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Vol. LXXXVIII No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 $2.00 UOC-U.S.A. Spiritual Center Yermakgate scandal rocks thanks health-care workers Zelenskyy administration by Bohdan Nahaylo pose lucrative posts for cash without being confident that his brother would back him – While struggling to address the up. Mr. Leros has handed over the record- unprecedented challenges posed by the ings, along with a crime report, to the coronavirus pandemic, the incessant war National Anti-Corruption Bureau, an inde- with in the Donbas, and the looming pendent agency investigating high-level economic crisis, has been shaken corruption. by potentially the biggest political scandal Neither Denys nor Andriy Yermak deny since Volodymyr Zelenskyy was elected that the leaked video recordings do indeed president almost exactly a year ago. show the former meeting with “business National Deputy Geo Leros, a member clients.” But Andriy Yermak insists he was of Zelenskyy’s Servant of the People major- not involved, that his brother was acting ity faction in Parliament and a former independently, and that in any case none of adviser to the president, on March 29 pub- those with whom appointments were dis- lished video online implicating Denys cussed actually landed jobs with or through Yermak, the bother of the head of the the Zelenskyy administration. Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, in cor- On March 31, Andriy Yermak claimed ruption. that Mr. Leros had published the tapes on The many hours of videos, filmed secret- the eve of crucial voting in the Verkhovna ly between August and September 2019, Rada on two bills whose passage had show Denys Yermak meeting with individu- become a precondition for Ukraine to als seeking appointment to rewarding posi- receive a financial bailout from the tions in the government or state-owned International Monetary Fund. He said that companies. Payment for his services is dis- Mr. Leros was being used by political oppo- cussed, though as yet no evidence has been nents and that his real motive was revenge, provided of money changing hands or of because he had failed in lobbying for a SOUTH BOUND BROOK, N.J. – The Spiritual Center of the Ukrainian Orthodox any of the candidates having secured the friend to obtain a government post. Church of the U.S.A. in South Bound Brook, N.J., may be closed for visitors and posts they were after. The presidential chief of staff announced pilgrims, but it marked World Health Day, April 7, by honoring those on the front- Mr. Leros has refused to disclose the that he has filed official allegations against lines of the coronavirus fight. It did so by lighting up St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox source of the secret recordings and what the lawmaker to the Security Service of Memorial Church in light blue colors. The UOC-U.S.A. website noted: “All offices of their motive was. He says that in acting as a Ukraine (SBU) and the State Bureau for the Consistory and entities of the Church unite with the rest of the world – with a mes- whistleblower he is fulfilling his responsi- Investigations (SBI) – both of which are sage of thanks and appreciation to celebrate the brave men and women (doctors and bility to expose corruption at the highest ultimately subordinated to the president. nurses, chaplains and service personnel) who are helping so many during COVID-19 levels and to expose the president’s right- For a political leader who came to power pandemic.” hand man for what he is. After all, Denys – UOC-U.S.A. Yermak would not be in a position to pro- (Continued on page 3) Plast in Ukraine marks its 108th anniversary with nationwide 11-hour celebration online

by Roman Tymotsko KYIV – Every year on April 12, Plast, the largest and old- est Ukrainian youth organization, celebrates the anniversa- ry of the first Plast Oath, which is considered the date Ukrainian scouting was formally established. Under the current conditions of the coronavirus quarantine, mem- bers of Plast – National Scouting Organization of Ukraine did not cancel the celebration, but instead opted to go online. On the day before the historic date, April 11, Ukrainian scouts simultaneously across the country marked the 108th anniversary online. More than 9,000 people joined the 11-hour broadcast via the Internet. The four largest branches of Plast in Ukraine – Kyiv, Kharkiv, Ivano-Frankivsk and – all played a part in the pro- gram. “The plan was that I would lead the organizers’ team for Plast Oath Day in Kyiv,” said Bohdan Hultai, coordinator of the online national celebration. “However, by the time event planning began it was March and it was clear that there was no possibility to carry it out as a result of the

