INSIDE: l Atlantic Council statement on strengthening U.S.-Ukraine relations – page 4 l International Women’s Day marches take place throughout Ukraine – page 5 l UOC-U.S.A. honors the memory of Euro-Maidan’s Heavenly Hundred – page 9 The Ukrainian Weekly Published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal non-profit association

Vol. LXXXIX No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 $2.00 Global rankings: Ukraine improves on social progress, U.S. bans oligarch Kolomoisky from entering country boasts formidable military while backsliding on freedom as Kyiv, Washington probe him for banking fraud

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Freedom House Freedom House’s 2021 Global Freedom index says that only 82 out of 195 countries in the world are free. Ukrainian presidential press service by Mark Raczkiewycz ter “in the face of the [COVID-19] pandemic President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (center) is seated next to Ihor Kolomoisky (second and political corruption, culminating in a from the right) in Kyiv on September 10, 2019. KYIV – Ukraine remained in the middle constitutional crisis.” “partly free” category among 195 countries In October 2020, multiple reports by Mark Raczkiewycz U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a yearly freedom ranking, advancing alleged that the head of the Constitutional also said in a statement that the restric- slightly on social progress while placing in Court, Oleksandr Tupytsky, had obtained KYIV – The U.S. State Department tions concern the oligarch’s “current and the upper one-fifth among global militaries. land in occupied Crimea, failed to declare imposed travel bans on Ukrainian oligarch ongoing efforts to undermine Ukraine’s Freedom House, a Washington-based luxurious real estate in Kyiv and was linked Ihor Kolomoisky and his immediate family democratic processes and institutions, human rights watchdog, on March 3 noted to a prominent case of judicial fraud. on March 5 citing the tycoon’s alleged which pose a serious threat to its future.” that Ukraine had dipped two points from Mr. Zelenskyy has since suspended the “involvement in significant corruption.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr last year in its freedom ranking, which is court’s chief justice, extending the term for Though not financial sanctions, the Zelenskyy’s office complimented the sanc- based on a 100-point scale and composed one month as of February 28. Mr. Tupytsky entry ban pertains to when Mr. Kolomoisky tions the same day in a statement while not of the summation of two overall categories has legally challenged the suspension with was governor of the Dnipropetrovsk region mentioning the tycoon’s name. The state- of civil liberties and political rights that are the Supreme Court and a hearing is still from 2014 to 2015 at the height of the ment did say the country must overcome weighed 60 and 40 percent, respectively. pending. Donbas War against Russian-led forces in the dominant caste system controlled by Scoring 60, Ukraine saw President Ukraine’s two easternmost provinces of influential oligarchs. Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s reform agenda fal- (Continued on page 13) Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. “Ukraine is grateful to all its partners for support on this path,” the statement said. “The battle with the oligarchs…is also NEWS ANALYSIS about creating the conditions in Ukraine in which business can grow in a transparent and competitive environment, and large A political spring for Ukraine? financial groups will not be able to domi- nate the market or influence the media and by Bohdan Nahaylo In addition to this, while simultaneous- intransigence and will be preparing a ly continuing to grapple with the grave “peace plan” that they will offer to the political decisions.” There’s hardly a dull moment in challenge of combating the COVID-19 Kremlin. We await to see what they have His spokeswoman, Iuliia Mendel, also Ukrainian politics, whether domestic or pandemic, President Zelenskyy has come up with and what the response will wrote a blog for Washington-based Atlantic international. And, so far, this month has launched a new ambitious plan to deliver be. Council that amplified the president’s goal been no exception. Ukraine’s President desperately needed legal reform. All this has been happening against the of ending “the oligarch era.” Volodymyr Zelenskyy seems to have been On the international front, in response background of recent changes in both the As such, the State Department’s 7031c politically reinvigorated, some are even to Moscow’s apparent decision to punish tone and practice of politics in Kyiv. The designation means that the mogul’s wife, saying “re-born,” and for the moment his Kyiv for its firmness and actions against unexpected debilitating blows delivered Irina Kolomoiska, his daughter, Angelika opponents seem at a loss over how to the Kremlin’s de facto agents of influence by Mr. Zelenskyy’s team against tycoon Kolomoiska, and his son, Israel Zvi respond. by terminating the precarious ceasefire in Viktor Medvedchuk, Russian President Kolomoisky, are ineligible for entry into the Mr. Zelenskyy has kept up his offensive the Donbas, the Ukrainian leader has also Vladimir Putin’s point man in Ukraine, United States. against those perceived as Moscow’s “fifth sought to seize the initiative. He is trying and the closure of three TV channels he Mr. Blinken didn’t say what specific columnists.” He has fought not only to revitalize the stalled Normandy Four controlled caught the pro-Russian forces human rights violation or corrupt act the against them, but also against corrupt offi- peace negotiations involving Germany, off guard and, despite their protests, has influential Ukrainian was or is allegedly cials and oligarchs, especially the notori- France, Russia and Ukraine by carrying left them at a loss regarding how to coun- involved in, but he is being investigated in ous Ihor Kolomoisky, who has recently the diplomatic fight to Moscow. ter-attack. the U.S. and Ukraine for one of Europe’s been sanctioned, together with his family, It has just been announced that Kyiv, But the “patriotic” forces opposed to largest bank heists. by the U.S. State Department. The presi- Berlin and Paris want to break the con- President Zelenskyy – those following for- The U.S. Justice Department suspects dent’s representatives have let it be tinuing deadlock in the Normandy Four him of misappropriating hundreds of mil- known that more is to come. peace process created by Moscow’s (Continued on page 10) (Continued on page 6) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 No. 11

ANALYSIS

Mikheil Saakashvili’s activity strains Blinken says Biden opposes Nord Stream 2 Senate Republicans called the update “com- pletely inadequate” and demanded the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken administration place sanctions on the addi- Georgian-Ukrainian relations has assured members of Congress that the tional companies “without delay.” Members Biden administration opposes the con- lems in relations.” Mr. Zalkaliani also noted of the House Foreign Affairs Committee by Giorgi Menabde struction of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline and that Tbilisi intends, with the participation also asked Mr. Blinken about Moscow’s Eurasia Daily Monitor said the administration continues to review of its ambassador, to assess “what actions involvement in Venezuela and Cuba. He further sanctions. Mr. Blinken told the On March 5, Ukrainian President are necessary to ensure that the current sit- said the United States had seen a resur- Volodymyr Zelenskyy removed the head of uation does not negatively affect bilateral House Foreign Affairs Committee that gence of Russian presence and activity in the Executive Committee on Reforms, relations, cooperation in various interna- President Joe Biden thinks the nearly com- the two countries, and “we’re very attentive Mikheil Saakashvili, from his position on tional organizations, and, most importantly, pleted pipeline was a “bad idea” and had to that across the board.” (RFE/RL, with the Coordination Council for Urban joint efforts toward European and Euro- “been clear on this for some time.” He reporting by Reuters) Planning. The Presidential Office provided Atlantic integration” (RBC, May 8, 2020). added that the United States, which has no explanation for this sudden decision Nonetheless, Mr. Saakashvili has always already placed sanctions on companies Facebook blocks Russian articles (Sova, March 5). Mr. Zelenskyy had rejected such claims and continued to involved in building the pipeline, was “mak- Facebook has blocked articles by Russian appointed Mr. Saakashvili – the former actively call on Georgians to pursue regime ing clear that we stand against its comple- news agencies claiming police last month president of Georgia and one-time gover- change, including via massive anti-govern- tion...and we continue to review other pos- arrested alleged Ukrainian nationalists nor of Ukraine’s Odessa Oblast – as head of ment protests (RBC, June 11, 2020). “I will sibilities for sanctions going forward.” Nord after experts concluded the radicals were the Ukrainian Executive Committee on not leave Georgia, I will definitely return to Stream 2 is designed to reroute Russian Russian. RBK and Kommersant published Reforms back in May 2020 (RBC, May 7, help the people free themselves from the natural-gas exports to Europe under the articles in February reporting that Russian 2020). Russian oligarch [sic] Mr. Ivanishvili,” he Baltic Sea, circumventing Ukraine. law enforcement had arrested alleged The news of Mr. Saakashvili’s exclusion said in an interview with the television Congress opposes the pipeline on the members of MKU, a Ukrainian nationalistic from the Coordination Council raised wide channel Mtavari Archi (Kommersant, April grounds that it strengthens the Kremlin’s youth organization, in the southwestern speculation in Tbilisi about whether or not 24, 2020). On February 9, Mr. Saakashvili hold on Europe’s energy industry and hurts city of Voronezh. Police reportedly discov- the unexpected decision from the called on Georgians to disobey the restric- Ukraine, which stands to lose billions of ered extremist literature, symbols of Ukrainian president was connected to the tions imposed in the country due to the dollars in annual transit fees. Senate nationalist organizations, knives, and an latest events in Georgia, where the confron- COVID-19 pandemic (Spb.ru February 9). Republicans have been pressuring the object resembling on old military mine tation between the United Opposition, This statement angered the Georgian Biden administration to impose sanctions inside their apartments. Citing Russia’s including Mr. Saakashvili’s United National authorities. on more companies involved in the project. Federal Security Service (FSB) press ser- movement (UNM) party, and billionaire Ukraine’s top envoy to Georgia, Igor At the same time it has called the pipeline a vice, the news agencies reported their con- Bidzina Ivanishvili’s ruling Georgian Dream Dolgov, was invited to the foreign affairs “bad idea,” the Biden administration is also nection to a Ukrainian extremist organiza- (GD) has reached a boiling point. As a ministry for a “diplomatic conversation.” reportedly concerned about the impact tion. However, Russia’s Investigative result of the political standoff, the former Afterward, Ambassador Dolgov said that additional sanctions would have on U.S. Committee published a release at the time Georgian head of state’s influence on the the statements of the former Georgian relations with Germany, which has defend- saying simply that three individuals aged situation in his native country has grown president “do not help Georgia and Ukraine ed the pipeline as a commercial project. 18, 19 and 33 had been arrested for stirring (see EDM, February 24, March 1). to create an atmosphere of trust and devel- Legislation passed by Congress in 2019 up racial animosity in Voronezh, which lies Mr. Saakashvili left Georgia in 2013, after op bilateral relations between the two placing sanctions on vessels laying the near the border with Ukraine. It made no his party lost the general election to GD and countries.” According to Kyiv’s emissary, pipeline halted the project for more than a claim that they were members of a the new ruling government brought crimi- “Georgia and Ukraine, together with other year, but Russia resumed construction with Ukrainian nationalist group. StopFake, a nal charges against him. A Tbilisi court sen- countries, are fighting the COVID-19 pan- its own ships. That pushed Congress to Ukrainian agency that works with Facebook tenced him in absentia to three and six demic, and such calls for disobedience and pass new legislation last year widening the to find and block Russian disinformation on years in prison in two cases: First, he was holding illegal demonstrations will really sanctions to include companies engaging its platform, said its research concluded the found guilty of issuing pardons in exchange not help us. It will not support the Georgian generally in Nord Stream 2 activities, three people arrested in Voronezh all for the silence of high-ranking police offi- people or contribute to their unity and including those that insure and certify the belong to a Russian nationalist organiza- cers convicted in the kidnapping and death bilateral Georgian-Ukrainian relations.” Mr. project. The legislation required the admin- tion. StopFake said it contacted Ilya Bichyov, of banker Sandro Girgvliani in January Dolgov further argued, “I hope that one istration to update Congress on the status the lead investigator on the case in 2006. Second, Mr. Saakashvili was convict- specific opinion of one particular person, a of the project and impose sanctions on any Voronezh, who declined to comment on ed of organizing the 2005 beating of his citizen of Ukraine and a former citizen of companies in violation. In its update last whether the three individuals had any con- opponent, deputy and businessman Valery Georgia, will not harm our friendship and month, the Biden administration identified nection to Ukraine on the grounds the Gelashvili. Mr. Saakashvili has always the desire of our peoples to grow closer. We only one vessel and its owner, which were investigation is continuing. StopFake, which denied his guilt, calling the accusations need a strong and united Georgia as a stra- already under sanction. Meanwhile, some was created in 2014 by journalism students “false” and “politically motivated” tegic partner. This is our common interest, media reports have identified at least a and faculty members, has itself been (Kommersant April 24, 2020). The govern- and we desire to be strong and reliable dozen companies involved in the construc- ment stripped him of his Georgian citizen- friends” (interpressnews, February 9). tion. In a letter to Mr. Biden last week, 40 (Continued on page 11) ship in 2015, ostensibly for becoming a In response, Mr. Saakashvili, writing on Ukrainian national earlier that year and his Facebook page, accused the Ukrainian taking the position of governor of Odesa. ambassador of corruption: “Mr. Dolgov However, Mr. Saakashvili’s continued continues to harm the image of Ukraine in The Ukrainian Weekly FOUNDED 1933 active participation in the political process- Georgia and throughout the post-Soviet es in Georgia (he has never fully relin- space. Today, he attacked me with angry An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., quished his leadership role in UNM) even rhetoric because I am fighting for the free- a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. from abroad has caused dissatisfaction and dom of the Georgian people. And this, it Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. consternation for Georgian Dream. In addi- turns out, harms Ukrainian-Georgian rela- Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. tion to pointing to his criminal convictions, tions. I speak to him as a former president (ISSN — 0273-9348) the leaders of the ruling party frequently of Georgia to a citizen of Ukraine. I believe assert that since Mr. Saakashvili is a citizen that he is deeply corrupt and that he is act- The Weekly: UNA: Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 of Ukraine, not Georgia, he has no right to ing against Ukrainian interests. I will strive interfere in Georgian politics – especially to ensure that neither Ukraine nor Georgia Postmaster, send address changes to: while serving as a state official of a foreign has such ambassadors” (1tv.ge, February The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Andrew Nynka country. 10). Yet the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas In June 2020, Georgia decided to recall Ukraine came out in support of P.O. Box 280 its ambassador to Kyiv after Mr. Saaka­sh­ Ambassador Dolgov and warned Mr. Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] vili’s appointment as head of the Ukrainian Saakashvili “to refrain from calls for civil Executive Committee on Reforms (RBC, disobedience in Georgia” (1tv.ge, February The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com June 11, 2020). Earlier, Foreign Affairs 10). Minister David Zalkaliani declared Tbilisi Mr. Saakashvili’s supporters assert that The Ukrainian Weekly, March 14, 2021, No. 11, Vol. LXXXIX was not considering the possibility of sev- the actions of the Georgian authorities are Copyright © 2021 The Ukrainian Weekly ering diplomatic relations with Kyiv, but responsible for harming bilateral relations “[our strategic partner’s – i.e., Ukraine’s] with Ukraine – not the activities of the for- appointment of a person convicted and mer president. “Georgian Dream acts in the ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA wanted by the Georgian judicial system […] interest of preserving power and does not raises the question of whether to summon care that Ukraine is a huge country, a friend Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 Teimuraz Sharashenidze, the ambassador and partner of Georgia, which has always e-mail: [email protected] of Georgia to Ukraine, for consultations in supported and supports us in the interna- Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 Tbilisi. This is a step in diplomatic practice e-mail: [email protected] that, in this case, indicates certain prob- (Continued on page 11) No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 3

