Inside: l WFUWO at U.N. Commission on the Status of Women – page 5 l Vitaly Portnikov: sober voice in post-Maidan Ukraine – page 8 l Our community: Miami, Boston, Philadelphia – page 14

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXV No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 $2.00 Portugal wins Eurovision Song Contest, Poroshenko lauds closer ties with EU, Ukraine touts contest as great success admits ‘there’s much left to be done’ KYIV – Portugal was the top vote-getter inspired by the Soviet authorities’ mass in the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest, the deportation of Crimean Tatars to Central annual festival traditionally watched by a Asia in that year. The Crimean Tatar singer television audience of an estimated 200 returned to the contest this year, singing her million people. Some 4 million people new song “I Believe in U” as an interval act watched the contest’s grand final, breaking during the grand final on May 13. previous records, according to the official President Petro Poroshenko met with website of Eurovision 2017. organizers and hosts of the European Singer Salvador Sobral was declared the music contest and congratulated them on winner early on May 14 in the Ukrainian the successful completion of the contest. capital of Kyiv, giving Portugal its first victory “My sincere congratulations to you all. since it initially entered the contest in 1964. Eurovision 2017 was organized at a very The winner was determined by a combina- high level. This is the result of a very effi- tion of points awarded by national juries and cient coordination and interaction of your voting by telephone and text message from and our team,” he said. participant countries. The winning song was “Despite concerns of skeptics about pos- titled “Amar Pelos Dois,” written and com- sible threats, I am proud that we have made posed by the singer’s sister, Luisa Sobral. this wonderful event. Nobody could stop Ukraine won the right to host the event by us,” the president underscored, as he invit- virtue of its representative, Jamala, winning the event last year with her song “1944,” (Continued on page 4) Presidential Administration of Ukraine At the signing ceremony for a new visa-liberalization regime with the European Union in Strasbourg on May 17 (from left) are: Malta’s Interior Minister Carmelo Abela (whose country currently holds the rotating presidency of the EU), Member of the European Parliament Mariya Gabriel, Ukraine’s President Petro Poroshenko and European Parliament President Antonio Tajani. In his May 14 press conference, Mr. Poroshenko cited Ukraine’s closer ties with the European Union as a major achievement.

by Mark Raczkiewycz He said that on May 17 he will visit Strasbourg, where the Council of Europe is KYIV – President Petro Poroshenko tout- located, to attend a signing ceremony of the ed Ukraine’s deepening integration with the visa-free travel legislation on the back of a European Union and fielded questions about working visit to Malta on May 16. Mr. law and order, corruption, progress on Poroshenko, 51, will also start a series of reforms and his businesses on May 14 dur- meetings with the leaders of the Group of ing his first news conference in 16 months. Seven industrialized nations, starting with Speaking of the EU’s decision to waive German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin visa requirements on May 11, the president on May 20. said: “Only crazy people can consider Citing other positive aspects of his Ukraine to be part of the so-called ‘Russian administration, Mr. Poroshenko named world.’ Ukraine is part of a united Europe signing a political pact and free-trade stretching from Lisbon to Kharkiv. For agreement with the 28-nation EU, the three years Russia has tried everything to Vladimir Gontar/UNIAN ongoing prosecution of fugitive ex-Presi- block Ukraine’s path towards the EU. But The winner of Eurovision 2017, Salvador Sobral of Portugal, with last year’s winner, dent Viktor Yanukovych for treason and Crimean Tatar singer Jamala from Ukraine. nothing will stop our path to Europe.” other crimes, and the successful hosting of this year’s Eurovision song contest. “Much has been accomplished. Am I happy? No,” he told reporters. “There were some human errors made, [and] delays in Ukraine Mission hosts “Ukrainian Insights” exhibit at U.N. reforms.” The president also said he isn’t happy by Matthew Dubas The exhibit, curated by Natalia On display at the exhibit were: “Cupola,” Shpitkov­skaya and art director Tamara a four-panel ethereal image of people with the investigation into the high-profile UNITED NATIONS – The Permanent Shevchenko, is on display at the Delegates seeming to ascend and descend in midair death of journalist Pavel Sheremet who Mission of Ukraine to the United Nations Entrance Hall, is free to the public and and a fiberglass/plastic sculpture was killed in a car bomb explosion on July on May 16 officially opened an art exhibit, concludes on May 26. “Deperso­nalization” by Mr. Sydorenko; an 20, 2016. “Ukrainian Insights,” that featured works Nearly 100 people attended the open- installation of the four-panel painting “Regretfully, I was expecting a better by contemporary artists from Ukraine: ing of the exhibit and reception, which “Happiness of Labor” by Mr. Tistol flanked outcome. I’m not satisfied that we haven’t found the killers and that they haven’t been Victor Sydorenko, Oleg Tistol, Mykola was paired with a lecture, “A Dialogue by two 12-panel squares using folk motifs, brought to justice,” he noted. Matsenko and Valentin Popov. The latest with Timothy Snyder About Ukraine,” by “Neofolk,” by Mr. Matsenko; and three Mr. Poroshenko told journalists that Ihor example of “cultural diplomacy” by the Prof. Timothy Snyder of Yale University, paintings by Mr. Popov, “From… to…,” “Red Ustymenko, a former Security Service of Permanent Mission, the exhibit aims to also hosted by the Ukraine’s Mission to Candles” and “Life is painful, suffering is Ukraine (SBU) officer who was at the crime show the cultural, political and spiritual the U.N. (More information about the lec- optional.” scene several times before the bomb deto- aspects of Ukraine and the promise of ture and Prof. Snyder’s latest book, “On nated, according to an investigation by Ukraine’s future in a global context. Tyranny,” will appear in the May 28 issue.) (Continued on page 4) (Continued on page 11) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21

ANALYSIS

Moscow spoils every opportunity Visa-free EU travel deal is signed than 300-year history... and today Ukraine is returning home.” Relations between STRASBOURG – Representatives of the Moscow and Kyiv have been severely to improve relations with U.S. European Parliament and the European strained since Russia seized Crimea in Oval Office with Ambassador Sergei Kislyak Council have signed a document in March 2014 and fomented unrest in east- by Pavel K. Baev Strasbourg formalizing a long-awaited visa- was definitely a mistake (Newsru.com, May ern Ukraine, where a war between govern- Eurasia Daily Monitor liberalization deal with Ukraine. The deal 11). Mr. Kislyak is implicated in several ment forces and Russia-backed separatists was signed by the president of the The Kremlin continues to cling to hopes scandals involving key members of Mr. has killed more than 9,900 people. Russia’s European Parliament, Antonio Tajani, and that it can build a rapport with the Trump Trump’s election team, and investigations interference in Ukraine, where Kyiv and Malta’s Interior Minister Carmelo Abela. administration; those expectations copious- into these connections by the U.S. Congress NATO say it has supported the separatists Malta currently holds the rotating presiden- ly developed at the start of the year, only to inevitably generate demands to punish with troops, weapons and other backing, cy of the European Union. Ukrainian succumb to one cold shower after another Russia (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, May 11). prompted the European Union and the since then. Yuri Ushakov, President President Petro Poroshenko, who was pres- Mr. Trump’s abrupt firing of Federal United States to impose sanctions on Vladimir Putin’s long-serving foreign policy ent at the ceremony, said the signing of the Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Moscow. (RFE/RL) aide, recently asserted that the “difficult leg- James Comey overshadowed the moderate- agreement represents a landmark in acy” left by the administration of President ly positive effect of Mr. Lavrov’s talks and Ukraine’s history. “It is an absolutely historic Rada backs ban on St. George ribbon Barack Obama was gradually sorted out day for Ukraine, for my 45 million nation, was invariably interpreted in Moscow as KYIV – The Verkhovna Rada has despite the resistance of “certain forces in triggered by the investigations of Russia’s and I am absolutely confident that this is a approved legislation introducing fines and the American establishment” (RIA Novosti, interference in the elections (Novaya historic day for the European Union,” Mr. Poroshenko said after the signing. “Ukraine potential jail time for people who appear in May 12). Yet, he could not refrain from Gazeta, May 11). Mainstream commenta- returns to the European family. Ukraine says public wearing as a black-and-orange rib- warning about the “limits of Russia’s tors argue that the U.S. president has a final farewell to the Soviet and Russian bon widely viewed a patriotic emblem in patience” regarding the diplomatic proper- launched a counter-offensive against empire,” he added. Mr. Tajani said the visa Russia, but which many Ukrainians see as a ty “confiscated” by the United States in “Russophobes” in his own administration, liberalization was a “good message” to “very symbol of Russian aggression. Lawmakers December 2016 (RBC, May 12). but some also point to his sensitivity to pro-European” Ukraine. “The new rules on on May 16 passed the bill taking aim at the This bitter complaint reflects the depth “image risks” related to Russia (RIA visa liberalization are the beginning of a St. George ribbon, which has become a of frustration in Moscow caused by the Novosti, May 12). new era,” he said. EU member states gave state-embraced symbol of military valor in accumulation of new complications in The theme Moscow seeks to establish as their approval on May 11, and the visa-free Russia, where it is associated with com- Washington that block Mr. Putin’s plan for the central avenue for possible cooperation regime is due to enter into force on June 11. memorations of the 1945 victory over Nazi cultivating a beautiful friendship with the is the fight against the Islamic State (IS). Ukrainian citizens who have biometric pass- Germany. For many in Ukraine, however, inexperienced but open-minded President Russia is trying to sell the U.S. on its recent ports will be able to enter all EU member the ribbon has come to symbolize Russia- Donald Trump. This frustration results in initiative to establish four “de-escalation states other than Ireland and the United Moscow pushing too hard for every open- zones” in Syria (see Eurasia Daily Monitor, backed separatists in eastern Ukraine in a Kingdom without a visa for up to 90 days ing in the frozen relations and in spoiling May 4). The plan is being presented as a war against government forces that has during any 180-day period. It also applies to the few opportunities that come up. step forward in bringing the disastrous civil killed at least 9,940 people since April four Schengen Area countries that are not in Small gestures often matter a lot in a war to an end, but it would ensure the con- 2014. If signed into law by President Petro the EU: Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and high-level diplomatic dance. Foreign Affairs tinuation of Bashar al-Assad’s regime Poroshenko, the bill would introduce fines Switzerland. (RFE/RL, with reporting by Minister Sergei Lavrov was obviously elat- (Kommersant, May 6). Israel has already of up to 2,550 hrv ($96) for those who pub- RFE/RL’s Marek Hajduk in Strasbourg and ed when his meeting with U.S. Secretary of firmly rejected the Syrian de-escalation licly use, display or wear the ribbon – and Rikard Jozwiak in Brussels) State Rex Tillerson was followed by a meet- zones idea: it has asserted its intention to up to double that amount or 15 days in jail ing with President Trump in the White strike Hezbollah in every location where it Ukraine’s ‘divorce from Russian Empire’ for repeat offenders. The bill, whose pas- House (Kommersant, May 10). But the poses a threat (Rosbalt.ru, May 11). sage triggered angry responses from Russians’ release of the photo of Messrs. KYIV – Ukrainian President Petro Russian officials, included an explanatory Trump and Lavrov smiling together at the (Continued on page 17) Poroshenko says the visa-liberalization deal note saying it would help strengthen “pub- with the European Union marks his coun- lic order.” It allows the display of the ribbon try’s “divorce from the Russian Empire.” Mr. in several instances, including on official Poroshenko spoke on May 11, after the deal state documents, flags and awards issued that will enable Ukrainians to travel to EU before 1991, as well as in museums, on Trump defends intelligence sharing Schengen Area countries without a visa gravesites, and in personal collections and cleared a key hurdle in Brussels. “Today, archives. Nationalist lawmaker Anton with Russia amid intense criticism Ukraine has finalized its divorce from the Herashchenko said the bill will help battle Russian Empire,” he told 1+1 television in terrorism,” he added, using an acronym for “Russian aggression.” In a May 16 Facebook RFE/RL an interview, in a remark that was posted post, Russian Foreign Affairs Ministry the IS group. on his website on May 12. “This is precisely U.S. President Donald Trump has defend- spokeswoman Maria Zakharova denounced The Kremlin described the reports pub- how we should view this in philosophical ed what he called his “absolute right” to lished by The Washington Post, The New terms,” he said. “It is an exit from a more (Continued on page 12) share information with Russian officials York Times, Reuters and other media late amid controversy over classified informa- on May 15 as “complete nonsense.” tion. But congressional Democrats and some Mr. Trump’s comments, made in a series Republicans condemned the reported dis- FOUNDED 1933 of Twitter posts on May 16, appeared to closures. The Ukrainian Weekly confirm U.S. media reports that he had dis- “Reports that this information was pro- closed highly classified material to Russia’s vided by a U.S. ally and shared without its An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., top diplomat during a meeting at the White knowledge sends a troubling signal to a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. House on May 10. America’s allies and partners around the Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. The disclosure, which may have jeopar- world and may impair their willingness to Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. dized intelligence sourcing about the share intelligence with us in the future,” (ISSN — 0273-9348) Islamic State extremist group, further John McCain, an influential Republican sen- The Weekly: UNA: roiled lawmakers and policymakers in ator and vocal critic of Kremlin policies, Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 Washington, which is still grappling with said in a statement on May 16. the fallout from Mr. Trump’s abrupt firing The media reports, which cited anony- Postmaster, send address changes to: of FBI Director James Comey a day before mous officials, said the information Mr. The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz the meeting with the Russians. Trump relayed to Russian Foreign Affairs 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas “As president I wanted to share with Minister Sergei Lavrov and Russian P.O. Box 280 Russia (at an openly scheduled W.H. [White Ambassador Sergey Kislyak during their Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] House] meeting) which I have the absolute meeting had been provided by a U.S. part- right to do, facts pertaining to terrorism ner country through a highly sensitive The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com and airline flight safety,” he wrote. intelligence-sharing arrangement. “Humanitarian reasons, plus I want Russia The reports quoted the sources as say- The Ukrainian Weekly, May 21, 2017, No. 21, Vol. LXXXV to greatly step up their fight against ISIS & ing that the partner had not given Copyright © 2017 The Ukrainian Weekly Washington permission to share the mate- Correction rial with Moscow, and that Trump’s alleged decision to do so jeopardized cooperation ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA In the photo caption “Trump meets with from an ally that has access to the inner Klimkin and Chaly at White House” (May workings of IS. Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 14), due to a typographical error the During his Oval Office meeting with e-mail: [email protected] wrong date was listed. The meeting took Messrs. Lavrov and Kislyak, President Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 place on Wednesday, May 10, not e-mail: [email protected] Wednesday, May 11. (Continued on page 7) No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 3

