strain of caring for hundreds of thou- America (UNWLA) and a representative of WFUWO at the Russian NGO representatives to acknowledge the deleteri- sands of internally displaced persons, and the arbitrary U.N., and Olena Suslova of Kyiv, founder and CEO of the ous effects in the region caused by the aggressive imperial- and barbaric violence of pro-Russian insurgents towards Women’s Information and Consultative Center. Among the ism of their government and military action against Ukrainian POWS and the general population. guests at the reception was Elizabeth Newman, a vice-pres- Ukraine, including the illegal annexation of Crimea. Afterwards, Ms. Lutsenko joined Verkhovna Rada ident at the International Council of Women, who thanked National Deputies Svitlana Zalishchuk, Maria Ionova and the Ukrainian women for their long and consistent work Irena Herashchenko at a press conference for the U.N. press with the ICW (Mrs. Kurowyckyj is currently a representa- FOR THE RECORD corps sponsored by the Permanent Mission of Ukraine to tive of the ICW at the U.N.) and expressed sympathy for the focus on the consequences of Russia’s war in Ukraine. suffering that has been inflicted upon Ukrainians. WFUWO president’s statement WFUWO’s March 12 panel titled “One Step Back? Positive In recognition of 10 years of dedicated leadership in the Women Speak About Beijing and Coping with Challenges to WFUWO at the U.N., President Sushko awarded Nadia on violence against women in Ukraine Women’s Health in Times of Conflict” was held at the Shmigel the WFUWO’s Princess Olha Award for Below is an excerpt from the statement by Irene Orysia Armenian Convention Center, also with a large audience Outstanding Service. “We are deeply grateful to you for Sushko, president of the World Federation of Ukrainian attending. Ukraine is one of the newest members of the your tremendous contribution to our organization, for Women’s Organizations, submitted to the annual session growing number of ongoing conflict zones in the world and your many years of hard work for the good of women in of the U.N. Commission on the Status of Women. panelists highlighted the fact that one of the most serious the diaspora and Ukraine,” she noted. obstacles to the implementation of the Beijing platform is Also recognized for their significant contributions to the … We regret that across the sub-region that includes the serious destruction of a nation’s infrastructure – eco- efforts of WFUWO’s U.N. representation were Hanya Krill Ukraine, violence against women remains both unac- nomic, political, social – brought about by war. Years of prog- and (in abstentia) Olya Stawnychy, who sent a greeting ceptably high and under-reported. The status of ress, and decades of effort could be undermined or congratulating the WFUWO for championing the rights of women in Ukraine has been further compromised by destroyed in a matter of months, they underscored. women and children for decades. the emergency situation created by the aggression Leading members of the Ukrainian NGO Positive The WFUWO expressed gratitude to Self-Reliance (NY) against Ukraine by the Russian Federation… Women, Ukraine’s premier provider of services to the Federal Credit Union for its generous support of the A side effect of the ensuing war is the exacerbation community of persons living with HIV/AIDS – Iryna WFUWO’s recent activities at the United Nations, as well as of women’s problems – they are the majority of dis- Borushek, Olena Stryzhak, Svitlana Moroz, and Alina to Damian Kolodiy for videotaping and livestreaming the placed persons and caretakers of the traumatized… Yaroslavska – were joined by Ayla Bakkallli, a representa- events of March 10, 12 and 14 (which can be viewed by The wartime context has increased public-sphere gen- tive of the Crimean Tatars. All spoke of the strain of provid- searching YouTube for WFUWO.United Nations channel or der-based violence. …reports of these human rights ing services to the ill, disabled, elderly and internally dis- visiting the WFUWO at the U.N. Facebook page). violations have been hindered, some say even silenced, placed persons during times of conflict. They presented by a set of factors demanding explanation. … This is of strong statistical evidence that the conflict created by global importance because the greatest obstacle to the Russia is directly responsible for the burgeoning of HIV advancement of the Beijing platform today is the mul- infection in Ukraine, which even before the conflict was at tiplication of the world’s conflict zones and the pre- the epicenter of HIV/AIDS growth in the region. dominance of women and children among the dis- A consistent message throughout the week was that, placed and victimized. whereas many international analysts believe Russia is cap- …On the Ukrainian eastern front, trafficking in per- turing Ukraine’s territory to expand, build and protect sons has increased. There are kidnappings, rapes, and itself, Russian policy was not about any of those goals, but the sexualized torture of women and children, and of was primarily aimed at destroying Ukraine. Besides the men. Much of this violence appears to be doled out in destruction that comes with a military invasion, the crip- political retribution. …these incidents are not being pling of Ukraine’s still fragile infrastructure is also part of openly reported. the strategy, presenters noted. …Ukrainian women’s NGOs emphasize the need to train and re-train government personnel in the detec- The CSW also gave Ukrainian women an opportunity to tion, recognition and prevention of gender-based vio- speak about the gender-based violence that is rampant in lence. …In the instances where gender-based violence the conflict zone. The war zone sexual violence and sexual- appears to be doled out as political retribution, the vic- ized torture of women and children as well as men, is hor- tims’ security is of paramount importance, as are the rific. A documentary film, based on interviews with four objectivity of human rights observers and the honesty women affected by such violence was produced at the ini- of the media to report the instances of sexualized vio- tiative of Dr. Lada Roslycky by Ukraine Today Television. lence as political retribution. Titled “Tortured Femininity,” the film premiered in Ukraine Orysia Sushko presents Nadia Shmigel (right) with the on March 13.. On March 14, Dr. Roslycky, newly appointed WFUWO’s Princess Olha award. No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 5 Polish president, addressing Rada, pledges support for Ukraine understand the importance of Ukraine’s RFE/RL security. “One cannot tolerate that the KYIV – Polish President Bronislaw aggressor’s soldiers, tanks, armored per- Komorowski voiced strong support for sonnel carriers and anti-aircraft installa- Ukraine in a speech in the neighboring tions are present in Ukraine’s east,” he said, country’s Parliament on April 9, urging adding that “only the blind cannot see their Western nations to back Kyiv as it struggles lies today.” against Russian interference. “The Western world has to realize that it Addressing the Verkhovna Rada in Kyiv, can be safe only if Ukraine is safe,” Mr. Mr. Komorowski said that Poland has Komorowski said. “stretched out its hand to Ukraine and is Kyiv and NATO say Russia has sent doing everything – and will do everything – troops and weapons into Ukraine to sup- so that other states and peoples of the free port separatists whose conflict with gov- Western world stretch their hands out to ernment forces has killed more than 6,000 Ukraine as well.” people since April 2014. Russia denies it. “Poland’s outstretched hand is not just President Komorowski also said that an indication of the current political trend European Union nations recognize but our understanding of the historic pro- Ukraine’s territory in borders established cesses turning Ukraine into an equal and by 1991, reiterating the European Union’s extremely important partner and neigh- refusal to accept the annexation of bor,” he said. Ukraine’s Crimea by Russia in March 2014. Without mentioning Russia by name, “The changes of borders against the will the Polish president pointed clearly at of the Ukrainian nation will never be Moscow and stressed that the West must accepted by us and will always be con- president.gov.ua President Bronislaw Komorowski of Poland addresses the Verkhovna Rada on April 9. demned by us,” Mr. Komorowski said. ple, including Polish officers killed by Soviet Talking about the complicated history of authorities in March-April 1940, are buried. ties between the Ukrainian and Polish peo- Paying tribute to the victims of the ples, Mr. Komorowski called on the two Soviet regime, Mr. Komorowski said that nations to choose “the path of forgiveness,” “the commemoration of the victims of the saying that the issue of current Polish- past is one of the ways to prevent similar Ukrainian ties “is not about the past, it is tragedies in future.” about the future.” Mr. Poroshenko said the Bykivnia graves “When Poles and Ukrainians stood are “an echo of the black September of against each other, somebody else, who 1939 when Hitler and Stalin together ignit- wanted to deprive the two nations of their ed the bloody slaughter of World War II, independence and freedom, always used trying to share and break Europe.” that stand-off,” Mr. Komorowski said. Mr. Komorowski added that Poland as With reporting by UNIAN and pravda. an EU member will be supporting visa-free com.ua. travel regulations for Ukrainian nationals. Copyright 2015, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted Mr. Komorowski was on a two-day visit with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ and met with President Petro Poroshenko Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, on April 8. Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see On April 9, Presidents Komorowski and http://www.rferl.org/content/komorowski- president.gov.ua Poroshenko visited Bykivnia, an area on the support-ukraine-verkhovna-rada/26946495. Presidents Bronislaw Komorowski and Petro Poroshenko visit Bykivnia. outskirts of Kyiv where thousands of peo- html). Canadian PM announces new military contribution in Ukraine OTTAWA – Prime Minister Stephen Harper on April 14 announced that the government of Canada will provide signifi- cant additional military resources to help train and build the capacity of Ukrainian forces personnel. The announcement was made following a briefing on the current Appears May 3, security situation in Ukraine with Minister of National Defense and Minister for 2015, Multiculturalism Jason Kenney and Gen. in The Ukrainian Tom Lawson, Chief of the Defense Staff. Canada will be deploying approximately Weekly 200 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel to Ukraine until March 31, 2017, to develop We invite readers and and deliver military training and capacity- community organizations building programs for Ukrainian forces per- to submit articles, plus photos, sonnel. CAF members will be deployed on on upcoming summer camps, both a sustained and periodic basis depend- courses, workshops ing on the type of training being conducted. pm.gc.ca Their activities will include explosive Prime Minister Stephen Harper announces that the government of Canada will pro- and other events ordnance disposal and improvised explo- vide significant additional military resources to help train and build the capacity of Ukrainian forces personnel following a briefing on the current security situation in Editorial deadline: sive device disposal training, military police Ukraine with Minister of National Defense and Minister for Multiculturalism Jason training, medical training, flight safety Kenney and Gen. Thomas Lawson, chief of the Defense Staff. APRIL 20 training and logistics system moderniza- [email protected] tion training. Canada will also be providing in the face of Russian aggression. The sup- defend their country’s sovereignty and ter- individual and unit tactics training to port being announced today was informed ritorial integrity.” We welcome advertisements Ukrainian National Guard personnel along by consultations with key allies. A news release from the office of the with the United States. Prime Minister Harper said, “Canada prime minister noted: “Canada’s position for this special issue. Canada’s latest military contribution, continues to stand with the people of on Ukraine has been clear since the outset: Advertising deadline: which addresses a number of requests Ukraine in the face of the Putin regime’s we recognize the sovereignty and territori- from the government of Ukraine, is being ongoing aggression. The Canadian military al integrity of Ukraine and will never recog- APRIL 16 provided to help the country in its efforts to contribution being announced today will nize the illegal Russian occupation of [email protected] maintain sovereignty, security and stability help Ukrainian forces personnel to better Crimea or any part of that country.” 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16

WINDOW ON EURASIA The Ukrainian Weekly When a preposition is predetermination: Preparing for war Lately, world headlines have focused on Iran and Yemen, while the war – yes, it is Putin began attack on Ukraine’s statehood in 2004 a war – in Ukraine has become old news. This comes at a time that fighting contin- ues in Ukraine’s east, despite the supposed ceasefire, and as knowledgeable observ- by Paul Goble dent and his administration even once. “In ers are saying Russia is planning a spring offensive in Ukraine. 2011-2015, 100 percent of the cases have As reported by Prof. Alexander Motyl on his World Affairs blog, Andriy Parubiy, Vladimir Putin stopped using the prepo- used the form “na Ukraine,” Mr. Illarionov the vice-chairman of Ukraine’s Parliament and former national security adviser, stat- sition “v” (or “in”) Ukraine in 2004, reverting reports. ed on March 27 that there is a “high risk” of a “full-scale military operation” in the to the older form “na” (or “on”) in official This allows one to conclude, the Russian next few weeks. Gen. Wesley Clark, a former supreme allied commander of NATO, government documents – an indication that analyst says, that the decision to shift from said at a March 30 briefing at the Atlantic Council that “Ukrainian forces expect [an] the Kremlin leader does not view Ukraine as “v” to “na” was taken “in the period between attack within the next 60 days. This assessment is based on geographic imperatives, a country but rather as a Russian border- March 1 and April 5, 2004” – quite possibly the ongoing pattern of Russian activity, and an analysis of Russian actions, state- land, according to Andrey Illarionov. immediately after Mr. Putin won a second ments and Putin’s psychology to date.” From the time he became president in term as president and thus an indication of Noting that “In this war, Moscow has used a combination of local separatist forces, 2000 through March 2004, Mr. Putin used his intentions toward Kyiv at that time. irregular volunteers, and Russian special forces and regular forces,” Gen. Clark said the preposition “v” exclusively in official Certainly by April 16, 2004, Mr. Putin that since the Minsk 1 (September 2014) and Minsk 2 (February 2015) agreements, documents he signed, but beginning on had made a decision to shift gears with “the Kremlin-directed forces have taken additional territory” in the east of Ukraine. April 5, 2004, he shifted to “na.” Since Mr. regard to Ukraine. On that date, Mr. He cited the fact that the Ukrainian forces face a much stronger aggressor. Putin returned for his third term, such docu- Illarionov recalls, Mr. Putin told the head of “Ukrainians do well against the separatists and irregulars but cannot withstand ments have used “na” exclusively (kasparov. Ukraine’s presidential administration, direct engagement with Russian regular forces, who are heavily involved in the fight- ru/material.php?id=55235E0133DC6). Viktor Medvedchuk, “You know our posi- ing in Ukraine’s east.” He cited the following estimates: some 9,000 Russian person- In his own speeches, commentaries and tion.” Working with Ukraine is “the top pri- nel and 30,000-35,000 separatist fighters in eastern Ukraine; some 400 tanks and responses to questions, Mr. Illarionov ority and the most important for us.” 700 pieces of artillery, including rocket launchers, in that region; another 50,000 points out, Mr. Putin has gone from using “However, that was the beginning of lin- Russian military personnel located along or near Russia’s border with Ukraine; a “v” in 87.5 percent of the cases in 2002 to guistic aggression by denying the statehood further 50,000 Russian personnel in Crimea. These Russian forces employ very 70 percent in 2007 to 15.4 percent in 2012 of Ukraine by the Russian authorities begin- advanced weapons systems, while Ukraine largely relies on Soviet-era equipment to 8.2 percent last year, thus ever more ning in March-April 2004,” Mr. Illarionov and faces a serious overall shortage of military equipment. often replacing it with the “na” and thus says. That was before the beginning of the What’s more, there have been even more ominous signals emanating lately from showing his lack of respect for Ukraine’s Orange Revolution in Ukraine in that year the Kremlin. For example, The Daily Mail (London) on April 2 reported this: “Vladimir status as a state. and long before July 2013 when Mr. Putin Putin is planning to exploit the threat of nuclear war to force NATO out of countries Since April 5, 2004, 99.4 percent of the began his hybrid war against Ukraine. bordering Russia, it has been claimed. A secret meeting between intelligence figures official documents Mr. Putin has signed “In other words,” Mr. Illarionov con- in Moscow and Washington reportedly revealed Putin will consider any attempt to which refer to Ukraine have used “v” rather cludes, “the decision about the denial of the return the Crimean peninsula to Ukraine as declaration of war and will take any nec- than “na.” Most of these 11 exceptions statehood of Ukraine was not provoked by essary step – including using nuclear weapons – to retain control of the region. Notes reflect either statements about the past or any real actions of Ukrainians, be they from from the meeting are also said to have revealed that Putin is planning imminent about the work of specific Russian officials the Ukrainian authorities or Ukrainian soci- ‘destabilizing actions’ in pro-Western Baltic states in a direct challenge to NATO’s of various kinds in Ukraine, he says. ety. This decision was taken by Putin per- promise to defend the countries from Soviet-style Russian expansionism.” “The last time the grammatical form ‘v sonally, independent of the situation in Dr. Stephen Blank, senior fellow for Russia at the American Foreign Policy Ukraine’ was used in official documents of Ukraine and as a result of his own ideas Council, underscored in a March 31 commentary on the Atlantic Council’s website the Kremlin was about five years ago on and in correspondence with his own plans.”