NEWS ANALYSIS Too big for sanctions? Why U.S. didn’t hit Ukrainian tycoon Kolomoisky with economic penalties

by Todd Prince Ukraine International Airlines, WindRose Kyiv-based Dragon Capital, told RFE/RL. cesses and institutions, which pose a seri- RFE/RL and Dniproaero. Depending on his level of Ms. Kalenyuk and Mr. Fursa said the ous threat to its future.” control, that could prevent Boeing and State Department’s move to blacklist Mr. Mr. Blinken blacklisted Mr. Kolomoisky When President Joe Biden’s administra- other leading U.S. aerospace industry com- Kolomoisky was really about sending a sig- under Section 7031(c) of the Department tion declared tycoon Ihor Kolomoisky per- panies from doing business with them. nal to the Ukrainian government and the of State, Foreign Operations, and Related sona non grata, formally barring him from Airline industry sanctions are a “huge magnate’s associates that the U.S. is seri- Programs Appropriations Act, which entering the United States over corruption problem” because navigation systems and ous about fighting graft in the country. allows the United States to ban issuing concerns, the decision was generally airplane parts often come from U.S. com- visas to foreign officials involved in “signif- Political pull cheered by people pushing for economic panies or are considered U.S.-controlled icant corruption” or a “gross violation of and political reforms in Ukraine. goods, said Mr. O’Toole, pointing to the Reform advocates in Ukraine and the human rights.” Somewhat obscured was the fact that impact of U.S. sanctions on Iran’s airline West have been complaining for years that Unlike the Global Magnitsky Act, which the United States chose not to impose industry. Mr. Kolomoisky has been using his loyalists can be applied to foreign officials involved financial sanctions on Ukraine’s eighth- U.S. financial sanctions against Mr. in parliament, government and the judicia- in “serious human rights abuses” or “cor- richest businessman – a footnote to some, Kolomoisky could also impact another ry to block some of the tough reforms nec- ruption,” Section 7031(c) does not also but to others a sign that the administra- Washington-friendly country in the region. essary to put Ukraine on a path toward incorporate economic sanctions. tion’s move against a magnate seen as The tycoon owns one of Georgia’s largest integration with the European Union. However, of the 77 individuals publicly holding powerful political influence in his manganese mines, a smelter, and the Mr. Kolomoisky’s close ties to President blacklisted in connection with Section home country was largely symbolic. It also hydropower plant that supplies energy to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a former comic and 7031(c) as of April 2020, nearly half had raised a question: Why not? the operations. Some of the metal is TV personality, have also long caused con- also been targeted for financial sanctions, Experts said the decision may have exported to the United States. cern among Ukrainians and Western offi- mainly under the Global Magnitsky Act, been dictated in part by concerns that Like Ukraine, Georgia has been targeted cials who worry that the magnate has according to Congressional records. sanctions against Mr. Kolomoisky – who by Moscow in military actions – Russian undue influence. The tycoon owns the tele- While it was not made public, Mr. owns stakes in dozens of companies in forces drove deep into the country in a vision channel that broadcast Mr. Kolomoisky had already been barred from Ukraine, ranging from airlines and media five-day war in 2008 and remained after- Zelenskyy’s popular sitcom before his elec- traveling to the United States, a former to energy producers and metals firms – ward in two breakaway regions – and has tion in 2019. State Department official familiar with the could harm the country’s fragile economy a fragile economy. Western officials have been alarmed by situation told RFE/RL last year. and have unforeseeable consequences. Though Mr. O’Toole said the U.S. govern- Mr. Kolomoisky’s persistent legal attempts In a sign of the difficulties Mr. The lessons learned from sanctions ment might have been concerned about to regain control over PrivatBank, which Kolomoisky had entering the United States imposed on Russian tycoon Oleg the economic ramifications of placing the government nationalized amid the in the past, he hired legal consultancy and Deripaska and his aluminum company sanctions on Mr. Kolomoisky, he did not bailout. lobbying firm Arent Fox in 2017 for Rusal, which unsettled the global metals think tycoons were off-limits. “I don’t like In the March 5 announcement of the $50,000 to help him get an E-2 investor industry three years ago, may have guided the concept that there’s anybody too big to decision to ban Mr. Kolomoisky and his visa, according to filings. the U.S. decision, analysts and observers sanction because...then you’re essentially immediate family from entering the United There is no indication the lobbying say. granting impunity to anybody with a cer- States, Secretary of State Antony Blinken helped Mr. Kolomoisky get one. Arent Fox Washington was “spooked by the sanc- tain level of wealth. But you have to know accused the tycoon of “involvement in sig- declined to comment. tions leveled on Mr. Deripaska and what what kind of disruption you’re going to nificant corruption” during his tenure as The State Department did not respond that did to the aluminum market,” John have and whether those kinds of knock-on governor of the Dnipropetrovsk region in directly to a question on why it did not Herbst, a former U.S. ambassador to effects can be dealt with effectively,” Mr. 2014-2015. choose to apply Global Magnitsky sanc- Ukraine who is the director of the Eurasia O’Toole said. Mr. Kolomoisky “was involved in cor- tions, saying that it “will continue to use Center at the Atlantic Council, a rupt acts that undermined rule of law and this authority [7301(c)] and all available Impact in court Washington think tank, told RFE/RL. “So, the Ukrainian public’s faith in their govern- tools to combat corruption globally.” there’s a certain reluctance to use it. I think Daria Kalenyuk, executive director of ment’s democratic institutions and public that may be the principal factor. But that the Kyiv-based Anticorruption Action processes, including using his political Copyright 2021, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted doesn’t mean that it couldn’t happen in the Center, told RFE/RL that financial sanc- influence and official power for his person- with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ future.” tions could have an impact on crucial civil al benefit,” Mr. Blinken said in a statement. Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, The United States imposed sanctions on cases against Mr. Kolomoisky in interna- “I also want to express concern about [Mr. Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see Mr. Deripaska and Rusal along with several tional courts and might explain why Kolomoisky’s] current and ongoing efforts https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-kolomoys- other Russian businessmen, officials and Washington refrained from using that to undermine Ukraine’s democratic pro- kiy-why-no-us-sanctions/31144121.html). entities in April 2018 as punishment for blunter tool. what Washington called the Kremlin’s Mr. Kolomoisky is embroiled in legal “malign” activities around the world, battles in Britain and the United States, FOR THE RECORD including its aggression against Ukraine. where he has made substantial invest- Global aluminum prices surged to a sev- ments over the years. en-year high as the punitive measures The FBI is investigating him in connec- Commemorating Taras Shevchenko affected companies around the world that tion with the $5.5 billion bailout of use the metal in their production. The PrivatBank, once Ukraine’s largest lender; 60th anniversary of the Shevchenko monument in Winnipeg United States later withdrew the sanctions Mr. Kolomoisky and a business partner are tied to Rusal after Mr. Deripaska agreed to accused of embezzling billions of dollars The following statement was issued by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress on give up control of the company. from the bank they owned through fraudu- March 9. lent loans and using some of the proceeds Array of assets to buy assets in the United States, includ- OTTAWA – On March 9, Ukrainians 1959 the Ukrainian community in Were the United States to hit Mr. ing real estate and metals plants. around the world mark the 207th Canada embarked on a significant Kolomoisky with financial sanctions, they The United States is seeking the seizure anniversary of the birth of Ukraine’s undertaking – to place a monument to would apply to any company in which he of three commercial real-estate properties bard, Taras Shevchenko. His contribu- Taras Shevchenko on the grounds of owns a stake of 50 percent or more. The owned by the two tycoons and allegedly tions to the development of Ukrainian the Manitoba Legislature. Thousands United States could also apply them to purchased with the embezzled funds. They culture, national identity and national of people from across Canada donated companies in which he owns less than 50 deny it. unity cannot be overestimated. For money for this endeavour – raising percent but exercises de facto control, said Separately, PrivatBank is suing the pair two centuries, Ukraine’s Kobzar has $175,000 in total. Two years later, on Brian O’Toole, a fellow at the Atlantic in civil cases in the United States and inspired generations of Ukrainians, July 9, 1961, nearly 10,000 Ukrainian Council and a former senior adviser at the Britain to recoup the money it claims they both in Ukraine and abroad. Canadians from across the country U.S. Treasury Department. stole. A British judge has frozen billions of Every year in Canada, Ukrainian lan- gathered in Winnipeg to witness Prime Financial sanctions would prevent U.S. dollars in assets as that case proceeds in guage school students recite his poet- Minister John G. Diefenbaker officially individuals and companies, such as banks London. ry, choirs perform his works, and com- unveil the monument. and tech firms, from conducting business “The U.S. government probably didn’t munities gather to commemorate him. Shevchenko’s poetry and artwork are with Mr. Kolomoisky and the companies he want to harm these proceedings” by More than a thousand Shev­chenko cherished around the world. His dedica- controls. potentially enabling Mr. Kolomoisky to monuments have been erected in the tion to the Ukrainian cause will remain According to an article published by the claim in court that he is being politically world, his works have been translated close to our hearts forever. His voice news outlet Hromadske in 2019, Mr. persecuted, Ms. Kalenyuk said. into almost every language, and spoke loudly and forcefully for self- Kolomoisky owned stakes in dozens of U.S. financial sanctions could also back- streets, educational institutions and determination and freedom. Today, as Ukrainian companies employing thou- fire if they damaged Mr. Kolomoisky’s cities have been named after him. the people of Ukraine bravely battle to sands of people, including oil and gas pro- assets and thus hurt PrivatBank’s chances This year marks the 60th anniversa- defend their country from Russia’s inva- ducers, an oil refinery, alloy smelters, a of recouping its losses should the state- ry of the unveiling of the Shevchenko sion, the words of Taras Shev­chenko chemical company and more. owned lender win any of its cases against monument in Winnipeg, Manitoba. In continue to inspire them and us. He also owns stakes in three airlines – the tycoon, Serhiy Fursa, an analyst at 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 No. 11

FOR THE RECORD Kyiv Security Forum-Atlantic Council statement on strengthening U.S.-Ukraine relations