(Continued on page 4) A screenshot of the post-event meeting of organizers of the Plast Oath Day celebration held via the Internet on April 11. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 No. 16

ANALYSIS

Ukrainian espionage incident highlights Ukraine reports 4,161 COVID cases secret operations against Russia-backed mil- itants in eastern Ukraine and recruited addi- ongoing Russian naval shortcomings The Ministry of Health reported on April tional agents, the SBU said. (RFE/RL’s 16 that Ukraine has confirmed 4,161 cases Ukrainian Service) of COVID-19. The ministry said 116 people the Russian Federation has illegally by John C. K. Daly have died and 186 have recovered. Two Wildfires in Chornobyl area extinguished annexed Crimea; the Russian Federation Eurasia Daily Monitor days earlier, Ukraine had reported 392 new has conducted military intervention on the Emergency crews have extinguished cases of coronavirus over the past day, Russian-Ukrainian relations, increasingly territory of Donetsk and Luhansk regions wildfires that had been burning near the bringing the total number to 3,764, accord- tense since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet [Donbas]; the Russian Federation is a dan- defunct Chornobyl nuclear power plant. ing to information released by the Public Union, plummeted to a new low after ger to the Ukrainian state and its territorial The acting director of Ukraine’s State Health Center. The Public Health Center also Russia’s forcible absorption of the Crimean integrity. And that is why the agreement on Ecology Inspection, Yehor Firsov, said in a said on April 14 that some 39,084 tests have peninsula in March 2014 and subsequent military-technical cooperation with Russia statement on Facebook on April 14 that been conducted in Ukraine to detect new invasion of the Donbas. On March 18, is being broken by the Cabinet of Ministers after 10 days, firefighters had managed to coronavirus infections. A total of 2,145 peo- Russian President Vladimir Putin visited of Ukraine” (Pravda, May 20, 2015). finally extinguish the blaze. “In short, the ple in the country are undergoing treatment , home of the country’s Even before Ukraine withdrew from bilat- fire was extinguished. The rain helped a lot. at home under doctors’ supervision, while Fleet, and delivered a rousing patriotic eral military cooperation, the Russian mili- The level of the radiation background is 1,368 people have been hospitalized, includ- speech commemorating the sixth anniver- tary was already searching for alternative permanently being measured, but accord- ing 59 children. (Radio Svoboda, Ukrinform) sary of Russia’s “reunification” with Crimea import-substitution sourcing for some of its ing to the data we have, in general, every- (Kremlin.ru, March 18). The following day, most crucial logistical needs. Three months 227 servicemen remain isolated thing is normal,” Mr. Firsov wrote. Mr. likely not coincidentally, the Security Service prior to Mr. Yatsenyuk’s announced termina- Firsov’s Facebook statement came hours of Ukraine (known as the SBU) agents tion of the 1993 agreement, then-Russian No new cases of coronavirus have been after Viktoria Ruban, spokeswoman for the arrested a Ukrainian from Mykolayiv on navy head, Admiral Viktor Chirkov, acknowl- confirmed for servicemen of the Armed Kyiv regional directorate of the State espionage charges of seeking information edged that one consequence of the post- Forces of Ukraine as of the morning of April Emergency Situations Service, told report- on advanced Ukrainian naval technology to Crimean deterioration in Russian-Ukrainian 14, while more than 200 people are in iso- ers at the Dytyatky checkpoint near the sell to Russia’s Federal Security Service relations was that the Russian naval forces lation, the press service of the Command of Chornobyl restricted zone that the situa- (FSB) (Ssu.gov.ua, March 19). would no longer be able to acquire maritime the Medical Forces of the Ukrainian army tion has been complicated by heavy winds It is not surprising that the SBU would gas turbines manufactured by Ukraine’s said. Nineteen cases of COVID-19 have been in the area. The day before, the fire had uncover a spy for Russia in Mykolayiv, state-owned enterprise, Zoria Research and registered, including one recovery and one approached the ghost city of Prypiat, which which for decades housed the most Production Complex of Gas Turbine Building