that what’s at stake in Ukraine “is not just a quarrel over the fate of Ukraine,” but “a July 1, 2010,” concerning the presentation Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on eth- war for the future of Russia, and beyond that for the long-term future of European of an award to the head of ITAR-TASS in Ukraine. And that order was signed by nic and religious questions in Eurasia. The and Eurasian security.” He cautioned that, in hiding behind “rhetoric that masks a then-President Dmitry Medvedev. article above is reprinted with permission deeper inaction or complacency about Russia and Ukraine, we are only storing up Since that time, “v” has not been used in from his blog called “Window on Eurasia” for ourselves and future generations a larger continental crisis.” the official documents of the Russian presi- (http://windowoneurasia2.blogspot.com/). In his briefing at the Atlantic Council, Gen. Clark said the Obama administration should immediately do two things to help Ukraine: share intelligence with Ukraine so the Ukrainians can have “firm warning of a renewed Russian offensive”; and pre- pare an aid package, including lethal assistance that has already been authorized by Congress, deploy it at a staging base, and warn Mr. Putin that “when we first get the Former advisor to Russian president indications that you are coming again we will send assistance, including lethal assis- tance, to Ukraine.” He explained that, if the administration is not yet prepared to pro- speaks on Putin’s long preparations for war vide the lethal weapons it has been authorized to send to Ukraine by the Ukraine Freedom Support Act of 2014, it could at least have the package ready, “promise it, promote it, explain it, and use it in deterrence.” In short, while desiring peace, we should prepare for war. If the U.S. desires peace in Ukraine and beyond, President Barack Obama must heed the advice of numerous officials in his own administration who support arming Ukraine. Further delay only guarantees further Russian aggression.

April Turning the pages back...

Sixty-five years ago, on April 19, 1950, the Ukrainian 19 Bandurist Chorus (UBC), under the direction of Hryhory Kytasty, expressed thanks through music and words to U.S. legislators for 1950 permitting them to enter the United States as displaced persons. In attendance at a special event at the Senate building in Washington were senators, congressmen and invited guests. The concert, which began with the U.S. national anthem sung with accompaniment on the bandura, made “an everlasting impression” on the assembled lawmakers. Other selec- tions included Ukrainian folk and historical songs that echoed through the halls of the Senate building. Sponsoring the concert were: Sens. Harley M. Kilgore (D – W. Va.) and Homer Ferguson WASHINGTON – Dr. Andrei Illarionov discussed President Vladimir Putin’s long (R – Mich.), Reps. John W. McCormack (D – Mass.), and Joseph Martin (R – Mass.), and preparation for Russia’s war with Ukraine April 7 at the Atlantic Council think tank Secretary of the Senate Leslie L. Biffle. in Washington. An economic advisor to President Putin until 2005, Dr. Illarionov Sen. Harry Cain (R – Wash.), who was instrumental in making the arrangements with now is president of the Institute of Economic Analysis, an independent think tank Helen Dubovyk (tour manager) for the group’s appearance, stated: ”It is my sincere wish in Moscow, and a senior fellow at the Center for Global Liberty and Prosperity at that the bandurists will be heard by all Americans. I wish to thank them for being here. It the Cato Institute, a Washington-based libertarian think tank. Asked at the conclu- is really America’s gain that they are here instead of behind the Iron Curtain. It gave me sion of his discussion when a resolution to the Ukrainian crisis can be expected, Dr. great pleasure to hear them and it was wonderful to have had a hand in helping them.” Illarionov said that it can only be expected when Russia becomes a free, liberal and Founded in Ukraine in 1918 and with Metropolitan Detroit as its base since 1949, the democratic country. Only then, he said, will it not threaten its neighbors and other Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus (bandura.org) continues to thrive. Most recently, the UBC countries to the West. And Western countries should strive to achieve that as their ultimate goal that will bring peace and freedom to that part of the world, he said. (Continued on page 12) – Yaro Bihun No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Unfortunately no such outfit exists and Valentina Lisitsa deserves although I have spent periods embedded with the Azov and Aidar Battalions, I had, universal condemnation in fact, spent three weeks with the 37th Mechanized Infantry Battalion. It is a vol- Dear Editor: unteer unit, serving as a component of the Your April 12 editorial “Hate speech is Ukrainian army (rather than the Internal not free speech” hit all the right points. Affairs Ministry) and its 430 members UFSA: A strong statement of support Unfortunately, the subsequent pro-Valenti- mostly hail from the Zaporizhia region. It On December 18, 2014, President expanded nonmilitary assistance for na Lisitsa media fallout highlights a crucial was formed by officers and veterans of elite Barack Obama signed into law the Ukraine Ukraine; lesson. The Ukrainian diaspora should not Soviet-era and, later, Ukrainian airborne assume that what we see as “hate speech” forces, something that is reflected in its Freedom Support Act (UFSA) of 2014, the expanded broadcasting in countries of will also be called “hate speech” by others. professionalism, discipline and fighting culmination of nearly a year of organized the former Soviet Union; Like it or not, the court of public opinion is record in some of the toughest battles. efforts towards a comprehensive aid pack- support for Russian democracy and civil swayed by “perceptions,” assumptions and I want to dispel any confusion because – age for Ukraine in response to Russia’s society organizations; unspoken “truths” and the fact that, for as I mentioned at the rally – I will be speak- armed invasion and occupation of sanctions on Russian and other foreign whatever reasons, Ukraine is still a grey ing at various Ukrainian community ven- Ukrainian territory. This legislation repre- financial institutions; and area in the public “consciousness.” It is high ues to describe the situation Ukrainian sents the unique way the people of the sanctions relating to the defense and time for us to reframe the discussion. fighters face at the frontlines as they pre- United States have decided to assist the energy sectors of the Russian Federation. That Ms. Lisitsa is pro-Putin and pro- pare to face the next, seemingly inevitable, people of Ukraine, unlike any support dem- Already, I’ve mentioned aspects of a Russia is irrelevant. And descriptions like Russian onslaught. There will be a photo onstrated by other nations of the world. comprehensive aid package the likes of and video presentation featuring the 37th “disgusting, outrageous, crude” used by This was demonstrated by the marrying of which would be the envy of half the world. Battalion which, like other courageous vol- many who objected to her comments various components of support into one But there’s an additional element added to unteer units, relies largely on private dona- should merely be footnotes to our central comprehensive piece of legislation. the UFSA that lays the groundwork for tions to keep going. argument. What was needed in Toronto First and foremost, the UFSA made law future legislation, testing both the resolve I hope, when the schedule is arranged, was the following consistent focus: that the that it is the official policy of the United of the president and that of the Russian The Ukrainian Weekly will help inform States to “assist the government of Ukraine Federation. Buried within the language of objections to Ms. Lisitsa’s Tweets were not people interested in attending the talks and that she crudely insults Ukrainians, in restoring its sovereignty and territorial the UFSA are three reports which Congress contributing to their needs. Anyone want- integrity” and “to deter the government of requested. improper though that is, but that her ing to read more about the battalion can do Tweets are unacceptable to the societal the Russian Federation from further desta- The first is a written communication so in a recent article by me published by bilizing and invading Ukraine.” Above and from the president selecting three new norms and core values of all citizens: her the online magazine The Intercept at beyond whatever you may have heard sanctions out of a possible nine. This com- stereotyping and dehumanizing, her anti- https://firstlook.org/theintercept/2015/ about the Budapest Memorandum, the U.N. munication was due to Congress 30 days Semitism and racism against Africans, her 04/04/ukraine-trench-warfare/). xenophobia and intolerance. Charter or the Helsinki Final Act – we now after the UFSA became law, and was intend- Our uphill battle is to clearly show why Askold Krushelnycky have unanimously passed legislation that ed to signal further resolve on the part of the Lisitsa controversy and similar cases Washington unequivocally states what we have always the United States. The president, it should qualify for the same universal condemna- assumed as citizens of the Defender of be noted, was given the option of not adding tion that occurred with Mel Gibson, Paula Liberty. additional sanctions if national security Dean, NBA owner Donald Sterling, “Duck GUIDELINES FOR LETTERS Why do I ascribe so much significance concerns would prevent implementation; Dynasty’s” Phil Robertson and many oth- TO THE EDITOR to this policy statement? Simply put, it’s all however, whatever the final outcome, ers. While there may be two sides to “politi- in the context. I am often confronted on detailed written communication was legis- cal” conflicts, there are never two sides to The Ukrainian Weekly welcomes letters television by know-it-all pundits, too clev- lated by Congress even in the event of non- to the editor and commentaries on a vari- er by far when they rhetorically demand enaction of such sanctions. The benefit of “hate speech.” ety of topics of concern to the Ukrainian to know “what is a defensive weapon?” – having such a record is its ability to advise Adrian Bryttan American and Ukrainian Canadian com- as if all arms exist to attack and oppress. legislators on how to tailor future legisla- New York munities. Opinions expressed by colum- nists, commentators and letter-writers are My response always turns to an analogy of tion. “Fool me once…” as they say. their own and do not necessarily reflect farm supplies: were you or I to purchase a In the second report mandated by the the opinions of either The Weekly edito- bag of fertilizer, along with garden tools, act, the president is required to submit a About the 37th Mechanized rial staff or its publisher, the Ukrainian potting soil and some kneepads, your per- report to both houses of Congress detailing National Association. ception of that fertilizer would be much the “anticipated defense articles, defense Letters should be typed (double-spaced) Infantry Battalion of volunteers and signed (anonymous letters are not different than if I bought that same services and training to be provided” to Dear Editor: published). Letters are accepted also via amount of fertilizer along with propane or Ukraine and a timeline for delivery, no later e-mail at [email protected]. The day- gasoline, radio transmitters and shaped than 60 days after the date of enactment. I was happy too see your fine coverage time phone number and complete mailing containers. Lastly, Congress requested a report on of the White House rally last month by address of the letter-writer must be given In much the same way, the UFSA lays out non-compliance by the Russian Federation Ukrainians and others pressing President for verification purposes. (A daytime phone a defensive shopping cart, full of defensive of its obligations under treaty on the elimi- number is essential in order for editors to Barrack Obama to arm Ukraine. articles and weapons, along with the requi- nation of their Intermediate-Range and I was one of those who spoke at the rally contact letter-writers regarding clarifica- tions or questions.) site training and assisting services, that the Shorter-Range Missiles (commonly but an error in the story said I had been at Please note: The length of letters cannot UFSA authorizes the president to deliver. referred to as the `Intermediate-Range the frontlines near Mariupol with the “37th exceed 500 words. Letters may be edited or All of this is done expressly “for the pur- Nuclear Forces Treaty or `INF Treaty’). unit of the Azov Volunteer battalion.” abridged. pose of countering offensive weapons and Taken in total, you’ll not find a stronger re-establishing the sovereignty and territo- statement of support for Ukraine issued by rial integrity of Ukraine, including anti-tank any other government, which is why pas- Gen. Wesley Clark to address and anti-armor weapons, crew weapons sage of the Ukraine Freedom Support Act of and ammunition, counter-artillery radars 2014 was advocated for so vocally by our UCCA 75th anniversary commemoration to identify and target artillery batteries, fire community. And although President Obama control, range finder, and optical and guid- has not seen fit to follow the timeline of the NEW YORK – The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) announced ance and control equipment, tactical troop- UFSA, we have already seen direct assis- that one of the most vocal advocates for providing Ukraine with the military assis- operated surveillance drones, and secure tance arriving to Ukraine as a result of the tance it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression, Gen. Wesley Clark, will command and communications equip- UFSA. Already in 2015, the Ukrainian deliver the keynote address at the UCCA’s 75th anniversary commemoration to be ment.” Congress Committee of America has had held in the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, May 20. Now, add to the aforementioned policy conversations with leaders in Congress Gen. Clark has been speaking out in defense of Ukraine’s independence, its territo- statement and defensive weapons the fol- seeking to follow up on the UFSA with addi- rial integrity and the important role the United States needs to play in securing both. lowing: tional legislation, much in the same way As a decorated four-star general of the U.S. Army and former NATO supreme allied that discussions began in early 2014. commander, his expertise and candor are well-known within the U.S. policy estab- If the UFSA is an example of what can be lishment. Andrij Dobriansky is an Executive Board Gen. Clark understands not only the precedent that has been set with Russia’s ille- Member and media spokesman for the accomplished in only the first year of this gal annexation of Crimea (which marked the first time since the end of World War II Ukrainian Congress Committee of America international conflict, we are already ahead that borders in Europe were changed by unilateral military force), but how high the (ucca.org), the largest organized represen- of the U.S. response to military invasions stakes are for the United States, and the entire democratic world. tation of Americans of Ukrainian descent. In throughout the world. I’d like to think that Most recently, Gen. Clark commented: “At every level, people [Ukrainians] are very his new column, “Ukraine Matters,” Mr. we can use this success as a way of leading conscious of the fact that they are fighting what they consider the battle for Western Dobriansky shares his thoughts on topics by example and inspire other countries to civilization. …They are fighting for us.” often glossed over in the media. do the same. Numerous members of Congress are expected to be in attendance at the UCCA’s anniversary commemoration. For more information on the UCCA’s 75th anniversary event in Washington or to purchase tickets, readers may contact the UCCA National Office at 212-228-6840. Visit our archive online: www.ukrweekly.com 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16 No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 9 Congressional engagement on Ukraine intensifies since Euro-Maidan