The following statement was released by and discussions with Russia about Ukraine, historic unification of Europe, and create Ben Hodges (Lt. Gen. Ret.), Pershing the Atlantic Council on March 10. should be based on the principle of “noth- the preconditions for transforming rela- Chair in Strategic Studies, Center for ing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” tions with Russia. European Policy Analysis, commander of We believe that President Joseph Biden 4) As it consults with Ukraine and its 10) A renewed U.S.-Ukrainian partner- United States Army Europe 2014-2018 and the new U.S. administration represent European partners, the Biden administra- ship is tied to the Ukrainian government’s Natalie Jaresko, nonresident senior fel- an opportunity to further deepen the stra- tion should consider whether more active willingness to rapidly implement and low, Atlantic Council and former minister of tegic partnership and commitments senior-level U.S. involvement in the process uphold transformational democratic finance, government of Ukraine between the United States and Ukraine and now led by the German chancellor and reforms and actions to protect and Jonathan Katz, senior fellow, The advance the interests of both nations. French president could break the current strengthen the independence of key institu- German Marshall Fund and former deputy President Biden has been an ardent sup- stalemate and facilitate a true end to the tions, including the National Anticor­rup­ assistant administrator in the Europe and porter of the Ukrainian people and their conflict in the Donbas, the withdrawal of all tion Bureau and others. A robust anti-cor- Eurasia bureau, U.S. Agency for democratic aspirations and understands Russian and Russian-proxy forces, and the ruption campaign requires effective reforms International Development the significance of a secure, independent restoration of full Ukrainian sovereignty of the office of the general prosecutor and David J. Kramer, senior fellow, Green and prosperous Ukraine, firmly embedded over the Donbas. the judicial system. Ukraine also should School of International and Public Affairs, in a Euro-Atlantic community that is 5) The United States and Ukraine should strive to make irreversible the significant Florida International University and former “whole, free and at peace.” also consult on political, diplomatic, and reforms already achieved, including land assistant secretary of state for democracy, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and economic steps that can be taken to restore privatization, progress on state-owned human rights and labor The Honorable Tom Malinowski, U.S. Ukrainian officials have made clear their Crimea to Ukraine. They should work enterprise privatization, the independence House of Representatives interest in and commitment to a close rela- together to promote internationally the of the National Bank of Ukraine, decentral- Thomas O. Melia, deputy assistant sec- tionship with the United States, President principle that “Crimea is Ukraine” and to ization, and fiscal and budget transparency retary of state 2010-2015 and assistant Biden and the new administration. ensure that sanctions applied against in addition to gas price reform, government administrator of the U.S. Agency for We, American and Ukrainian politicians Russia for its illegal seizure of the peninsula procurement reform, and transparency International Development 2015-2017 and diplomats, former officials, policy remain in place. We applaud the govern- regarding the assets and incomes of govern- Michael McFaul, director, Freeman ment officials and parliamentarians. experts and civil activists, strongly encour- ment of Ukraine’s efforts to organize the Spogli Institute for International Studies, 11) Also important are steps to eliminate age the U.S. and Ukrainian governments to “Crimean Platform,” as it keeps occupied Stanford University and former U.S. ambas- the outsize political influence of oligarchs, to develop an ambitious and comprehensive Crimea on the international agenda and sador to Russia agenda that deepens our strategic relation- reminds people, including in Russia, that establish the rule of law with fair economic Steven Pifer, fellow, Robert Bosch ship. Crimea is still Ukraine in the eyes of the rules and practices for large, medium-sized, Stiftung and U.S. ambassador to Ukraine That agenda should advance mutual international community. small, and foreign businesses, and to 1998-2000 interests, contribute to the strengthening of 6) The United States and Ukraine should strengthen the institutional capacity of the Herman Pirchner, Jr., president of the security and stability in central and eastern consult on steps to enhance security and Ukrainian state – all of which are critical for American Foreign Policy Council Europe, promote Ukraine’s further integra- stability in the Black Sea region including improving the lives of the Ukrainian people. Roman Popadiuk, president, Diplomacy tion into the European Union and accession with support of NATO and European part- Ukraine needs to safeguard property rights Center Foundation and U.S. ambassador to to NATO, and outline and prioritize trans- ners. The United States, together with its for all Ukrainian and foreign investors. Ukraine 1992-1993 formational democratic reforms necessary NATO allies, should continue its regular 12) The Ukrainian government should Michael Sawkiw, Jr., director of the for Ukraine’s full economic development deployments of air, land, and sea forces into commit immediately to the implementation Ukrainian National Information Service and progress on the transatlantic track. the region, where Russia, Europe, the of reforms as a matter of urgency, and the William B. Taylor, Jr., U.S. ambassador to We note that support for Ukraine and a Middle East, the Balkans, and the Caucasus United States should, in coordination with Ukraine 2006-2009 and 2019 robust U.S.-Ukraine relationship has broad come together. The region is at the center of international financial institutions, the Damon Wilson, former special assistant political support in the United States, four great forces: democracy on its western European Union, and G-7 partners continue to the president and senior director for including among both Democrats and edge; Russian military aggression to its to provide advice and assistance to help European affairs, National Security Council Republicans. Likewise, there is wide sup- north; Chinese financial influence to its Ukraine build a modern democratic econo- Kenneth Wollack, chairman of the port in Ukraine for a strong relationship east; and instability in the Middle East to its my that is fully compatible with the stan- National Endowment for Democracy and with the United States. south. Ukraine and the United States dards and norms of the European Union. former president of the National Demo­ The plan should be based upon the fol- should work with other allies in the area to The EU Copenhagen criteria offer a sound cratic Institute lowing key elements: protect common interests and deescalate roadmap. That assistance should be linked Alexander Vershbow, distinguished fel- 1) An unbending mutual commitment to tensions. to effective reform measures. low at the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft enhance democratic values must remain at 7) In recent years, the United States and We offer these 12 elements as guide- Center for Strategy and Security, U.S. ambas- the core of the U.S.-Ukrainian relationship. Ukraine have both been targets of Russian lines for fostering the strategic partnership sador to Russia 2001-2005, U.S. assistant This includes strengthening democracy and political interference, disinformation cam- between the United States and Ukraine and secretary of defense 2009-2012, and deputy the rule of law, individual liberty, freedom paigns, and cyber incursions. They should for advancing the goals that each country secretary general of NATO 2012-2016 of speech, a fully independent judiciary and exchange lessons learned from their hopes to achieve through our pivotal rela- Kurt Volker, distinguished fellow, Center anti-corruption agencies, greater transpar- respective experiences and share best prac- tionship. for European Policy Analysis, U.S. ambassa- ency, accountability and open government, tices for combating these and other forms The U.S. side: dor to NATO 2008-2009, and U.S. special independent media, and vibrant civil soci- of Russian hybrid warfare. Anders Åslund, senior fellow, Atlantic representative for Ukraine negotiations ety. Solidarity and concrete actions in 8) The Nord Stream 2 pipeline, if com- Council 2017-2019 advancing these values are needed to build pleted, would threaten Euro-Atlantic unity The Honorable Brendan F. Boyle, U.S. Marie Yovanovitch, senior fellow at greater trust, advance the democratic aspi- and deprive Ukraine of significant transit House of Representatives Georgetown University and Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and U.S. rations of Ukrainians, and provide a basis revenue. The United States and Ukraine Ian J. Brzezinski, former deputy assis- ambassador to Ukraine 2016-2019 for the two countries’ common efforts. should consult on how to build and main- tant secretary of defense for Europe and 2) The United States and Ukraine should tain a unified transatlantic stance against NATO policy The Ukrainian side: cooperate on measures to restore Ukraine’s the pipeline’s completion as well as on what Paula J. Dobriansky, senior fellow, Mykhailo Basarab, senior fellow of the sovereignty and territorial integrity and steps that Russia might take with regard to Harvard University Belfer Center for Science Kyiv Security Forum, member of the Non- deter further Russian aggression. This Ukraine that could lead to a removal of Nord and International Affairs and former under Governmental Commission for the investi- includes expanding our strategic partner- Stream 2 sanctions. At the same time, secretary of state for global affairs gation and prevention of human rights vio- ship and defense cooperation, and the Ukraine must undertake serious reforms to Eric S. Edelman, former under secre- lations United States looking afresh to increase become more energy-efficient and root out tary of defense for policy Roman Bezsmertnyi, ambassador of defense assistance with the objective of corruption in that and other sectors. Francis Fukuyama, Mosbacher Director Ukraine to Belarus 2010-2011, former rep- enhancing Ukrainian capabilities to deter 9) The United States and Ukraine should of the Center on Democracy, Development, resentative of Ukraine to the Trilateral further Russian attacks. This includes con- cooperate to advance Ukraine’s integration and the Rule of Law (CDDRL), Freeman Contact Group tinued provision of lethal defensive assis- into NATO, with the ultimate aim of achiev- Spogli Institute for International Studies, Valeriy Chaly, diplomatic advisor to the tance and strengthening naval forces. Other ing Kyiv’s goal of NATO membership. The Stanford University president of Ukraine 2014-2015, ambassa- areas for possible military cooperation United States should hold firm on NATO’s Andrew J. Futey, president of the dor of Ukraine to the United States 2015- include the development of special opera- “open door” policy and advise Kyiv on how Ukrainian Congress Committee of America 2019, chair of Ukraine Crisis Media Center tions forces, air defense, and coastal defens- Ukraine might best prepare itself for mem- Jeffrey Gedmin, co-founder and editor- Iryna Friz, member of parliament, mem- es. bership as was promised by NATO leaders in-chief, American Purpose and former pres- ber of the Parliamentary Committee on 3) The United States and Ukraine should at the 2008 Bucharest summit. Ukraine ident of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty Anticorruption Policy, member of the parlia- consult closely on how to change the should commit to undertaking the neces- Melinda Haring, deputy director of the mentary faction of the political party Kremlin’s calculation of the costs and bene- sary reforms and practical actions that will Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center “European Solidarity,” minister of Ukraine fits regarding the ongoing Russian aggres- bring its military and other defense and The Honorable Andy Harris, U.S. House for veterans’ affairs 2018-2019 sion against Ukraine. The United States security structures into conformity with of Representatives Volodymyr Handogiy, ambassador of should also consult closely with Europe on NATO standards and norms. Ukraine’s John E. Herbst, director of the Atlantic Ukraine to the United Kingdom in 2010- this question, including on the issue of membership in NATO will strengthen the Council’s Eurasia Center and U.S. ambassa- strengthened sanctions. Those discussions, Alliance, contribute to the process of the dor to Ukraine 2003-2006 (Continued on page 12) No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 5

Thousands march in Ukraine for gender equality on International Women’s Day

Demand ratification of Istanbul Convention by Roman Tymotsko March organizers said that women in Ukraine make up the majority of social, LVIV – Celebrating International Women’s educational and health care workers, and Day on March 8, Ukrainians held rallies they noted that women in these groups throughout the country in which activists have been hit particularly hard during the called on the government to do more on pandemic. gender equality and safety for women. According to organizers of the marches, Rallies were held in Kyiv, Lviv, women in Ukraine are mostly responsible Kramatorsk, Kharkiv and Zaporizhia, and for child care and children’s distance learn- were focused on the impact that the COVID- ing, and they have taken care of children at 19 pandemic has had on women and on home while also working their own jobs. gender violence faced by women in Ukraine. Organizers also said that, as the level of Member of Parliament Inna Sovsun, who domestic violence against women during took part in the march in Kyiv, noted how the pandemic continues to rise, it is important the rallies were in putting pres- extremely important that the Verkhovna sure on the Ukrainian government to make Rada ratify the Istanbul Convention. further strides on gender equality and Roman Tymotsko The Istanbul Convention, officially other important issues for women in the Participants of the rally for International Women’s Day gather in front of the Lviv known as the Council of Europe Convention country. City Council on March 8. on Preventing and Combating Violence “March 8 is not a story about spring, Against Women and Domestic Violence, is a flowers and gifts,” Ms. Sovsun said. “This is women and domestic violence.” Convention will not affect domestic vio- human rights treaty of the Council of a day when women can draw attention to The Istanbul Convention is the first lence in the country. Europe that was signed on May 11, 2011, in the problems they constantly face. international, legally-binding piece of legis- “This is a document that introduces a Istanbul, Turkey. Ukraine is among a minor- Domestic violence, sexism, lower wages lation that is designed to protect women’s whole galaxy of terms that create a niche ity of European countries that have not rati- than men, stereotypes about the ‘place in rights. Several articles of the convention for postmodern superstructures in the leg- fied the convention. the kitchen.’ Although inequality remains, specify that forms of violence against islation,” Mr. Yurash said. “The convention Participants of the Women’s marches the situation is improving significantly. women include not only sexual and physi- is a Trojan Horse that does not help with brought posters focused mainly on the However, progress is too slow. The cal violence, but also psychological vio- domestic violence. There is no magic Istanbul Convention and gender equality. Women’s march is an opportunity to lence, as well as economic discrimination, Istanbul bank that gives a billion dollars for Among the banners and placards seen on express your position out loud.” forced marriage, forced abortion or steril- shelters. It’s just an element of modern aes- the streets in Lviv on March 8, some march- According to the National Police, there ization, female genital mutilation, and thetics that some players want parliament ers carried the following signs: “Girls just were 174,386 cases of domestic violence “crimes committed in the name of so-called to accept.” wanna have fun-damental rights,” “My body reported in Ukraine over the course of 10 honor.” Mr. Yurash, who is a member of the – my business,” “Fight like a girl” and “Girl months in 2020. There were 114,00 cases Human rights activist Volodymyr Beglov Servant of the People party, noted that power.” throughout all of 2019. took part in the rally in Lviv. “March 8 for some activists have criticized him for One of the participants of the march in me is about equality, and feminism is also standing against Ukraine’s ratification of Kyiv, Maria Blindiuk, held a poster with a about equality. That is why every year I try the Istanbul Convention. sarcastic statement: “I forgot to ask you to take part in gatherings dedicated to “I am accused of having an unclear posi- how I should look.” International Women’s Day,” Mr. Beglov tion on domestic violence,” Mr. Yurash said. Ms. Blindiuk said it was important that said. “Of course, all churches and our parliamen- women in Ukraine continue to make strides As the chairperson of the Educational tary group [on values, dignity and family] on gender equality issues. Center for Human Rights in Lviv, Mr. Beglov have a common position: domestic violence “I am a feminist because I care about is often asked to speak at such events. is a horror, and we must do everything pos- equality,” Ms. Blindiuk said. “It’s my busi- “In my speech this year, I stressed the sible to counter this evil. At the same time, ness how I look, my business who I sleep need for Ukraine to finally ratify the Istanbul this convention has nothing to do with it with, and it’s up to me to decide how much Convention. It is important because it crimi- and does not affect the cause of the prob- I earn.” nalizes domestic violence. It also places on lem, which is primarily alcoholism.” Ms. Blindiuk, a literary critic, said she the state the responsibility to create a whole Mr. Yurash said that he believes a solu- took part in the marches here because she infrastructure for combating domestic vio- tion to the problem of gender violence in feels the Ukrainian government should rati- lence: from special police units to shelters Ukraine comes down to combating alcohol- fy the Istanbul Convention. for victims of domestic violence in each city. ism in Ukraine. “If you do not face discrimination – it’s Unfortunately, the Ukrainian parliament “The convention does not affect the cool, you’re fortunate,” Ms. Blindiuk said. hasn’t ratified this international document,” implementation of the law and does not “For me, discrimination is also rare. But Mr. Beglov said. force the police to do their job,” Mr. Yurash when it happens, it’s always an awful feel- Sviatoslav Yurash, a member of parlia- said. “I see no reason to talk about the con- ing of injustice. That’s why I march for the ment and the creator of a parliamentary vention. Let’s talk about domestic violence, An activist holding a poster at a rally in ratification of the Istanbul Convention on group on values, dignity and family, said front of the Lviv City Council on March 8. preventing and combating violence against that Ukraine’s ratification of the Istanbul (Continued on page 12) 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 No. 11