NEWS ANALYSIS Putin, Merkel exchange views on Ukraine in Sochi by Vladimir Socor the “parties to the conflict,” namely Kyiv legitimize the Donetsk-Luhansk authorities to the use of the ruble in that territory. Eurasia Daily Monitor and the (as yet) “unrecognized republics”; through elections (a scenario seriously con- The message to Ukraine is: either con- 2. through that dialogue, enshrining a sidered in Berlin and Washington in 2015- cede a negotiated special status for that ter- German Chancellor Angela Merkel took “special status” for Donetsk-Luhansk in the 2016), then Mr. Putin’s next stage would ritory (resulting in a state within the the initiative earlier this month to visit Ukrainian Constitution and legislation; involve negotiations on the delimitation of Ukrainian state), or accept de facto the Russian President Vladimir Putin in Sochi 3. working out a special electoral law powers between Kyiv and Donetsk-Luhansk, definitive separation of that territory from on May 2. The German agenda included applicable to those territories; and in the framework of the special status and in Ukraine. And the message to Berlin and preparations for the upcoming G-20 summit 4. holding local elections in Donetsk- the Minsk armistice sequence. other Western capitals implies: either pres- in Germany (where the presidents of Russia Luhansk that would produce recognized Mr. Putin, however, stopped short of sure Kyiv to concede the special status and and the United States will meet), the situa- authorities there. invoking that follow-up stage with Ms. elections for Donetsk-Luhansk, or watch tion in Syria (in the context of preparing for Mr. Putin, however, professed to be pessi- Merkel in Sochi. Instead, the Russian presi- that territory’s full secession and the col- the G-20 summit), and comparing notes on mistic about this scenario. He argued that dent affected near-resignation over the lapse of a diplomatic compromise between the “conflict in Ukraine,” in that order of Kyiv had at one time possessed sufficient receding prospects for a political settle- Russia and the West. Hence, Mr. Putin’s cal- German priorities. The four-hour Putin- culated display of equanimity regarding the Merkel talks on May 2 behind closed doors stalled Normandy and Minsk processes. indeed adhered to that order of priorities. The Kremlin’s message to Ukraine is: either While the Kremlin’s domestic propagan- In the Putin-Merkel joint news confer- concede a negotiated special status for Donetsk da continues depicting the Ukrainian gov- ence, however, international media interest and Luhansk (resulting in a state within the ernment as lacking legitimacy, Mr. Putin no focused heavily on the situation in longer does so in front of foreign audiences Ukraine’s east and Russia’s role therein. Ukrainian state), or accept de facto the defini- (although he still uses the disrespectful term This persistent line of questioning led Mr. tive separation of that territory from Ukraine. “Kyiv authorities”). By now he would chal- Putin and Ms. Merkel to declare their lenge the Ukrainian government’s legitima- respective views at some length. The two cy merely to retaliate when journalists or leaders last met officially seven months ago domestic leeway to comply with the political ment. Departing from his norm, he did not other interlocutors seem to challenge the (October 19, 2016), in Berlin, for negotia- terms of the Minsk armistice (as he inter- bother to condemn Kyiv for the deadlock legitimacy of the Donetsk-Luhansk “repub- tions in the “Normandy” format (Ukraine, prets it), but the Ukrainian government on the Donetsk-Luhansk elections and spe- lics.” Thus, during the joint news conference Russia, Germany and France), followed by missed that chance, its domestic leeway has cial status. Mr. Putin’s remark, factual and in Sochi, Mr. Putin found it necessary to an unusually long hiatus in the Normandy since then narrowed, and the prospect of a slightly regretful, that the Ukrainian gov- retort that “the current Kyiv authorities process. Thus, Mr. Putin’s and Ms. Merkel’s political settlement is now receding. ernment lacks domestic political leeway to came to power through an anti-constitution- statements in Sochi provide a wide-ranging That “direct dialogue” means a bilateral be “flexible” in the negotiations is accurate, al coup.” He seemed oblivious to the implica- review on their respective positions. negotiation between co-equal parties, Kyiv though self-serving. tion – which Ms. Merkel instantly grasped – Mr. Putin’s main tactical goal is to pres- and Donetsk-Luhansk, as the first step With his seeming equanimity, Mr. Putin that an illegitimate government (if such it sure Kyiv into starting political settlement toward recognition of the latter by the for- reinforces Moscow’s recent moves that was) could not deliver a legitimate agree- negotiations with the Donetsk and Luhansk mer. Direct dialogue would replace the may, instead of a special status, foreshadow ment. The German chancellor therefore “people’s republics” – a process leading to mediated dialogue in the Minsk Contact outright secession of the Donetsk-Luhansk interceded that “the Ukrainian government their de facto recognition by Ukraine and Group, in which Donetsk-Luhansk are not territory from Ukraine. Those moves came to power through democratic means, Western disengagement from the problem. co-equal with Kyiv. For all its questionable include Russia’s recognition of the “peo- and the president [Petro Poroshenko] now Toward that end, Russia persists with attri- value, the Organization for Security and ple’s republics’ ” identity passports and has the responsibility to implement the tion warfare on the ground (periodically Cooperation in Europe’s (OSCE) mediation other types of documents, a go-ahead for Minsk agreement” (Bundeskanzlerin.de, threatening escalation) against Ukraine would undoubtedly be replaced de facto by takeovers of Ukrainian-owned infrastruc- May 3). (see Eurasia Daily Monitor, March 30) Russian arbitration of any direct negotia- ture and industrial plants, a switch to the while seeking to align Western diplomacy tions between Kyiv and Donetsk-Luhansk. Russian school curriculum and a full shift (Continued on page 16) with Russia’s interpretation of the political Next steps toward Putin’s goal terms of the Minsk armistice. As he stated in Sochi, Mr. Putin envisions Mr. Putin’s four steps are to be understood four initial steps in that direction (Kremlin. cumulatively as the first stage, and thus his Quotable notes ru, May 2; Interfax, May 3): interim goal, in the overall settlement pro- 1. initiating a “direct dialogue” between cess. If Kyiv and its Western partners agree to “RT aims to discredit the United States in a straightforward way. The Kremlin- funded television network – established in 2005, operating in English, Arabic and Spanish – doesn’t report on America and the West warts and all, but rather focuses single-mindedly on warts alone. ... “In a post-fact, post-truth world, Vladimir Putin’s Russia revels in exploiting Threats to RFE/RL journalists multiply in 2017 Western vulnerability. ...It’s time to push back – with full force. … “First, we must recognize that Putin’s only real strength is our weakness. The West’s structural problems – from declining social mobility and extreme income RFE/RL reporter in Belarus was arrested for cover- ing mass protests, and journalists were inequality in the United States to issues of employment, migration and identity WASHINGTON – Radio Free Europe/ physically assaulted while on assignment in across Europe – create immense possibilities for a Russian regime bent on doing us Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) journalists have Russia, Armenia and Macedonia. harm. Democracy has shown itself capable of self-correction and renewal. We’ll get been targeted in hostile incidents in at least Iranian authorities have directly threat- through our current malaise. In the meantime, we mustn’t waiver in defense of liber- 10 countries in 2017, in what the company ened RFE/RL journalists, while in al democracy. ... called “relentless pressure” on its journalis- Uzbekistan, authorities have arrested the “Second, let’s be clear; this is war and Putin is determined to win. At first it tic mission. family members of RFE/RL journalists and seemed his regime might be content with a continent divided into spheres of influ- Speaking on World Press Freedom Day, subjected them to intimidation and threats. ence. Over time, though, Putin’s gaze shifted to a bigger prize: an EU rendered weak May 3, RFE/RL President Thomas Kent Turkmen contributor Saparmamed and dependent, a NATO emasculated, the trans-Atlantic link perhaps even severed. said that “today we celebrate the courage of Nepeskuliev, sentenced to three years in Putin is fond of ‘America First’ nationalism because he believes it will make Russia our journalists, who work under relentless prison in August 2015 on fabricated charg- great again, by pushing America to the side. He has his vision. We must re-establish pressure.” Mr. Kent continued, “Attacks es, remains behind bars. In Kyrgyzstan, ours. We need a well-resourced, strategically minded foreign policy aimed at putting against them are attacks on the universal RFE/RL faces two defamation suits, after its Putin back on his heels. .... value of press freedom.” Kyrgyz Service covered statements made by “Finally, we must respond to the growing range of Russian efforts to divide and The actions targeting RFE/RL are as a representative of Kyrgyzstan’s opposition conquer. …If the West is to rebound, we must never stray from facts. Therefore, let’s diverse as the environments in which its at a widely reported press conference. flood Russia with accurate, reliable information and serious investigative reporting reporters work, but reflect a common The incidents come amidst what the on Putin’s kleptocracy, a self-dealing system that loots a magnificent Russian civiliza- intent to thwart independent media. Committee to Protect Journalists has called tion – financially, intellectually, spiritually, and culturally. A court in Symferopol on May 3 ”the most dangerous and deadly time for “...Americans and Europeans allow the likes of RT into our markets – we actually adjourned for the third time the trial of journalists ever documented.” do cherish freedom of speech. It’s time we demand full reciprocity, as our media Crimean journalist Mykola Semena, who is RFE/RL is a private, independent inter- remain subject to draconian regulations and restrictions in Russia. We must be facing separatist charges for an opinion national news organization whose pro- allowed access to television licenses. Intimidating and harassment of affiliates – piece he wrote opposing Moscow’s annexa- grams – radio, Internet, television and through politically motivated use of tax auditors and anti-corruption police, for tion of Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula. mobile – reach 27 million people in 26 lan- example – must end. …Allow us the same rights as we afford RT. If Moscow refuses, Also on May 3, the Azerbaijani govern- guages and 23 countries, including Russia, boot from the U.S. Kremlin pawns masquerading as journalists. This is the new kind ment continued to press for a court- Ukraine, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, the of war. It’s time we fight to win.” approved ban on RFE/RL’s Azerbaijani republics of Central Asia and the Caucasus, – Jeffrey Gedmin, senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, writing on May 2 on the coun- Service website for content that “poses a and the Baltic states. It is funded by the U.S. cil’s Ukraine Alert blog (see http://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/ukrainealert/does- threat” to Azerbaijan’s national security. Congress through the Broadcasting Board rt-really-believe-in-free-speech-prove-it). In other cases this year, an RFE/RL of Governors (BBG). 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21

Yuri Vitrenko (at the microphone), chargé d’affairs of Ukraine’s Mission to the United Nations, welcomes guests to the opening reception of the art exhibit “Ukrainian Insights” at the Delegates Entrance Hall of the U.N. General Assembly building. With him (from left) are: Matthew Dubas Valentin Popov, Iryna Sydorenko with her husband Victor Sydorenko, art director Tamara “Depersonalization” by Victor Sydorenko, made of fiberglass/plastic con- Shevchenko and exhibit curator Natalia Shpitkovskaya. struction.

Kazakhstan, graduated from the Kharkiv tion now known as the Lviv National Frankivsk Oblast and graduated from the Ukraine Mission... Art and Industry Institute, and serves as Academy of Arts. In addition to painting, Mr. Lviv National Academy of Arts (then known the vice-president of the National Academy Tistol is a painter, photographer, the creator as the Lviv State Institute of Applied and (Continued from page 1) of Arts of Ukraine. His works appeared at of art installations, an author, a sculptor and Decorative Arts). The artist is also a pho- In his official greeting, Yuri Vitrenko, the 50th Venice Biennale “Millstones in a performer. He has worked with Mr. tographer, a creator of installations, a sculp- chargé d’affairs of the Permanent Mission Time,” and his works have been displayed Matsenko on the project “Natsprom.” His tor and a performer. His works examine of Ukraine to the U.N., said that this exhibit at the National Art Museum in Kyiv, the Yale work tends to focus on national stereotypes issues of identity in the globalized modern is a testament to Ukraine being a vibrant University School of Art, the Museum of and common cultural patterns, and as an world, rethinking the cultural and historical country in the face of Russian aggression. Contemporary Art KIASMA in Helsinki, and author he uses deep cultural roots as a experience, the interaction of tradition and This was the first time, he said, that the other venues. reflection point against reality and artistic mass culture. Mr. Matsenko and Mr. Tistiol exhibit was on display in New York, and at Mr. Tistol hails from the Mykolayiv Oblast play. co-founded the “Natsprom” project. the United Nations Headquarters. of Ukraine and graduated from the institu- Mr. Matsenko is from the Ivano- Sponsors of the exhibit included SUMA A statement by the exhibit organizers Yonkers Ukrainian Federal Credit Union, said: the artists “present their creative pur- Selfreliance New York Federal Credit Union, suits through a modern worldview per- Meest-America, ArtHuss Publishers, spective. Their works deliver an aesthetic, Shevchuk Partners, Asters law firm, ideological, philosophical message that Abramovych Art, IRTA Consultants, defines Ukraine’s national, political and cul- Ukrainian International Airlines, tural identity. ‘Ukrainian Insights’ is the Obozrevatel.com and Chernozem.info. The embodiment of creative ideas, using the exhibit was organized by Ukraine’s Ministry spirit of past experiences to expose insights of Foreign Affairs, Modern Art Research into the future. The project creates a plat- Institute and the Art Cult Foundation. The form that will further promote Ukraine’s opening reception was sponsored by Veselka independent identity within the interna- Ukrainian Restaurant. Other organizers tional arena and bring greater recognition included: Orest Kyzyk, Timothy Snyder, Olga to the achievements of its people.” Oleksenko, Armen Khachaturyan, Mr. Popov, who resides in San Francisco, Kostyantyn Kozhemyaka, Jerry Lodynsky, but is originally from Kyiv, is the recipient Monica Gerard-Sharp Wambold, Alie E. of numerous awards. Examples of his Wambold, Roger Evans and Pavel Shevchuk. works can be seen at the Metropolitan Readers may view the exhibit, located in Museum of Art in New York, the New York the General Assembly building of the Public Library, the Achenbach Foundation United Nations Headquarters, between the for Graphic Arts in San Francisco and the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., using the National Art Museum of Ukraine in Kyiv, entrance located at 46th Street and First among others. Avenue, New York. Additional information Mr. Sydorenko, who was born in Guests at the opening reception chat, sip wine and enjoy hors d’oeuvres. can be found at www.artcult.org.ua/en.

against combined Russian-separatists forc- that went into the preparation, organization brought Eurovision to Ukraine. Portugal wins... es in eastern Ukraine and hosting of the song contest at the prop- Jon Ola Sand, executive supervisor of the President Poroshenko announced on er level. “This is not only the issue of design Eurovision Song Contest, also noted the (Continued from page 1) Facebook that he was canceling a planned and creative solutions, but also the issue of extremely high level of organization of the ed everyone to visit the UEFA Champions appearance at the song contest because of a ensuring security of the participants and 2017 contest. “Each year we have certain League Final that will take place in Kyiv in shelling incident in the eastern city of guests. I am very glad that we managed to remarks or complaints: either transport or May 2018. Avdiyivka that left four civilians dead. organize everything at a high level. This logistics, security or other aspects. But The Eurovision final featured performers This year’s Eurovision competition saw allowed our guests to feel comfortable. Eurovision in Kyiv was held flawlessly. We from 26 countries – 20 qualifiers from the some controversy when Ukraine barred Thousands of people worked to create a didn’t have any problems. Everything was first and second semi-finals held on May 9 Russia’s entry, Yulia Samoilova, from com- positive image of Ukraine. And it seems to organized at the top level by the Ukrainian and 11, and six automatic qualifiers, includ- ing to Kyiv because she had performed in me that we succeeded,” he stressed. party,” he observed. ing the “Big Five” countries — France, the Russia-annexed Ukrainian region of “It is a great pleasure that my team and On behalf of the European Broadcasting Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Crimea in 2015. In response, Russia decid- my wife were involved in the contest. Union, member of the EBU Administrative Kingdom — and host country Ukraine. ed not to allow her to participate by video Maryna took part in the opening of Board Pavlo Grytsak thanked and congratu- Portugal earned 758 points to win. or to send another contestant. Russia also Eurovision, a great number of Ukrainian lated Ukraine’s president on the wonderful Bulgaria finished second with 615, while decided not to show the event on television. volunteers assisted in the organization and organization of the contest. “This is a great Moldova was third with 374. Ukraine, rep- Before the final night, it emerged that holding of this wonderful competition,” Mr. international event with thousands of for- resented by the rock band O.Torvald, was Bulgaria’s Kostov had also performed in Poroshenko said. He also expressed hope eigners who visited Ukraine. One of the most 24th with 36 points. Crimea soon after Moscow’s illegal annexa- that thousands of foreign guests who visited popular shows with many challenges and The 27-year-old Mr. Sobral and Italy’s tion, but Ukrainian officials said he was Kyiv enjoyed the level of organization of the risks, particularly in the sphere of security. Francesco Gabbani, who finished sixth, allowed to enter Ukraine now because she contest and hospitality of Ukraine’s capital. And the fact is that a wonderful job was done were touted as the favorites, according to had been just 14 at that time. “Despite Russian aggression and Russian for all journalists, contestants and fans to feel bookmakers. The youngest entrant, The Eurovision contest was first held in occupation, Ukrainians and the Ukrainian the hospitality of Kyiv,” he commented. Bulgaria’s 17-year-old Kristian Kostov, had 1956 with just seven entrants. authorities showed their hospitality and Sources: RFE/RL, with reporting by been ranked third. At a post-contest meeting with did everything they could to organize a Reuters, AP and AFP; Presidential Security at the event was reportedly Eurovision organizers and hosts, President truly wonderful event,” the president said. Administration of Ukraine; official website of intense, as Ukraine is fighting a conflict Poroshenko noted the huge amount of work He expressed gratitude to Jamala for having the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest. No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 5