by Orest Deychakiwsky Cardin condemning Russia’s violation of sanctions against those responsible for the worked at the Helsinki Commission, I’ve international commitments by annexing use of force. Another House resolution seen advocacy on Ukraine ebb and flow – In December of 2013, I delivered a pre- Crimea and directly supporting conflict in passed within weeks of the appearance of previously peaking in the decade leading sentation at a U.S.-Ukraine Foundation con- Ukraine was adopted by a 3-1 margin, the “little green men” in Crimea called on up to the fall of the Soviet Union – with its ference on Capitol Hill about 100 years of despite fierce Russian opposition. NATO and the European Union to immedi- focus on human rights, political prisoners Congress and Ukraine. In that presentation, ately suspend military cooperation with and calls for independence, and continuing Legislation I tried to provide a sense of the scope of Russia and adopt various sanctions on for a few years following independence, activity the Congress has undertaken on The most concrete manifestation of Russian officials and others complicit in with a focus on assistance to the new Ukraine spanning the last century, especial- Congressional activity on Ukraine has been Russia’s intervention in Ukraine. Ukrainian state. Never, though, have I seen ly before independence, when Ukraine was legislation, most notably, two public laws such intense activity as over the last year, New legislation a relative terra incognita among the U.S. signed by the president – both of which especially in the passage of the Ukraine foreign policy establishment. And even received strong bipartisan support, some- Legislation recently passed in the new Freedom Support Act. though I had just returned from Ukraine, thing that has not been the norm in recent 114th Congress has included a Senate reso- Heretofore, the heavy lifting of advocacy where I witnessed the beginning stages of years given the highly charged partisan lution on Ukrainian fighter-pilot Nadiya by Ukrainian Americans had been done by the Maidan, I could little imagine the dra- environment. Savchenko, who has been illegally detained the post-World War II emigration and their matic events that would transpire in the On April 3, President Barack Obama by the Russians since July 2014, and sepa- children. In the last 16 months, however, coming months, much less Russia’s illegal signed into law the Support for the rate House and Senate resolutions passed the new and largely politically inactive annexation of Crimea and flagrant aggres- Sovereignty, Integrity, Democracy and in March calling for the provision of lethal post-independence emigration has come sion in the Donbas. Economic Stability of Ukraine Act of 2014, and non-lethal assistance to Ukraine. These out of the woodwork and become consid- Congressional efforts over the last year which authorized aid to help Ukraine carry last two – which passed with significant erably more engaged in advocacy efforts have centered on three main pillars: mili- out reforms; authorized security assistance bipartisan support – are especially poi- through organizations such as Razom for tary assistance, both lethal and non-lethal; to Ukraine and other Central and Eastern gnant given the administration’s continued Ukraine. There have been many more sanctions against Russia and its Ukrainian European countries; and required the pres- reluctance to provide defensive military advocacy events, notably four “Ukrainian colluders; and economic and technical ident to impose visa bans and asset sei- (lethal) assistance. In addition, a substan- Days” organized by the Ukrainian Congress assistance for Ukraine. zures against persons in Ukraine and tial number of resolutions have been intro- Committee of America and its Ukrainian Russia responsible for violence or under- duced – including on non-recognition of National Information Service over the last Congressional activity mining Ukraine’s territorial integrity. He Crimea’s annexation by Russia and on the year, and the proliferation in the use of How has Congressional activity mani- also signed into law a bill requiring Radio provision of assistance in helping Ukraine social media in addition to the use of more fested itself? Never have we seen more Free Europe-Radio Liberty and Voice of with its reforms – but have not yet seen traditional communication such as e-mails, statements, press releases, letters to America to increase broadcasting in east- Congressional action. phone calls and direct person-to-person administration officials, hearings, briefings ern Ukraine and Crimea. In addition to the authorizing legislation, contacts – both at the national and local and meetings with visiting Ukrainian offi- And on December 18, 2014, the presi- notably the Ukraine Freedom Support Act, levels. cials, along with countless media appear- dent signed the Ukraine Freedom Support the Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 omnibus appro- Advocacy efforts were not by any means ances than since the beginning of 2014. Act, permitting the president to impose priations bill includes increased assistance limited to the Ukrainian American commu- Never have so many Members of Congress, sanctions on Russian defense, energy and for Ukraine (as does the president’s budget nity. The Ad Hoc Committee for Ukraine, especially senators, visited Ukraine as in other firms and foreign persons; and request for FY 2016). Many observers composed of Ukrainian Americans and the last 16 months – some on more than authorizing increased military, economic, argue that Ukraine needs higher levels of other supporters of Ukraine, was instru- one occasion. Never have there been so energy and democracy assistance for economic, military and other forms of mental in the creation of the Senate many public hearings on Ukraine as in the Ukraine, as well as increased funding for assistance, including additional loan guar- Ukraine Caucus and other advocacy efforts. past year, especially in the Senate Foreign U.S. Russian-language broadcasting to the antees. Another feature of outside activity has Relations Committee. Never have there region. One indication that enhanced assistance been the engagement of organizations and been as many media appearances by sena- To have two major pieces of legislation is being looked at seriously is that in recent individuals also concerned with the impli- tors and representatives. on one country within a year was no small weeks there have been several CODELS cations of Russia’s flagrant violations on Never has there been as much interac- feat. One point of context for those not (Congressional delegations) to Ukraine Ukraine’s territorial integrity, such as tion between members of Congress and the familiar with Capitol Hill: the vast majority that have included the House majority Central and Eastern European groups, executive branch on Ukraine and congres- of legislation that is introduced never leader and senior members of the House including those representing the Baltic sional pressure on the administration for a becomes law and that which does often Appropriations Committee, including sev- community. more assertive U.S. policy to counter takes months and years to wind its way eral appropriations subcommittee chairs, In spite of the overall criticism that Russia’s aggression. A highlight of the year through the legislative process. By normal as well as the chairs of several other impor- Congress has been unable to get much was President Petro Poroshenko’s power- congressional standards, the April law was tant committees, including Armed Services. done over the last few years, when it comes ful September 18th address to a joint ses- adopted at lightning speed. to Ukraine, much has been accomplished. Outside advocacy sion of Congress, a rare honor accorded to The Ukraine Freedom Support Act, Congress can take great pride in its strong, a foreign leader and one that was extreme- while still making its way through the pro- An important, though far from sole, fac- bipartisan support of Ukraine. But there is ly favorably received by the Congress. cess more quickly than most bills, took tor encouraging Congressional interest in still much work ahead to assist Ukraine in Clearly, the level of congressional somewhat longer. There were a number of Ukraine, has been advocacy by the continuing to fend off Russian aggression involvement has mushroomed. The reasons for this, including administration Ukrainian American community and other and to support the prosperous, democratic Helsinki Commission – a nonpartisan inde- opposition, which led to its being weak- numerous friends of Ukraine. Congress, of European future that Ukrainians have free- pendent government agency affiliated with ened somewhat, and several Senate holds course, is the branch of government closest ly chosen. Congress – and the Congressional being put on it, stalling its Senate passage, to the people. Advocacy work on behalf of Ukrainian Caucus have historically dis- as well as a busy end-of-the Congress Ukraine in Congress has also greatly Orest Deychakiwsky is senior policy advi- played the greatest level of activity, albeit in schedule. The holds were removed and the expanded over the last 16 months. sor at the U.S. Helsinki Commission. The different ways reflecting their different Senate passed the bill unanimously right Over the more than three decades I’ve views expressed here are his own. structures and mandates. That changed before the end of the 113th Congress. The with the Russian occupation of Crimea, fact that the House passed it unanimously when standing committees, especially the in the last minute was a minor miracle in Senate Foreign Relations Committee and part due to the intense advocacy work by House Foreign Affairs Committee, also the Ukrainian American community and stepped up their level of attention to other friends of Ukraine concerned not Ukraine in an unprecedented manner, both only about Ukraine, but the serious impli- reflecting and encouraging Ukraine’s cations of Russia’s aggression for the ascent as one of the top foreign policy pri- region. orities. Nevertheless, the passage of these bills – Because of Russia’s military aggression, both of which were initiated in the Senate – other committees such as the Senate and was an impressive and relatively rare dis- House Armed Services committees also play of bipartisanship in both the House increased their engagement on Ukraine. At and Senate and a strong manifestation of the same time, the Helsinki Commission the support of the American people, and the Congressional Ukrainian Caucus through their elected representatives, for remained very active. In February, a Senate Ukraine. Ukraine Caucus was inaugurated. Although not carrying the weight of bills Congressional involvement has also signed by the president, Congress has manifested itself in the international arena, passed a number of important resolutions most notably at the 57-country OSCE since the onset of the Maidan. These Parliamentary Assembly held in Baku in included House and Senate resolutions in June. There, a resolution introduced by early 2014 promoting a peaceful resolution Helsinki Commission Chairman Sen. Ben to the Maidan and calls for consideration of 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16

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Edited and compiled by Matthew Dubas Denver food truck off ers “taste of Ukraine” by Matthew Dubas PARSIPPANY, N.J. – On March 9, KDVR Fox 31 in Denver profiled Pavlo Makolondra’s food truck, Pavlo’s Taste of Ukraine during its “everyday Colorado” segment. Mr. Makolondra, 35, explained to The Weekly that the Ukrainian community in Denver was small when he was growing up, consisting mostly of immigrants who arrived in the U.S. after the second world war. With 21 years of experience in the hos- pitality industry, having worked just about every job in the hotels and restaurants, in 2010 Mr. Makolondra attended the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Minneapolis. After graduating he worked in Minneapolis as a sous chef under chef Andy Woodcock – whom he credits with mentor- ing and motivation. He returned to Denver in 2014 to start Pavlo’s Taste of Ukraine – basing his selections on guidance from his Ukrainian-born grandmother, Maria. He learned the techniques and put his own Pavlo Makolondra flair on the traditional Ukrainian dishes. Mr. Pavlo’s Taste of Ukraine food truck with Ukrainian-themed artwork. Makolondra began to notice an influx of Ukrainian immigrants in Denver and point- Menu items include Ukrainian favorites: cheese and a white wine vinaigrette. of Ukraine food truck will be via his ed out that people generally knew about varenyky, holubtsi, kovbasa and borsch. On recent Fridays, Mr. Makolondra teamed Facebook page (www.facebook.com/pav- Ukraine after Russia’s 2014 invasion. And in good pairing fashion, sides: cucum- up with Ukrainians of Colorado (www.ukrai- los-taste-of-ukraine), his website (www. Customers, he added, continue to ask ber salad tossed with white wine vinegar, niansofcolorado.com) for its monthly tasteukraine.net) and the Food Trucks In about the situation in Ukraine and offer sour cream and fresh dill; cremini mush- Ukrainian Happy Hour and Networking event website (www.foodtrucksin.com/pavlos- support for the Ukrainians in defense of rooms marinated with lemon juice, white at Diebolt Brewing Company in Denver, with tate-ukraine). His food truck makes fre- their country. “It’s amazing how current wine vinegar, tarragon and bay leaf; and a his food truck providing Ukrainian offerings. quent appearances at festivals, concerts events brings people together.” mixed green salad with pickled beets, bleu Readers can find out where Pavlo’s Tatse and college campuses. Actor-turned-fi nancial guru Taissa Farmiga builds acting career with publishes fi rst book on fi nance upcoming projects by Matthew Dubas ing their latest money ‘win’ – whether it’s negotiating a better deal on their cable or opening an IRA – either way, PARSIPPANY, N.J. – Actor Taissa Farmiga, 20, was PARSIPPANY, N.J. – Millennial expert, actress, author and they’re excited about and engaged with their money.” featured in three projects – “Share,” a short directed entrepreneur Stefanie O’Connell published her first book in A professional actor in musical theater, graduating from by Pippa Bianco; “Six Years,” a relationship drama January. “The Broke and Beautiful Life” is based on her blog New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, Ms. O’Connell shot in 2014 at the South-by-Southwest Music, Film of the same name, which chronicles her experience as a has written for other blog sites and publications such as struggling actor who needed to supplement her income Yahoo Finance, U.S. News and World Report and others. and Interactive Festival; and “The Final Girls,” a hor- with “survival jobs.” In promoting her blog (brokeandbeautifullife.com) and ror comedy with Malin Akerman, Nina Dobrev and In speaking with The Weekly via e-mail, Ms. O’Connell book, she is making the rounds on a public speaking tour, Alia Shawkat – that premiered at the South-by- stated: with her interviews being broadcast on radio and on televi- Southwest festival held on March 13-22 in Austin, “I wrote ‘The Broke and Beautiful Life’ to share my per- sion in Boston, Miami and New York. The Wall Street Texas. spective as a young person going through the unique chal- Journal, Forbes and U.S.A. Today also featured Ms. Taissa’s acting debut was during her sister, Vera lenges of establishing financial independence at a time O’Connell’s work, her webinars and consulting services. Farmiga’s, directorial debut, “Higher Ground” (2011). where financial realities are grim. There’s a lot of personal She described her book/speaking tour as “wonderful,” While promoting the film during the Sundance film finance advice out there, but not a whole lot of financial lit- adding: “I spoke to a group of seniors at Adelphi University festival, it was then that the younger Farmiga had eracy, and I think it’s because people have trouble connect- earlier this week. My first question was ‘how do you feel realized that she had caught the acting bug. ing to numbers and stats. Instead of just throwing out about money?’ Every response was negative – anxious, ner- Taissa was briefly cast in the “American Horror information, I try to tell stories, stories that will resonate vous, overwhelmed, etc. By the end the two-hour class, the Story” series on FX as teen witch Zoe Benson. And she with people and prompt them to make meaningful changes students were smiling, excited and empowered. It’s amaz- hints that she may make a re-appearance on the in their financial behavior for the better.” ing how quickly you can change your money mindset when show. Currently, she is working in Los Angeles on the “Everyone has their own challenges – student loan debt you take the right approach.” ABC pilot “L.A. Crime” as Karen McClaren with Erika is a big one for Millennials while insufficient retirement “The Broke and Beautiful Life” (200 pages, ISBN: 978- Christensen. savings is a huge stress for Baby Boomers. For me, the chal- 0692321300, 2015) is available for $14.99 from amazon. She wrapped up filming as Sarah on a still untitled lenge has been navigating the realities of low income while com and Barnes & Noble retailers, and is published by project with Warren Beatty about Howard Hughes, as managing big city living costs. I find responses to financial Coventry House Publishing. well as “In a Valley of Violence,” starring Ethan Hawke challenges can go one of two ways – ignore the problem as A graduate of St. George Academy in New York, and a and John Travolta, with her role as Mary Anne. it gets worse or self-educate and find strategies for con- member of the Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization, Ms. Also in the works is the 2016 release of “Mary quering them – I took the latter and stumbled upon a new O’Connell lives in New York and can often be found in the Shelley’s Monster,” where Taissa will play the role of career path.” Hunter, N.Y., area or at Soyuzivka. Claire Clairmont. When asked how it is to be a voice for the “broke and For more information about Ms. O’Connell, or to sched- For more information about Taissa Farmiga’s the beautiful,” Ms. O’Connell said: “It’s hugely rewarding. I ule a presentation, readers may contact her via her website work, visit her website www.taissafarmiga.net. get e-mails and phone calls from people all the time shar- www.stefanieoconnell.com.