The same year in Ukraine, the National U.S. bans... Anticorruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) The Ukrainian Weekly (Continued from page 1) started investigating Mr. Kolomoisky regarding the alleged PrivatBank loan recy- lions of dollars from his former bank – cling scheme in which fraudulent corporate International Women’s Day PrivatBank – to purchase assets in the U.S. loans were paid off with money from new The bank once serviced 20 million private fraudulent corporate loans. The process While the origins of International Women’s Day date back to the early 20th clients and is still Ukraine’s largest lender. used was similar to how Ponzi schemes century, it wasn’t until 1977 that the United Nations General Assembly invited Ukraine nationalized the bank in 2016 operate whereby early investors are paid member states to proclaim March 8 an official U.N. holiday for women’s rights. It after an international auditor and regula- with funds from more recent investors. has since been commemorated annually by the U.N. and much of the world, tors discovered a $5.5 billion gaping hole in Last month, NABU detained one of three including in Ukraine where marches this year were held in Kyiv, Lviv, Kramatorsk, its balance sheet. suspects, who are all former high-level Kharkiv and Zaporizhia, among other cities. Mr. Kolomoisky has denied wrongdoing executives, related to PrivatBank. They are The annual celebration has largely been forgotten in the United States, where and has maintained he is the rightful owner accused of funneling the equivalent of $4.9 activists in the early 1900s first sought to focus attention on promoting equal of the bank while pursuing lawsuits in vari- million from the bank. rights and fighting for women’s suffrage. It became a prominent holiday in the ous jurisdictions to regain control of the Former first deputy board chairman Soviet Union and some other countries in the 1970s, though calls for women’s lender. He did not respond to a phone call Volodymyr Yatsenko was detained on rights and equality were eclipsed, to a substantial degree, by gifts of greeting or text message sent to him requesting February 22 at Boryspil Airport aboard a cards, bouquets and sweets. Indeed, in the lead-up to the holiday this year in comment. chartered flight bound for Vienna operated Ukraine, television and the Internet was filled with advertisements that focused He and Mr. Zelenskyy have a business by Mr. Kolomoisky’s Windrose Airlines. on flowers, chocolates, hearts and holiday recipes. relationship lasting about a decade. A for- Mr. Yatsenko posted bail the following Critics of the holiday in Ukraine say that they have no issue with the flowers mer comedian with no political experience, day, paying the equivalent of $1.86 million, and chocolates, but they argue that there is too much focus on these items while the president’s skit shows and a popular while the alleged co-conspirators, former the plight of women in the country has been largely ignored. A recent report by TV series in which he played a fictitious longtime PrivatBank chief executive Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty illustrates their point. president, aired on Mr. Kolomoisky’s TV Oleksandr Dubilet and ex-financial depart- Oksana Mayboroda, a councilwoman in the city of Rivne, addressed a town hall channels. The tycoon also backed his presi- ment head Olena Bychykhina, are reported- meeting on February 26 regarding the importance of pedestrian-only zones in dential campaign and returned from self- ly evading prosecution abroad. urban planning, according to RFE/RL. She made her remarks while holding her exile in 2019 after Mr. Zelenskyy was elect- Mr. Dubilet’s Ukrainian cell phone num- two-year-old daughter. As a result, she faced fierce criticism on social media after ed president. ber is out of service, as a reporter for The a photo of her during the meeting holding her child was posted on Facebook. The From 2006 to 2016, Mr. Kolomoisky and Ukrainian Weekly learned when an attempt first comment on the social media platform asked, “What, nursery schools aren’t his partner, Hennadiy Boholyubov, alleged- was made to call his cell phone. accepting toddlers anymore?” Another individual wrote that it was “improper” ly used shell companies to launder money Mr. Zelenskyy has slowly distanced him- for Ms. Mayboroda to appear onstage with her child. that they fraudulently shifted from self from Mr. Kolomoisky since taking Ms. Mayboroda said on Facebook that many of the more than 800 comments PrivatBank while buying 22 properties in office. On February 11, 2020, the president on the photo amounted to “political bullying, internalized misogyny and discrimi- Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia and dismissed his top aide, Andriy Bohdan, who nation based on motherhood.” Texas. has legally represented the oligarch in According to RFE/RL, the data analysis consultancy Global People Strategist They include “an iconic skyscraper in cases stemming from PrivatBank’s collapse. said in a February report that the gender pay gap between men and women in Cleveland…a shuttered Motorola facility Still, the tycoon controls at least 30 Ukraine is about 32 percent. On average nationwide, women make the equiva- in rural Illinois and a Dallas office park national lawmakers who are nominally lent of more than $4,000 a year less than men, according to an April 2020 study that was once the headquarters of Mary part of Mr. Zelenskyy’s Servant of the conducted by the Association of Women Lawyers of Ukraine. A 2020 survey by Kay Cosmetics,” according to a separate People party. the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA) found that Ukrainian men did most of the investigation conducted by the One of them is Oleksandr Dubinskiy who rearing of children aged 3 or younger in only two percent of households, while Investigative Consortium of Investigative was expelled from the party on February 1 mothers did most of the rearing in 85 percent of households. Meanwhile, a Journalists. after the U.S. Treasury Department sanc- majority of women in Ukraine continue to face various risks to their own person- Other assets include at least nine steel tioned him a month earlier for meddling in al safety. A 2019 report by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in mills in Michigan, Indiana and other states. the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Those Europe found that two out of three women in Ukraine have experienced psycho- Attorneys for the now state-owned bank measures block any of his U.S. assets, logical, physical, or sexual violence. Flowers, chocolates and other treats only said Messrs. Kolomoisky and Boholyubov including dollar-denominated accounts. mask the reality that there is clearly much more work that needs to be done used PrivatBank “as their personal piggy Mr. Kolomoisky and other oligarchs, throughout the world to ensure true equality for all women. bank,” according to a court filing in including pro-Russian lawmaker and Delaware. tycoon Viktor Medvedchuk, have opposed Both of the accused have denied the alle- economic and anti-graft reforms that gations and have stated that the U.S. assets would unlock further lending from the were bought using $2 billion they earned International Monetary Fund and other March Turning the pages back... from selling a steel business in Ukraine. sources of Western funding. Washington Last year, the Justice Department and Brussels have successfully pushed for a launched a civil case against the two part- bill to safeguard the banking sector which Thirty years ago, on March 17, 1991, 80.16 percent of ners seeking forfeiture of some of the prop- prevents the former owners of nationalized 17 Ukraine’s citizens in a national referendum voted “yes” to sover- erties they amassed. banks to regain control over their previous- 1991 eignty within a union of Soviet sovereign states, based on The Federal Bureau of Investigation ly-owned banks. Ukraine’s July 16, 1990, Declaration of State Sovereignty. A sur- (FBI) is also investigating them and has Mr. Kolomoisky’s U.S. visa ineligibility “is prising 70.5 percent of the voters were in favor of a renewed fed- raided two companies under their control [only] the beginning,” Ms. Mendel said in an eration of Soviet socialist republics, as proposed by Soviet in Miami and Cleveland. interview posted on YouTube on March 9 President Mikhail Gorbachev. Mr. Kolomoisky has also sought assis- with Olesya Batsman, editor-in-chief of The vote result brought Ukraine one step closer to signing a union treaty with Moscow. tance in gaining entry into the U.S. as Gordon. Rukh, the Popular Movement of Ukraine, and other democratic forces, however, claimed recently as 2017 when he retained the When asked if the Ukraine would extra- victory on the republican plebiscite, and noted that this demonstration of support for Washington-based lobbying firm Arent Fox dite Mr. Kolomoisky if the U.S. requested it, Ukrainian sovereignty was yet another step on the long road to democracy and indepen- for $50,000 to assist him with obtaining an she said: “We’ll see. … I’m not a fortune tell- dence. E-2 investor visa. er.” Leonid Kravchuk, chairman of the Ukrainian SSR Supreme Soviet, told national depu- ties during a plenary session of parliament: “Now we know that our people want a union, and we know what kind of union they want. Ukraine wants to be sovereign master on its own land. A huge task lies ahead for our Supreme Soviet. We must give the people what LETTER TO THE EDITOR they want.” Voter participation in the referendum was reported at 83.5 percent (approximately 31 million residents) of eligible voters. A call for a more festive annual celebration of Shevchenko Preliminary results showed that Ivano-Frankivsk (18.2 percent), Lviv (16.4 percent), Ternopil (19.3 percent) oblasts had the lowest support for the proposed union treaty, and Dear Editor: and recite Shevchenko in Ukrainian and English (or in whatever country’s lan- those same regions also had low support for the sovereignty vote (52.1 percent in Ivano- I have just finished reading a wonderful guage the Ukrainian diaspora may be Frankivsk, 30.1 percent in Lviv, and 35.2 percent in Ternopil). On average, Ukraine’s voting article by Alex Kuzma on Shevchenko. I found). I’m not sure who the catalyst results showed a 10 percent higher vote for sovereignty than for a Gorbachev-led union. understand that Ukrainians remember could be, but it’s something that could be Those same three oblasts also expressed desires for a free and independent Ukraine by Shevchenko in a very serious and somber started in Ukraine. I also did not look for- voting on a third question: “Do you want Ukraine to become an independent state, which manner, but I have also spent time in ward to those somber, almost depressing independently decides its domestic and foreign policies, which guarantees equal rights to Scotland and the Scots honor Robert Shevchenko concerts that always had that all of its citizens regardless of their national or religious allegiance?” Burns by having a dinner, a few drinks and Notably, in Crimea, residents voted 87.6 percent for the union and 84.7 percent for a reading Burns’ poetry (and listening to a fun at all, and I recall all of the children in sovereign Ukraine. Also, surprisingly, Kyiv residents voted 44.6 percent for a union and tune on the bagpipes!). I wondered why theirfuneral suits dirge squirming “Як умру.” to These get out were of notthe 78.2 percent for sovereignty. Kyiv was the only capital city of the Soviet republics which Ukrainians could not have a night in Ukrainian hall. took part in the referendum that didn’t support the union referendum. March where we honor Shevchenko in a Source: “Over 80 percent vote for Ukraine’s sovereignty, 70.5 percent support union,” by way that we can look forward to – eat Michael Bidochka Marta Kolomayets, The Ukrainian Weekly, March 24, 1991. some varenyky and kovbasa, have a drink St. Catharines, Ontario No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR COMMENTARY A return The printed word is Another attempt by faceless vandals to civilized debate so important these days! Dear Editor: Dear Editor: to desecrate Bandera’s grave in Munich Kudos for publishing the two recent We are very grateful for the publication think pieces by Slavko Martyniuk and of The Ukrainian Weekly and Svoboda for George Woloshyn. Knowing both writers so many years. personally, I know their views often Unfortunately, many newspapers are, for diverge. But they’re worth reading precise- various reasons, abandoning the printed ly because they express themselves coher- word in favor of digital news. But the print- ently, factually and with old-fashioned good ed word is so important these days! Anyone writing style. As a society, we could benefit can pick up a newspaper at any time to read from a return to civilized debate. it. Picking up a computer is rather difficult – Mr. Woloshyn exposes the toxic influ- especially if you don’t have one! ence of the oligarchs’ misplaced loyalties to Keep up the good work. God bless the Russia. His well-researched article also UNA and its members and The Ukrainian skillfully rebuts the otherwise astute Weekly and its staff for many years to Tucker Carlson as well as U.S. libertarian come! circles, both of whom claim that any form Sincerely yours in Christ, of censorship is always backward. These Bishop Basil H. Losten Andriy Melnyk via Twitter critics ignore Ukraine’s security needs to Stamford, Conn. The grave of Stepan Bandera in Munich, Germany, after it was desecrated by van- control hostile airwaves when in a life-and- The letter writer is the emeritus bishop of dals over the weekend of March 6-7. death struggle with a determined enemy. the Eparchy of Stamford of the Ukrainian Mr. Martyniuk in turn reminds us that 1980s who fought with the same aspira- Greek-Catholic Church. by Stefan Romaniw safeguarding Ukraine’s energy security lies tions – a free, independent and sovereign in deeds, not in rhetoric. In other words, The spirit of the Organization of Ukrainian Ukraine. support whichever U.S. political party finds Nationalists (OUN) leader Stepan Bandera Today Russian aggression continues in the courage to stand up to European short- Kudos to Alex Kuzma for lives on in Ukraine and internationally. eastern Ukraine. Some of those individuals sighted self-interest. Mr. Martyniuk might As a perennial exercise, a group of cow- who fight in Ukraine’s armed forces today have also mentioned the previous adminis- “Rethinking Shevchenko” ards once again defaced Bandera’s grave in say “we are the new UPA. We are fighting tration’s work to create an Eastern Munich over the weekend, thinking that for the same aspirations – sovereignty.” Dear Editor: European energy coalition to withstand this somehow will diminish or eradicate his The Russian disinformation campaign Moscow’s pressure as well as the construc- Thank you, Alex Kuzma, for your excel- spirit. These actions only highlight and continues in the hybrid space. A day does tion of LNG terminals there to compete lent article “Rethinking Shevchenko” strengthen Bandera’s spirit and are a not go by without some lewd comment with Russian gas. Hopefully, despite the (March 5). The article, a keeper, should be reminder of how strong this spirit is. If it about Ukraine’s aspirations or without the Democrats’ drive to demolish Mr. Trump’s read by today’s students attending Ridna was not, why would they bother to risk slandering of those who fought for these legacy, they have the foresight to spare Shkola (and, hopefully, making their own sneaking around a cemetery at night to goals and continue to fight! these shrewd energy initiatives. Shevchenko memories). deface a place of rest. Despicable!! We intend to give the scoffers no oxygen! In short, neither writer takes a strictly Irene Jarosewich A simple message to those responsible Was Bandera the only leading light then partisan view, but rebukes whichever party Passaic, N.J. for the desecration: It won’t work! and now? No. He was one of a myriad num- is acting to Ukraine’s detriment. How Not only is the grave set in stone, but so ber who helped form national thinking, refreshing to lift the debate above partisan is the Bandera spirit. An erratic splashing though he did play a major role. politics! Disputing allegations made of paint or strewing of rubbish around the Therefore, to diminish, downplay, ridi- Darian Diachok grave only solidifies the spirit and exposes cule and accuse Bandera of being a fascist Alexandria, Va. by previous letter writers the crudeness of those involved. collaborator has no bearing or standing. The spirit of Bandera and OUN then and In a presentation last weekend, Ivan Dear Editor: now work to promote the aspirations of a Patryliak, a respected historian at the Taras I believe that as a responsible, indepen- nation and they are a positive element in Shevchenko University in Kyiv, was asked Nestor Chylak’s early dent newspaper you have an obligation to building Ukrainian statehood; likewise, this the following question: “How do you reply demand from the writers to your editorial spirit of Ukrainian nationalism offers then to those who accuse Bandera, OUN-UPA or trials as an umpire board factual information. Unfortunately, on and now a positive trait that individuals the Divizia Halychyna of being fascist col- can use to identify with their nation and its laborators and nationalists?” His reply was Dear Editor: at least two occasions, in letters to your edi- torial board, Mr. Mirchuk (January 17) and interests while opposing those who simple. I enjoyed reading Ihor Selmach’s sports Mr. Martyniuk (January 29) made unsub- endeavour not to allow Ukraine to deter- To those who make these claims, ask update on baseball umpire Nestor Chylak stantiated, provocative allegations against mine its own destiny. These aspirations are them whether they have the faintest under- in the Weekly’s January 31 issue. our president, Joe Biden. They claimed that alive and well. standing of the meaning of the terms/ My father grew up with Nestor in Oly­ he blocked Ukraine’s military response to These elements of nationhood, state- words they use or whether they simply phant/Jessup, Pa., and both families attend- the Russian annexation of Crimea. hood and a desire to determine Ukraine’s twist them to suit an argument. You will ed the St. Cyril’s church in Olyphant, Pa. I request that you demand from Mr. destiny by demanding territorial sovereign- find the claimants’ responses weak, subjec- One story that is related about Nestor is Mirchuk and Mr. Martyniuk some evidence ty are very much part of the DNA of the tive and unfounded in as much as they have that early in his career he would umpire for their assertions. Failing to do that, they Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian dias- no idea what these terms mean and only baseball games of the local social clubs. The should apologize for spreading false infor- pora. regurgitate the propaganda that has been predominant social clubs were Polish, mation about our president, who unlike his Are there challenges? Yes, there are. But around for years. Italian and Ukrainian. One day, in the field predecessor is firmly committed to Ukrainians are united under the banner of We should also base our responses on across from my grandparent’s home in Ukrainian independence and is not a buddy building a state, which includes safeguard- facts, not fiction. Jessup, Pa., the Italians were playing the of [Russian President Vladimir] Putin. ing their own unique identity and language, The Nuremberg trials – an international pursuing economic development, fostering commission – examined the role OUN-UPA Poles with Nestor umpiring. By the end of Dr. Oles Lomacky the first inning, there had already been sev- Washington public and cultural diplomacy, and enjoying played during the war. They found that eral bench clearing brawls that even the all of the varied facets that come with being there was no case against the two groups. spectators had gotten involved in. One of a European nation. The Duchenne Commission in Canada the old Ukrainians of my grandparents’ era A correction regarding On the cusp of the 30th anniversary of investigated Divizia Halychyna. They found (immigrated to the U.S. in the first decade Ukraine’s independence, we can reflect on that there was no case against the group. of the 20th century), who really knew the Battle of Kruty the road to independence, the struggles of Both of these commissions were inter- nothing about baseball but understood fair OUN-UPA (Organization of Ukrainian nationally formed, reputable investigations. play, walked home, came back with his Dear Editor: Nationalists and the Ukrainian Insurgent But some won’t let the truth get in the Army) against two genocidal enemies, the way of a good story. loaded double-barrel shotgun and sat next The commentary about the Heavenly to one of the benches and announced in Hundred (page 7) in the February 21 issue Ukrainian formation of Divizia Halychyna Yet the protagonists of the old Soviet several languages that there would be no [“The heavenly hundred – the spirit that (the Galicia Division) in the forlorn hopes system, which form part of Moscow’s con- more fighting! continues to motivate and drive”] contains of creating a national army, and the political temporary fake information machine, con- I do not know the final score, but no the statement “The Youth Battle in Kruty in prisoners of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and tinue with the same rhetoric. fatalities were recorded. 1929 saw 300 students die …” For those who remember Visti z Ukrainy Thanks for the stories about famous (News from Ukraine) in the 1970s and This battle is known as the Battle of Stefan Romaniw, OAM, is the first vice Ukrainian-Americans in sports. Kruty and took place on January 29, 1918. 1980s – which was partially a Soviet propa- president of the Ukrainian World Congress ganda machine that tried to influence pub- Ladimer S. Nagurney, Ph.D. Leo Iwaskiw and the co-chair of the Australian Amherst, Mass. Philadelphia Federation of Ukrainian Organizations. (Continued on page 10) 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 No. 11 No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 9