Permanent Mission of Ukraine to the U.N. Marta Kebalo At the U.N. Headquarters Indonesian Lounge (from left): Lyudmyla Porokhnyak Hanowska, Iryna At the Regional Women’s Peace Dialogue Platform event: Orysia Lutsenko, Oksana Sushko, Natalia Fedorovych, Marta Kebalo, Andrij Reva, Orysia Sushko, Nadia Sushko (standing) with (seated from left) Natalia Fedorovych, Shmigel and Iryna Kurowyckyj. Ambassador Melanne Verveer and Kateryna Levchenko. WFUWO participates in 61st session of U.N. Commission on the Status of Women

by Irene Jarosewich began after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Russia’s invasion of eastern Ukraine and its introduce the Regional Women’s Peace Over all, WFUWO-organized events and occupation of Crimea, representing a dis- Dialogue Platform in Southern and Eastern UNITED NATIONS – The United Nations expert panels have served to cultivate proportionate number of the 1.5 million Europe and Central Asia. The WFUWO is an event that annually draws the highest num- greater awareness about numerous issues internally displaced persons. Women need original partner, together with the United ber of participants to U.N. Headquarters in that impact Ukraine and Ukraine’s women to be included in discussions and actions Methodist Women, of a Women’s Peace New York City is not the opening session of in their striving for full democracy, sustain- regarding the resolution of these conflicts Dialogue Project, which began as a bilateral the General Assembly in September, with able development and gender equality. and discussions of restitution. Input from Ukraine-Russian Federation encounter the dramatic arrival of diplomats, ministers women must be sought in any resolution of between representatives of civil society – in CSW 61 overview and presidents, but the Commission on the the political and humanitarian crisis. particular, women’s NGOs, and subsequent- Status of Women (CSW) that is held annu- On March 13, the first day of CSW 61, at Further underscoring the importance of ly was expanded to countries across the ally in March. a meeting organized by the Permanent UNSC Res 1325 for Ukraine, the WFUWO region. The goal is to cultivate mutual This year, CSW 61, a two-week event on Mission of Ukraine to the U.N., members of was among the co-organizers of an event understanding, share concerns, establish a March 13-24, attracted close to 4,000 par- Ukraine’s official delegation to the CSW – hosted on March 16 by the Permanent network of women peace-building practi- ticipants from 580 civil society organiza- Minister of Social Policy Andrij Reva, Missions of Austria, Finland, Kazakhstan tioners and a pool of women experts in con- tions from 138 countries, 165 U.N. missions Deputy Minister of Social Policy Natalia and Ukraine, and moderated by and representatives of government and Fedorovych and National Deputy Iryna Ambassador Melanne Verveer, to publicly (Continued on page 13) non-governmental organizations. Panels Lutsenko – met with WFUWO representa- and cultural events were held at more than tives President Orysia Sushko, 100 venues throughout New York City. Administrative Officer Oksana Sushko, UN/ This annual event, noted Dora Chomiak, ECOSOC Main Representative Dr. Martha a board member of Razom for Ukraine and Kichorowska Kebalo and UN/ECOSOC a participant in this year’s CSW, “is the uber- Representative Nadia Shmigel, as well as networking event for women international- Dr. Lyudmyla Porokhnyak-Hanowska, pres- ly,” a place where bonds and friendships are ident of the National Council of Women of established and sustained for years. Ukraine, and Iryna Kurowyckyj, UN/ Whereas the World Federation of ECOSOC Main Representative for the Ukrainian Women’s Organizations has been International Council of Women. involved with U.N. initiatives for almost 70 Among the topics raised during the years, beginning with the establishment of meeting were Ukraine’s plan for imple- the WFUWO in 1948, since gaining official menting U.N. Security Council Resolution affiliation with the U.N. Department of 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, which Public Information in November 1990 and was passed in 2000. with the U.N. Economic and Social Council Ukraine’s National Action Plan (NAP) for (ECOSOC) in 1993, the WFUWO has been UNSC Res 1325, adopted in February 2016, the lynchpin organization at the U.N. for aims to eliminate the barriers that hinder events of concern for Ukrainian women the full participation of women in all worldwide. The WFUWO often works in aspects of negotiations and resolution of close cooperation with the Permanent conflicts and/or matters of peace and secu- Mission of Ukraine to the United Nations. rity at the national level – a particular time- In the mid-1990s, the WFUWO was one ly and essential issue for Ukraine given of the first international organizations to Russia’s continuing aggression against focus attention on the problem of sex traf- Ukraine. Women and children in Ukraine ficking of women from Eastern Europe that have been most adversely affected by

Shevchenko Scientific Society At the Shevchenko Scientific Society (from left): Martha Kebalo, Kateryna Levchenko, Pauline Rankin and Olha Dunebabina. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21

WINDOW ON EURASIA The Ukrainian Weekly The strength of the UNWLA Last Lenin comes down in Kyiv, Seen on the front page of our April 16 issue was a story headlined “Charitable Ukraine honors UNWLA as best provider of ‘Aid from Abroad.’ ” It reported that the as Stalin cult rises in Moscow Ukrainian National Women’s League of America had been honored by the For him, the Ukrainian commentator says, Association of Charities of Ukraine with its top award in the Aid from Abroad catego- by Paul Goble “this is not simply a coincidence” but a sign ry. The annual Charitable Ukraine competition strives to promote development of charitable activities in Ukraine by popularizing charitable work, patronage of such Most of those influenced by Samuel of a broader civilizational shift. activity and volunteerism. In choosing the UNWLA to receive one of its beautiful Huntington’s ideas about “the clash of civi- “While in Ukraine, the very memory of “Angel of Goodness” statuettes, the association was recognizing the great body of lizations” have focused on the confronta- Lenin is disappearing, in Russia, memories good works performed by this Ukrainian American organization founded in 1925. tion between the Christian West and the of Stalin are being revived. Precisely about And what are those good works? Sponsoring recreational camps for families of world of Islam. A smaller number have Stalin and not about Lenin,” Mr. Portnikov soldiers serving in Ukraine’s anti-terrorist operation (ATO); helping to fund training focused on the conflict between the writes, because for the Putin regime, “after courses on the treatment of traumatic injuries; becoming a major donor to the trau- Orthodox world of Eastern Europe and the the unmasking of the Stalin cult of person- ma therapy center at the Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU); aiding orphanages Catholic-Protestant West of Europe. ality, Lenin was the symbol of ‘a good com- and orphans; helping the aged and the needy; supporting families of fallen heroes; But perhaps the most important clash of munist.’” securing medical treatment for pediatric burn victims; and much, much more. civilizations is in evidence on the territory From all available evidence, he says, “the Yes, indeed, the UNWLA has many projects that aid the people of Ukraine, but it of the former Soviet space between those present-day rulers of Russia cannot agree also has programs that support Ukrainians wherever they may live and need a help- who seek to root out the legacy of Soviet with this image of the humanist leader ing hand. One of the most notable is the UNWLA Scholarship Program, which this Communist oppression and those who cel- because the real Lenin was never a human- year celebrates a remarkable 50th anniversary – five decades of helping Ukrainian ebrate it or even go further and seek to re- ist. They need Stalin because Stalin was an students in Poland, Brazil, Argentina, Ukraine and other countries. Most recently we impose it on their own countries and oth- all-powerful ruler and someone who led witnessed first hand the far-reaching effects of this program as a local pastor, origi- ers as well. the entire world to fear Russia. Putin wants nally from Ukraine, recalled the organization’s scholarship aid when he was a young That clash has been very much in evi- both his own people and outsiders to fear seminarian in Rome. dence in Ukraine and Russia this month. him.” And then there is the UNWLA’s valuable work in the sphere of cultural and educa- On May 12, the Ukrainian authorities Despite the historical record of Stalin’s tional activity. In 1933, the UNWLA organized an exhibition at the Chicago World’s took down the last statue of Lenin in Kyiv, crimes, Mr. Putin’s promotion of a cult of Fair that presented Ukrainian folk art to the American public. In 1976, the UNWLA even as the Russian authorities contin- the late Soviet dictator has become ever founded The Ukrainian Museum, which certainly ranks as one of the greatest ued, as part of their Victory Day com- more hyperbolic with each passing year, achievements of the Ukrainian diaspora. In 2011, the UNWLA began its endowment memorations, to celebrate Stalin and his Mr. Portnikov says, and “every Victory Day for women’s/gender studies at UCU. brutal dictatorship as models for emula- is becoming a step toward the return of All the aforementioned activities are in keeping with the organization’s purpose, which includes: fostering the Ukrainian cultural heritage and promoting knowledge tion. Stalin to the pedestal and to the rebirth of of Ukrainian culture; providing financial assistance to Ukrainians within and outside In a commentary for Radio Liberty’s total Chekist power and the fear of the the United States; and maintaining ties with Ukrainian, American and international Ukrainian Service, Vitaly Portnikov argues world about Russia’s unpredictability.” organizations for educational and charitable purposes. The UNWLA’s branches that this civilizational divide is “more “The civilizational divorce of Ukraine throughout the United States – and there are over 80 of them – support and aug- defining than Ukrainian hopes for and Russia,” Mr. Portnikov argues, “to a ment this work by pursuing diverse initiatives (art exhibits, preschools, commemo- European integration and the Russian chi- large extent is driven not by the fact that rations of historical events and folk art workshops are among those that come to mera of a Eurasian Union” (radiosvoboda. one country is striving to become part of mind) within their own communities in accordance with local interests and needs. org/a/28 483765.html). present-day Europe while the other is Thus, the upcoming UNWLA convention’s slogan, “Our membership – our He points out that “the final disappear- returning to medieval Asiatic values and strength,” is certainly apt. As the organization’s president, Marianna Zajac, ance of the Bolshevik leader from the ped- practices. Instead, it is driven by the fact explained: “This slogan identifies the foundation and reason for our joint successes… estal coincided with the decision of the that Ukrainians have turned away from but also points out possibilities for the future. Each of our members offers her own European Council on the final offering to Lenin, while Russians are returning to talents to our joint effort, and it is because of these individual diverse talents and Ukraine of a visa-free regime with the EU.” Stalin.” generous hearts that our achievements have been so broad, so meaningful.” As members head to the XXXI UNWLA Convention in Tampa, Fla., over Memorial Day weekend, we wish them and their organization many more years of success as they continue to fulfill the UNWLA’s noble mission. Russia’s ideology is ‘traditional great power cleansed of communism,’ notes historian Turning the pages back... May by Paul Goble The majority of the Russian population accepts the idea that Russia must be a Five years ago, on May 21, 2012, the North Atlantic Treaty Both supporters and critics of the Putin great power regardless of the price, 21 Organization (NATO) concluded its summit in Chicago, which regime often say his regime lacks an ideol- because it is surrounded by enemies, Ms. began on May 20. ogy. Aleksandr Podrabinek is only the lat- Pavlova says. Indeed, one can say that “if 2012 Analyst Vladimir Socor noted how with the exception of est to make that point (svoboda.org/a/ you ‘scratch’ a Russian, you will find a great Georgia, NATO basically ignored its own immediate Eastern 28471232.html). But historian Irina power chauvinist.” Russians are ready to neighborhood, including countries bordering on NATO and the Pavlova says the regime does have an ide- “talk for hours” about the greatness of European Union, which faced a deepened security vacuum amid Russian re-expansion. ology: “traditional Russian great power Russia and its power, she says. Areas of protracted conflict with Russia included Moldova, Georgia, Armenia and (velikoderzhaviye), cleansed of commu- This is a fait accompli, and it won’t be Azerbaijan, and now Ukraine. The aforementioned conflicts resulted in territorial occupa- nism and dressed up in Orthodox clothing.” significantly changed if it is adopted as a tions, ethnic cleansing, massive Russian military bases, and failing tests of NATO’s open- formal ideological platform, the historian door and partnership policies. Not only should this be obvious to even a casual observer of such events as the just- continues. Attachment to the core ideas of “Benign neglect,” Mr. Socor said, “tends to grow deeper and even becomes institutional- great power “unites the powers, the elite, concluded celebrations of Victory Day, the ized with the passage of time. In this region, it takes the form of conceding primary the people of Russia and also a significant U.S.-based Russian historian argues that the authority on peacekeeping and conflict-mediation to Russia, which acts within institution- part of progressive society” elsewhere. chord this ideology has struck with the al formats that constrain the West and exclude NATO outright.” This idea has its roots in the 16th centu- Russian people – much deeper than that of In Moldova it was the 5+2 format, in Georgia it was the Geneva format, the “Minsk ry idea of Moscow as “the third Rome.” Group” in Armenia-Azerbaijan, and in the case of Ukraine, the Normandy format, with communism – explains support for Over time, “this idea was transformed into each one being rather ineffective at persuading Russia to change course, Mr. Socor noted. Vladimir Putin and Putinism (ivpavlova. an ideology” and now has taken the form Armenia and Russia declined to attend the summit in Chicago. blogspot.com/2017/05/blog-post_10. of what may be called “Russian fundamen- The NATO summit issued a communiqué that called on “all parties to engage construc- html). talism,” whose followers accept without tively and with reinforced political will in peaceful conflict resolution.” The statement question four key notions without asking expressed concern, but not much more than at the declaratory level, and Mr. Socor added, Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on that they be proven. the summit confirmed that NATO lacked the collective inclination to provide a security ethnic and religious questions in Eurasia First, Russians believe that “the Russian solution for its Eastern neighborhood. who has served in various capacities in the people are the bearers of a special morality However, the Chicago Summit Declaration, dated May 20, endorsed the “territorial U.S. State Department, the Central and a special feeling of justice.” Second, integrity, independence and sovereignty” of Azerbaijan, Moldova and Georgia. Intelligence Agency and the International they reject “the spiritless West as a model Ukraine’s role at the summit, as a non-bloc country under President Viktor of societal development.” Third, they have Yanukovych, was of a business nature for Ukraine to lease Soviet-era heavy-duty transport Broadcasting Bureau, as well as at the Voice aircraft for NATO’s announced withdrawal from Afghanistan as well as repair services for of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio a “vision of the future of Russia as an Soviet-made military equipment for the Afghan army. Liberty and the Carnegie Endowment for empire.” And fourth, they are “certain of its During the summit, the presidents of Lithuania and Romania expressed concern over International Peace. The article above is special and unique historical mission.” arms sales by Western European countries to Russia. Presidents Dalia Grybauskaite and reprinted with permission from his blog That is an ideology, Ms. Pavlova says, no called “Window on Eurasia” (http://windo- matter what those who deny its existence (Continued on page 17) woneurasia2.blogspot.com/). suggest. No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Appeal of First of December Initiative Group