Cost of an annual online subscription: The Ukrainian Weekly archive To start your online LOG ON TO $90 ($80 for UNA members). (1933-2013) is open to the public. subscription call our our Subscribers to our print edition can subscription department, The current year’s issues, however, get an additional online subscription 973-292-9800, ext. 3040. www.ukrweekly.com are reserved for online subscribers. for only $5. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16

from Ukraine in March 2014. Mr. Bociurkiw holding of “fair and transparent” elections in told RFE/RL on April 14 that Russia vio- NEWSBRIEFS said Ambassador Ertugrul Apakan, the the rebel-held areas of the Donbas region. lates his client’s rights and international head of the OSCE’s SMM to Ukraine, has He said Ukraine will use all means to “strug- regulations by ignoring the ECHR ruling. (Continued from page 2) reiterated a call for a “comprehensive gle for peace,” including by improving the Longtime Crimean Tatar leader Mustafa cease-fire” that includes the withdrawal of military’s combat capability. Meanwhile, rep- Dzhemilev, who strongly protested the the OSCE mission’s spokesman, said on heavy weaponry. “We’ve seen yet again,” he resentatives of the separatists criticized annexation and is currently living in April 15 in an interview with the BBC from said, “movement of heavy weaponry that Ukraine for refusing to have direct dialogue Ukraine, was barred in May from entering Kyiv that monitors also reported “intensive should have been completely removed with the self-declared leaders of the rebel the peninsula. Mustafa Dzhemilev says the fighting” between Russian-backed separat- from the zone in which it’s being used.” The groups that control parts of Ukraine’s Kremlin is holding Khaiser hostage because ists and Ukrainian forces near the airport SMM in Ukraine officially monitors the Luhansk and Donetsk regions. Ukrainian of his father’s rejection of the annexation. outside the rebel-held provincial capital of fragile ceasefire agreed to in February in Foreign Affairs Minister Pavlo Klimkin said (RFE/RL Russian Service) Donetsk and around the village of Minsk that has reduced the fighting in east- in a television interview late on April 14 that Shyrokyne, near the strategic government- ern Ukraine, which has killed more than Kyiv would only initiate such a dialogue after Estonia calls for permanent NATO force held port city of Mariupol. Mr. Bociurkiw 6,000 people in the past year. (RFE/RL) free and fair elections under Ukrainian law LONDON – Estonia’s President Toomas said the SMM monitors recorded more are held in the separatist-held areas. He Yatsenyuk: Russia fails to heed ceasefire Hendrik Ilves has called for a permanent than 700 explosions near the Donetsk air- added that the current leaders are illegiti- NATO force to be stationed in his country. port during a six-hour period on April 14. KYIV – Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy mate because neither Ukraine nor the inter- Mr. Ilves told Britain’s Daily Telegraph He added that the fighting sides are within Yatsenyuk said at a government meeting on national community recognize the newspaper that Estonia was “part of a a few hundred meters of each other near April 15 in Kyiv that he was “deeply frustrat- November 2, 2014, elections held by the sep- group of countries who are mentioned in a Shyrokyne and that shelling is coming from ed” that Russia is “failing to implement the aratists. But Denis Pushilin, a Donetsk sepa- threatening way” by Russia. A U.S. infantry “densely populated residential areas.” Minsk agreements.” He said “it looks like ratist leader, said Kyiv’s refusal to talk to company numbering 150 soldiers is cur- Shyrokyne is just 10 kilometers from only Ukraine” is adhering to the ceasefire rebel representatives contradicted the Minsk rently NATO’s only presence in Estonia, but Mariupol, and the rebel attacks there have agreement, adding that Ukrainian forces are agreement. Meanwhile, Ukrainian National it is not permanent. Mr. Ilves said 150 sol- raised concerns that the separatists may suffering losses after a period of no casual- Security and Defense Council spokesman diers “is not a lot, so we do think that fur- seek to take the largest government-held ties and “we have the shelling again.” Mr. Andriy Lysenko said Russia has concentrat- ther stationing of troops at a higher num- ed troops near the Ukrainian border in an city in the Donetsk region and push further Yatsenyuk told Cabinet members that Kyiv ber is only reasonable.” Russian military area north of the rebel-held city of Luhansk, westward toward Crimea, the Black Sea was willing to implement all of the aspects of maneuvers on Estonia’s border have trig- at Veydelevka, near the Ukrainian city of peninsula that Russia illegally annexed the Minsk peace agreement, including the gered concern in Europe that Moscow Kharkiv. He said there are some 50 units of could attempt to destabilize its bordering armored equipment and around 2,000 countries. NATO has pledged a troops just 20 kilometers from the Ukrainian 5,000-strong task force and command cen- border. (RFE/RL, with reporting by the BBC, ters in six former Soviet republics, includ- Deutsche Presse-Agentur and Reuters) ing one in Estonia. Estonia joined NATO in Former lawmaker shot dead in Kyiv 2004. (RFE/RL, based on reporting by TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL Walter Honcharyk (973) 292-9800 x3040 Agence France-Presse and the BBC) or e-mail [email protected] KYIV – A former member of Parliament has been found shot dead in the Ukrainian Russia bars Hollywood movie capital. Senior Internal Affairs Ministry offi- SERVICES PROFESSIONALS MOSCOW – Russia barred a Hollywood cial Anton Herashchenko said Oleh movie set in the post-World War II Soviet Kalashnikov was found dead on April 15 at Union from theaters a day before its sched- the doorstep of his apartment. Mr. uled April 16 premiere, saying the film dis- Kalashnikov, 52, was a member of former torts history. “Child 44” – renamed President Viktor Yanukovych’s Party of “Number 44” (Nomer 44) in Russia – is Regions. Mr. Herashchenko said Mr. based on a British thriller novel with the Kalashnikov had knowledge of the Anti- same title whose main character, Leo Maidan movement, which opposed pro- Demidov, is a disgraced Soviet security offi- Western protests that ousted Mr. cer and survivor of the Stalin-orchestrated Yanukovych in February 2014 – suggesting 1930s famine in Soviet Ukraine. Russia’s this might be a motive for his alleged mur- Culture Ministry said on April 15 that its der. “Without doubt the deceased knew a experts had concluded that showing the lot about who financed Anti-Maidan and in movie just weeks before the 70th anniver- what way,” Mr. Herashchenko said. “He sary of the victory over Nazi Germany was takes these secrets with him to the grave.” “unacceptable.” The statement said that a He said the ministry had opened up a crim- screening for ministry officials and press inal case. (RFE/RL, based on reporting by on April 14 had raised concerns over the Reuters and Interfax) film’s content, “primarily about the distor- Russian hearing against Dzhemilev’s son tion of historical facts and the idiosyncratic treatment of events before, during and KRASNODAR, Russia – A court in the after” World War II. The decision to pull the Russian city of Krasnodar has started hear- film came after the ministry had on April HELP WANTED ings into the case against a son of veteran 14 given the film a distribution license with Crimean Tatar leader Mustafa Dzhemilev. an 18+ certificate. President Vladimir Putin Khaiser Dzhemilev was arrested in May and his government are highly sensitive Nova Restoration is hiring bricklayers, 2013 by Ukrainian authorities after alleg- about any attempt to question Moscow’s roofers, sca old mechanics, helpers with edly shooting a friend dead. He has claimed depiction of 20th-century history, in partic- licenses to work on Manhattan. English he shot his friend accidentally. After ular the years before, during, and after or Polish speaking. Apply in person at 75 Crimea’s annexation by Russia in March World War II. At a meeting in January on Kent Street, Brooklyn, NY 11222, phone: last year, the Moscow-backed authorities 718 349 7770. preparations for the 70th anniversary cere- took over Mr. Dzhemilev’s case and trans- monies, Mr. Putin said Russian authorities ferred him to Russia’s Krasnodar region. must fight a “flow of impudent lies, falsifica- They said Mr. Dzhemilev was being held on tions, and distortions of historical facts” History told by witnesses three charges under the Russian Criminal coming from the West. The film, based on a Code, including murder and the illegal pos- book by Tom Rob Smith and set in 1952, a session of weapons. The European Court of year before Stalin’s death, stars British With Ukraine in Our Hearts Human Rights (ECHR) has ruled that actors Tom Hardy and Gary Oldman and Memoirs of the Graduates of the Ukrainian Russia must release Mr. Dzhemilev from Swedish actress Noomi Rapace. It tells the Studies Program in Szczecin (1959-1963) detention, but Moscow ignored the ruling. Mr. Dzhemilev’s lawyer, Nikolai Polozov, (Continued on page 13) Author, Compiler, Editor Mykola Duplak on August 1-15. Turning... And the UBC continues to educate audi- ences, not only through performance, but Published in 2015, this hardcover book (Continued from page 6) has 693 pages with many illustrations, and through film. “Music of Survival: The Story is written in Ukrainian and partly in Polish. had a three-city (Passaic, N.J., Stamford, of the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus” (musi- It can be purchased in the U.S. for $30, Conn., and Rochester, N.Y.) spring tour cofsurvival.com) chronicles the history of shipping included. Please contact: “Brothers! We Shall Live!” in March and a the original 17 members of the UBC from concert on April 18 at the Cleveland Kyiv, who arrived in the U.S. from Germany after the second world war. Mykola Duplak, 123 Sunridge Ave., Camillus, NY 13031 Museum of Art. Its Kobzarska Sitch Tel.: (315) 679-1676 • E-mail: [email protected] Bandura Camp in Emlenton, Pa., where the Source: “Bandurysty sing ‘Thanks for new generation of bandura players and Freedom’ in Washington, D.C.,” The Th e book can also be purchased on Amazon.com singers are trained, is to be held this year Ukrainian Weekly, April 24, 1950. No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 13