UOC-U.S.A. honors Heavenly Hundred, appeals for justice for Euro-Maidan deaths

by Elizabeth Symonenko and Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee. He Deacon Mykola Zomchak encouraged the faithful to pray for these UOC-U.S.A. hundred souls, not just today, but through- out the year and let them remind individu- SOUTH BOUND BROOK, N.J. – A commem- als to be faithful to the truth and to uphold orative service (panakhyda) for the the dignity of humanity and the fight for Heavenly Hundred was led by Archbishop freedom, not just in Ukraine, but worldwide. Daniel of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Tears flowed freely as Archbishop the U.S.A. (UOC-U.S.A.) following divine litur- Daniel, joined by the seminarians of St. gy on February 21 at St. Andrew Ukrainian Sophia Ukrainian Orthodox Theological Orthodox Memorial Church. The hierarch Seminary, stood in the nave and began to led prayers for the victims who were killed sing “Plyve Katcha,” a song now synony- seven years ago while protesting on mous with the Euro-Maidan. As he prayed Independence Square in Kyiv in what for the souls of the departed, Archbishop became known as the Euro-Maidan or the Daniel read out each individual’s name, not Revolution of Dignity of 2013-2014. Seats in only praying for them, but acknowledging the church held small posters with the appreciation for their ultimate sacrifice. Subdeacon Yaroslav Bilohan photo, name and description of each fallen At the conclusion, Archbishop Daniel Archbishop Daniel (center) with seminarians of St. Sophia Ukrainian Orthodox hero, with a votive candle illuminating each thanked all those who joined them in Theological Seminary sing “Plyve Katcha” during the panakhyda (requiem service) victim’s face. prayer, especially those who had joined via at St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Memorial Church in South Bound Brook, N.J. The archbishop noted that these individ- the livestream from all over the world, and uals’ lives were cut short due to human he invited those present within the church the face of fathers and children who go to year, day after day: eternal memory to the greed, and a pharisaical outlook on life, to take one of the votive candles home with Institutska Street, Independence Square to Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred.” underscoring the Gospel message for that see photos of their relatives and say that them, place it in their icon corner, and from Names of the Heavenly Hundred time to time remember to pray for the souls their death was unworthy? We cannot for- of those who lost their lives in the fight for get that these hundred young people gave Yuriy Verbytskyiuk, Pavlo Mazurenkouk, freedom. As people came forward for his their lives for Ukraine and for us, the people Serhiy Nigoyan, Roman Senyk, Bohdan blessing, Archbishop Daniel passed out lit- who live in a free world. As they can no lon- Kalyniak, Serhiy Synenko, Serhiy Bondarev, tle icon cards depicting the Mother of God ger talk about it, as they don’t want to talk Valeriy Brezdenyuk, Serhiy Didych, with her veil spread over the Heavenly about it in Ukraine, we have an obligation in Antonina Dvoryanets, Oleksandr Kapinos, Hundred as a remembrance and a remind- the Western world to talk about it. Why do Volodymyr Kishchuk, Andriy Korchak, er to pray for the departed and that such a Serbs have the right to say that thousands, Volodymyr Kulchytskyi, Volodymyr tragedy should never be repeated. millions of innocent people were killed in Naumov, Oleksandr Plekhanov, Ihor Archbishop Daniel stated: “Today we Kosovo? Why do Jews have the voice and Serdyuk, Serhiy Shapoval, Vyacheslav honor the memory of the young men and power to talk about killing Jews? So why Veremiy, Yakiv Zaiko, Andriy Chernenko, women who died on the Maidan. Some pol- are we Ukrainians afraid to tell the truth Yuriy Paskhalin, Dmytro Maksymov, Vitaliy iticians say that perhaps their death on the about the murder of our children?! Vasyltsov, Serhiy Baidovsky, Serhiy Maidan was in vain, claiming that today “This has not happened during the Bondarchuk, Mykola Dziavulsky, Ustym there is no war in Ukraine, that this is a civil Holodomor years. This is already our Holodnyuk, Eduard Hrynevych, Serhiy conflict between east and west. But we recent history of seven years ago. Some pol- Kemsky, Ihor Kostenko, Ivan Kreman know that there is a war going on and we iticians say that we need to turn this page of (Panteleyev), Andrii Movchan, Roman cannot keep silent about it. As long as poli- history already. Never! This should be Nikulichev, Dmytro Pahor, Yuriy ticians have been silent for the last seven included in the pages of the history of Parashchuk, Anatoliy Korneyev, Andriy years, so the deaths of these individuals Ukraine so that future generations will Sayenko, Yosyp Shylinh, Viktor Chmilenko, have not yet been investigated. know about it and remember it. You need Vitaliy Smolinsky, Bohdan Solchanyk, Igor “How can we look into the eyes of moth- to have the strength and inspiration to chal- Tkachuk, Bohdan Ilkiv, Roman Tochyn, ers and parents who lost their children on lenge society and the world, for this is the Oleksandr Tsariok, Oleh Ushnevych, Roman The icon card of the Mother of God with the Maidan? How can we explain to chil- truth that God demands. This is our sacred the Heavenly Hundred. dren why their father died? How to look in duty. This should be revisited year after (Continued on page 12)

Patriarchal Deacon Iakovos (Andrij) Krochak receives priestly ordination Awarded the title of Grand Syncellus of the Great Church of Christ ISTANBUL – Patriarchal Deacon Iakovos 1991, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, to a (Andrij) Krochak, who is a native Ukrainian clerical family of Ukrainian background. Canadian, was ordained to the priesthood When he was four years old, he began serv- by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on ing as an acolyte (altar server) at St. February 24 at the Patriarchal Cathedral of Vladimir Ukrainian Orthodox Sobor in Saint George at the Phanar. Patriarchal Calgary with his father, the Right Rev. Deacon Iakovos was also awarded the Archpriest Fr. Taras. From that early age, offikion (title) of Grand Syncellus of the Andrij recognized that he wanted to be Great Church of Christ. The prestigious ordained as a cleric. awarding of Grand Syncellus of the Great In Calgary, Andrij was a member of the Church of Christ recognizes Patriarchal Ukrainian Canadian Youth Association/ Deacon Iakovos as a close and valued advi- Ukrainian Orthodox Youth (CYMK-UOY) and sor to Patriarch Bartholomew. participated in the Osvita program at St. Patriarch Bartholomew invited Andrij John’s Institute in Edmonton, where he Krochak to the Phanar and then ordained completed Ukrainian language classes. him as a patriarchal deacon on November Later he became a counsellor in the Osvita 30, 2018. It is significant that Patriarchal program. His family has been actively Nikos Maginas/Ecumenical Patriarchate Deacon Iakovos became the first Canadian, involved in the Ukrainian Self-Reliance Fr. Iakovos (Andrij) Krochak poses after his ordination with Ecumenical Patriarch the first Ukrainian and the first non-Greek to League (USRL) as his father was a USRL Bartholomew. become a member of the Patriarchal Court. member and chaplain and his mother, Since November 1, 2019, he has served as Dobriyka Donna (wife of Fr. Taras), has been Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Fribourg (Switzerland). Upon successfully the director of the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s a longstanding member of the Ukrainian 2015. Subsequently, he completed his grad- defending his masters’ thesis in 2017, he English Office. He is the Ecumenical Women’s Association of Canada (UWAC). uate studies at the Ecumenical began work for his doctorate at the Catholic Patriarch’s principal Anglophone secretary Upon completing his education in Patriarchate’s Institute of Graduate Studies University of Paris. Aside from his native and co-ordinates the patriarchate’s rela- Calgary, Alberta, and after beginning stud- in Chambésy, Switzerland. As part of the English, he also speaks Greek, French and tions with various local diplomatic corps ies at the Toronto Orthodox Theological Institute’s program, he also attended class- Ukrainian. and international institutions. Academy for one year, Andrij moved to es at the Faculty of Protestant Theology at The Rev. Patriarchal Deacon Iakovos Greece, where he attained a bachelor’s the University of Geneva and the Catholic Sources: OrthodoxTimes.com, www.usrl- (Andrij) Krochak was born on January 17, degree at the Faculty of Theology of the Faculty of Theology at the University of cyc.org, risu.ua. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 No. 11