write on it “BOOKS-UKRAINE” to get a pref- Info about donating erential price. The books will go directly to Ukraine does not need illusory ‘peace’ the designated address. your book collections This is the most optimal and inexpen- sive way to save the heritage of our loved at the cost of capitulation Dear Editor: ones and the heritage of Ukraine. I hope Several years ago, the newspaper readers of The Ukrainian Weekly will take The participants of Ukraine’s First of tional law. They are motivated by the Svoboda wrote about “The difficult life of advantage of this proposal and share the December Initiative Group, a coalition of instincts of a violent empire, offended that the Ukrainian book,” editorializing that the information with others. intellectuals, called upon Ukrainian author- they have lost their status of “greatness” passing of Ukrainian Americans left their ities and society to reject an illusory peace and will stop at nothing until it is reconsti- Peter J. Piaseckyj at the cost of capitulation, as that will only tuted. libraries in danger of being discarded. The Sunny Isles Beach, Fla. children and grandchildren of the deceased encourage the enemy’s aggression. The We must keep this in mind. do not know what to do with their inherit- translation of the Ukrainian-language Malicious “peacemakers,” both within ed libraries, nor can they evaluate the trea- appeal that appears below was prepared Ukraine and beyond its borders, expect us sures left them. by Euromaidan Press; it has been edited by to be like docile lambs. Their proposal for Another group of concerned Ukrainian Christian critic’s perspective The Ukrainian Weekly for clarity and accu- “peace” requires a price that is nothing less Americans are those who love their books, on the film “Bitter Harvest” racy. than our capitulation. but are getting older and want to find a Though the appeal was issued on March Ivan Franko had a saying that is timely meaningful depository for their treasures. Dear Editor: 16, Euromaidan Press notes that it is even for us now: “Peace is blessed work during more relevant today, as calls for making times of peace. If you are agitating for They want their books to be actively read I have seen the movie “Bitter Harvest” compromises with Russia have been repeat- peace during turbulent times, you are and cherished. If these books do not find a two times, and each time I walked away either a traitor or a coward.” home, they are thrown away. A solution is impressed by the accurate portrayal of the ed by pro-Kremlin politician Viktor now available: they can send their books to historical events of the Holodomor. Kudos Medvedchuk in an interview with the It is beyond dispute that Ukraine has a library in Ukraine. to the writers Richard Bachynsky-Hoover Financial Times, and there is a campaign to become fatigued from this war. This endur- I have invested two years into finding an and George Mendeluk, who also is the force Austrian-style neutrality upon ance of great trials has also strengthened adequate and inexpensive solution. With Director. Ukraine in exchange for the promise of the core of our national identity. We are the help of Natalia Brandafi, chief operating I was extremely upset and disappointed Russia stopping its war. paying a great price for the right and the officer of Meest-America Inc., we can help at reading the many negative reviews of possibility to be a free people, and we are What is the nature of the peace becoming much stronger than we ever families and individuals save their books. “Bitter Harvest.” Having worked in the for which we long? Thanks to the generosity of Meest, the motion picture industry for over 45 years, I were in the past. plan is to use the offices and services of don’t recall seeing such trashing of a film. The Russian Federation is waging a Now we understand clearly that no one Meest to send the books at cost to Ukraine So, I decided to contact my long-time friend, hybrid war against Ukraine. However, it from the outside can ever conquer Ukraine and have the librarians at the Lviv library Dr. Ted Baehr, a respected Hollywood critic, started long before 2014. The conditions so long as we ourselves do not destroy it distribute the books to libraries throughout founder and chairman of the Christian Film were identical 100 years ago: Soviet Russia from the inside. Consequently, it bothers us Ukraine. The other option is for the sender and Television Commission and publisher incited conflicts within the very heart of tremendously to see the current state of to designate a recipient in Ukraine and of the book “How to Succeed in Hollywood Ukraine, and established a puppet regime of Ukraine’s political class, their greed, their have Meest send to that address at minimal Without Losing your Soul” and MovieGuide the “Soviet government,” deceiving and eagerness to take the interests of the gov- cost. Magazine for families. I asked Dr. Baehr if manipulating leaders such as [Yurii] ernment during a time of “painful compro- Lviv professional librarians along with he had seen “Bitter Harvest” and if he could Kotsiubynskyi and [Mykola] Shchors, mise” and manipulate them for their own volunteers of the “Tovarystvo Okhorony give me his opinion of the film. This is how through whom they could effect their mili- benefit; and finally their utter lack of con- Pamiatok Istoriyi i Kultury” (Ukrainian he framed his views. tary interventions. Additionally, a percent- cern for the very basic needs of ordinary Society of Historical and Cultural “‘Bitter Harvest’ is a must-see movie. It age of the political leadership of the people. It also upsets us that the governing Monuments) will catalogue every donated is a powerful drama about the horrible Ukrainian National Republic could never elites are devoid of all strategic vision for library, analyze and identify, with the starvation of Ukrainian peasants by the free themselves of the illusory dream of the future development of our country. agreement of the books’ owners, the desti- Soviet Communist atheists in 1932-1933, establishing a socialist but independent The world doesn’t like the weak, and we nation of their books. Research materials and officially condemned by the United Ukraine under the patronage of a demo- have seen this from our own experience. and rare books will be transferred to aca- Nations. The movie is well plotted, with cratic Russia. Our only hope is to become strong: spiritu- demic and university libraries. Humanities terrific acting and it exposes all the imagin- It wasn’t long before the true cost of this ally, economically and militarily. books, such as those on music and art, will able evils of Stalin’s collectivism, socialism illusion had to be paid – with the very lives By becoming strong, we can be victori- be designated for appropriate institutions. and Communism in the Soviet Union, and of these leaders, the loss of Ukrainian inde- ous and we can attain peace. General category and children’s books will reveals the horrific past and perhaps the pendence, and the deaths of millions of vic- We seek a dignified peace. go to school and village libraries. future of Communism. Even today, coun- tims. We have no desire for an illusory The donating individual must package tries like Venezuela are facing the evils that The fundamental characteristic of “peace” obtained in exchange for our the books and send them to: Meest- confronted Ukraine in the 1930s.” Russia is imperialism. The operative con- national interests; such a “peace” will only America (BOOKS-UKRAINE), 600 Markley Dr. Baehr saw this film as a Christian cept of a “democratic Russia” has nothing encourage our enemy to initiate new acts St., Port Reading, NJ 07064. movie with many references to God, Jesus in common with the real world under- of aggression. If you need to contact someone at Meest, and the Church, a story about God-fearing standing of democracy, and it never will, We want to be a strong, united and free please contact John Vysotsky by e-mail at people, fighting against oppression by a unless and until the Russian people experi- nation, with the strength to stand on our [email protected]. tyrannical atheist government and being ence a cathartic transformation, a libera- own feet, and with whom others must con- Somewhere on the package the sender martyred for their faith. tion from their current national idea and tend. should write “BOOKS UKRAINE” and his I think that the truth about Communism imperialistic essence. In its current form, * * * billing address so that Meest personnel will was too unsettling for many critics to com- present-day Russia has no use for an inde- The Initiative Group “First of December” know to whom to send the discounted bill- prehend. pendent Ukraine; it requires Ukraine to be was created on the 20th anniversary of the ing. a submissive Little Russia. referendum for the independence of If the sender has his own address for Luba Poniatyszyn-Keske In such circumstances, peace is merely a Ukraine. It includes senior national intellec- delivery, he should show this address and Woodland Hills, Calif. dream. tuals: Viacheslav Briukhovetsky, Bohdan Any willingness to accept compromise Hawrylyshyn, Volodymyr Horbulin, Cardinal is understood by the Russian government Lubomyr Husar, Ivan Dzyuba, Myroslav minister was wholly appropriate to that as weakness on the part of the opponent. Marynovych, Myroslav Popovych, Yevhen Trump defends... conversation and is consistent with the They consider all accords to be as Sverstiuk, Vadym Skurativsky and Ihor routine sharing of information between the (Continued from page 2) worthless as the paper they are written on. Yukhnovsky. Its goal is to promote moral president and any leaders with whom he is Their real weapons are deceit, falsehood values and work toward the establishment Trump reportedly went off-script and engaged,” Mr. McMaster said at a press and contempt for the norms of interna- of new rules in Ukraine. began describing details about an IS threat briefing on May 16. “The president in no related to the use of laptop computers on way compromised any sources or methods aircraft, reports said. in the course of this conversation.” They said that in his conversations with the Russian officials, Mr. Trump boasted With reporting by AP, AFP, Reuters, The Opinions in The Ukrainian Weekly about his knowledge of the looming Washington Post and Interfax. threats, telling them he was briefed on Copyright 2017, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted Opinions expressed by columnists, commen- “great intel every day.” with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ After the reports of the disclosures Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, tators and letter-writers are their own and do emerged on May 15, Secretary of State Rex Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org. The Tillerson and National Security Adviser text above is an abbreviated version of the not necessarily reflect the opinions of either H.R. McMaster denied that anything RFE/RL story (see https://www.rferl.org/a/ The Weekly editorial staff or its publisher, the improper took place. trump-accused-disclosing-highly-classified- “In the context of that discussion, what secrets-islamic-state-russian-envoy-lavrov- Ukrainian National Association. the president discussed with the foreign kislyak/28489852.html). 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21 Vitaly Portnikov: a sober voice in post-Maidan Ukraine

by Anna Mostovych This was not a new plan, Mr. Portnikov state is to be exploited – whether the job is points out. Mr. Putin’s emissaries had tried in journalism or in the Verkhovna Rada.” KYIV – Almost three and a half years to convince Leonid Kuchma to move his Corruption, Politics and Society after the Euro-Maidan Revolution of government to Donetsk or Kharkiv during Dignity, Ukrainian citizens are coping with the first Maidan, but the wily president saw Although he admits he did not vote for an interminable war with Russia, a sluggish through the plan of his Russian “allies” and Petro Poroshenko, Mr. Portnikov has little economy and continuing corruption. As avoided their trap. patience for those who now demonize the they negotiate a murky future in a trauma- “People don’t really understand this,” Mr. Ukrainian president. “He does some things tized country, many find much-needed clar- Portnikov says. “They think they drove out well, others not so well,” he says. His main ity in the incisive analysis of Vitaly Yanukovych, that he went to Russia, and the objection is to Mr. Poroshenko’s attempts to Portnikov, one of Ukraine’s leading journal- revolution prevailed… But this could have concentrate power, undermining the parlia- ists and political commentators. been a different victory. Moscow was inter- mentary-presidential republic. In Mr. Born in Kyiv in 1967, Vitaly Eduardovych ested in the complete radicalization of atti- Portnikov’s view, the previous government Portnikov began his studies in the philology tudes…. We lost territory, but we could of Arseniy Yatsenyuk was the first reformist department of Dnipropetrovsk University, have lost half of the country.” government in the country until it was dis- after being denied admission to Kyiv State He does not think Russia will risk a full- solved under the pressure of public opinion University because of Soviet quotas on scale invasion now, primarily because it can by those who did not understand the diffi- Jewish students. He then transferred to the no longer afford it and also because the mili- cult decisions taken under conditions of war. Moscow University Faculty of Journalism, tary tool is no longer as effective. Russia Reformers in the current government of where he obtained a graduate degree in used armed means to seize Crimea’s Volodymyr Groisman, Mr. Poroshenko’s close journalism in 1992. During this time he Parliament and succeeded in taking over ally, are finding that things are quite difficult served as parliamentary correspondent in administration buildings in Donetsk and now because there is no trust or balance. Moscow for the Kyiv newspaper Molod Luhansk. But it failed in Kharkiv because Vitaly Portnikov However, voters need to take responsi- Ukrainy, becoming the first journalist to rep- Ukraine’s interim government was able to bility for their actions, Mr. Portnikov added. resent a Ukrainian publication in the inter- organize the necessary resistance. Generally, political analyst rather than a war corre- “I told people before the parliamentary national arena. Russia’s military wants a “legitimate basis” spondent or investigative journalist provid- elections that if they voted for the Petro Subsequently, he became a regular con- for military action, such as a request for help ed some protection. Poroshenko Bloc they would destroy par- tributor and columnist for a wide range of from the oblast radas (councils) of Dnipro or As for the death of Pavel Sheremet in a liamentary democracy. They voted and now Ukrainian, Russian, Polish, Belarusian and Zaporizhia who want to create “people’s car bombing in Kyiv last year, he points out they have problems with reforms and the Latvian print and online publications, as republics.” However, that opportunity is that the journalist had played an important balance of power. This was their choice. well as Israel’s most popular Russian- gone because Ukraine’s government is much role in Russian journalism during its trans- They need to take responsibility for the language newspaper Vesti (News). stronger now and the Ukrainian people have formation to Putinism and also hosted a next elections.” Mr. Portnikov is the founder and host of demonstrated their will to resist. radio show financed by close associates of One barrier to sustained progress is the the popular talk show “Politclub” on the Unfortunately, Russia does not want Mr. Yanukovych. “It leads one to think that political naïveté and anarchism of Kyiv-based Espreso TV channel. He also peace in the Donbas because the constant his death was useful or that he was no lon- Ukrainians.” It’s an aspect of post-colonial- hosts the “Roads to Liberty” talk show, shelling and the death of Ukrainian soldiers ger useful to the people he worked for and ism in Ukraine that there is no real concept which explores issues facing Russia, and civilians are an important part of Mr. who financed him… We will only know of the state. There is this idea that the state Ukraine and other post-Soviet countries, on Putin’s plan to destabilize Ukraine. In fact, when the FSB [Federal Security Service of is bad – even one’s own. Even if you vote for the Russian service of Radio Free Europe/ Russia may attempt to seize more territory the Russian Federation] files are opened to it, it becomes bad within a week.” Although Radio Liberty. He is the winner of the 1989 in eastern Ukraine, Mr. Portnikov says, and if see if he was viewed as friend or foe.” Mr. Portnikov finds this anarchism much “Zolote Pero” (Golden Pen) award of the Russia does not collapse beforehand, the For Mr. Portnikov, the Maidan experi- preferable to the unquestioning support Ukrainian Association of Journalists and crisis may last 20 to 25 years or more, as it ence also confirmed his views on the ethics that Russians have for their own govern- has been nominated for the 2017 Taras has in Transnistria or Nagorno-Karabakh. of journalism. In a country with a weak ment, he hopes Ukrainians will become Shevchenko Award for his two collections Ukraine’s only option is to work for the economy where few profitable media com- more responsible over the years. of essays: “Mother of God in the Synagogue” weakening of Russia while resisting panies exist, real independent journalism is This maturation must also include shed- and “Prison for Angels.” attempts to be drawn into a larger war it difficult. “There is nothing like an indepen- ding the hypocrisy on the issue of corrup- This article is a summary of Mr. cannot win, as was the case with Georgia in dent CNN or The New York Times in tion. “Of course, corruption must be over- Portnikov’s views as expressed during an 2008. Furthermore, Ukrainians must prac- Ukraine,” he says. Oligarchs establish TV sta- come,” he says “but I tell people to first interview with this writer in Kyiv and in tice “wisdom and patience,” and learn to tions primarily to wield influence, and jour- change the rules of the game personally. several subsequent articles. ignore the siren songs of the populists and nalists view themselves as hired hands who Pay your taxes. Don’t bribe teachers for generally do as they’re told. He admits he Maidan and the war the pro-Russian politicians who promise exam grades. Don’t pay doctors on the side. that “decisiveness,” “dialogue” and “negotia- has refused multiple lucrative offers to work You need to demand a system where you Mr. Portnikov is convinced that the dem- tions” with Mr. Putin will solve the problem. for oligarchs in Russia and Ukraine, creating pay doctors legally, so they pay their taxes onstrations that erupted after then-Presi- In fact, Mr. Portnikov insists that all talk instead “an economic model of survival for because otherwise there will be no money dent Viktor Yanukovych refused to sign the of “compromise” with Mr. Putin is part of a himself under the circumstances that exist” for roads and other services. If you do this, European Union-Ukraine Association plan that has been developed since 1991 for that guarantees his independence. you will fight corruption. You will live poor- Agreement saved Ukraine as a democracy the political liquidation of Ukrainian state- However, he is convinced that individual ly but honestly.” and an independent state. Ukrainians, who hood. It may be proposed by outright agents journalists can change the country if they For Mr. Portnikov, people who live in the before 2013 had lived in what he labels a of Russia in the political or “expert” estab- concentrate on their mission rather than on shadow economy and who have not paid state of “political schizophrenia,” did not lishments in Ukraine or the West, or by personal advantage. During the Maidan, Mr. their taxes for 25 years are as guilty as the protest much as Mr. Yanukovych gradually “useful idiots” who do not understand Portnikov chose to participate actively in ministers and deputies who profit from usurped power, replaced the Constitution Russia’s real goals. For Mr. Putin, Crimea events and to appear on the stage because their access to the state budget and the dis- and jailed political opponents. The first and the Donbas are a burden, but they are he believed this activity provided an impor- tribution of enormous sums. It does not mass protests began after he refused to also the key to conquering the rest of tant contact with his audience. “If I’m call- matter if they speak perfect Ukrainian and sign the Association Agreement, which Ukraine, he concludes. ing for the European choice, I need to pro- proclaim their patriotism. Without princi- many Ukrainians viewed primarily as a tect that choice and not sit on the sidelines,” Journalism and ethics ples and respect for the law, rich or poor are ticket to a better life. The violent repres- he explains. After the Maidan, he returned equally guilty, and the only thing that differ- sions that followed turned out to be a fatal Mr. Portnikov took an active part in the to journalism, where he believes his mis- entiates them is their position in a criminal error for Mr. Yanukovych. The mass pro- protests in 2013, serving on the public sion is to provide certain ideological bench- pyramid and the opportunities it affords. tests – “the real Maidan” – began then and committee for Euro-Maidan, the organizing marks and to teach people to think. Nonetheless, efforts to link sanctions led to the collapse of his regime. body of pro-EU demonstrations. Attempts Several of his colleagues who announced against Russia for its aggression to the state In Mr. Portnikov’s view, the violence was to break into his apartment and a smear they would only work as journalists and not of reform in Ukraine are outrageous. “The largely mandated and orchestrated by campaign designed to discredit him and the take part in the events on Maidan went on to West must insist on the respect of interna- Russia, which wanted to use it to break up pro-democracy movement convinced him become deputies and integrate into the polit- tional law. It is irrelevant if Czechoslovakia the country and to lure Mr. Yanukovych out to flee to Poland during the final weeks of ical and financial elite of the country, “taking was democratic or not in 1938. What mat- of Kyiv, making him a hostage. When Mr. Maidan in January 2014, especially after he advantage of the mythology they created ters is that territory was seized… Internal Yanukovych wrote a letter requesting that was warned by trustworthy sources in about themselves,” he says. “They viewed matters are Ukraine’s business. If you tie Vladimir Putin send Russian troops to Russia that there were plans to murder journalism not as a mission but as a spring- reforms to the question of territorial integ- Ukraine, he provided a “legitimate basis” him. “When I returned from Warsaw and board that would allow them to participate rity, you are opening a Pandora’s box on the for Russian intervention. The late Vitaly compared photos from before and after in the financial distribution in the country.” European continent.” Churkin, Russia’s U.N. representative at the that period I could see how much I had However, such opportunism, especially time, showed this letter during an emer- been affected,” he admits. by those who consider themselves investi- Conclusion gency session of the U.N. Security Council When asked if it is dangerous to be a gative journalists, “compromises Ukrainian In summary, Mr. Portnikov outlines a on March 3, 2014 (although Russian offi- journalist in Ukraine, Mr. Portnikov journalism and undermines people’s trust,” complex future with few illusions. Ukraine cials now claim this letter never existed). answers that it is always dangerous to live he says. “This is the personal choice of indi- has wasted 23 to 25 years wavering in changing times because the rules of the viduals who have nice apartments and cars between Moscow and the West because it Anna Mostovych is president of the game keep changing. A scar from a “warn- but who in reality have worked against could not decide. Now it can hesitate no Chicago Business and Professional Group, ing” meted out during his period in Ukraine in journalism and against Ukraine more. Finally, it is advancing in the right and a writer and translator at Euromaidan Moscow serves as a reminder that he was in politics, but who enjoy great authority Press, an online publication based in Kyiv. mistaken in assuming that his role as a among all those who are convinced the (Continued on page 18) No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 9 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21 No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 11