the “heroic past of the people of Ukraine.” NEWSBRIEFS Officials in Kyiv see their history in the 20th century differently, viewing the period (Continued from page 12) between 1939 and 1945 as a fight against story of Demidov, a member of the repres- Nazi Germany and Soviet authorities. sive apparatus of the Stalinist-era Soviet (RFE/RL, based on reporting by TASS, Union who is exiled to a provincial backwa- Interfax and Reuters) ter after his wife is charged with being an enemy of the people. He becomes a police S&P lowers Ukraine’s credit rating officer and chases a serial killer, a story line PARIS – The Standard & Poors (S&P) rat- based on the real-life case of Andrei ing agency has downgraded Ukraine’s cred- Olga Dymicky Chikatilo, who was convicted and sen- it rating to CC, a notch lower than the previ- tenced to death for 52 murders in 1992 ous CCC- level, and says the outlook is neg- (née Zhmurko) and subsequently executed in February ative. The agency said, “We would classify 1994. (RFE/RL, with reporting by Agence …restructuring of Ukraine’s foreign curren- Olga Dymicky passed away on Friday, March 20th, 2015, in France-Presse, TASS and Meduza.io) cy debt as tantamount to default.” However, S&P affirmed Ukraine’s long-term local cur- Langhorne, PA, at the age of 90, with her family by her side. Russia reacts to ban on Soviet symbols rency sovereign credit ratings at CCC+ as MOSCOW – Russia’s Foreign Affairs well as the short-term foreign and local Olga was born on December 12th, 1924, in the village of Ministry has responded angrily to legisla- sovereign credit ratings at C. Concerning Nastasiw, Ukraine, to Mykola & Maria (née Bazar) Zhmurko. She tion passed in Ukraine on April 9 that bans the negative outlook, the ratings agency was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Michael Dymicky and the the use of Soviet-era symbols and could said it “reflects the deteriorating macroeco- mother of Lida Pakula, Oksana Matla and Maria Dymicky (†1957). require the removal or demolition of all nomic environment and growing pressure monuments from Ukraine’s Soviet past. In on the financial sector, as well as our view She is survived by her six grandchildren, Symon Pakula, Ramona a statement on April 10, Russia’s Foreign that default on Ukraine’s foreign debt is vir- Kane, Alexandra Zampetti, Damien Pakula, Natalie Bassinski, Affairs Ministry said the attempts of tually inevitable.” The Ukrainian govern- Andrea Sumrall and her eleven great grandchildren. Ukrainian authorities to erase memories of ment has begun negotiations with creditors the country’s past would lead to large prob- for $15 billion in debt relief, part of a $40 Olga moved to Philadelphia in 1949, where she was an active lems in Ukrainian society. The statement billion, four-year financial rescue envi- member of Soyuz Ukrayinok and Christ the King Ukrainian criticized Ukraine’s ban of “propaganda of sioned by the International Monetary Fund the totalitarian Communist and Nazi (IMF). But, the IMF has warned, the break- Catholic Church. She was always volunteering and donating to regimes,” saying Kyiv was using “totalitari- down of a fragile ceasefire with pro-Russia various religious and Ukrainian organizations in the Philadelphia an methods” to liquidate parties and orga- rebels in the country’s east, the failure to area. She instilled in her children and grandchildren a great love nizations and attack “freedom of the press, reschedule its debt with private lenders, or and pride in Ukraine and always put God  rst. opinion, or conscience.” The statement said domestic political issues could all under- Russia “continues to watch with alarm” the mine the plan. (RFE/RL, based on reporting efforts of Ukrainian authorities to wipe out by Agence France-Presse) Вічна Їй пам’ять! The family requests that in lieu of  owers, donations in Olga’s It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow memory may be o ered to the Ukrainian National Women’s we share with family and friends the League of America, Inc. (UNWLA) [http:www.unwla.org], or the passing into eternity on April 12, 2015, Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center (UECC) [http://www. in her 89th year our beloved Mother and Grandmother ueccphila.org]. Katheryna Korol (née Salij) widow of Nicholas, she was born on October 5, 1925 in Kamyanets Podilskyi, Ukraine The Panakhyda was held on Wednesday, April 15, 2015, at 7:00 p.m. at Peter Jarema Funeral Home, 129 East 7th Street, New York, NY 10009. Funeral Services were held on Thursday, April 16, at 9:00 a.m. at Holy Ділимося сумною вісткою, що Trinity Cathedral, 359 Broome Street, New York, NY 10013, followed by в п’ятницю, 3 квітня 2015 року, Interment at St. Andrew’s Cemetery in South Bound Brook, NJ. після довгої недуги, на 90-му році She is survived by: життя відійшов у Божу вічність наш daughters: Maria Pyl with husband Walter найдорожчий Чоловік, Тато, Дідо, Helen Korol Брат, Вуйко і Хресний батько Irene Korol grandchildren: Larissa Kuzuk with husband John св. п. Roman Pyl Natalka Howe Стефан Палилик (and pet dog Dante) Sleep peacefully in God’s hands. народжений 3 вересня 1924 року в с. Біле, Чортківський р-н, Україна. Залишилися у глибокому смутку: У першу невимовно болючу річницю відходу у дружина - Тамара вічність найдорожчої і незабутньої Мами син - Ярослав і дружина Леся св. п. внуки - Роман, Стефан, Татіяна з нареченим Tim Andersen Гізелі Коцибали сестра - Катерина Сисак з родиною в Україні з дому Стоцька родини - Котляров, Кристодулус, Данєлскі. Mulherin будуть відправлені поминальні Служби Божі 25 квітня 2015 року: Вічна Йому пам’ять! в семінарії св. Василія, Стемфорд, Конн., о год. 7:30 ранку Похорон відбувся в церкві св. Андрія і на цвинтарі св. Духа в церкві свв. Петра і Павла, Спринґ-Валі, Н.Й., о год. 8:00 ранку в церкві св. Михаїла, Йонкерс, Н. Й., о год. 9:00 ранку в Гемптонбурґу, Н.Й. в церквах у Бориславі і Києві в Україні Покійний Стефан, замість квітів, просив складати пожертви Засмучені: на ЗУАДК (United Ukrainian American Relief Committee) на донька - д-р Аркадія Коцибала сиріт нинішніх вояків України. Чеки просимо виписувати на ближча і дальша родина в Америці й Україні. UUARC і посилати на адресу: Вічна Їй пам’ять! Jaroslaw Palylyk, 11 Carpenter Ave., Tuckahoe, NY 10707. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16

COMMUNITY CHRONICLE Prometheus Ukrainian Male Chorus recaps two years at membership meeting

by Anatoli Murha sang at the 50th anniversary commemora- tion of the Shevchenko Monument and JENKINTOWN, Pa. – At its biennial meet- received an Honorable Award from the ing held on March 23 here at the Ukrainian Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Ukraine Educational and Cultural Center, members for its 50 years of hard work in preserving of the Philadelphia-based Prometheus and popularizing the Ukrainian culture. Ukrainian Male Chorus gathered to discuss Additionally, Prometheus launched a the series of concerts and projects since the new website and Facebook page with the 2012 50th anniversary celebration. help of the millennial generation that has With over 30 members present, the recently reinvigorated the ranks of the Prometheus membership recapped vari- long-storied chorus. ous performances including the commem- Following reports and discussion, the oration of the 200th anniversary of the membership re-elected Peter Hewka as birth of Taras Shevchenko at the United president. The other newly elected mem- Nations in 2014, multiple Christmas con- bers of the executive board include: Stephen certs, the annual Yonkers Ukrainian Dubenko, vice-president; Ihor Kusznir, Heritage Festival, and the most recent joint Music Committee chairman; Andrew concert series with the Dumka Chorus of Leskiw, public relations chairman; Basil New York City. Panczak, secretary; Walter Kononenko, Andrew Zwarych Highlighting the meeting was the June The newly elected executive board of the Prometheus Ukrainian Male Chorus of 2014 visit to Washington, where the chorus (Continued on page 15) Philadelphia. A Ukrainian classic Tucson Ukrainians celebrate Easter season supports Maidan Minnesota by Slavko Nowytski, the Gold Hugo Winner at the Chicago International by Katia Breslawec Film Festival, workshop participants MINNEAPOLIS – Savvy Midwest travelers have known were walked though the historical about this treasure for some time – a stop at evolution of the pysanka, its present Kramarczuk’s Sausage Company in Minneapolis has been religious motifs, and the practical recommended by travel books, websites and even Guy aspects of using a “kistka” on a curved Fieri on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” egg surface. For those who grew up in the Minneapolis/St. Paul Most could not stop marveling at area of Minnesota, Kramarczuk’s is a staple that nur- the final product when the wax was tured the Ukrainian community for over 60 years. Even finally removed from the egg. if you’re just in town for a Twins baseball game, you can enjoy Kramarczuk’s bratwurst and Polish sausage at their kiosks in the new Twins Stadium. Wasyl and Anna Kramarczuk opened Kramarczuk’s Sausage Company in 1954. Eastern Europeans went there to buy their meat, sausage and holiday fare, and exchange a few words with someone who spoke their native tongue while wrapping-up their purchases. In Dr. Ihor Kunasz shares some pysanka pointers with workshop participants. 1974, Orest Kramarczuk (Wasyl and Anna’s son) took over the business and expanded it to include a restau- by Ihor Kunasz nationalities to exhibit their crafts and rant that serves, among other things, varenyky, cab- is visited by thousands of visitors. The bage rolls (holubtsi), borsch and unbelievably delicious TUCSON, Ariz. – The Ukrainian Ukrainian exhibit, which is recognized tortes from Anna Kramarczuk’s personal recipes; an American Society of Tucson was invit- as one of the most colorful, was fea- outdoor café (summer months only – remember, we’re ed to participate in the first Oro Valley tured in Oro Valley. in Minnesota!); and an in-house bakery. Meet Yourself Festival. Another traditional event is the In 1982-1990 Kramarczuk’s received multiple “Best The city of Oro Valley decided to pysanka workshop, organized by Dr. of the Twin Cities” awards and in 2013, Orest emulate the famous Tucson Meet Ihor Kunasz, a long-time pysanka art- Kramarczuk and his daughter, Katie, published a very Yourself event, which attracts all ist. After showing the film “Pysanka” A pysanka by Dr. Ihor Kunasz. successful cookbook, Kramarczuk’s Family Classics. Orest semi-retired from Kramarczuk’s in 2012 and the business is now in the hands of his son, Nick, who con- tinue to expand the business. In 2013, Kramarczuk’s Sausage Company was desig- “Vyshyvka” day raises funds for Ukraine nated an “American Classic” by the James Beard Foundation and honored for creating a new American cuisine. Orest Kramarczuk, his wife, Carrie, and their four children flew to New York to accept the award.

(Continued on page 15)

YONKERS, N.Y. – At the conclusion of the Family Vyshyvka Day fund-raiser held here on March 22, the excitement and joy are evident on the faces of the members of Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA) Branch 30 and their honored guests, New York Regional Council President Halya Romanyshyn, and Our Life Editor Lidia Slysh. With close to 150 attendees – most wearing their embroidered finery (vyshyvky) – present for the program, luncheon and silent auction, ample funds were raised for the humanitarian Aid to Ukrainian War Victims Program sponsored by the UNWLA. The event was also a social success, a Ukrainian culinary delight and even an opportunity to recruit new members. Above are (seated from left) Oksana Porodko, Adrianna Odomirok, Nadia Liteplo (branch president), Zhanna Huralska, Maria Zenecky, Oksana Goisan, (standing) Sofiyka Balkova, Liiya Balkova, Lesya Boyko, Olia Rudyk, Ms. Romanyshyn, Ms. Slysh, Myroslava Pukhnyak, Vera Berezovska, Marianna Telishchak, Iryna Orest Kramarczuk Hoshovskyj, Olesya Govorun, Marijka Melnyk and Nadia Spiak. – Olia Rudyk No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 15 Hnizdovsky centennial exhibit held in New Jersey

by Irka Sawchyn Doll WHIPPANY, N.J. – In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of famed artist and master printmaker Jacques Hnizdovsky, Ukrainian National Women’s League of America Branch 75 sponsored an exhibit and sale of the artist’s works. The exhibit was authorized by the Hnizdovsky estate and took place on Sunday, March 22, here at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey. The “Jacques Hnizdovsky Flora and Fauna Centennial Exhibit” featured over 95 works of art in different media, including 83 examples of the woodcut, linocut and etching prints for which Hnizdovsky is best known. Both black-and-white and color prints were shown. Many of the works, Andrew Hadzewycz including several pen-and-ink drawings UNWLA Branch 75 members at the Hnizdovsky centennial exhibit, held on March 22. and watercolors, were unique in that they the artist’s proof print. One corner of the have rarely been previously exhibited. Six hall was dedicated to showing the oil paintings were shown, as were three Hnizdovsky centennial website (www.jac- stunning tapestries with sheep motifs queshnizdovsky.com), which when com- designed by Hnizdovsky and woven with plete will house the visual database of all of all-natural yarns under his direction. Hnizdovsky’s work. The Hnizdovsky estate generously Preparation for the exhibit began two donated a color linocut, “Lambs” (1978), as years ago when UNWLA Branch 75 was invit- a raffle prize in support of the branch’s ed by the Hnizdovsky estate to sponsor the fund-raising efforts. event. Anna Denysyk and Marta Popovich The exhibit was very well attended, with took on co-chairmanship of the project and more than 155 guests sharing in the com- directed the efforts of multiple committees of plimentary champagne and hors d’oeuvres. branch members. This ambitious undertak- The organizers created a museum-like set- ing was very successful both as an immersion ting where guests could relax in conversa- into the world of Jacques Hnizdovsky’s art tional sofa groupings and enjoy the eye- and as fund-raiser for UNWLA Branch 75. catching art surrounding them. The sale of art works was very strong Guests could also view the 25th anniver- and exceeded the organizers’ expectations. sary edition of Slavko Nowytski’s award- Proceeds will be donated to the UNWLA Christine Syzonenko winning video “Sheep in Wood” of Ukrainian War Victims Fund. Branch Anna Denysyk (left), co-chair of the Hnizdovsky exhibit committee, and Roksolana Hnizdovsky demonstrating the process of President Roksolana Misilo graciously Misilo, president of Ukrainian National Women’s League of America Branch 75, creating his classic woodcut “Two Rams” – thanked all branch members for their hard stand in front of “Palmetto” (1980), an oil painting by Jacques Hnizdovsky. from sketching the concept to producing work and support of this project.