Ukrainian government has acquired for the guarding national security. said that Ukrainian media, particularly TV, A political... population, developed in Britain but pro- The secretary of the NSDC, Oleksiy need to do more to help project a positive (Continued from page 1) duced in India, prompting the British Danilov, a former official in Luhansk who image of Ukraine to the outside world. ambassador to publicly rebuke him. has been announcing and explaining its Second, he said that the Ukrainian language mer president Petro Poroshenko – are also Furthermore, representatives of the pro- decisions, is emerging as an increasingly is fully protected in the Constitution and in a quandary. The current president, ini- Russian camp have been seen appearing on influential and respected political figure. legislation and there is no need to revisit tially accused by his detractors of being the two TV channels Mr. Poroshenko, who The NSDC meets as required on Fridays this issue at this stage with so many other ready to “capitulate” to Russia and of being is both an oligarch and politician, owns. and this day has now become the one on pressing issues. Doing so, Mr. Zelenskyy indifferent to Ukrainian national interests, Amidst this intensified political struggle, which the latest political sensations – said, would risk dividing society. has effectively outshone them and is doing President Zelenskyy and his team appear moves against politically unsavory figures The NSDC secretary, Mr. Danilov, was things that Mr. Poroshenko failed to do, like to have found new ways to both circumvent or entities – are expected to be announced more forthcoming on this topic. For close down Mr. Medvedchuk’s TV channels obstacles created by the corrupt legal sys- and then discussed on the popular TV polit- Ukraine to protect itself more effectively and take on other oligarchs so resolutely. tem to wage war against corruption and ical show hosted by Savik Shuster. from the “linguistic war” waged by the Moreover, new embarrassing evidence those suspected of subversive activities, In connection with the forthcoming 30th Russian Federation, it needs to introduce has been emerging about dubious behind- and he has done so while boosting his flag- anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, the English language more actively. He told the-scenes business and political interac- ging ratings in the polls. President Zelenskyy has launched another the forum: “Young people’s knowledge of tions between Messrs. Poroshenko and Locked in conflict with the allegedly cor- important initiative – the Ukraine 30 English is the key to the independence of Medvedchuk during the former’s presiden- rupt head of the Constitutional Court and Forum. It provides a platform for regular our state. English should be used from kin- cy. Observers have noted that the former having declared the need to dissolve other high-level discussions on important topics dergarten at school.” president has sought to divert attention courts regarded as corrupt that have of current concern for the country. For And this has come at a time when the away from himself and seems to be forming blocked reforms, President Zelensky has instance, at the beginning of March it was Zelenskyy administration has reopened the a tacit alliance with his supposed ideologi- skillfully utilized the potential of the devoted to the “development of justice” and issue of dual citizenship for those eligible cal adversaries against Mr. Zelenskyy. National Security and Defense Council speakers included European Council presi- and who are from countries not hostile to Mr. Poroshenko has called into question (NSDC) to cut corners, avoid delays and dent Charles Michel who was visiting Ukraine. the reliability of the COVID-19 vaccines the implement sanctions in the name of safe- Ukraine at the time. Sending a clear and strong signal about The latest forum held on March 9 Mr. Zelenskyy’s intentions, earlier this focused on “culture, media and tourism.” month his spokesperson Iuliia Mendel pub- President Zelenskyy used it to convey sev- lished an article in the Atlantic Council not- eral important messages. He stressed that ing that “Mr. Zelensky is prepared to chal- Ukraine was currently at the forefront of lenge the power of Ukraine’s oligarchs TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL WALTER HONCHARYK (973) 292-9800 x3040 the fight against propaganda and disinfor- everywhere from the energy and banking or e-mail [email protected] mation. “Media literacy lessons should sectors to politics and the media.” appear in our school curriculum,” he said. “Less than two years have passed, and “We should also teach those who finished we have hit three very well-known people SERVICES PROFESSIONALS school long ago – our parents, our grand- who represent huge financial groups and parents – what information hygiene is, who have made their fortunes on the state МИХАЙЛО КОЗЮПА what fakes are, what propaganda is, and budget and taxes – on what Ukrainians Ліцензований Продавець how someone, in just a few sentences or have to live. 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line,” Mr. Cruz said in a tweet on March 6 as Nord Stream 2 activities, including insuring Bus crash in Poland kills six Ukrainians NEWSBRIEFS he confirmed an earlier Bloomberg story. and certifying the project. The legislation A Ukrainian official said a bus carrying (Continued from page 2) Mr. Biden in January picked William Burns, required the administration to update a career Foreign Service officer who served Congress in February on the status of the dozens of Ukrainians crashed into a ditch in Poland, killing at least six and injuring 41. accused of ties to Ukrainian far-right as ambassador to Russia in the 2000s, to be project and impose sanctions on any com- The accident occurred early on March 6 groups, something it vehemently denies. the next head of the CIA. The 64-year-old panies in violation. The Biden administra- near Jaroslaw, a town in southeastern Russia’s media watchdog, Roskomnadzor, was approved by the Senate Select tion identified one vessel and its owner, Poland near the border with Ukraine. The on March 7 demanded that Facebook Committee on Intelligence on March 2 fol- which were already put under sanctions. private Polish TV station TNV24 said the unblock the links to the article on its plat- lowing a confirmation hearing last month. However, some media reports have identi- bus had a Ukrainian license plate and was form, accusing the U.S. social-media compa- Senate Republicans have been pressuring fied at least a dozen companies involved in traveling with 57 Ukrainian citizens, includ- ny of censorship. Russia has tried to play up the Biden administration to impose sanc- the construction. In a March 3 letter ing two drivers. Oleh Nikolenko, a spokes- the actions of Ukrainian nationalist groups tions on more companies reportedly addressed to Mr. Biden, 40 Senate man for the Ukrainian Affairs Foreign in an effort to justify its hostile actions involved in the construction of Nord Stream Republicans, including Mr. Cruz, called the Ministry, said six Ukrainian citizens were toward its neighbor. Russia annexed 2. The pipeline, which is more than 90 per- February update “completely inadequate” killed. No immediate cause was given for Crimea in 2014 and continues to back sep- cent complete, is designed to reroute and demanded the Biden administration the accident. Dozens of firefighters, para- aratists in eastern Ukraine in a war that has Russian natural gas to Europe under the impose sanctions on the additional compa- medics and helicopters were seen at the killed more than 13,000 people. (RFE/RL, Baltic Sea, circumventing Ukraine. Congress nies “without delay.” While Mr. Biden has with reporting by RBK) opposes the pipeline on the grounds that it called the pipeline a “bad deal for Europe,” site later in the day. Poland is a major desti- strengthens the Kremlin hold on Europe’s his administration is reportedly concerned nation for Ukrainian laborers, who make Cruz holds up CIA nomination energy industry and hurts Ukraine, which about the impact additional sanctions up a sizable portion of the country’s work- U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) says he is stands to lose billions of dollars in annual would have on its relationship with holding up the confirmation of the next transit fees. Legislation passed in 2019 to Germany. (RFE/RL) (Continued on page 13) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) chief in place sanctions on vessels laying the pipe- order to pressure President Joe Biden to line halted the project for more than a year. stop Russia’s Nord Stream 2 pipeline. “I’ll However, Russia has resumed completion of With great sorrow we share that release my hold when the Biden administra- the project with its own ships, pushing tion meets its legal obligation to report and Congress late last year to pass new legisla- Wolodymyr Mirko sanction the ships and companies building tion widening the sanctions beyond vessels [Russian President Vladimir] Putin’s pipe- to include companies engaging generally in PYLYSHENKO passed away on February 8, 2021, in Rochester, NY at the age of 86 due to Covid-19. destabilize Ukraine in the interest of Russia Mikheil... [sic]” (Author’s interview, March 1). Mirko was born in 1934 in Volyn, Ukraine. As a child, he lived in displaced persons’ camps in Germany (Continued from page 2) Despite the tensions between Tbilisi and Kyiv over the issue of Mikheil Saakashvili’s during the war and immigrated to Rochester, NY in 1950 with his parents. He completed his university education at Rochester tional arena,” UNM parliamentarian Roman political activity, Ukraine and Georgia’s overarching shared interest is in curbing Institute of Technology and lived most of his years in Brockport on his Gotsiridze said on February 27 in an inter- farm on the Erie Canal. He taught art at SUNY Brockport and at other view with this author. Russian aggression. This is motivating both Rochester universities over 36 years. An artist, educator, human rights Some Georgians staunchly disagree, countries to maintain ties and “not burn all activist, archivist and community leader, Mirko served the Ukrainian however. One of them, film director George bridges” – a policy fully in line with the community of Rochester with enthusiasm and dedication. He was active Khaindrava, who produced a documentary West’s preference. in the St. Mary the Protectress Ukrainian Autocephalous Orthodox about the former president, argued that Mr. Church and the Rochester Ukrainian Federal Credit Union, where he was Saakashvili “caused great harm to the inter- The article above is reprinted from director of the library and served on the Board of Directors. For 75 years ests of Georgia, transferred 20 percent of Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from he was a very active member of Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization. Georgian territory [Abkhazia and South its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, As a member of Plast Sea Scout Fraternity “Chornomortsi”, he dedicated Ossetia] to Russia and is now trying to www.jamestown.org. his time to promoting and organizing Ukrainian Sea Scouting. Also, he was a well-known and recognized illustrator of Plast publications. A fearless young academician in the early days of travels behind the With deep sorrow we share the sad news Iron Curtain (1970s), he took his wife and children all the way to Central of the passing into eternal rest of our Asia, searching and finding long lost family members in Soviet Ukraine. beloved brother and dear friend to many, With his wife Irma, Mirko collected and brought to the West treasures of folk art, encouraging exchanges of people and art between West and East. He was appointed by President Jimmy Carter to serve as an advisor George Jarema to the Human Rights Committee in 1980. He opened up exchanges of scholars, himself teaching at the Moscow University (1979) and Kyiv MIRCHUK Mohyla Academy (1996). Mirko gifted from his own library 15,000 Ukrainian books, printed in the West during the 50 years of communist at his home in Edgewood, Maryland, rule in Ukraine, to the Central Library in Dnipro, Ukraine. on Thursday, February 25, 2021. When he retired from the State University of New York, Brockport Art Known in his Ukrainian circles as Yarema, he was the son of the late Dr. Department as Professor Emeritus, he became fully engaged in creating Petro and Anisia Mirchuk. He was born in Munich, Germany, on January the Ukrainian Rochester Collection – a history of the Rochester Ukrainian 13, 1948. In 1952 he came to the U.S. together with his family and settled community, which is housed and publicly available at the University of in Philadelphia, PA. Here, at La Salle and Drexel Universities he earned Rochester, Rare Books and Special Collections. M.A. degrees in History, Library Science and Computer Science, and Left in profound sorrow: subsequently worked as a teacher, librarian and computer programmer. He received a good Ukrainian education from his parents, Ukrainian loving wife - Irma Töpper Pylyshenko schools, by participating in Ukrainian American Youth Association (CYM) daughters and sons-in-law - Orysia Pylyshenko and Andrew Webber, activities and camps. He was long a member the Philadelphia Branch - Katja Kolcio and Bohdan Kolcio; of CYM, a member of the local Oseredok board, and an instructor at CYM sport camps. For many years he taught Ukrainian history at the grandchildren - Nastia Webber, Zenon and Axel Kolcio Philadelphia CYM Saturday School. A lover of sport, he engaged in a also, sister-in-law Inge White; his first wife - Slava Vitkovitsky variety of sports. He was a great chess, tennis, volleyball, soccer, and Pylyshenko, and extended family members in Ukraine, USA, Canada. ping-pong/table tennis player. Much appreciated in soccer circles are his A private funeral service was held at St. Mary the Protectress Ukrainian well-researched statistical data on soccer teams and players, for which Autocephalous Orthodox Church in Rochester NY. Private interment was he was awarded a citation of recognition by the Library of Congress. held at St. Andrew’s Ukrainian Orthodox Cemetery in South Bound Brook, Reserved and unpretentious, Yarema was well liked by his associates and N.J. A memorial gathering to celebrate Mirko’s life is being planned for companions, and for many of them he was a cherished, lifelong friend. the future when family and friends can safely assemble. Funeral services were held March 2, in Baltimore, MD., and at Christ Memorial donations may be directed to the following: Plast Conference the King Ukrainian Catholic Church in Philadelphia, PA, on March 4, with Inc., In memory of Mirko Pylyshenko, for Plast development in Eastern burial next to his parents in St. Mary’s cemetery in Fox Chase, PA. and Southern Ukraine. Please mail checks to: Bohdan Sawycky, 297 Clarksville Rd., West Windsor, NJ 08550-1413, or May His memory be eternal – Вічна Йому пам’ять! Ukrainian Rochester Collection. In memory of Wolodymyr Pylyshenko. brothers - Rt. Rev. Mitred Protopresbyter Roman Mirchuk Please mail checks to Betsy Henner, University of Rochester, Office of Dr. Ihor A. Mirchuk Gift and Donor Records, 300 East River Road, Box 270032, Rochester, extended family and friends in the U.S., Canada, and Ukraine. NY 14627. Donations in his memory may be made to the charity of choice, or to the All donations will be tax deductible and a thank you letter with tax donation receipt will be mailed. United Ukrainian American Relief Committee, 1206 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111. May his memory be eternal. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 No. 11

Committee on Energy, member of the par- Trilateral Contact Group the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine 2014-2019, Kyiv Security... liamentary faction of the political party Hryhoriy Nemyria, member of parlia- co-chair of the Lviv Security Forum (Continued from page 4) “Servant of the People” ment, first deputy chairman of the Oleksandr Turchynov, acting president Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze, member Parliamentary Committee on Foreign of Ukraine 2014, secretary of the National 2014, NATO 2000-2005, president of the of parliament, chairwoman of the Parlia­ Affairs, member of the parliamentary fac- Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Ukrainian Foreign Policy Association mentary Committee on Ukraine’s tion of the political party “Batkivschnyna” 2014-2019 Iryna Heraschenko, member of parlia- Integration into the European Union, mem- Volodymyr Ohryzko, foreign minister of Volodymyr Vasylenko, ambassador of ment, co-chairwoman of the parliamentary ber of the parliamentary faction of the polit- Ukraine 2007-2009 Ukraine to the United Kingdom 1998-2002 faction of the political party “European ical party “European Solidarity,” vice prime Andriy Osadchuk, member of parlia- and representative to the EU and NATO Solidarity,” member of the Parliamentary minister of Ukraine for the European and ment, deputy chairman of the political party 1992, judge of the International Criminal Committee on Foreign Affairs, first deputy Euro-Atlantic integration 2016-2019 “Holos,” first deputy chairperson of the Tribunal for former Yugoslavia 2001-2005, chairwoman of the Verkhovna Rada of Olena Kondratyuk, member of parlia- Parliamentary Committee on Law representative of Ukraine to the U.N. Human Ukraine 2016-2019 ment, deputy chairwoman of the Verkhovna Enforcement. Rights Council 2006-2010 Arthur Herasymov, member of parlia- Rada of Ukraine Andriy Parubiy, chairman of the Svitlana Voitsekhivska, member of the ment, co-chairman of the parliamentary fac- Gennadiy Kurochka, co-founder and Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine 2016-2019, sec- board of Open Ukraine Foundation, founder tion of the political party “European board member of Ukraine Crisis Media retary of the National Security and Defense of the Ukrainian Women Congress Solidarity” Center Council of Ukraine 2014 Yelyzaveta Yasko, member of parlia- Hanna Hopko, chairwoman of the Serhiy Kvit, minister of education of Natalia Popovych, co-founder of the ment, member of the Parliamentary Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs Ukraine 2014-2016, professor at the Natio­ Ukraine Crisis Media Center, founder of One Committee on Foreign Affairs and the chair- 2014-2019, chair of the board of “National nal University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy Philosophy Group woman of the sub-committee of the inter- Interests Advocacy Network ANTS” Danylo Lubkivsky, deputy foreign affairs Mykyta Poturayev, member of parlia- parliamentary cooperation, member of the Volodymyr Horbulin, secretary of the minister of Ukraine 2014, diplomatic advisor ment, chairman of the Parliamentary parliamentary faction of the political party National Security and Defense Council of to the prime minister of Ukraine 2014-2016, Committee on Information, member of the “Servant of the People” Ukraine 1994-1999 and 2006 director of the Kyiv Security Forum parliamentary faction of the political party Arseniy Yatsenyuk, prime minister of Lilia Hrynevych, minister of education Markiyan Lubkivsky, diplomatic advi- “Servant of the People” Ukraine 2014-2016, chairman of the of Ukraine 2016-2019, vice-rector of Borys sor to the deputy chairwoman of the Kira Rudyk, member of parliament, Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine 2007-2008, and Hrinchenko Kyiv University Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, ambassador of chairwoman of the political party “Holos,” chairman of the Kyiv Security Forum Mariya Ionova, member of parliament, Ukraine to Croatia and Bosnia and first deputy chairwoman of the Kostiantyn Yelisieiev, diplomatic advi- member of the Parliamentary Committee Herzegovina 2006-2009 Parliamentary Committee on Digital sor to the president of Ukraine 2015-2019, on Foreign Affairs, chairwoman of the sub- Myroslav Marynovych, human rights Transformation ambassador of Ukraine to the European committee on legislative support of and civic activist, founding member of the Ostap Semerak, minister of the Cabinet Union 2010-2015, and head of the Center of Ukraine’s EU and NATO membership, mem- Ukrainian Helsinki Group, vice-rector of the of Ministers of Ukraine 2014, minister of New Decisions ber of the parliamentary faction of the polit- Ukrainian Catholic University ecology of Ukraine in 2016-2019 Volodymyr Yermolenko, philosopher, ical party “European Solidarity” Oleksandr Motsyk, ambassador of Oleh Shamshur, ambassador of Ukraine chief editor at UkraineWorld.org Yuri Kamelchuk, member of parlia- Ukraine to the United States 2010-2015, to the United States 2005-2010, non-resi- Viktor Yelensky, professor at Ivan Kuras ment, member of the Parliamentary former representative of Ukraine to the dent senior fellow at the Atlantic Council Institute of Political and Ethnic Studies Yuri Shcherbak, ambassador of Ukraine Yaroslav Zheleznyak, member of parlia- to the United States 1994-1998 ment, chairman of the parliamentary fac- Inna Sovsun, member of parliament, tion and deputy chairman of the political deputy chairwoman of the political party party “Holos,” first deputy chairperson of “Holos,” member of the Verkhovna Rada of the Parliamentary Committee on Finance, Ukraine Committee on Energy, Housing and Taxation and Customs Policy Utilities Services Josef Zissels, human rights and civic Oleksandr Sushko, director of the activist, co-president of the Association of International Renaissance Foundation Jewish Organizations and Communities of Oksana Syroid, deputy chairwoman of Ukraine.