Poroshenko... (Continued from page 1) Slidstvo.info, would be questioned the next day. On May 15, the National Police confirmed that Mr. Ustymenko had been questioned. The president also said that the latest telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, focused solely on freeing Ukrainian political prisoners, including journalist Roman Sushchenko. Asked whether he’ll run for a second term, Mr. Poroshenko said it’s too soon to answer that question. “There are two years left of my term,” he said. “There’s much left to be done… in September during my report to the Verkhovna Rada, I’ll present my vision for the development of the country for this and the next few years.” Part of the vision includes NATO acces- sion and holding a national referendum to join the collective military alliance. Following Foreign Affairs Minister Pavlo Klimkin’s meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on May 11, the Ukrainian head of state said that soon “the Americans will designate a point man for coordinating relations with Ukraine.” Of the several phone conversations he has with Mr. Trump, Mr. Poroshenko said: “They were splendid. I [also] spoke with Vice President [Mike] Pence. I had a very detailed talk with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. We effectively work with Congress.” When asked to address allegations that the SBU has been following and staging pro- tests outside the residences of civic activists who criticize him, Mr. Poroshenko said there is “unprecedented freedom in Ukraine.” He praised the SBU for preventing ter- rorist attacks by Russia and their collabora- tors in Ukraine. Mr. Poroshenko also com- plimented the SBU for doing its part in countering “Russian hybrid warfare.” When asked to address how his bank, International Invest Bank, had income rise three-fold in the first quarter of this year, the president told a journalist: “I’m not a businessman, I learned this from you.” He explained that his bank had received additional reserves from the central bank and this was counted as additional income. The multi-millionaire added that his bank is run by an asset management com- pany and that it wasn’t put in a blind trust like his other assets because he would have to change its domicile registration from Ukraine to a foreign country. More Russian sanctions imposed On May 16, Mr. Poroshenko signed a presidential order that imposed additional sanctions on Russia for illegally annexing the Ukrainian territory of Crimea and for waging war in easternmost Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts. Popular Russian social media sites, search portals and e-mail services were banned. In particular, VKontakte, Odnoklassniki, Mail.ru and Yandex were targeted. Millions of Ukrainians reportedly use these online services. Speaking on ICTV on May 15, Mr. Poroshenko said that Russia’s “hybrid war requires adequate responses.” “Russia used cyber warfare trying to influence the results of elections across Europe, and in the U.S. We expect that they will try to do the same thing in Ukraine,” he said. “I am confident that our determina- tion and unity will not leave them any chance [for this].” The sanctions add to restrictive mea- sures that affect 1,228 individuals and 468 entities, according to the presidential web- site. They preclude Russian banks and tele- vision channels from broadcasting in-coun- try. Individuals, including foreigners, who have visited occupied Crimea illegally are also on the list. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21

of three years. “The challenges of hybrid head of the presidential administration, meeting on May 11, one day after the NEWSBRIEFS war demand adequate responses,” Mr. Dmytro Shymkiv, said in a statement. “The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Poroshenko wrote in a May 16 post on his situation is under control thanks to our IT Project (OCCRP) and Slidstvo.info screened (Continued from page 2) own VKontakte page. “Massive Russian specialists and there is no threat to the their documentary about the July 2016 the Ukrainian Parliament’s backing of the cyberattacks across the world – particular- work of the website,” he said. Other entities death of Pavel Sheremet, titled “Killing bill as “anti-democratic and anti-historical.” ly the interference in the French election named in the decree are Internet security Pavel.” Filmed over the course of nine The bill was approved with 238 votes, 12 campaign – show it is time to act differently companies Kaspersky Lab and DrWeb, as months, it tries to reconstruct the hours more than required for passage. (RFE/RL’s and more decisively.” He added that he well as the Russian media companies RBK, before the bombing through exclusive foot- Ukrainian Service, with reporting by would shut down both his VKontakte and National Mediagroup, TNT, and Ren-TV. age and interviews. One of the most UNIAN, Gordonua.com and Interfax) Odnoklassniki accounts. The decree adds to Ukraine has imposed sanctions on a total of intriguing assertions is that an agent or for- a list of mainly Russian companies and 468 organizations and companies as well mer agent of the Security Service of Access restricted to Russian websites individuals subject to sanctions in connec- as 1,228 individuals in Russia, Crimea, and Ukraine (SBU), identified as Ihor KYIV – President Petro Poroshenko has tion with Russian aggression against the separatist-held parts of the Donetsk Ustymenko, was at the scene when two imposed sanctions on several leading Ukraine. With relations in tatters, Russian and Luhansk regions in eastern Ukraine. unidentified individuals fixed the explosive Russian social networks and search social networks have been used by (RFE/RL, with reporting by RFE/RL’s to the red Subaru the night before the blast engines, ordering access to the sites to be President Vladimir Putin’s government and Ukrainian Service, Current Time TV, TASS, killed the 44-year-old reporter with news restricted or blocked entirely in Ukraine. pro-government groups to promote the Interfax, Reuters, AFP, DPA and Dozhd TV) website Ukrayinska Pravda in downtown Kremlin’s position in its standoff with Kyiv Kyiv early on July 20. The filmmakers found Russia reacted angrily hours after Mr. Freedom of speech vs. propaganda Poroshenko’s decree was published on May and the West over Moscow’s interference Mr. Ustymenko with the help of a research- 16, calling it “unfriendly” and accusing Kyiv in Ukraine and other issues. Later on May KYIV – Ukraine’s sanctions on several er from the open-source investigative of censorship. The Internet companies 16, Mr. Poroshenko’s office accused Russia Russian social networks and search group Bellingcat who managed to identify named in the decree included popular of carrying out an organized cyberattack on engines drew fire from journalists and the license plate of the gray Skoda car he social networks VKontakte and his website in response to Kyiv’s decision. rights activists, who called it an attack on was driving that night. In a bizarre inter- Odnoklassniki as well as prominent search “We have been witnessing Russia’s free speech. “Nothing can justify such a view, Mr. Ustymenko admitted being at the engine Yandex and the Mail.ru Group. It response to the presidential decree that blanket ban! Blatant violation of freedom of scene but denied knowing anything about ordered the “limitation or termination” of mentioned closing access to Russian social expression,” the Eastern Europe and the murder or seeing the bombers walk access to the sites, prohibiting Ukrainian media. The website of the president is Central Asian desk of media-rights watch- right past him. He claimed he had been web hosts from linking to them for a period affected by an organized attack,” the deputy dog Reporters Without Borders said on hired as private security to protect some- Twitter. Aric Toler of the open-source one’s children who were in the area. investigation unit Bellingcat, which has Ukraine’s Internal Affairs Minister Arsen produced searingly critical investigations of Avakov said on May 11 that authorities Russia’s role in the Ukraine conflict, said would interview OCCRP journalists and Mr. VKontakte groups “are often the best Ustymenko in light of the new information. TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL Walter Honcharyk (973) 292-9800 x3040 source of information for civilians living Ten months after the killing, the investiga- or e-mail [email protected] near the front lines” in eastern Ukraine. “So, tion has stalled. There has not been a single that’s now gone. Great job Poroshenko,” he arrest, nor have any suspects been named. wrote on Twitter. The well-known However, investigators believe the journal- SERVICES PROFESSIONALS Ukrainian journalist Maksim Eristavi noted ist was murdered because of his profes- that the ban places Ukraine in the same sional activities. (Christopher Miller of camp as several governments widely criti- RFE/RL) cized for their record on human rights and Leader of 1953 Soviet gulag uprising dies media freedoms. Meanwhile, influential Ukrainian journalist Yevhen Fedchenko, KYIV – One of the leaders of the 1953 director of the Kyiv Mohyla School of Norilsk uprising, a major protest by Journalism and co-founder of the website inmates of the Soviet gulag prison-camp StopFake.org, came to President system, has died in Ukraine at the age of 90. Poroshenko’s defense. He said that banning Yevhen Hrytsyak died in the western region VKontakte and Odnoklasniki “would be the of Ivano-Frankivsk on May 14. Mr. Hrytsyak greatest contribution to protection” of was a leader of protests by thousands of Ukraine’s information “sovereignty.” Mr. inmates over prison conditions and alleged Fedchenko called the social networks torture at several labor camps near Norilsk, SERVICES “instruments of war” that spread propa- a frigid mining city 400 kilometers north of ganda, hate speech and “war mongering,” the Arctic Circle, shortly after Soviet dicta- adding that they should be “discontinued tor Joseph Stalin’s death. The uprising last- temporarily.” (RFE/RL, with reporting by ed from May 26 to August 4, 1953. RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service, Current Time Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said TV, TASS, Interfax, Reuters, AFP, DPA and on Facebook that Mr. Hrytsyak was “one of Dozhd TV) fearless leaders of political prisoners, who stood against gulag system.” Mr. Hrytsyak Trump urges ‘peace’ after meeting envoys spent many years in the gulag after he was SERVICES WASHINGTON – U.S. President Donald arrested in 1949 and convicted of fighting Trump posted photos of his separate meet- in the ranks of a Ukrainian nationalist ings with the top diplomats of Ukraine and group in the beginning of the World War II. LAW OFFICES OF Russia on Twitter and urged the two (RFE/RL, with reporting by UNIAN) nations to “make peace.” He tweeted on ZENON B. MASNYJ, ESQ. PEN launches ‘Free Sentsov’ campaign ______May 11: “Yesterday, on the same day – I had In the East Village since 1983 meetings with Russian Foreign Minister OTTAWA – PEN America stated on May Serious personal injury, real estate Sergei Lavrov and the Foreign Minister of 10, “Authors Chimamanda Adichie, for personal and business use, Ukraine, Pavlo Klimkin.” The tweet was Jonathan Franzen and Masha Gessen, film representation of small and mid-size accompanied by separate photos of Mr. giants Wim Wenders and Agnieszka businesses, securities arbitration, Trump smiling broadly by each minister in Holland, television hosts Trevor Noah and the Oval Office. “LETS [sic] MAKE PEACE!” Samantha Bee, and other creative allies FOR SALE divorce, wills and probate. he wrote. Mr. Trump held a rare, unan- joined PEN America today in a letter calling (By Appointment Only) nounced Oval Office meeting with Mr. on U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to Klimkin after a meeting with Mr. Lavrov, НА ПРОДАЖ ПОМЕШКАННЯ 140 Second Avenue press for the immediate release of Oleh „Українське Село“, New York, NY 10003 who earlier on May 10 had met with Sentsov, a Ukrainian writer and filmmaker Cedar Grove Lane, Somerset, NJ 212-477-3002 Secretary of State Rex Tillerson at the State imprisoned in Siberia on terrorism charges Світла, велика квартира в дуже [email protected] Department. The State Department said widely considered to be a groundless доброму стані • 2 спальні, кухня, that in their meeting, Mr. Tillerson told Mr. attempt to silence his criticism of Russia’s вітальна і їдальня, ґанок • Українська If 212-477-3002 landline not working, Lavrov that “sanctions on Russia will annexation of Crimea.” PEN noted that Mr. громада, 55 років + (1 в сім’ї) • please call 201-247-2413 remain in place until Moscow reverses the Sentsov “was active in protesting Russian Недалеко поїзду до NYC, N.Brunswick, actions that triggered them.” (RFE/RL) incursions in Crimea and Ukraine more укр. церков • $65,000 • Меланія broadly,” and said his “voice of opposition 201-245-2777 • [email protected] New claims in Sheremet car-bomb killing OPPORTUNITIES in Ukraine made him a ripe target for KYIV – Ukrainian police investigating the Russian stifling of dissent.” The letter notes: car-bomb killing of a Belarus-born journal- “Given President Putin’s brazen willingness WANT IMPACT? Earn extra income! ist are sifting through a new documentary to flout human rights norms and the rule of The Ukrainian Weekly is looking film’s claims about the unsolved case, law, and his relentless targeting of dissent- Run your advertisement here, for advertising sales agents. including that a current or former ing writers, artists, activists and politicians, in The Ukrainian Weekly’s For additional information contact Ukrainian security agent was present when it would be irresponsible to ignore Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, the explosive was planted. National police CLASSIFIEDS section. The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. chief Serhiy Knyazev convened the Kyiv (Continued on page 13) No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 13