Spilczak, Paul Halas and Andrew Laszyn. Prometheus... At the conclusion of the meeting Mr. BOOK NOTE: An activist’s Kucharskyy thanked all the members for (Continued from page 14) their dedication and stated that, continuing financial secretary; Eugene Markiw, treasur- as conductor, he is looking forward to lead- “progress report” and memoirs er; and William Fesio, Joseph Kuzla, ing the ensemble and recruiting additional “Lesia and I: A Progress Report and Stephen Nowicki and Yuriy Redtschitz, members who share an appreciation of a Ukrainian-American Love Story,” by members-at-large. Ukrainian music and culture. Myron B, Kuropas. Bloomington, Ind.: Working in tandem with the executive For more information about the Xlibris, 2014. ISBN: 978-1-4990-6849-8, board is the Prometheus Music Committee, Prometheus Ukrainian Male Chorus, includ- softcover, 347 pp., $19.99. (Also available consisting of Mr. Kusznir as chairman; ing upcoming performances, readers may in hardcover and as an e-book.) Roman Kucharskyy, artistic director and visit www.prometheuschorus.com, email conductor; Irene Pelech Zwarych, accompa- [email protected], or call Billed as “a progress report of the nist; and three at-large members, Ivan 267-314-SONG. 50-year marriage of Myron and Lesia Kuropas” and “a Ukrainian-American love story,” the latest book by Dr. Myron B. that Orest Kramarczuk and his family have Kuropas is also a memoir of his career, A Ukrainian classic... made is the fostering goodwill within and which included working as a school prin- toward the Ukrainian community. He relent- cipal in inner-city Chicago, a regional (Continued from page 14) lessly promotes Ukrainian heritage, history director of a federal agency in Chicago, a and culture, while correcting misconcep- presidential special assistant in the Even though the above-mentioned acco- tions and historical fallacies. Like his parents White House, a legislative assistant in the lades clearly illustrate Kramarczuk’s suc- before him, through hard work and perse- U.S. Senate and an adjunct professor at cess, what is rarely publicized and acknowl- verance, Orest Kramarczuk has become one Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Ill. edged is Orest Kramarczuk’s and his fami- of the stewards of the Ukrainian community. “Lesia and I” is also the story of Lesia ly’s support for the Ukrainian community. Most recently, he contacted Maidan Kuropas (née Waskiw), as well as of the Mr. Kramarczuk, along with his wife, fol- Minnesota, a new organization in Minnesota marriage of Lesia and Myron Kuropas, in the defense of John Demjanjuk, lowed the example set by Orest’s parents gathering funds to send humanitarian aid to which produced two sons and six grand- involvement in the National Republican and continued to support the Ukrainian Ukraine, to let them know that they could children. As noted in the introduction, Heritage Groups Committee and promo- “Lesia and Myron were born on two dif- community for over four decades. use a recently vacated storefront next to tion of Holodomor studies. ferent continents and grew up in different Countless Ukrainian teenagers looking for Kramarczuk’s, free of charge, to sell pysanky The book is at once an interesting cultural environments,” but they were memoir of a key personage in the their first job were hired by Kramarczuk’s during the Easter holiday season – a time both Ukrainian and Catholic. They met Ukrainian American community and an and worked alongside Orest’s children, when Kramarczuk’s is packed with shop- and later married at Soyuzivka, the heri- invaluable gift to Dr. Kuropas’ children, Katie, Nick, Andrew and Lucia. New immi- pers. tage center established by the Ukrainian grandchildren and succeeding genera- grants were able to make a living while In his cookbook, Orest Kramarczuk said, National Association. tions of the Kuropases as a chronicle of learning English well enough to be hired “Food is the glue that keeps families, nations Dr. Kuropas covers the major events in family history. elsewhere. When it was time to remodel – and societies together.” My own daughter once his life, his studies, travels, and multifac- “Lesia and I” is available from the pub- Orest Kramarczuk hired Ukrainians for the said, “I love going to Kramarczuk’s because it eted community activity, including his lisher, Xlibris (www.Xlibris.com), as well job, and to this day, kovbasa from feels like home.” I think Kramarczuk’s has role in the Ukrainian National as on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It is Kramarczuk’s makes Ukrainian events profit- been part of the glue that has kept the Association and the Ukrainian American published in softcover and hardcover able for organizations putting on fund-raisers. Ukrainian community in Minnesota togeth- Coordinating Council, as well his activism editions, and as an e-book. Perhaps the most important contribution er. It’s a good legacy. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16 Shevchenko year is commemorated in Manitoba by Orysia Paszczak Tracz WINNIPEG, Manitoba – Shevchenko Year culminated in Winnipeg on March 8, with a gala concert, as the Ukrainian community in Manitoba celebrated the 200th anniversary of the birth of Taras Shevchenko (1814-1864). Shevchenko was an artist, a writer, a fighter for human rights – and Ukraine’s greatest poet. His influence on the Ukrainian nation was such that his poetry and his image were promi- nent during the Maidan protests of 2013-2014 in Kyiv. The celebrations will continue well past March, with the most recent event being the opening April 2 of the traveling Shevchenko exhibit at the New Iceland Heritage Museum in Gimli, Manitoba. Speaking at the opening were Gimli Mayor Randy Woroniuk, the museum’s Executive Director Tammy Axelsson, and the curator and writer of the exhibition Orysia Tracz. Committee members Oksana Shulakewych and Joan Lewandosky also made the trip from Winnipeg, with Lubomyr Borys Shulakewych being volunteered as the kind driver, exhibition handler and photographer. Under the auspices of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress

Manitoba Provincial Council (UCC-MPC), many events Lubomyr Borys Shulakewych throughout Manitoba celebrated this anniversary. A sepa- At the opening of the Taras Shevchenko traveling exhibit in Gimli, Manitoba (from left) are: Mayor Randy rate committee had been struck in March 2013 to plan and Woroniuk, Orysia Tracz, Joan Lewandosky, New Iceland Heritage Museum Executive Director Tammy Axelsson coordinate the activities and events of the upcoming year. and Oksana Shulakewych. The committee was chaired by Myroslava Pidnirnyj, with members Ms. Shulakewych, Ms. Tracz, Ostap Skrypnyk, renamed as Honorary Taras Shevchenko Way. the Ukrainian Self-Reliance Association Provincial Susan Zuk, Paulette Monita, Nataliya Sovinska, Dr. Orest The city of Winnipeg also designated March 2014 as Conference held at St. Andrew’s College, during the Cap, Dr. Roman Yereniuk, Iryna Konstantiuk, Joan Taras Shevchenko Month and flew the Ukrainian flag to Ukrainian Canadian Congress national annual general Lewandosky, Maria Puhach and Oksana Bondarchuk (ex mark this event. On March 10, Mayor Katz hosted a civic meeting in Winnipeg, and as part of the “Bratstvo: Hoosli officio, president of UCC-MPC). Metropolitan Archbishop luncheon for 50 members of the community at City Hall in Male Chorus and Taras Shevchenko Bandurist Chorus Yurij of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada and honor of the 200th anniversary. Concert” at the Playhouse Theater in Winnipeg. Later this Metropolitan Archbishop Lawrence Huculak of the Premier Greg Selinger of Manitoba issued a proclama- spring and summer it will be at the Shevchenko School in Ukrainian Catholic Church of Canada were honorary tion declaring March 9-15, 2014, as Taras Shevchenko Vita, Manitoba, and at the 50th jubilee of the Gardenton patrons for the year-long commemoration. Week in the province. Both the city and the province flew Ukrainian Museum at its festival on July 11-12. The Shevchenko bicentennial activities included exhibi- the Ukrainian flag on March 8-10. An English-language brochure on the life of Taras tions, a film festival, performances, official provincial and The official unveiling of the Taras Shevchenko Traveling Shevchenko based on the traveling exhibit was produced in city events, youth celebrations, a brochure and the naming Exhibit was held on July 16, 2014, on the first floor of the 10,000 copies. These brochures have been widely distrib- of a Winnipeg street as Honorary Taras Shevchenko Way. Manitoba Legislative Building. Minister of Multiculturalism uted throughout Manitoba to schools and libraries, at vari- The committee was supported in its work with grants from and Literacy Flor Marcelino, along with Metropolitans Yurij ous community events and with the traveling exhibit. the Manitoba Ethnocultural Council, Canadian Ukrainian and Lawrence cut the ribbon that officially opened the The Shevchenko Committee assisted with the organiza- Foundation of Taras Shevchenko, “Chytalnia Prosvita” exhibit. The 10-panel exhibit was displayed at the tion and execution of the annual commemorative activities Reading Association, North Winnipeg Credit Union and Legislative Building until July 28, 2014, and was seen by of youth organizations which take place at the Shevchenko Carpathia Credit Union. over 5,000 visitors to the building. The display not only monument on the grounds of the Manitoba Legislative The Shevchenko 200 Committee and the Ukrainian focused on the historical Shevchenko, but also emphasized Building. These observances included the Alexander Students’ Association at the University of Manitoba the Manitoban and Canadian connections to Shevchenko, Koshetz Choir conducted by Myroslava Paches and a chil- showed a series of documentary films about Shevchenko as well as his current influence in contemporary Ukraine. dren’s choir composed of the students of Ukrainian from March to April 2014. The traveling exhibit was displayed at Canada’s National Saturday schools and R.F. Morrison’s bilingual program At the main Winnipeg Millennium Library on April Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin, Manitoba, on August 1- 3, (through the Manitoba Parents for Ukrainian Education). 15-May 10, 2014, an exhibition dedicated to Shevchenko 2014. It returned to Dauphin schools and nearby commu- Metropolitans Lawrence and Yurij were present, as were was prominently featured on the main floor display area. nities in March of this year. politicians representing the federal government (MP James Similar displays were installed at the University of Additionally, the exhibit was showcased at the UCC-MPC Bezan) and the province (Minister of Mineral Resources Manitoba Library and at the Holy Family Home. Folklorama – Kyiv Pavilion on August 3-9, 2014, in Dave Chomiak). Ukrainian Youth Association in Canada The official naming ceremony of Honorary Taras Winnipeg. Some 30,000 pavilion visitors had the opportu- and Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization led the event as Shevchenko Way took place on October 17, 2014. The city of nity to view the exhibit. This year, on January 29-31, the per tradition. A larger than usual crowd was in attendance, Winnipeg had designated a one-block stretch of Aberdeen exhibit was at the at the Lieutenant Governor’s Winter and the event enjoyed media coverage from local television Avenue, between Main Street and the Red River, at the Holy Festival Ukrainian Pavilion in Brandon, Manitoba, and in stations. Minister Chomiak hosted a reception in the foyer Family Home. Mayor Sam Katz brought greetings on behalf the Library of Brandon University. of the Legislative Building. of the city. City Councillor Paula Slobodian Havixbeck was It was also displayed during National Human Rights Day Most recently, a gala concert in honor of Taras instrumental in getting this portion of Aberdeen Avenue ceremonies on the campus of the University of Manitoba, at Shevchenko was presented by the committee at Jubilee Place Auditorium on March 8. Participating in the celebra- tion were: the Koshetz Choir, Hoosli Male Chorus, baritone Simeon Rusnak, reciter Natalia Kuchmenko, Ss. Vladimir and Olga Cathedral Children’s Choir, Chytalnia Prosvita Ukrainian School, Immaculate Heart of Mary School Choir, children from the bi-lingual program and the Verba Dance Ensemble, performing an original work “Yarema’s Serenade” choreographed by Marijka Stanowych, with baritone Mykhas Chabluk. Dr. Myroslav Shkandrij delivered an innovative keynote address on Shevchenko’s importance to the world. Winnipeg artist Orysia Sinitowich-Gorski presented her lithograph of Shevchenko to City Counsellor Mike Pagtakhan; it will be displayed at Winnipeg City Hall. In coordination with the Shevchenko Anniversary Committee, the Manitoba Parents for Ukrainian Education (MPUE) initiated an art project that spanned all grade lev- els throughout the 12 English-Ukrainian Bilingual Program (EUBP) schools in Manitoba. Over 600 students from kin- dergarten to Grade 9 worked under the guidance of five commissioned artists to create a child’s interpretation of Taras Shevchenko’s contributions to Ukrainian cultural identity. Their combined efforts resulted in six fabric-based Orysia Tracz murals, four feet wide and eight feet in height. These Shevchenko Committee Chair Myroslava Pidhirny Shevchenko fun, courtesy of the Manitoba Parents for murals were also exhibited throughout Manitoba. (See speaks at the opening of the traveling exhibition at the Ukrainian Education, at the Kyiv Pavilion of http://mpue.ca/, scroll down to “Taras Shevchenko: 200th Manitoba Legislature. Folklorama. Celebration Through Art”.) No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 17