of Churches than on the position of victims Thousands march... of domestic violence and are afraid to enter (Continued from page 5) into a direct dialogue on this issue with society.” about the police who do not come on calls, The European Union, the Council of about alcoholism. Our movement to the Europe, and the international human rights West must take place with honor, dignity, organization Amnesty International have and self-respect, but without accepting called on Ukraine to ratify the Istanbul everything as it is.” Convention immediately. In May 2020, the Ms. Sovsun, who is the deputy chair- United Nations also called on the woman of the Holos party, said she believes Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to accelerate that parliament has not ratified the the Istanbul Convention’s ratification. Istanbul Convention because of the Council Ukraine signed the Istanbul Convention of Churches’ strong opposition to the move. in 2011 but has not yet ratified it. The bill THE DISTRICT COMMITTEE OF UNA BRANCHES “Unfortunately, parliament for years has on ratification of the Istanbul Convention OF NEW ENGLAND DISTRICT been afraid to make this decision due to the was submitted by the fifth president of Council of Churches’ manipulation,” Ms. Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko, to parliament announces that its Sovsun said. “We hear all sorts of explana- in November 2016, but the Verkhovna tions as to why the Istanbul Convention Rada did not pass the bill. In June 2020, in Annual District Committee Zoom Meeting cannot be ratified, starting with the fact response to a petition, the presidential will be held on that such ‘terrible terms’ such as sexual ori- office stated that Mr. Zelenskyy would sub- entation is used there. The authorities are mit a bill to parliament to ratify the Saturday, March 27, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. more focused on the position of the Council Istanbul Convention. Please RSVP to [email protected] by March 27th to participate in the Zoom meeting. Victor Chernets, Oleksandr Scherbatyuk, Obligated to attend the organizing meeting UOC-U.S.A. honors... Volodymyr Topiy, Volodymyr Zubok, Viktor are District Committee Offi cers, Convention Delegates (Continued from page 9) Khomyak, Viktor Prokhorchuk, Andriy and two delegates from the following Branches: Zhanovachiy, Volodymyr Boykiv, Oleksiy 59, 67, 206, 238, 241, 253, 254, 277, 387, 414 Varenytsia, Nazar Voytovych, Anatoliy Bratushko, Ihor Batchinsky, Mykola Zhalovaha, Anatoliy Zherebnyh, Bohdan Tarshchuk, Mykola Semisiuk, Ihor Pehenko, All UNA members are welcome as guests at the meeting. Vaida, Volodymyr Chaplinsky, Ihor Dmytriv, Vladyslav Zubenko, Artem Mazur, Taras Andriy Dyhdalovych, Roman Hurik, Vitaliy Slobodian, Mykhailo Kostyshyn, Artur MEETING WILL BE ATTENDED BY: Kotsyuba, Oleksandr Khrapachenko, Vasyl Khuntsaar, Yuriy Nechiporuk, Anatoliy Yuriy Symczyk - UNA National Secretary Moysey, Valeriy Opanasyuk, Volodymyr Kurach, Oleksandr Badera, Oleksandr Gloria Horbaty - UNA Advisor Pavliuk, Leonid Polyansky, Oleksandr Baliuk, Reshat Ametov, Vyacheslav Vorona, Shcherbaniuk, Maksym Shymko, Ivan Vasyl Aksenin, Olha Bura, Vasyl Sheremet, DISTRICT COMMITTEE Tarasiuk, Ivan Bliok, Mykola Pankiv, Vasyly Ivan Nakonechny, Petro Hadzha, Dmytro Myron Kolinsky, District Chairman Prohorskiy, Viktor Shvets, Volodymyr Chernyavskiy, Roman Olikh, Zurab Khurtsia, Christine D Melnyk, Vice Chairwoman Zherebniy, Liudmyla Sheremeta, Yevhen David Kipiani, Mikhail Zhyznevskibe. Bohdan Doboszczak, Secretary Kotliar, Ivan Horodniuk, Andriy Tsepun, For additional information, readers can Gloria Horbaty, Treasurer Maksym Mashkov, Maksym Horoshishin, visit the UOC-U.S.A. website, www.uocofusa. Georgiy Arutiunyan, Volodymyr Melnychuk, org. No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 13

While adding that “the rule of law and released in January focuses on “noneco- was ranked 25th among 139 countries, on Global rankings... civil liberties in general are not respected,” nomic dimensions” and Ukraine’s score par with Thailand, Algeria and Vietnam. (Continued from page 1) the report said the occupied parts “are was 1 point below the global average of 64. The company uses more than 50 individ- entirely dependent on Moscow for financial Its highest sub-category score was in ual factors to determine a country’s “power The report said that “attacks against and military support, and their leaders “nutrition and basic medical care,” where it index,” with zero designating a “perfect” journalists, civil society activists, and mem- have openly proposed joining the Russian collected 93 points, followed by “shelter” country. bers of minority groups are frequent, and Federation.” and “access to basic knowledge,” with each Ukraine’s highest score in the individual police responses are often inadequate.” Overall, the report said that “democracy” achieving a value of 90. components was 7 for reserves, armored Freedom House treated Russian- is under “siege” in the world as the number Ukraine scored the lowest in “inclusive- fighting vehicles and artillery. Its lowest- occupied Crimea and parts of the Donbas, of free countries has sunk to its lowest level ness” (44) for its poor acceptance of gays ranked military component was in naval where the easternmost regions of Donetsk in 15 years” – from 89 to 82. Georgia and and lesbians, discrimination and violence forces. Ukraine has no corvettes, aircraft and Luhansk lie, separately in its report. Moldova were the only other former Soviet against minorities and gender equity in carriers, helicopter carriers, destroyers or Both Ukrainian territories were rated republics to score partly free – aside from the politics. Its next lowest score was for submarines, and boasts of 11 patrol vessels, “not free,” the worst of the three categories. three Baltic countries, which scored free and “health and wellness” (57) that included one frigate and one mine warfare vessel. In the Crimea, which Russia forcibly are part of the European Union and NATO. the components of life expectancy and Its defense budget of $9.6 billion ranks seized in early 2014, “the occupation gov- The report said that in 2020, “democra- access to essential services. Environmental 30th and 15.6 million people are fit for ser- ernment severely limits political and civil cy’s defenders sustained heavy new losses quality (61) was the third lowest score. vice, the report said. rights, has silenced independent media, in their struggle against authoritarian foes, The Eastern European country overper- Ukraine also gained three points and and employs antiterrorism and other laws shifting the international balance in favor of formed by 1 point in “access to advanced ranked 117th out of 180 countries in the against political dissidents.” tyranny.” education,” ranking 32nd globally. most recent Berlin-based watchdog Transparency International’s (TI) yearly The watchdog added that “the indige- Social progress Military prowess nous Crimean Tatar minority…have faced Corruption Perceptions Index that was acute repression by the authorities.” Meanwhile, Ukraine improved by one Utah-based private analytics firm Global released on January 28. In occupied Donbas, encompassing point on social performance, reaching 63 Firepower released its rating of the theo- The modest improvement was attribut- about one-third of the two regions’ territo- on a 100-point scale in a yearly report by retical military fighting capability of coun- ed to the “launch of the High Anti- ry, “politics within the territories are tightly Washington-based nonprofit Social tries this year. Corruption Court and the reboot of the controlled by the security services, leaving Progress that covered 163 countries. Based on conventional means, excluding National Agency on Corruption Prevention,” no room for meaningful opposition.” Conducted annually since 2011, the report nuclear arms, Ukraine’s military capability the watchdog said.

Dzhemilev from entering Crimea for five possession of ammunition. The 77-year- on camps from 1966 to 1986. He is also NEWSBRIEFS years in March 2014 after Moscow illegally old Ukrainian lawmaker has rejected all of known for going on a 303-day hunger (Continued from page 11) annexed Crimea. However, a decision by the charges, calling them politically moti- strike – the longest in the history of the the Federal Security Service (FSB) in 2019 vated and linked to his official rejection of Soviet human rights movement. Rights force amid Poland’s strong economic to extend the ban became public on March Russia’s control over Crimea. Mr. groups and Western governments have growth. (RFE/RL) 5 during Mr. Dzhemilev’s ongoing trial – Dzhemilev was the chairman of the denounced what they call a campaign of being held in absentia – in Russian- Crimean Tatar’s self-governing assembly – oppression targeting members of the Tatar leader barred from entering Crimea controlled Crimea. Prosecutors at the the Mejlis – which was banned by pro-Mos- Turkic-speaking Crimean Tatar minority Russia has barred long-time Crimean ongoing trial in the Crimean city of cow representatives in Crimea after the and others who opposed Moscow’s rule. Tatar leader Mustafa Dzhemilev from Armyansk have accused Mr. Dzhemilev of annexation. Mr. Dzhemilev was a leading The majority of Crimean Tatars opposed entering Crimea for the next 13 years. attempting to illegally enter Crimea, negli- human rights activist during the Soviet era the Russian takeover of their historic Russian authorities initially barred Mr. gent possession of a firearm and the illegal and served six jail sentences in Soviet pris- homeland. (RFE/RL) 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 No. 11

In the National Hockey League, the home- retiring from the league. Ex-Ranger Kovalev netted the contest’s his last NHL game. Instead, it was town team always wears white, but this was Before the center ice faceoff against the initial score in the second period. Rangers Pittsburgh’s Jagr, who originally was not not the case on this particular spring day, Penguins, Alexei Kovalev and Jaromir Jagr loyalists cheered every time “The Great going to play back-to-back games with the when General Manager Neil Smith defied got hugs and No. 99 took his place among One” touched the puck and were rewarded playoffs coming up, ending the match 1:22 tradition, and outfitted his New York the Rangers’ starting five on the blue line, with less than a minute remaining in the into the extra session. Some said it was the Rangers in their blue sweaters. This was next to captain Brian Leetch and linemate middle 20 when, on the power play, New passing of the torch with Jagr, at the top of supposed to be a most special game. Niklas Sundstrom. The Canadian and York evened the score. Leetch passed to his game, taking over as the new NHL Inside the arena, everyone’s eyes were American national anthems managed to Gretzky just inside the offensive zone on superhero. fixated on the player wearing a matching incite the crowd into even more of a frenzy the right wing, who took two strides to the Everyone present, including the victori- blue turtleneck with 99 embroidered under leading up to a most special moment. top of the circle and fed the trailing defen- ous Penguins, celebrated the close of the lace-up collar. His black and white Nike It was a moment most hockey fans were seman, Mathieu Schneider, in the high slot. Gretzky’s brilliant career. There was a team Air Zoom skates glided around the rink, the not totally prepared for; at the age of 38, Schneider faked a shot, taking goalie Tom picture with all of his mates donning spe- one with the same 99 painted behind both the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer (894) Barrasso out of position, and hit Leetch for cial “99” hats. He took a celebratory skate goals. The blue jersey was tucked in only on was hanging up his skates. The world an easy redirect goal. on the Garden ice as if he had just won the right side, as usual, inside his red pants. learned that Gretzky would retire only two Madison Square Garden proceeded to another Stanley Cup. He returned from the The head was covered with a Jofa helmet days prior, when he made the formal shake and roar with the game tied and tunnel for another curtain call, as if he had decorated by NYR stickers on the sides, announcement regarding his illustrious Wayne Gretzky tallying his 2,857th NHL been named a star of the game. He gazed while the fingers of his Hespeler gloves 21-year pro hockey career. Rather than point. The man of the hour celebrated like around the Garden one last time, the blue gripped one of the many Hespeler sticks he pose a distraction to the league and to his it was point No. 1. Rangers jersey hanging on his sweat-and- used on this day. Rangers, he opted for a dignified departure The fans present and those watching on tear-drenched thin physique before the Yes, this was a most special game. at season’s end. television witnessed his sheer sense of lights went dark in the Garden. Twenty-one years ago, on April 18, 1999, Unofficial rumors were out there all sea- enjoyment, energy, love for the game and Gretzky took his time removing his the hockey world fixated its gaze on a sheet son long that his time was winding down. the competition. One last time he would set skates for the final time. Those present of ice in the middle of New York City when His final game in Canada was on April 15, up behind the net in “Gretzky’s office,” pass claimed more than an hour passed before “The Great One,” Wayne Gretzky, played his 1999, against the Ottawa Senators, after when everyone thought he would shoot, he untied them and slipped the sweater final NHL game. which he took a personal telephone call sometimes shoot when least expected. His over his head. It was, as if, subconsciously, Not one spectator at Madison Square from the Canadian prime minister. unique way of reading the play on the ice, he didn’t want to take it off. Garden sat during the pre-game festivities, the anticipation, his element of surprise and The night was a celebration of his great- Action on the Ice as hockey fans chanted his name and cam- trickiness was on display one final time. It ness, talent and personality. It was yet era flashes lit up the moment. Witnesses The MSG faithful were seated as the was electric every time he handled the puck, another amazing chapter in a most storied included Mario Lemieux, future Rangers puck dropped at center ice between each time he jumped on the ice. It truly was life and career. It was Ukrainian Wayne General Manager Glen Sather, 1994 Stanley Gretzky and Martin Straka. The two clubs Wayne Gretzky and everyone else. Gretzky – the greatest player in the history Cup hero Mark Messier, Phil Esposito, Jerry were heading in opposite directions – the The game was tied after 60 minutes with of the National Hockey League. Seinfeld and Christopher Reeve. NHL com- Rangers were in the second year of a seven- tension and anticipation building to an missioner Gary Bettman was booed, as year playoff drought, while the Penguins improbable magical ending for “The Great Ihor Stelmach may be reached at iman@ always, until he announced No. 99 was were prepping for the playoffs. One” to bury the overtime game-winner in sfgsports.com.