Donetsk Governor Pavlo Zhebrivskyy post- with stunts targeting the global entertain- oligarch Oleg Deripaska, who has ties to NEWSBRIEFS ed on Facebook that the shelling happened ment elite, including trying to kiss actor former Trump campaign chairman Paul in the evening and that three of the fatali- Will Smith at a 2012 film premiere in Manafort, filed a libel suit against the (Continued from page 12) ties were women. Local police said two Moscow and grabbing the microphone Associated Press on May 15 in federal Sentsov’s plight.” PEN America’s letter children who were in the area were not from British singer Adele as she accepted court in Washington. The suit claimed Mr. came on the third anniversary of Mr. injured. More than 9,500 people have been an award at the 2013 Grammy Awards. Deripaska was defamed by a March story Sentsov’s arrest and disappearance from killed in the fighting in parts of the eastern (RFE//RL, with reporting by Reuters) reporting business dealings between Crimea on May 10, 2014. Sentsov surfaced regions of Luhansk and Donetsk since April Messrs. Deripaska and Manafort. Politico Ukraine in top 30 for global open data in Moscow and later said he had been tor- 2014. Although Russia denies military reported that the suit alleges the AP story tured in an unsuccessful effort to extract a involvement in the conflict, the OTTAWA – Ukraine was ranked the No. falsely implied Mr. Deripaska “was paying confession. His trial was riddled with irreg- International Criminal Court in November 24 country on the Global Open Data Index Manafort for work aimed at advancing the ularities, and the lead prosecution witness 2016 determined the conflict to be “an (GODI), prepared by Open Knowledge goals of the Russian government and later recanted his testimony, saying it had international armed conflict between International, it was reported on May 3. Russian president Vladimir Putin.” been made under duress. Mr. Sentsov is Ukraine and the Russian Federation.” (RFE/ Last year, Ukraine ranked 54th. The survey According to Politico, the suit says the AP currently serving a 20-year sentence in a RL, with reporting by UNIAN) assesses the openness of government data. story “created a false impression that Siberian penal colony. The charges against Open Knowledge International stated, “By Deripaska’s dealings with Manafort were Ukraine detains Eurovision prankster him have been decried by human rights having a tool that is run by civil society, intertwined with the Trump campaign groups worldwide as fabrications intended KYIV – Ukraine’s internal affairs minis- GODI creates valuable insights for govern- when that work ended by 2009 and that to shut down and intimidate opponents of ter said police have detained a notorious ment’s data publishers to understand Deripaska is tied to ongoing investigations Russia’s intervention in Ukraine. Mr. prankster who jumped onto the stage dur- where they have data gaps. It also shows of alleged theft of assets from Ukraine after Sentsov was honored with the 2017 PEN/ ing the Eurovision Song Contest in Kyiv and how to make data more useable and even- the ouster of President Viktor Yanukovych Barbey Freedom to Write Award at the bared his buttocks as a Ukrainian singer tually more impactful. GODI therefore pro- in 2014.” The suit says: “The AP had (and annual PEN America Literary Gala on April was performing. Arsen Avakov said in a vides important feedback that govern- has) no basis for reporting that any con- 25. The letter to Secretary Tillerson is avail- May 14 Facebook post that police had ments are usually lacking.” Ukraine’s Prime tract between Mr. Deripaska and Mr. able here: https://pen.org/urge-secretary- detained Vitaliy Sedyuk, who performed Minister Volodymyr Groysman stated, Manafort provided for the undermining of of-state-rex-tillerson-to-fight-for-oleg- the stunt on live television as Ukrainian “Over the past year we’ve introduced a sin- democratic movements,” and notes that sentsov/. (Ukrainian Canadian Congress singer Jamala was performing during the gle open data portal, opened for free access “Mr. Deripaska did not make any payments Daily Briefing) previous night’s Eurovision final. Minister most of the basic registries, joined the to Mr. Manafort to undermine democratic Avakov said that Mr. Sedyuk had been International Open Data Charter and movements.” The filing also noted that Mr. Four civilians killed in Avdiyivka detained by event security and police, and approved a relevant roadmap of open data Deripaska’s lawyers asked the AP for a KYIV – Authorities in Ukraine reported that he resisted the detaining officers. The development. Open governance is a key to retraction and correction in late March, that four civilians were killed when Russia- minister added that Mr. Sedyuk had been reforms in Ukraine.” (Ukrainian Canadian but the news agency refused. AP General backed separatists fired into a residential placed in custody for 72 hours, and that he Congress Daily Briefing) Counsel Karen Kaiser said, “The area of the town of Avdiyivka on May 13. faced “hooliganism” charges punishable by Associated Press stands by its story,” and Deripaska sues AP for libel One person was seriously injured in the up to five years in prison. Mr. Sedyuk had “will defend the lawsuit vigorously.” incident and has been hospitalized. previously gained worldwide attention WASHINGTON – Lawyers for Russian (Politico)

depended on a particular location or busi- Ms. Polansky noted that Ukraine has participants of the project, who authored WFUWO... ness and have difficulty transferring their risen rapidly in the fashion world, that the preface and other aspects of the book; skills, or finding a similar job in cities to Ukrainian fashion – design and production and Olha Dunebabina, an actress and activ- (Continued from page 5) which they have relocated because of the – could become an important avenue of ist involved in LaStrada’s outreach and flict resolution, mediation and prevention. war. Dr. Porohnyak Hanowska noted that trade for Ukraine. She noted that Ukraine’s domestic violence hotline. During the 10 days of CSW, the WFUWO the small stipends that mothers and wives creativity and its rich history in textiles that This volume is the inspiration of Larysa was among the co-sponsors or host of sev- of men serving in the war receive are often are mass-produced, individually crafted or Denysenko, the book’s managing editor, a eral additional events, including a session a dislocated family’s only source of income; even made as fine art can be channeled and journalist with Hromadske Radio in organized by the U.S. League of Women thus, they survive at a below-poverty level. developed as a source of employment and Ukraine. Hromadske Radio became a part- Voters devoted to the fuller participation of Project Kesher, with branches in 70 loca- empowerment for women. The ability to ner in the overall project through its women in the world’s parliaments; a panel tions throughout Ukraine, has been work- establish cottage industries in crafts exists “Combat Violence in Families” radio pro- organized by the U.N. NGO Committee on ing in Ukraine for more than 20 years, orig- in Ukraine, and there is ample international gram. WFUWO President Sushko, a Mental Health on March 23, in which Mrs. inally reaching out to women in Ukraine of experience and models in other countries Canadian citizen and formerly the equity Kurowyckyj and Dr. Porokhnyak Hanowska Jewish descent. Over the years, Project to serve as examples. However, public or coordinator for the Hamilton Public Board participated; a panel on women’s entrepre- Kesher has expanded efforts, becoming a private ventures need to support such of Education and chair of the Hamilton neurship; and an evening at the critical partner in Ukraine’s network of start-ups and improve the ability to deliver Status of Women Committee, lauded the Shevchenko Scientific Society devoted to social welfare organizations. Through its products to markets. project, expressing her pleasure over her the presentation of a new publication in centers, Project Kesher offers basic com- government’s involvement, and her pride, Confronting domestic violence Ukrainian about domestic violence, both of puter training to women who previously as former chair of the WFUWO Committee which were held March 18. had worked in factories or in agriculture During the evening of March 18, in con- on Human Trafficking, in the WFUWO’s and have no such skills with technology. junction with CSW 61, the WFUWO hosted efforts on this issue. The panel was moder- Empowering displaced women These women have been displaced twice – the U.S. book launch of a Ukrainian- ated by Dr. Kebalo, who also introduced the The topic of regaining empowerment first by war and then by a worldwide revo- language publication, “Proty Nasylstva/Pro guests from the International Council of after displacement due to war was the lution in technology – and are struggling as Nas” (Against Violence/About Us), a vol- Women with which the WFUWO is associ- theme of a panel titled “Women’s sole providers for their relocated families. ume on the topic of domestic violence in ated and has been in partnership frequent- Entrepreneurship in a Context of Ms. Gershon underscored Dr. Porohnyak Ukraine, at the Shevchenko Scientific ly over the years. Displacement: Focus on Ukraine” that was Hanowska’s point that Ukraine is undergo- Society. An anthology of short stories At the end of the first week of CSW 61, organized by the WFUWO and held on ing a huge humanitarian crisis that the describing real-life situations of domestic the WFUWO was also represented among March 18 at the U.N. Church Center. Women existing social welfare infrastructure is ill- violence written in Ukrainian, the book is the shareholders attending the annual in all economies – especially those in con- equipped to resolve without major interna- being translated into English. The stories meeting of Self Reliance (NY) Federal Credit flict or crisis where women are displaced – tional support. are supplemented by legal advice and com- Union on Sunday, March 19. Attending from require special encouragement to venture Ms. Shykalova and Ms. Rohachova, rep- mentary based on research on the nature WFUWO were Orysia Sushko, Oksana into economically empowering projects, resenting a younger generation that is very and prevalence of domestic violence in Sushko, Dr. Kebalo, as well as WFUWO UN/ undertake beneficial career moves and cul- proficient with modern personal technolo- Ukraine. ECOSOC Representatives Sofika Zielyk and tivate business involvement. gy, noted that training women in technolo- The violence is not only spousal, with Dr. Daria Dykyj. Speaking before those Speakers offered insights from a spec- gy and offering portable jobs skills (such as husbands beating their wives as the most gathered, WFUWO President Sushko trum of possibilities, from technology to graphic design, accounting, software design well-known scenario, but also includes thanked the board of directors for their crafts, of providing women with opportuni- or computer programming) means that examples of parents beating their children many years of support for WFUWO initia- ties by sharing ideas and tools to provide women can work locally, nationally and (especially fathers/step-fathers and sons), tives, particularly those related to economic and political empowerment. even internationally, and that new technol- elder abuse and violence between siblings. WFUWO’s work at the United Nations and Moderating the panel was Ms. Chomiak ogies offer the greatest tools of flexibility Poverty, high rates of alcoholism, a legal in the New York area. of Razom, and participants included Dr. and empowerment for women. They con- system that is accepting of many forms of * * * Porokhnyak Hanowska; Karyn Gershon, curred with comments that Ukraine is cur- violence, and local law enforcement that is The March 18 panel on economic executive director, Project Kesher; Iuliia rently experiencing a brain drain among unresponsive, all contribute to this situa- empowerment of displaced women can be Shykalova, Hideez Technology; Oleksandra young people because of the war and that tion. viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/ Rohachova, CEO, Inkhunter; Larysa those who have education or other possi- Among the panel speakers were Dr. watch?v=xjs-gzSfRRs. Polansky, director of textiles, fashion and bilities search for options outside Ukraine. Pauline G. Rankin of Carleton University, A free download of the publication “Pro women’s education at Ukraine Global Trade Whereas earlier, after the dissolution of the author of the introduction to the book and Nas” is available at: https://hromadskera- and Investment. Soviet Union, many Ukrainian women left consultant to the Canadian project Quality dio.org/sites/default/files/media/161 The women most severely impacted by to perform unskilled, menial labor abroad and Accessible Legal Aid in Ukraine that is 130_1458_pronas_site-1.pdf. the crisis in Ukraine, noted both Dr. in domestic work and the caretaking field, funded by the government of Canada; Dr. The book launch of “Pro Nas” can be Porokhnyak Hanowska and Ms. Gershon, women today are more often seeking pro- Kateryna Levchenko, executive director of viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/ are older women, whose employment fessional employment. LaStrada-Ukraine, one of two main NGO watch?v=CZoV5OM-v7U. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21

COMMUNITY CHRONICLE Holodomor remembered in Boston UUARC offers citizenship course during Walk Against Genocide

Duane Walzer Boston Holodomor Remembrance Committee Chairman Paul Thomas Rabchenuk reads survivor testimony at Boston’s fourth annual Walk Against Genocide. On the left are Maria Carine Boggis, a Rwanda survivor, and Sokum Chum, a Cambodian survivor. Borys Pawluk Boston Holodomor Remembrance Holodomor Remembrance Committee, Participants of the citizenship course offered by the United Ukrainian American Committee which Mr. Rabchenuk chairs, through its Relief Committee (from left) are: Svitlana Zarayska, Petro Skalozub, Metodij aggressive educational efforts had moved the Boretsky (standing), Valentyn Sulzhyk, Tatiana Shafar, Maria Hayda. BOSTON – The Holodomor, the Famine- Holodomor from an unknown or forgotten Genocide perpetrated by Joseph Stalin genocide to a recognizable historical event. UUARC passed the course successfully. They were against the people of Ukraine in 1932- Svitlana Zarayska, Maria Hayda, Bohdanna Following the presentation of brief his- PHILADELPHIA – Recognizing the need 1933, continued to receive attention in torical background, Mr. Rabchenuk also Lehenska, Petro Skalozub, Valentyn to help newly arrived immigrants in pre- Boston’s annual Walk Against Genocide. shared the experiences of Ivan J. Danilenko, Sulzhyk and Tatiana Shafar. paring for citizenship exams, United The fourth annual walk on April 30 a Holodomor survivor who testified before The course is 10 weeks long, and the began at the New England Holocaust the U.S. Commission on the Ukraine Ukrainian American Relief Committee classes are taught on Fridays at 7-9 p.m. at Memorial, located near historic Faneuil Famine. He concluded by saying, “We are (UUARC) in the spring of 2002 established the home office of the UUARC. They are free Hall. Participants, consisting of representa- marching today to show the despots of the a preparatory course to meet those needs. of charge. Course number 28 will be tives of other nations that were victims of world that genocides like this will never be The course was spearheaded and is still offered beginning on October 20. genocides and the public, listened as ignored again.” taught by Metodij Boretsky, head of the For more information, interested per- Ukrainian American attorney Paul Thomas Participants of the gathering later UUARC Information Bureau. To date, this sons may contact the UUARC at 215-728- Rabchenuk explained the roots of the term marched to the Armenian Memorial, on the course has been offered 27 times, with the 1630. Anyone who is unable to attend or “Holodomor.” It was apparent that, although Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, where most recent one concluding on April 7. does not live within the Philadelphia area the crowd appreciated Mr. Rabchenuk’s def- they heard representatives speak about the Several hundred people have benefited can receive a preparatory packet via mail inition of death by hunger, the term itself genocides of Rwanda, Cambodia, Darfur, from this course and became citizens of the for $30. You may mail your check with the had already achieved familiarity. Armenia, Congo, Sudan, Bosnia, Kurdistan United States. notation “Citizenship” to: UUARC, 1206 The progress made by the Greater Boston and Native Americans, and the Holocaust. This year, six people attended and Cottman Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111. Miami community honors Ukrainian heroes by Oksana Piaseckyj lowed with a brief summary of the themes in the afternoon program. The first theme MIAMI – The Ukrainian community of was Shevchenko’s romanticism in his poetic Miami recently honored Ukrainian heroes description of the beauty and turbulence of with two programs organized by Branch 17 nature. Readings by Maria Pivsetok, Daryna of the Ukrainian National Women’s League and Matvijko Karachun, and Anya of America and Assumption of the Blessed Wenglowsky highlighted Shevchenko’s sen- Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church. sitivity. The choir of the Assumption Church, On March 12, a program paid tribute to under the direction of Donna Taras Shevchenko. Father Andrij Romankiv Maksymowich-Waskiewicz underscored prefaced the program with a prayer and an the drama of nature with its rendition of introduction expressing eternal memory to “Reve ta Stohne” (The Mighty Dnipro). the bard of Ukraine. The second theme, Shevchenko’s love for Oksana Piaseckyj, program organizer, fol- Ukraine and his pleas to awaken his people,