supply agreement, which was signed last petitors in Ukraine. Rebuilding its market Russian officials’ public statements show More competition... October for the period November 1, 2014, share would also mean rebuilding Russian some discrepancies on this issue. Gazprom through March 31, 2015 (see Part 1). leverage and influence in the country. CEO Aleksei Miller disclaims intentions to (Continued from page 3) Under the agreement just signed, Conversely, a defeated and shrunken enforce take-or-pay under the April 2 According to Ukrainian Energy Minister Naftohaz’s purchase price for Russian gas Gazprom in Ukraine would severely embar- agreement. Mr. Miller, however, claims that Volodymyr Demchyshyn, Kyiv’s decisions on drops to $248 per 1,000 cubic meters, valid rass the Kremlin, and Mr. Putin personally. Gazprom needs this reference in the new whether to procure gas from Gazprom, and until the end of the second quarter of 2015. Russia’s state budget, not Gazprom, will document for consistency with its take-or- in what volume, would partly depend on Gazprom has arrived at this price by apply- bear the costs of Gazprom’s price cut. The pay case in the Stockholm arbitration (see comparing the prices offered by Gazprom ing a discount of $100 per 1,000 cubic $100 difference between the contractual above). For his part, Russian Energy and European companies (Interfax-Ukraine, meters on the “contractual price,” which is price and the discounted price (per 1,000 Minister Aleksandr Novak insists that the April 1). It is an opening gambit for negotia- set at $348 for this year’s second quarter cubic meters) results from the waiving of take-or-pay clauses from 2009 remain in tion, made possible by diversified options (Interfax, April 2). Russia’s gas export tax on the volumes to force, along with that whole agreement; but newly available to Ukraine. The “contractual price” refers to the be delivered to Ukraine. Gazprom would, “as a goodwill gesture,” The Ukrainian government had initially 2009 Russian-Ukrainian inter-governmen- Under the April 2 agreement, delivery delay a decision on the possible imposition sought prolongation of the expired “winter tal agreement on gas supplies, negotiated volumes will be determined on a daily of penalties (Vedomosti, Interfax, April 2; package” until the end of the next winter’s by then–Prime Ministers Putin and Yulia basis, depending on Naftohaz’s requests. RIA Novosti, April 4). heating season, October 2015-March 2016. Tymoshenko, and deemed valid until 2019. The volumes can range from 0 (zero) up to Ukraine maintains that take-or-pay does Moscow, however, insisted on a three- The $100 discount stems, in turn, from the 114 million cubic meters (mcm) per day, by not apply to current Gazprom-Naftohaz rela- month solution, hoping for a subsequent 2010 inter-state agreement negotiated by prior request and based on Ukrainian pre- tions; and attempting to apply it retroactive- rise in world oil prices, to which the Russian Mr. Putin with then-President Viktor payment in each case. The agreement ly would amount to discrimination against natural gas price for Ukraine is pegged. The Yanukovych, whereby Russia received long- signed in October 2014 introduced the pre- Ukraine, since Gazprom has renounced European Commission advised Kyiv to seize term naval basing rights in Ukraine’s payment requirement, and the prolonga- those clauses or at least their application in Moscow’s offer at this time and continue Crimea in return for the gas price discount. tion agreement just signed maintains it. For a number of cases in recent years (UNIAN, negotiations in the tripartite format – Russia tore up the 2010 agreement by a quantitative comparison, Ukraine cur- April 2). The April 2 agreement is based Russia, Ukraine, the EU – to bring forward annexing Crimea in March 2014. But it rently imports some 55 mcm per day from strictly on Ukrainian pre-payment, which an agreement for next winter’s entire heat- reinstated the gas price discount in the all external suppliers, via Naftohaz should render take-or-pay moot. ing season. European Commission Vice- Gazprom-Naftohaz agreements of October (Interfax-Ukraine, April 1). Apart from claims and counterclaims in President Maros Sefcovic, who is responsi- 2014 and April 2, 2015. The April 2 agreement brings back the the Stockholm arbitration, Naftohaz has ble for the Energy Union, mediates these Gazprom is dramatically losing market issue of “take-or-pay” into the argument. fully repaid its debts for Russian gas con- negotiations (EurActiv, April 2). share to European energy companies in This is related to the Gazprom versus sumed in 2013-2014. The October 2014 Ukraine. During the first quarter of 2015, Naftohaz litigation, ongoing in the agreement “on gas supply resumption and Part II for the first time ever, gas supplies to Stockholm Arbitration Institute and due for debt repayment” had linked the two issues. On April 2, Russian Gazprom and Ukraine from Europe exceeded those from a resolution in 2016. Gazprom claims some Naftohaz repaid $1.45 billion in November Naftohaz Ukrainy signed an agreement on Russia. The volumes delivered were 3.6 bil- $20 billion in penalties from Naftohaz and/ 2014 and another $1.65 billion in natural gas sales-and-purchases to cover the lion cubic meters (bcm) versus 2.2 bcm or Ukraine, for what Gazprom describes as December 2014, extinguishing its arrears next three months. Russian President Putin during the period of January 1 through non-compliance with the take-or-pay claus- to Gazprom (UNIAN, April 2). Gazprom, in authorized his government, which in turn March 31. European energy companies re- es of the 2009 agreement. The follow-up turn, resumed gas deliveries to Ukraine, instructed Gazprom, to sign this agreement, sell gas mostly of Russian provenance to agreement of October 2014 did not include though strictly on a pre-payment basis. with a substantial price discount for the Ukraine. Their sale prices averaged from take-or-pay clauses (Interfax, April 1). The “Ukrainian partners” (Kremlin.ru, March 31). $270 to $280 per 1,000 cubic meters dur- unpublished April 2 agreement (itself a The article above is reprinted from Valid until June 30, as part of a putative “sum- ing this period (Ukrinform, UNIAN, April 2). continuation of the October document) Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from mer package,” this agreement represents the Gazprom’s discounted price at $248 apparently includes some reference to the its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, continuation of the “winter package” gas seems designed to outbid European com- 2009 take-or-pay clauses. www.jamestown.org.

bets on the fact that the majority of the dubbed “European Communication Center,” Is the Kharkiv... eastern Ukrainian city’s residents are Pro-Russia... is the “BPR’s” partner in that country; and it Russian speakers, just as in the neighboring issued a protest against the arrest of “BPR” (Continued from page 2) (Continued from page 2) Donetsk Oblast. Therefore, the Kharkiv activists in Odesa (Rada-bessarabia.org, However, in private conversations with population could be pushed to support the Ukraine’s [recently abandoned] interna- April 9). the Jamestown Foundation, in the city of separatist movement. However, in Mr. tional status of nonalignment. One of the The Bulgarian ethnic minority is pivotal Sloviansk, refugees from the territories cur- Rassokha’s opinion, popular sentiment for documents notes: “In the event of Ukraine in southern Bessarabia on either side of rently under control of the separatists said the separatist cause has plummeted in the moving close to NATO, we reserve the right the Ukraine-Moldova border. Accordingly, that the Russia-backed rebel forces would Kharkiv region precisely because of the vio- to implement the self-determination of Russia uses that conduit from Bulgaria for not limit themselves to “the liberation of lent and chaotic developments in the near- Bessarabia” (Rada-bessarabia.org, this Bessarabian project. Similarly, Moscow Donetsk region, but would like to go to by Donbas. “People see that the Kremlin is Dumskaya.net, accessed April 8). has been using the Jobbik party from Kharkiv, too” (Author’s interviews, not in a hurry to annex the separatist The founding conference designated a Hungary as a conduit for manipulative eth- February 20-28). Sloviansk is under enclaves in the Donbas, and this cools the “People’s Council” comprising 21 “depu- nic politics in Ukraine’s Zakarpattia Oblast. Ukrainian government control and is locat- ardor even of the most ardent separatists,” ties.” It claims the role of “representative The “People’s Council’s” inaugural event ed about 70 kilometers from the frontline. he argued. body for the protection of the interests of avoided inflammatory language or outright “I am not competent enough to talk According to Mr. Rassokha’s estimates, Bessarabia’s ethnic communities.” calls for “separatism,” which could have about who exactly wants to destabilize the as of now, 10-15 percent of the population Described as a “new form of self-organiza- resulted in criminal liabilities in Ukraine. situation in Kharkiv, but the situation is of Kharkiv is in favor of joining Russia. tion of Bessarabians,” the “BPR” proposes The “BPR’s” published agenda seems worrying. For example, today we decided About 35 percent are true patriots of to enter into discussions with Ukraine’s designed to develop gradually, and includes to abstain from having a march to celebrate Ukraine. And 50-55 percent of the popula- authorities. While the word “self” implicitly an already stated goal of changing Ukraine’s the anniversary of the great Ukrainian poet tion make up a diverse mass that is unde- concedes its lack of a mandate from any- external orientation. This is a group of indi- Taras Shevchenko because we are afraid of cided about such issues. This group is body (that word was also used by seces- viduals with an ambitious agenda and a net- new terror attacks,” the spokesperson for mainly preoccupied with the problems sionists in Crimea and Donetsk-Luhansk in work of connections beyond the Odesa the city administration of Kharkiv, Yuri stemming from the rapid appreciation of the incipient phase of their movement), the Oblast; but it lacks any kind of mandate, Sidurenko, told Jamestown in a phone con- the U.S. dollar in relation to the Ukrainian dialogue offer implies the goal achieving political base, organization, or leaders with versation (Author’s interview, March 9). hryvnia and the associated catastrophic some kind of quasi-recognition. name recognition. Russian support seems The leader of the Euro-Maidan move- decline in living standards. Provocateurs Participants of the conference included to have plucked this group out of nowhere. ment in Kharkiv, Igor Rassokha, was far from Russia might try to use such people, a few members of locally elected adminis- The would-be “Rada” (Council) evidently more candid. Mr. Rassokha asserted that according to Mr. Rassokha (Author’s inter- trations in the Odesa Oblast, a few pro-Rus- planned to develop a following among eth- there was no doubt the Kremlin was view, March 9). sia/pro-Novorossiya Internet activists, nic communities. Apparently the intent was behind the destabilization trend in the The situation in Kharkiv had been quite uncaptioned organizers and a sprinkling of to counter the national government’s poli- Kharkiv Oblast. According to the activist, tense anyway, Mr. Rassokha alleged, but it students. The delegate from Moldova’s cies through centrifugal movements on the the primary source of danger for Kharkiv further deteriorated following the assassi- Party of Socialists sat in the presidium and periphery. Such an approach corresponds comes not from the separatist enclaves in nation of Russian opposition leader Boris delivered party leader Igor Dodon’s salute. with the initial phase of what then devel- Donbas, but from Russia itself. Nemtsov (see Eurasia Daily Monitor, March A few like-minded activists from Chisinau oped in due course as Russia-orchestrated “[The city of] Kharkiv is only 40 kilome- 2, 5, 9). Mr. Rassokha considers the assassi- and Tiraspol attended. The “BPR presi- “frozen conflicts.” To attain a capacity for ters away from the Russian border. Russian nation to be a particularly concerning sign. dent” is billed as an entrepreneur (unspeci- ethnic mobilization, however, the “BPR” military units are concentrated on the “Boris Nemtsov consistently spoke against fied). At least until recently, Mr. Zatuliveter would have had to compete against the Russian side of the border. Provocateurs in Russian aggression in Ukraine. The murder was associated with a Trasnsnistrian group established leaders of the ethnic communi- Kharkiv province are ramping up their of this politician may signal that the that had fallen out with “President” ties in the Odesa Oblast. The Bulgarian and activities. They try to unite the separatist- Kremlin has finally decided to [openly] Yevgeny Shevchuk there (Tiras.ru, Timer- Gagauz community leaders in the oblast are minded residents of the region and pro- wage war on Ukraine,” Mr. Rassokha assert- odessa.net, Ava.md, April 6-8). loyal to Ukraine and have unambiguously claim the so-called Kharkiv People’s ed (Author’s interview, March 9). The Bulgarian party Ataka, probably distanced themselves from the “BPR.” Republic. Saboteurs from Russia also come fronting for Russia, functions as a link to help them,” Mr. Rassokha told The article above is reprinted from between the “People’s Council” and the The article above is reprinted from Jamestown, on March 9. Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from outer “Russian world.” The head of Ataka’s Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from Moreover, according to the Kharkiv- its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, youth wing sat in the “BPR” conference pre- its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, branch Euro-Maidan activist, the Kremlin www.jamestown.org. sidium. A public relations firm in Bulgaria, www.jamestown.org. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16

other efforts of the United States and 13 ethnic... European Union to change the Kremlin’s policy, the annexation of Crimea continues, Bryttan to present new translations (Continued from page 1) the destabilization in eastern Ukraine per- Lithuanian American Council, Polish sists, and Ukrainian lives are being lost to of beloved poems by Taras Shevchenko American Congress, Slovak League of the violence inspired, if not instigated, by NEW YORK – Adrian Bryttan will present America and the UCCA. the Russian Federation. first readings of his new rhymed English The signatories urged the president to This is a tragedy of immense propor- translations to several beloved poems of consider additional measures to demon- tions. Ominously, it threatens to get still Taras Shevchenko at the Ukrainian Academy strate U.S. support for Ukraine by providing worse, both for Ukraine and other coun- of Arts and Sciences (UVAN), located at 206 additional financial assistance and lethal tries in the region that fear Moscow’s long W. 100 St., on Sunday, April 26, at 3 p.m. defensive military, and apply additional shadow and willingness to interfere in their Mr. Bryttan completed each of his original multilateral sanctions against Russia. domestic affairs. translations with all the rhymes and rhythms The leaders also asked for a meeting Mr. President, we must prevail in corresponding to the original Ukrainian. The with President Obama in order to discuss defending the rights of Ukraine and other English versions will include: “Utoplena” “this grave situation [in Ukraine] in greater nations in the region to live free of unwant- (The Drowning), “Khustyna” (The Scarf), detail.” ed outside involvement, to protect their “Rusalka” (The River Sprite), “Kateryna” and As the situation remains critical in sovereignty and independence, and to be others. A slide show will accompany the Ukraine, the Ukrainian American commu- able to choose their friends. They pose no readings, setting the mood for each poem. nity, together with other ethnic communi- danger to anyone, yet the danger to these Mr. Bryttan, who has performed world- ties, remains steadfast in its support of nations is ever so real, as we have chillingly wide as an opera and symphony conductor Ukraine and calls upon the United States to witnessed in Ukraine. and concert violinist, previously translated recognize the urgency of the crisis in the We urge you to consider additional mea- Italian operas by Mozart and Puccini into region, the UCCA noted. sures to demonstrate our nation’s unstinting Ukrainian and conducted “Gianni Schicchi” The full text of the letter reads as follows. support for Ukraine, including the provision and “Suor Angelica” showcasing those Larry Revene * * * of further financial assistance, lethal defen- translations in the Dnipropetrovsk Opera Adrian Bryttan We are a group of organizations united sive military equipment to allow the people Theater in Ukraine in 2007. in the firm belief that the stakes for the of Ukraine to better protect themselves, and While translating operas, Mr. Bryttan and his sophisticated inner rhythms. To United States, and the larger democratic heightened bilateral and multilateral sanc- said he was pleased to discover many sur- translate Shevchenko in such a faithful world, could not be higher in the ongoing tions against Russia to raise the price for its prising similarities between Italian and manner was quite complex, but ultimately aggression by the Russian Federation and unjustifiable behavior. In doing so, you will Ukrainian, not just in individual words but most rewarding. its proxies against Ukraine’s territorial have our full support and, we believe, the even in basic grammatical structures. His In 2005-2006 Mr. Bryttan was a integrity and right to chart its own destiny. vast majority of the American people, who experience gained in creating singable Fulbright scholar in Ukraine; he performed We know you agree. Last month, for do not want to see such menacing behavior operatic translations with all their accuracy with professional operas and symphonies, example, you laudably declared: “The 21st against a democratic nation continue. of meaning, intelligibility and flowing and taught at musical conservatories century cannot have us stand idle and sim- It would be our earnest hope to have the rhymes led to his project to translate throughout the country. ply allow the borders of Europe to be opportunity to meet with you, Mr. President, Shevchenko. The Ukrainian bard’s lyrical He has written news and commentary redrawn at the barrel of the gun.” to discuss this grave situation in greater detail, and compact style is noted for many musi- on the arts, most notably music and film, Yet the tragic reality is that, despite the and to see how we might best be able to help cal elements in the crafting of his sounds, for The Ukrainian Weekly. determined diplomatic, economic and our country achieve these worthy aims.