SPORTSSHORTS by Matthew SOCCER Dubas home stage of the Freestyle European Cup on February 13 in Krasiya, Ukraine. The Dynamo Kyiv and Shakhtar Donetsk advance competition was held at the Krasiya ski Dynamo Kyiv and Shakhtar Donetsk resort in the Zakarpattia region. Maksym advanced to the Round of 16 of the UEFA Kuznietsov (89.89 and 84.74 points) won Europa League after winning their respec- two gold medals in men’s aerials. tive matches in the Round of 32. Dynamo Volodymyr Kushnir took a silver (77.81) Kyiv tied 1-1 with Club Brugge on February and a bronze (57.81 points) in men’s aeri- als. Anhelina Brykina (59.11 points) and 18 in Kyiv and won 1-0 against Brugge on Anastasiia Hasiuk (48.53) received bronze February 25 in Belgium, with an aggregate medals in women’s aerials. score of 2-1 that pits Dynamo against Villarreal on March 11 in Kyiv and March Brykina wins bronze at Raubichi 18 in Villarreal. Shakhtar won 2-0 against Maccabi Tel-Aviv in its first-leg match on Anhelina Brykina won bronze (133.03 February 18 in Tel-Aviv and won 1-0 on points) at the European Cup in women’s February 25, and Shakhtar plays Roma on freestyle skiing aerials on February 5-6 in March 11 and 18. The Round of 16 draw Minsk-Raubichi, Belarus. was made on February 26 at UEFA head- quarters in Nyon, Switzerland. HOCKEY Wikipedia.org/WalterGretzky Hockey dad Walter Gretzky dies at 82 Metalist Kharkiv revival gains support Walter Gretzky from 2010. Canada’s hockey dad battled Andriy Pavlenko, president of the competitions, in particular, the [UEFA] minute. Kherson was eliminated from the Parkinson’s and other health issues for Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF), Champions League,” he added. On February competition and Inter advanced to the some time before passing away on March acknowledged a proposal letter from 23 Yaroslavsky said he had agreed with the quarterfinal against Ugra Yugorsk (Russia). 4. Son Wayne Gretzky called his dad the Olexandr Yaroslavsky, president of Metalist Kharkiv city authorities on the revival of FC team captain for his three brothers, his sis- Kharkiv soccer club, that called for Metalist Metalist and was again ready to invest in Ukraine loses to Croatia in Euro qualifiers ter and himself. Wayne’s father, Walter, to unite with the UAF. “I learned with great the football club he owned in 2006-2012. Ukraine lost 2-3 against Croatia on was the reason Wayne fell in love with the inspiration about a letter from the presi- March 3 in Croatia and lost 2-7 in sport of hockey. His dad inspired Wayne to dent of the legendary football club Metalist, FUTSAL Zaporizhia on March 7 as part of the UEFA be the best he could be in the game of Oleksandr Yaroslavsky, to the Kharkiv Kherson loses in the Champions League Futsal Euro 2022 qualifiers. Ukraine, in hockey and the game of life. The father of regional authorities with a proposal to Group 1, is in second place after three the greatest hockey player and arguably unite with all concerned compatriots and Kherson lost 2-4 against Inter FC (Spain) matches played with three points. Other the most dominant athlete ever did not loyal fans and revive the truly heroic FC on February 19 in Spain as part of the UEFA teams in the group include Denmark (third carve his way into Canadian folklore on the Metalist,” Pavlenko said. “As a member of Futsal Champions League Round of 16. In place) and Albania (fourth place). Ukraine heels of his superstar son. Walter Gretzky the UEFA [the European soccer governing the knock-out round, Inter opened the is scheduled to play against Denmark on built his own legacy and impacted the body] Executive Committee and president scoring in the 15th minute, with Kherson April 8 and against Albania on April 11. game, country and community with his of the UAF, I will do my best to help imple- leveling in the 30th minute, but Inter raised kindness, generosity and zest for life and ment this initiative. I believe that in the the bar in the 32nd minute, and the SKIING the people around him. Any doubts about near future the Kharkiv club, founded back response came from an own-goal by Pola to Freestyle skiers win six medals at Euro Cup his nationality were erased in his autobi- in 1925, will again enchant us with its play equalize again in the 33rd minute. Inter ography when Mr. Gretzky readily admit- in the Ukrainian Premier League, the pulled ahead with two more goals, first in Ukrainian freestyle skiers won two gold, Ukrainian Cup and the European football the 38th minute and then again in the 39th a silver and three bronze medals at the (Continued on page 15) No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 15

Through May 20 Varenyky sales, Assumption of the Virgin Mary Ukrainian March 23 Online panel discussion, “DNA Testing and Family History Northampton, PA Orthodox Church, 610-261-4575 Online Research,” Ukrainian Genealogy Group, https://meeting.zoho.com/ meeting/register?sessionId=1054635734 March 15 Webinar with Lubomyr Luciuk, “How People Live in Soviet Online Russia: Impressions from a Journey” by Mendel March 24 Ivan Franko Memorial Lecture, with Olga Onuch, University Osherowitch, Ukrainian Canadian Civil Liberties Foundation, Online of Ottawa, [email protected] or https://ucpbaottawa.ca U.S. Committee for Ukrainian Holdomor Genocide Awareness, www.ukrainegenocide.com March 24 Webinar with Michael Andrec, “Advanced Cyrillic for Online Genealogists and Historians,” Nashi Predky Family March 16 Concert featuring organist Gail Archer, “A Slavic History Group, www.ukrhec.org or 732-356-0132 New York Celebration: Trio of Gail Archer Concerts, Ukrainian Program,” Columbia University, St. Jean Baptiste Church, March 26 Presentation, “My Baba’s Borshch,” with instruction by 212-288-5082 or www.sjbny.org Online Julia Tkalych, St. Vladimir Institute, www.stvladimir.ca

March 17 Webinar with Oksana Kis, “How to Survive Stalin’s Gulag March 26 Varenyky and Borsch dinner take-out or drive-through, Online and Remain Human,” book discussion on “Survival as Whippany, NJ Ukrainian American Youth Association, Ukrainian American Victory: Ukrainian Women in the Gulag,” Harvard Cultural Center of New Jersey, pdinner.com University, 617-495-4053 March 27 Paska Easter bread pre-sale, Syracuse Ukrainian National March 18 Webinar, “Update on CUFTA: Benefits, Outcomes, Syracuse, NY Home, 315-478-9272 or [email protected] Online Successes and Difficulties,” Ukrainian Canadian Professional and Business Association, Embassy of March 27 Easter Food Fest, Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Ukraine in Canada, https://ucpbaottawa.ca Jenkintown, PA Center, www.ueccphila.org (take-out only)

March 18 Webinar with Maj. Gen. Volodymyr Havrylov, Ayla Bakkalli March 27 Presentation by Bozena Hrycyna, “Learn How to Make Online and Phillip Karber, “Ukrainian Dialogue – 30 Years of Online Pysanky,” Folk Camp, St. Vladimir Institute, www.stvladimir.ca Ukrainian Independence, Part 1: Russian Invasion and Military Relationship with the U.S.,” Manor College, March 28 Online pysanka workshop, with instruction by Olga Kobryn, https://manor.edu/dialogue Online Ukrainian History and Education Center, www.ukrhec.org or 732-356-0132 March 20 Perogy Night (vaerenyk-making kits) fundraiser to benefit Ottawa HelpUsHelp charity, Carleton Ukrainian Students’ Club, March 30 Webinar with Luba Petrusha, “Pysanka Symbols and Motifs,” Ukrainian Youth Association Hall, Online Ukrainian History and Education Center, www.ukrhec.org www.eventbrite.ca/e/cukrainians-virtual-perogie-night- or 732-356-0132 tickets-142352950507 March 31 Presentation by Maria Sonevytsky, “Wild Music: Sound March 21 Online children’s workshop, “Ukrainian Easter Eggs and Online and Sovereignty in Ukraine,” Harvard University, Online Legends,” Ukrainian History and Education Center, www.huri.harvard.edu or 617-495-4053 (registration required) www.ukrhec.org or 732-356-0132 Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events March 22, 27, In-person pysanka meet-up, Ukrainian History and advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions April 5, 11 Education Center, www.ukrhec.org or 732-356-0132 from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors Somerset, NJ and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected].

SportsShorts Ukraine wins bronze in Pokljuka Ukraine’s women’s team (Anastasiya (Continued from page 14) Merkushyna, Yuliia Dzhyma, Darya Blashko and Olena Pidhrushna) won bronze in the ted when growing up he called his father 4x6-kilometer relay (1:10:48.2 seconds) at “Tato” and Ukrainian was the first lan- the IBU World Championships in Pokljuka, guage he spoke. Mr. Gretzky made huge Slovenia, on February 9-21. The Ukrainian contributions to minor hockey organiza- women’s team missed seven shots. tions, leagues and funds across Canada. He constantly dedicated much of his time and Dzhyma wins silver medal at World Cup efforts to help raise awareness and finan- Ukrainian biathlete Yuliia Dzhyma won a cial assistance for many local, provincial silver medal in the women’s 15-kilometer and national charities. These efforts individual race (43:13.0 seconds) at the earned him the Order of Canada in 2007. MBW IBU World Cup in Antholz- He carried the Olympic Torch during the Anterselva, Italy, on January 18-21. Dzhyma Olympic Relay prior to the 2010 Games in shot clean. Vancouver. Several years later he had a school named after him – the Walter TENNIS Gretzky Elementary School near Brantford, Biathlon-Antholz.it Svitolina out in Qatar Ontario. Mr. Great One was truly a special Yuliia Dzhyma advances to the finish line in the women’s 15-kilometer individual man and most special Dad. World No. 5 and top-seeded Elina race in Antholz-Anterselva, Italy. Svitolina was upset in the round of 16 at the Flyers’ Patrick a most welcome addition Qatar Open, held in Doha March 1-6. After a have lowered and he appears to be taking BIATHLON first-round bye, Svitolina defeated Japan’s Nolan Patrick is back. The 2017 second- regular ice time, his path to success will be Dzhyma wins silver in Nove Mesto Misaki Doi, 6-1, 6-2 in the second round, overall pick is playing again after missing easier to attain. He is entrenched as the before succumbing to eighth-seeded all of last season due to a migraine disorder. third line center with two high-quality line- Yuliia Dzhyma won the women’s Victoria Azarenka of Belarus, 2-6, 4-6. In Labeled a bust by some following two mates in James van Riemsdyk and Jakub 7.5-kilometer sprint (18:57.7 seconds) at qualifying play, Lesia Tsurenko beat Gabriela 30-point seasons, he has shown flashes of Voracek, giving Philadelphia three danger- Stage 8 of the BMW IBU World Cup on Ce of Brazil, 6-1, 6-1, and Katerina Siniakova potential throughout his time in the NHL. If ous scoring lines and a fourth line which of the Czech Republic, 6-3, 6-2, before losing he can perform anything close to the Nolan could be a third line on most clubs. Patrick Dzhyma shot clean. to Laura Siegemund of Germany, 6(4)-7, 4-6, Patrick that was promised leading up to the is in a good spot to succeed this season and March 1-7 in Nové Město, Czech Republic. Silver and bronze medals at Brezno-Osrblie missing an opportunity to play in the main 2017 NHL draft, he could be one of the keys unlocks a lot of potential in the Flyers line- draw. On the personal front, Svitolina and to the Philadelphia Flyers taking the next up. He scored a goal in the season opener, Anna Kryvonos won silver in the wom- Gael Monfils of France have split up, decid- step. He is still only 22 years old with plen- and has 5 points in his first 13 games. en’s 10-kilometer pursuit (26:23.1 sec- ing to take a break in their relationship ty of room for continued growth. The Flyers While it remains to be seen if Patrick can be onds) at the IBU Cup in Brezno-Osrblie, shortly after both suffered upset losses at were already a deep team in 2019-2020, the key to the Flyers’ improvement, the Slovakia, on February 15-21. Kryvonos the 2021 Australian Open. and the return of Patrick and Oskar players that the Flyers put around Patrick missed just one target. Ruslan Tkalenko Lindblom makes them that much deeper. will be crucial in helping his game reaching won bronze in the men’s 10-kilometer Ihor Stelmach is credited for the entries in Since the young Ukrainian’s expectations the next level. sprint (25:12.7 seconds) and shot clean. tennis and hockey. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2021 No. 11