Oksana Piaseckyj Children who drew pictures of Shevchenko’s poems and then recited them. was captured in readings given by Paul their country and their steadfastness, these Galadza and Alex Veshtebej. The church brave women sustained the Revolution of choir continued with the song “Dumy Dignity. For months they withstood the bit- Moyi.” ter cold and remained loyal to the people Several children from the parish drew on the Maidan by feeding, clothing, encour- pictures that corresponded to Shevchenko’s aging and keeping them warm. poetry, displayed them and then recited With the showing of the film “Women of poems. They were Danylko Nehoda, Ivan Maidan” produced by photojournalist Olha Tsenki, Kyrylko and Askold Romankiv. Onyshko and Petro Didula, the Ukrainian Maria Lysobej, the community’s poet in res- community of Miami was brought back to idence, recited her poem to the bard, “Taras, those chilling but uplifting days. The film Do Not Leave Us.” The program ended with was an honorable tribute to these women. the Maksymowich Trio leading the audi- Olha Sperkacz, president of UNWLA Branch ence in singing “Zapovit.” 17 in Miami, introduced the film, which On March 19, a program honored the was sponsored by donations from mem- All the participants of the program honoring Taras Shevchenko. heroines of the Maidan. With their love of bers of the branch. No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 15

NEWS AND VIEWS Yonkers community rallies with donations for wounded Ukrainian soldiers and refugees

Motrja Bojko-Watters (left) of the United Ukrainian American Relief Committee and Oksana Kiciuk-Kulynych, organizer of a humanitarian aid drive in Yonkers, N.Y.

by Oksana Kulynych and transfer chairs, 12 walkers, shower chairs, portable toilets, canes, crutches, bed Springtime is a chance to clean, de-clut- rails, medical, school and office supplies, as ter and organize. After starting this task, I well as many boxes and bags of clothing, realized that I had an extra wheelchair, a linens, blankets, etc. walker and many other items I no longer A truck, loaded by three men from needed. It immediately brought to mind UUARC, was filled to capacity with the images of the wounded Ukrainian soldiers donations, which will be shipped to the whose lives were forever changed by the many needy areas in Ukraine. They were so war. I thought of the many families who had grateful and indicated that there is a real lost everything with the Russian invasion of need for this type of humanitarian assis- eastern Ukraine. tance which should be continued. I contacted the United Ukrainian The event was reported in the online American Relief Committee in Philadelphia, edition of the Journal News on April 27 and an organization that regularly ships the printed edition on April 28 by Ernie humanitarian aid to Ukraine, and asked if Garcia, who interviewed Oksana Kulynych, they would accept these items as dona- the organizer of the donation drive, and tions. They replied with an enthusiastic Motrja Bojko-Watters from the United “yes,” as long as there were enough things Congratulations to the 2017 Inductees Ukrainian American Relief Committee. The to the Ukrainian Sport Hall of Fame! to make it worth their while to send a van story and video can be viewed at http:// to Yonkers, N.Y. www.lohud.com/story/news/local/west- Inductee Award Banquet – September 16, 2017 A request for donations was put into the chester/yonkers/2017/04/27/ukraine- details soon on website bulletin of St. Michael’s Ukrainian Catholic war/100980436/ Church, the SUMA Federal Credit Union, as The following families gave generous Olympic Athletes: Teams: well as the Ukrainian American Youth donations to the project: Bundziak, Cohen, Stephen Halaiko Boxing (USA - Deceased) Philadelphia Ukrainian National soccer Association’s Facebook page, and e-mails Demetropoulos, Hulinsky, Kaszczak, Kiciuk, George Kojac Swimming (USA - Deceased) 1959-1964 (USA - Philadelphia PA ) were sent to individuals. The Yonkers com- Kowal, Kulynych, Mikula, Prybyla, SA Ukraina 1975 Volleyball (Toronto, Canada) munity and surrounding areas responded Rudensky-Silver, Smith, Soroka-Wolf, Syrko- Boris Chambul Discus (Canada) Ukrainian Sports Club УСК - NY Soccer Club Juniors 1959 (USA - NY City) with overwhelming support. It was very Esposito and Szkafarowsky. Yaro Dachniwsky Handball (USA - Chicago) gratifying to hear from the many individu- Terry Danylyk Volleyball (Canada) Builders: als who donated and felt that they were Oksana Kiciuk-Kulynych is a longtime Mykola Ka sian Soccer (Ukraine-USA) Roman Dublanytsya (USA - Deceased) giving to this worthy cause. activist in the Ukrainian community. For Lilia Podkopayeva Gymnastics (Ukraine) Zenon Golembiowsky (Cleveland,USA, Among the many items that were col- more information, readers may contact her Michael Slipczuk Figure Skating (Canada) Deceased) lected were a hospital bed, 10 wheelchairs at 914-965-6467 or [email protected]. Stan Haba (Toronto, Canada, Deceased) Professional Athletes: Eugene Oryszczyn (Canada, Deceased) Ivan Kobziar Soccer (Deceased) Bill Mishalow Soccer (Deceased) Vasiliy Karlenko (Ukraine) Terry Sawchuk Hockey (Deceased) Leonard Lucenko (USA - Florida) Oleksander Skocyn Soccer (Deceased) Eugene Melnyk Hockey (Ottawa, Canada- Ostap Steckiw Soccer (Deceased) Barbados) Renata Roman (Toronto, Canada) Joseph Rosul (USA - Ohio) Zenon Andrusyshyn Football (Canada) Bohdan Siryj (USA - Philadelphia) Dave Andreychuk Hockey (USA - Florida) Ihor Stelmach - Press (USA- Connecticut ) Orest Banach Soccer (USA - Arizona) Ivan Borodiak Soccer (USA - Philadelphia) Amateur Athletes: Johnny Bucyk Hockey (USA-Massachusetts) Olga Kotelko Track & Field (Canada, Marco Cyncar Football (Edmonton,Canada) Deceased) Dale Hawerchuk Hockey (Canada) Ivan Pawlichka Soccer (USA, Deceased) Orest Kindrachuk Hockey (USA - Americo Voyciesjes Boxing/Swimming (USA, Pennsylvania-Canada) Deceased)

Cli Koroll Hockey (Chicago,USA ) Audria Areta Golembiowsky Volleyball Mike Krushelnyski Hockey (Canada) (USA - OH) Victor «Diamond Vic» Litkewycz Boxing Yuri Kobziar Skiing (USA - NY) (USA - Pennsylvania) Mykola Kasiyan Soccer (USA - Eric Nesterenko Hockey (USA - Colorado) Philadelphia) Miguel Noha Soccer (USA-Philadelphia- Eugene Krawec Soccer (USA - Florida) Argentina) Ula Lysniak Basketball (USA) Nick Owcharuk Soccer (USA - Arizona) Lesia Bilak Schinnerer Tennis (USA - NY) Andriy Shevchenko Soccer (Ukraina) Dr. Nicholas Skirka Soccer (USA - NY) Chuck Wepner Boxing (USA - New Jersey) Andy Stanko Volleyball (Canada) http://www.ukrainiansportshallo ameandmuseum.com https://www.facebook.com/UkrainianSportsMuseumandHallofFame Volunteers (from left) Stefan Yaremchuk, Yurij Nakonechny and Slavko Kiciuk load Tel.: 973 989 5800 the truck with donated items bound for Ukraine. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21

Ukraine’s east, thus breaching the military Second, “We must reach the stage at held. Putin, Merkel... Clauses 1, 2 and 3 of the Minsk armistice, it which elections are held, resulting in a On the other hand, Kyiv is being asked to remains impossible to advance to the fol- legitimized leadership in the Donetsk and accept the holding of those “elections” (Continued from page 3) low-up political clauses. Russia wants to Luhansk territories. On this basis it will (legitimizing the Donetsk-Luhansk authori- For, unlike Mr. Putin, Ms. Merkel cannot enforce those clauses first, which would then of course be possible to hold direct ties) as a precondition to hypothetically affect indifference at the possible failure of reverse the “agreement’s” sequence. And talks [between Kyiv and Donetsk-Luhansk]. gaining access to the border in that territo- the Minsk process. Stacked though that while Mr. Putin pretended to ignore the For this we still need a lot of effort. We need ry. That, in turn, would be conditional again process is against Ukraine, the German gov- matter of European economic sanctions on a road map. This is on the table, a work in on agreement with Donetsk-Luhansk. For, ernment (on a bipartisan basis) is firmly Russia in his remarks, Ms. Merkel held out progress.” under the political Clause 9 of the Minsk beholden to the Minsk process, connecting the lifting of sanctions at some unspecified Ms. Merkel was alluding to the October armistice, “the process of restoring the its fulfillment with the lifting of sanctions stage in the sequenced fulfillment of mili- 2016 proposed road map. On this second Ukrainian government’s full control on the on Russia. For his part, Mr. Putin never tary and political clauses, by Russia and point there is a minor difference between border shall start on the first day after the mentioned the sanctions in his remarks, Ukraine in reciprocity. Moscow and Berlin: while Moscow wants local elections, and be completed following even when Ms. Merkel did. He merely allud- Ms. Merkel’s remarks in Sochi reveal her those direct talks to be held first, preparato- a comprehensive political settlement… pro- ed once to some “known difficulties,” in conception of a road map that was dis- ry to “elections” in that territory, Ms. Merkel vided that Clause 11 is [also] implement- spite of which a growth trend has returned cussed at the October 19, 2016, “Normandy” suggests holding those “elections” first, so as ed.” Clause 11, in turn, requires Kyiv to to Russian-German trade. The intended sig- summit of the heads of state of Ukraine, to legitimize (as she said in Sochi) the “adopt and bring into force a new nal is that Moscow expects to wait out and Russia, Germany and France in Berlin, and is Donetsk-Luhansk leaderships ahead of their Ukrainian Constitution, involving decen- ride out the sanctions. still under discussion. Ms. Merkel outlined a negotiations with the Ukrainian government tralization as a key element… and adopt a short- and medium-term scenario in Sochi about their status. permanent special status for the Donetsk Merkel’s position on Minsk (Bundeskanzlerin.de, May 2; Deutsche Third, “Our firm intention remains to and Luhansk [areas] by agreement with Unlike Mr. Putin’s ambivalent message – Welle, Ukrinform, May 3). help Ukraine to regain access [sic] to its bor- their representatives.” The implementation seeking Ukrainian recognition of the First, the onus is on Russia to abide by der [the Ukraine-Russia border in the deadline of December 2015 is now moot Donetsk-Luhansk “republics” under the polit- the ceasefire, so as to advance to the politi- Donetsk-Luhansk territory]. This step, how- (Osce.org, February 12, 2015). ical clauses of the Minsk armistice, while sab- cal stage, which constitutes Russia’s priori- ever, must be preceded by a political process That tangle of conditionalities is bound otaging the military clauses of the armistice, ty interest. Said Ms. Merkel, “I am asking that would then lead to holding local elec- to end in a fiasco for Kyiv; and even if it and displaying almost nonchalance over the the Russian president insistently to do his tions [in Donetsk-Luhansk],” Ms. Merkel tried, access to the border would still be at resulting deadlock – Ms. Merkel reaffirmed best and bring about a ceasefire. This could said. Inasmuch as all participants in the the discretion of Donetsk-Luhansk authori- her insistence on the fulfillment of military foster an atmosphere in Ukrainian society international negotiations unambiguously ties as long as Russian forces are present and political clauses, in the sequence laid that would make it accept painful compro- recognize Ukraine’s sovereignty in this terri- there. Consenting to “elections” in Donetsk- down by the armistice “agreement.” mises regarding the status of the Donetsk tory (even Russia, on paper), no elections Luhansk would only strengthen their hand As long, however, as Russian and proxy and Luhansk territories.” Apparently, the could be deemed valid here without in negotiations (not only on border control forces continue the attrition warfare in onus would shift to Ukraine at that stage. Ukraine’s advance consent that elections be but on all issues), without restoring Ukraine’s “access” to that border. Access is a coded word being used instead of “con- trol.” As such, it denotes that the aim has been downscaled from Ukrainian border control to a negotiated arrangement between Ukraine and the two “republics,” if legitimized and de facto recognized. Ms. Merkel concluded her remarks in Sochi with a cryptic reference to the “Steinmeier formula.” Without evaluating it one way or another, she only said some- what testily that this formula was very easy to understand. This is actually one of the more abstruse proposals generated in the course of these negotiations. Frank-Walter Steinmeier (minister of foreign affairs until March and president of Germany since then) first proposed this formula confiden- tially at the October 2015 Normandy meet- ing in Paris; it was publicly and aggressive- ly embraced by Boris Gryzlov as Russia’s presidential envoy to the Contact Group negotiations in Minsk. It was again dis- cussed at the latest Normandy summit in October 2016 in Berlin. And it is now being raised by the Russians in subsequent Contact Group negotiations in Minsk (RIA Novosti, TASS, October 24-26, November 9, 23, December 9, 21, 2016; January 17, February 1, 2017). Moreover, it is refer- enced in public discussions, usually with- out clarity about its meaning. This formula lowers the bar for “elec- tions” in the Donetsk and Luhansk “peo- ple’s republics” to be deemed valid and their authorities as legitimate. Prior to Mr. Steinmeier’s intervention, the negotiations envisaged (based on the Minsk armistice) that those local “elections” be deemed valid only after a positive assessment by observ- ers of OSCE’s Organization for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). In that case, the “republics” would presum- ably earn a title to their special status, which Ukraine would then have to concede. The “Steinmeier Formula,” however, pro- poses that Ukraine bring into effect the special status temporarily, on the day when those “elections” are held (before the polls close). It also calls on making that status permanent, if ODIHR assesses those elec- tions positively in its subsequent report. Presumably, some ambiguous findings by ODIHR would make it difficult for Ukraine to revoke a special status, once it has been brought it into effect. Hours before Ms. Merkel landed in Sochi, Mr. Putin warmly received the newly elected “president” of South Ossetia, Anatoly Bibilov there. Ms. Merkel did not