national deputies. the costs involved in removing monuments Yet even some of Ukraine’s pro-Western Rada approves... The measure condemns the Communist and symbols and changing street signs. advocates criticized the legislation that he and Nazi totalitarian regimes in Ukraine as Economist Oleksandr Okhrymenko, helped draft. Halya Coynash of the Kharkiv (Continued from page 1) criminal, forbids the public denial of the known for his pro-Russian leanings, esti- Human Rights Group said the measures “Those heroes who gave their lives for criminal nature of these totalitarian mated those costs at 5 billion hrv (about seem designed to strangle any attempts at Ukraine’s independence don’t need any regimes, and forbids the public display and $232 million), or 1 percent of the state bud- real historical study of World War II. benefits, certificates, public transport pass- propaganda of their symbolism. Yet the get, reported the segodnya.ua news site. “Viatrovych undoubtedly has the right to es, and so forth. The heroes who fought for punishment for violating these prohibitions The Russian government also has raised his own view, but neither he nor the Ukrainian independence died with the is not outlined. its voice in protest. Institute he now heads has the right to hope that one day, in the independent “This bill doesn’t forbid ideology, Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei Lavrov determine what parts of history are Ukraine that they won, they would be because that’s unacceptable for any demo- alleged the Verkhovna Rada had engaged in remembered and how,” she said. remembered, prayed over in molebens, and cratic country,” Mr. Lutsenko said in making heroes of Nazis, referring to the The timing of the bills is also question- everything would be done to honor the Parliament that day, practically acting as state recognition of the contributions of the able, critics said, giving Mr. Putin even more memory of their holy fight for the freedom the president’s spokesman. “This bill bans OUN and the UPA to the liberation struggle. fodder to demonize Ukrainians ahead of of their native land,” Mr. Shukhevych noted. totalitarian regimes, no matter what color “I think they understand just how ruin- the May 9 Victory Day commemoration. It Also recognized by the legislation are the they paint themselves – Communist, fascist ous for the peace process such activity of can also serve his goal of dividing Western- Western Ukrainian National Republic of or any other. The totalitarian regime is the Verkhovna Rada is,” he said during oriented and Russian-oriented Ukrainians, 1918-1919, the Poliska Sich insurgent army banned and condemned by Ukraine.” peace talks in Berlin on April 13. “So far, we with the latter largely residing in the south- led by Taras Bulba-Borovets, the Eastern “So we are fighting not against ideas, haven’t heard any assurances from the EU eastern oblasts that Mr. Putin wants to split Lemko and Hutsul republics, the Ukrainian philosophies and academics, but against and our German and French partners that from Ukraine in order to create a loyal Supreme Liberation Council, the Anti- executioners and killers who tormented the some steps will be taken. But it seems to Novorossiya state. Bolshevik Bloc of Nations, and the National country. And we won’t allow any more of me that they all understand well, particu- Critics also argued that the law is “seri- Rukh for Perebudova, among many others. that in Ukraine for as long as democracy is larly that continuing the path of making ously destructive” given such geographical Mr. Shukhevych said more groups could here,” he added. heroes of Nazis and removing hero status divides, the current war being waged by the be added to the list if research discovers The bill stipulates that all Communist from the true heroes of the second world Russian government, and the relentless them. symbols be removed from the public war and the Great Patriotic War risks attempt to sow division and enmity among Besides offering benefits to those recog- sphere within six months of the president’s undermining the Minsk process.” Ukrainians. nized as having fought for Ukraine’s inde- signing of the legislation, which is fully In response to such criticism, historian A third bill establishes May 8 as the pendence, the law requires the state to expected. That includes hammer and sickle Volodymyr Viatrovych – who performed national Day of Memory and Reconciliation, raise public awareness of the history of lib- flags and bas-reliefs, as well as monuments research at the Harvard Ukrainian Research bringing Ukraine into line with the rest of eration struggle, to develop and improve to Soviet heroes. It also includes the Soviet Institute in 2010-2011 and currently serves the world in recognizing that day as the school textbooks on the struggle, and to names of state institutions, streets and pop- as the head of the Institute of National conclusion of World War II. organize programs and events commemo- ulation centers. Memory – pointed out that most of the The bill, “On Remembering the Victory rating the struggle. Dnipropetrovsk will likely become post-Communist countries that are cur- over Nazism in the World War II,” avoids “One can have different attitudes Dnipro, as it’s now commonly referred to, or rently European Union member-states canceling May 9 as a national Victory Day towards Bandera, as in the east and the Sicheslav, the name proposed in 1918 by the passed similar laws long ago. holiday, but does eliminate the official use west, but one can’t not recognize the right Ukrainian National Republic, observers said. Mr. Viatrovych was one of the main of the term “Great Patriotic War.” of Ukrainians to defend their freedoms, Kirovohrad – the oblast center of authors of the legislation. It also prohibits the falsification of the which were justly and legally used to the 233,000 residents named for the Russian “Our main task is for the ‘sovok’ [Soviet Second World War in academic studies, fullest extent by Ukrainian fighters, from Bolshevik leader Sergei Kirov, who never man] not to be recreated in future genera- teaching, methodical literature, textbooks, the Sich Riflemen to today’s volunteer bat- lived in Ukraine – is likely to return to its tions,” he told the Ukrayinska Pravda news the media, public addresses by authorities, talions,” Mr. Lutsenko told the Verkhovna previous name of Yelysavethrad, named in site in an interview published on April 10. and local government officials and bodies. Rada on the day of the vote. honor of the Christian saint who informed “In general, all our work is oriented A fourth bill approved that day, “On Another legislative item that day, the bill Mary of her Immaculate Conception. towards the young generation, which they Access to the Archives of the Repressive “On Condemning the Communist and As always happens when de-Sovietiza- tried to inoculate with ‘sovok’ practices and Bodies of the Communist Totalitarian National-Socialist (Nazi) Totalitarian tion is pursued, Ukraine’s Russophile forces traditions, masking them as ‘respect for Regime,” reinforces public access to Soviet Regimes on Ukraine and Forbidding the have already begun to complain about the veterans.’ But the cult of war, and the hon- documents and places the state archives Propaganda of their Symbols,” drew 254 hassles it will cause, such as standing in oring of veterans and victims, are absolute- under the control of the Institute for votes in favor. It was sponsored by 13 lines for new residency stamps, as well as ly different things.” National Memory. No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 19

Through April 30 Exhibit by Maria Turchenkova, “The People’s Republic April 25 Concert, “Alexander Shchetynsky and the New New York of Chaos: Donbas, Eastern Ukraine,” Columbia New York Ukrainians,” featuring Oleh Bezborodko, Alexander University, Harriman Institute, 212-854-4623 Ginsberg, Serhiy Pilyutikov and Lubawa Sydorenko, Ukrainian Institute of America, Through April 30 Pysanka exhibit, featuring the collection of Ihor www.ukrainianinstitute.org Portsmouth, RI Slabicky, Portsmouth Free Public Library, 401-683-9457 or http://portsmouthlibrary.org April 25 Wladimir Klitschko versus Bryant Jennings, New York Madison Square Garden, www.msg.com April 24 Kozak System and Taras Chubai, Logan Square Chicago Auditorium, www.moloko.us April 25 Fund-raiser for humanitarian aid for Ukraine, Ukrainians April 25 Kozak System and Taras Chubai, White Star Club, Lakewood, CO of Colorado, Lakewood Country Club, Detroit www.moloko.us [email protected] or http://buytickets.at/ukrainianscolorado/25232 April 25 Volleyball tournament, Ukrainian American Youth Yonkers, NY Association, Lincoln High School, 914-589-2078 or April 26 Gala Banquet, “Rock, Reforms and Relief,” Kings Garden [email protected] Toronto Banquet Hall, www.dopomoha-ukraini.org or [email protected] April 25 Concert, featuring violinist Solomiya Ivakhiv and the Gallipolis, OH Ohio Valley Symphony, Ariel Ann Carson Dater April 26 Symposium, “Experiment, Expression and the Performing Arts Center, 740-446-ARTS New York International Scene: The Ukrainian Avant-Garde Stage in the 1910s and 1920s,” The Ukrainian Museum, April 25 Benefit concert “Rock, Reforms and Relief,” featuring 212-228-0110 or www.ukrainianmuseum.org Toronto Serhiy Fomenko of Mandry, Lemon Bucket Orkestra and Michael Shchur, Kings Banquet Hall, April 26 Book launch, “Clergy of Peremyshl eparchy and the www.dopomoha-ukraini.org or Toronto Apostolic administration of Lemkivshchyna,” by the [email protected] Rev. Bohdan Prach, St. Vladimir Institute, 416-923-3318 or www.stvladimir.ca April 25 Roundtable discussion, “Rock, Reforms and Relief,” with Toronto Mustafa Nayem, Vira Savchenko, Serhiy Fomenko and April 26 Kozak System and Taras Chubai, Crystal Center other Ukrainian and Canadian experts, Taras Shevchenko Cleveland www.moloko.us Community Center, www.dopomoha-ukraini.org or [email protected] April 26 Performance, “A Ukrainian Montage,” Ukrainian Fort Lauderdale, FL Dancers of Miami and Trio Maksymowich, Broward April 25 Performance, “Chornobyl Songs Project,” with Maria Center for the Performing Arts, New York Sonevytsky and the ensemble Hilka, Yara Arts Group, www.browardcenter.com or 954-434-4635 Center for Traditional Music and Dance, The Ukrainian Museum, 212-228-0110 or www.ukrainianmuseum.org Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events April 25 Roundtable discussion, “War in Ukraine: Political and advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions New York Military Aspects,” Shevchenko Scientific Society, from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors 212-254-5130 or www.shevchenko.org and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected].

UNA SENIORS AND FRIENDS ! MAKE RESERVATIONS EARLY!

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All inclusive 5 nights - meals beginning with breakfast Monday, banquet Thursday, lunch Friday - taxes/gratuities included, entertainment and special guest speakers

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Remember to bring your embroideries (vyshyvanky) for the banquet, and, if possible, bring items for the auction! SOYUZIVKA Tel.: 845 626-5641 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2015 No. 16

PREVIEW OF EVENTS

Saturday, April 25 art. The Ukrainian Dancers of Miami present their 23rd annual “A Ukrainian Montage” fea- NEW YORK: The Ukrainian Institute of turing the Ukrainian Dancers of Miami and America and Music at the Institute invite the Trio Maksymowich at the Broward Center for public for the concert “Alexander the Performing Arts, 201 SW 5th Ave., Fort Shchetynsky and the New Ukrainians.” The Lauderdale, FL 33312. The show begins at 2 evening will feature music by Oleh p.m. All tickets are $25. For additional infor- Bezborodko, Alexander Grinberg, Serhiy mation see www.browardcenter.org or www. Pilyutikov and Lubawa Sydorenko. All works UkrainianDancersMiami.org; or contact performed will be North American pre- Donna Maksymowich-Waskiewicz, 954-434- mieres. The concert will take place at 8 p.m. 4635. at the Ukrainian Institute of America, located at 2 E. 79th St. Admission is free. For more Tuesday-Wednesday, April 28-29 information visit www.ukrainianinstitute.org. WARREN, Mich.: The Ukrainian-American Civic Committee of Metropolitan Detroit with NEW YORK: The Shevchenko Scientific Save Ukraine Now invites all to events deal- Society invites all to the roundtable “War in ing with the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine Ukraine: Political and Military Aspects.” and the “Ukraine Survival Campaign.” On Participants include Col. Mykhailo Kyryliuk of Tuesday, April 28: prayer breakfast, 7:30 the Ukrainian army (military advisor to a.m.; Ukraine Survival Benefit Banquet, 7 Ukraine’s Permanent Mission to the United p.m. (tickets are $150). On Wednesday, April Nations), Col. Michael O. Logusz of the U.S. 29: Strategic Briefing Breakfast, 9 a.m. Army, and Vasyl Lopukh, full member of the (admission is $50) with speakers: Gen. Shevchenko Society. The event will be emceed Wesley K. Clark (ret.); religious leaders of by Dr. Alexander J. Motyl (Rutgers University). Ukraine, Patriarch Filaret, Major Archbishop The roundtable will take place at the soci- and Patriarch Sviatoslav, Chief Rabbi of ety’s building, 63 Fourth Ave. (between Ukraine Yaakov Dov Bleich and Bishop Ninth and 10th streets) at 5 p.m. For addi- Valery Reshetinskiy; Dr. Gary Kellner, founder tional information call 212-254-5130. and president of Save Ukraine Now. The event takes place at the Ukrainian Cultural Sunday, April 26 Center 26601 Ryan Rd., Warren, MI 48091; FORT LAUDERDALE: Join us for a whirlwind telephone, 586-757-8130. For more informa- afternoon of Ukrainian folk dance, song and tion e-mail [email protected].

PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES Preview of Events is a listing of community events open to the public. It is a service provided at minimal cost ($20 per listing) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the Ukrainian community. Items should be no more than 100 words long; longer submissions are subject to editing. Preview items must be received no later than one week before the desired date of publication. Items will be published only once, unless otherwise indicated. Please include payment for each time the item is to appear and indicate date(s) of issue(s) in which the item is to be published. Information should be sent to: [email protected]; payment should be sent to Preview of Events, The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. NB: If e-mailing, simply type the text into the body of the e-mail message.

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