(Continued on page 17) No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 17

Immediately after Mr. Lavrov’s visit, (see EDM, March 28). Russia was taken with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Moscow spoils... President Trump met with Ukrainian aback by the swift establishment of U.S.- Foreign Affairs Minister Pavel Klimkin and China cooperation, which became the main Mahmoud Abbas. But the yield on these (Continued from page 2) called for making peace; the Kremlin channel for managing this crisis. Moscow investmentsErdoğan and is withlow and Palestinian cannot compensate President For the Trump administration, mean- refused to comment on the White House’s now hopes that the election of a more for such a major setback as the defeat of while, the value of this Russian initiative for appeal (RBC, May 12). Mr. Lavrov and détente-leaning president in Seoul will Russia’s favored candidate in the French achieving Washington’s priority goal of Dmitri Peskov, President Putin’s press sec- deny Washington the means for applying presidential elections. His inability to make defeating the IS in Raqqa is far from obvious retary, seek to downplay the disagreements military pressure on Pyongyang even a minor difference in the Korean crisis (Gazeta.ru, May 12). The main problem is in with the U.S. regarding sanctions and the (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, May 11). and his dependence upon the “brotherhood fact Turkey, which is adamantly against sup- implementation of the Minsk commitments Mr. Putin traveled to Beijing on May in arms” with Iran in the Syrian war will plying heavy weapons to the Syrian Kurdish on Ukraine (RIA Novosti, May 11). 14-15 to participate in the “One Belt One hardly contribute anything positive to Mr. forces (YPG), which are leading the offen- This bracketing-out of the core problem Road” forum with the hope that a short Putin’s upcoming meeting with Mr. Trump, sive on Raqqa (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, May can take the U.S.-Russian rapprochement meeting with President Xi Jinping would re- scheduled for the July summit of the G-20 12). Moscow is spinning its own intrigue only so far, particularly as Federica energize the strategic partnership and in Hamburg. with the Kurds (see EDM, February 17, Mogherini, the European Union’s high rep- remind China about Russia’s unwavering By then, the investigations into Russia’s 2016; February 15, 2017; April 25, 2017) resentative for foreign affairs and security support (Kommersant, May 12). His speech interference in the U.S. elections could take but gives greater priority to restoring stra- policy, has called for increasing pressure on about building a broad Eurasian partner- many new turns, and Mr. Putin may run out tegic relations with Ankara (Carnegie.ru, Russia to overcome the deadlock in Donbas ship as a “civilizational project” omitted any of diplomatic maneuvers designed to com- May 2). Nonetheless, Mr. Lavrov’s entice- (Newsru.com, May 12). As if a reminder mention of the U.S., while effusively prais- pensate for the damning evidence. Hopes ments are undercut by National Security about Moscow’s tough stance on the ing Chinese contributions (Kremlin.ru, May to take advantage of Mr. Trump’s lack of Advisor H.R. McMaster’s firm statement on Ukraine conflict was needed, a U.S. Navy 14). It is unclear how his appeal to abandon experience and principles might finally dis- confronting Russia’s “disruptive behavior” P-8A Poseidon was aggressively intercept- “militant rhetoric” and refrain from “mutu- sipate and turn into anxiety that in Syria (Moskovsky Komsomolets, May 12). ed by a Russian Su-30 fighter over the al recrimination” might help in responding Washington will seek to punish Moscow. Mr. McMaster, who is unequivocally Black Sea on May 9 (RIA Novosti, May 12). to yet another missile test by North Korea, defined in Moscow as an adversary, was An opportunity to prove that Russia alarmingly close to Vladivostok (Gazeta.ru, The article above is reprinted from actually speaking not only about Syria, but could be a valuable partner for the U.S. May 14). Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from about Ukraine as well. On this latter issue, opened with the escalation of the North Mr. Putin is clearly investing effort in its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, scant common ground can be found. Korean crisis – but was inexplicably missed upholding his international profile, meeting www.jamestown.org.

Turning... (Continued from page 6) Traian Basescu noted that such arms sales could generate security risks to NATO allies and partners and that regulations should be put in place to prohibit arms sales by NATO member countries to non-members, especially Russia. France had planned to sell Mistral-class amphibious warships to Russia (the sale was scrapped after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine), while Italy had delivered samples of Centauro tanks and Iveco armored vehi- cles to Russia for testing and possible pro- curement. Since the NATO Summit in Warsaw in 2016 and the ongoing war in Ukraine’s Donbas region, NATO has taken a more assertive stance against the threat of Russian re-expansionism with the station- ing of troops and military hardware in Poland and the Baltics, in addition to joint military training and exercises. NATO is hosting a summit this year in Brussels on May 24-25. Montenegro’s accession to NATO was approved by the United States this year, and the ratification process by the other member-states is scheduled to be completed by June 5. Source: “Chicago summit: NATO remains AWOL from Europe’s East,” by Vladimir Socor (Eurasia Daily Monitor), The Ukrainian Weekly, June 3, 2012.

Putin, Merkel... (Continued from page 16) raise that issue. Sochi is located in close proximity to Georgia and that country’s Russian-occupied territories, and Ms. Merkel herself had undertaken an emer- gency visit to Sochi in September 2008 to discuss Russia’s military intervention in Georgia with then-President Dmitry Medvedev. But Ms. Merkel went on to make a heavy political investment in the relation- ship with Mr. Medvedev (as did other Western leaders); the issue of Georgia’s occupied territories has practically disap- peared from the international diplomatic agenda. Perhaps, Moscow reckons that Western tenacity in the case of Crimea and Donetsk-Luhansk would run out before Moscow’s tenacity would. The article above is reprinted from Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, www.jamestown.org. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21 Ukraine’s acting minister of health to speak in Washington by Andrew Ripecky reforms have focused on the delivery of pri- afford her an opportunity to update our mary care and improving preventive health Ukrainian community on her work in CHICAGO – Dr. Ulana Suprun, Ukraine’s care, while simultaneously raising the stan- Ukraine while also connecting with col- acting minister of health, will be coming to dard of care. leagues in the United States and appropri- Washington in June to meet with the Prior to accepting the position of acting ate U.S. government officials. She will be Ukrainian community and U.S. and minister of health, Dr. Suprun was director attending this year’s conference of the Ukrainian government officials. of the School of Rehabilitation Medicine at Ukrainian Medical Association of North Since taking office, Dr. Suprun has begun the Ukrainian Catholic University in Lviv. America (UMANA), being held June 14-18 a fundamental restructuring of the The specialty of rehabilitation medicine at the Key Bridge Marriott Hotel in Ukrainian health care system. This system (physiatry) has long been underdeveloped Arlington, Va. Dr. Suprun will present the was a remnant of the Soviet era, and was in Ukraine. Dr. Suprun has identified this as keynote address at the dinner on Saturday, inefficient and vulnerable to corruption. an area of particular importance in the con- June 17, at 7 p.m. All members of the Money was allocated not according to the text of the ongoing war in Ukraine’s east Ukrainian community are invited to attend. number of patients treated, but instead was and the ever-growing numbers of civilian Ticket information is available on the based on the number of beds in a given and military casualties. UMANA website, umana.org, or by calling facility. So despite having twice as many Her upcoming trip to Washington will 773-278-6262. hospital beds per capita as many Western European countries, Ukraine’s population was far less healthy. build their state under the constant exteri- Dr. Suprun is seeking to reorganize this Dr. Ulana Suprun, Ukraine’s acting min- ister of health. Vitaly Portnikov... or threat from Russia that will not vanish system and to introduce evidence-based until the collapse of the current regime. Mr. treatment protocols consistent with mod- highly successful pilot vaccination program (Continued from page 8) Putin, who does not consider Ukraine a real ern standards. She has prevailed on the targeting polio, tuberculosis and diphtheria direction but is forced to undertake chang- country, is determined to transform it into government to increase the health care while increasing supplies of medications es that many Ukrainians do not understand a satellite of the Kremlin – a project in line budget by 7.5 percent and has expanded a for cancer, HIV and hepatitis C. Additional and which may yield results only in three, with the imperialistic attitudes of most of five or 10 years. his compatriots. When they came out to protest against Mr. Portnikov estimates it will take some the criminal regime of Mr. Yanukovych dur- 25 to 30 difficult years to build a prosper- ing the 2013-2014 demonstrations, many ous economy in which the children of the Ukrainians were absolutely unprepared for current generation will live more or less the changes and reforms that would follow. well. If the current generation does not They had grown up in a former colony, undertake this arduous task, then their bounced among empires, that never had children will have to do so for the benefit of the chance to develop its own ethical foun- their grandchildren. dation for a modern economy. As a result, “Many people respond that they don’t Ukraine has inherited the most rapacious want to do this because they only have some North American Premiere aspects of capitalism, without the restraints 20 to 30 years of life left and they need to and standards that had been developed emigrate for the sake of their children. But I during the 18th-19th centuries by the state ask them: why not stay here and build an and religious institutions in Europe and the economy for your children in Ukraine?” MUSTAFA United States. Many of Mr. Portnikov’s fans in Ukraine have already answered: “Why not, indeed?” A documentary about the life of Mustafa Dzhemilev, Furthermore, Ukrainians will have to a leader of the Crimean Tatars May 26, 2017 at 7:00 p.m.

Admission $15 | Students $10 | UIA Members free Q&A with the fi lm director and producer to follow

UKRAINIAN INSTITUTE OF AMERICA 2 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075 ukrainianinstitute.org | 212-288-8660 No. 21 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 19

Through May 26 Art exhibit, ‘Ukrainian Insights,” Permanent Mission of May 27 through Art exhibit, “Viewpoints: Ilona Sochynsky,” Windham New York Ukraine to the United Nations, United Nations June 14 Fine Arts Gallery, www.windamfinearts.com or Headquarters, www.artcult.org.ua/en Windham, NY 518-734-6850

May 23 Lecture with Wasyl Sydorenko, “Ukrainian Tango,” May 28 Memorial Day picnic, Ukrainian Homestead, Ottawa Shevchenko Scientific Society, St. John the Baptist Lehighton, PA www.ukrhomestead.com Ukrainian Catholic Shrine, 613-723-1673 June 2 Art exhibit, “Night Train,” featuring works by Marcos Raya, Chicago Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, www.uima-chicago.org May 25 Book launch, “The Linnet” by Chris McNaught and “Here and Ottawa There” by Walter Kish, Ukrainian National Federation – June 3 Performance, “The Wonder of Today,” Svitanok Ottawa-Gatineau, Remax Core Realty, 613-794-5135 Ottawa Ukrainian Dance Society, Centerpoint Studio Theater, 613-580-2700 or www.centerpointetheaters.com May 25 Art exhibit, “The Stick Up! Chicago,” by Oscar Arriola, Chicago Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, www.uima-chicago.org June 3 Spring Festival, St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church, Jenkintown, PA 267-709-8300 or [email protected] May 25-26 Trunk Show, “Extraordinary Jewelry by Masha Archer,” New York Ukrainian Institute of America, 212-288-8660 or June 3-4 Calgary Ukrainian Festival, Acadia Recreation Complex, www.ukrainianinstitute.org Calgary, AB www.calgaryukrainianfestival.ca

May 26 Album release party by Ukrainia, “Shadow Era,” House June 4 Honoring Heroes of Ukraine, with presentation with Ottawa of Targ, www.ukrainia.org Chicago Volodymyr Parasiuk and Pavlo Podobied, Orange Wave, Ss. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church,

May 26 Dance, “Evening in the Carpathians,” with music by June 4 Presentation by David Kramer, Ukrainian Institute of Toronto Zapovid, Help Us Help the Children, Trident Banquet Chicago Modern Art, www.uima-chicago.org Hall, 416-604-4611 June 4 Performance by violinist Solomiya Ivakhiv, “From Ukraine May 26 Film screening, “Mustafa (2016),” Ukrainian Institute of Reno, NV to U.S.A. with Music,” Temple Sinai Men’s Club, followed by New York America, www.ukrainianinstitute.org or 212-288-8660 afternoon recital at the Temple Sinai Sanctuary, www.sinaireno.org/community/212-mensclub or www.sinaireno. May 26-28 Ukrainian Nationals Memorial Weekend Soccer Tournament, org/current-events/603-2017-06-04-violin-fund-raiser Horsham, PA Ukrainian American Sports Center Tryzub, www.tryzub.org June 4 Fund-raiser concert, solo violin by Solomiya Ivakhiv and May 27 Golf tournament, Ukrainian Golf Association of Canada, Reno, NV the Reno Chamber Orchestra, Nevada Museum of Art, Uxbridge, ON Wyndance Golf Course, 905-649-8545 or www.renochamberorchestra.org www.wyndance.clublink.ca Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events May 27-28 XXI Annual Great Lakes Cup Soccer Tournament, SC advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions Plano, IL Connection, Polish National Alliance Youth Camp, from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors [email protected] or 708-473-5701 and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017 No. 21

PREVIEW OF EVENTS

Friday, June 9-Sunday, June 25 “Tryzubivka” (Tryzub Ukrainian American Sport Center), located at County Line and NEW YORK: Yara Arts Group’s new theater piece “1917/2017: Tychyna, Zhadan & the Lower State roads. A 2 p.m. stage show will Dogs” is based on 12 poems by Pavlo feature the Voloshky School of Ukrainian Tychyna performed in English; Serhiy Dance; accordionist Walt Syzonenko; sing- Zhadan and his Kharkiv rock band, the Dogs, ers Dianna Savchyn, Sophia Pitula and perform live in Ukrainian. The show is Maksim Shcherbatyuk; and pianist Petro directed by Virlana Tkacz, with Bob Holman, Marina Celander, Sean Eden, Rob Feldman, dance pavilion to the tunes of the accordi- Chris Ignacio and Maria Pleskevich; music is onistPіtula. will A livelyfollow. “zabava” There will at thebe plentiful outdoor by Julian Kytasty and the Dogs. Show times Ukrainian homemade foods and baked are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at goods, picnic fare and cool refreshments for 8:30 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. at La MaMa all tastes and ages. Enjoy the U.S. Adult Theatre, 66 E. Fourth St. Tickets are $25; Soccer Association’s Region One U.S. Open $20 for seniors and students, To purchase Cup and U.S. Amateur Cup (U.S. national tickets go to www.lamama.org/tychyna/ or championship quarterfinals) games, men’s, call 212-352-3101. women’s, and men’s over-30 and under-23 divisions throughout the afternoon. There Sunday, June 18 is free admission and parking. For informa- HORSHAM, Pa.: The popular Father’s Day tion call 267-664-3857 or e-mail eluciw@ Ukrainian Fest will commence at 1 p.m., at comcast.net, or visit www.tryzub.org.

PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES Preview of Events is a listing of Ukrainian community events open to the public. It is a ser- vice provided at minimal cost ($20 per listing) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the Ukrainian community. To have an event listed in Preview of Events please send information, in English, written in Preview format, i.e., in a brief paragraph that includes the date, place, type of event, sponsor, admission, full names of persons and/or organizations involved, and a phone number and/or e-mail address to be published for readers who may require additional information. Items must be no more than 100 words long. Preview items must be received no later than one week before the desired date of publication (i.e., they must be received by 9 am Monday morning). Please include pay- ment for each time the item is to appear and indicate date(s) of issue(s) in which the item is to be published. Also, senders are asked to include the phone number of a person who may be contacted by The Weekly during daytime hours, as well as their complete mailing address. Information should be sent to [email protected]. When e-mailing, please do not send items as attachments – simply type the text into the body of the e-mail message. Preview items and payments may be mailed to: Preview of Events, The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054.