fatality. Some 227 people remain in isola- was abandoned by all residents in April advanced in the . – Mashproekt, in Mykolayiv. Admiral Chirkov tion and self-isolation, the command said. 1986 after the nuclear disaster at Interestingly, Mr. Putin had obliquely commented that, as a result, the Russian (Interfax Ukraine) Chornobyl. Ms. Ruban said that firefighters addressed the issue of purported Russian Military-Maritime Fleet would transfer its SBU official suspected of collaboration had managed to stop the fire near Prypiat. espionage in his March 18 Sevastopol orders to the Ural Turbine Plant in Ekaterin­ Earlier in the day, the Emergency Situations address. The Kremlin leader asserted that, burg (Voenno-Promyshlennyi Kurier, The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) Service said that firefighting operations in after Russia’s acquisition of Crimea, February 11, 2015). says one of its top officials has been the area were under way, adding that radia- Western powers had been “provoking a spy Ironically, systemic Ukrainian corruption detained on suspicion of collaborating with tion in the region and in the capital, Kyiv, mania”; however, he insisted, “there has not and mismanagement did what Russian Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB). In was within “permissible” levels. A day earli- been nor will there be any [Russian] spy- pressure could not to further degrade an April 14 statement, the SBU said Maj. er, Greenpeace Russia had warned that ing. Unfortunately, we are seeing this, spy Ukraine’s capacities. In Gen. Valeriy Shaytanov is suspected of high fires blazing through the exclusion zone are mania, in certain partner countries…” November 2017, the Mykolayiv shipbuild- treason and terrorism. It said audio and much larger than authorities in Kyiv were (Kremlin.ru, March 18). The recent SBU ing complex ceased work due to lack of video recordings gathered during the case admitting and that they posed a radiation operation, nevertheless, seems to belie Mr. funding necessary for the minimal mainte- provided “irrefutable evidence” of the crime. risk. The fires began on April 3 in the west- Putin’s pious assertions. nance of Ukrainian Navy warships, such as According to the SBU, Maj. Gen. Shaytanov ern part of the uninhabited exclusion zone The SBU announcement tersely stated the Ukraina missile cruiser, mothballed started working for the FSB in 2014 and had before spreading to nearby forests. The only that the suspect was attempting to sell quayside in Mykolayiv. These problems planned “terrorist acts” in Ukraine, includ- National Police said they have detained two “classified shipbuilding information” to derailed naval plans even though, by this ing allegedly planning to murder Adam people suspected of setting the initial fire. Russia (Ssu.gov.ua, March 19). Yet, it is pos- time, the shipbuilding enterprise was Osmayev, the leader of Chechen volunteers (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service) sible to deduce what the specific target owned by Ukraine’s state-owned Ukr­obo­ fighting on the Ukrainian side against One soldier killed in Ukraine’s east likely was: notably, Ukraine’s Black Sea ron ­prom aerospace and defense conglom- Russia-backed separatists in Ukraine’s east. shipyards maintain an advantage over erate (Fb.ru, November 28, 2017). Mr. Osmayev was injured and his wife was Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense reported those of the Russian Federation in the con- While maritime gas turbines may well killed in an ambush near Kyiv in October on April 13 that in the previous 24 hours, struction of maritime gas turbine propul- have been the prime target for the 2017 that Ukraine blamed on Russian one Ukrainian soldier was killed and one sion systems. Russia has been unable to Mykolayiv spy, a number of other Ukrainian agents. Maj. Gen. Shaytanov also allegedly master this high-technology area since weaponry innovations could also have provided information to Moscow about (Continued on page 13) Ukraine’s post-2014 ban on advanced mili- been of interest to the FSB – particularly tary exports to Russia. As such, the technol- those weapons systems with the potential ogy certainly remains a high reconnais- to erode Russia’s near-monopoly on arms sance priority for Moscow. exports to the Middle East. These include The Ukrainian Weekly FOUNDED 1933 While all countries seek some level of an analogue of the Russian Iskander tacti- economic autarky or self-sufficiency in the cal missile system that Kyiv is developing An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., production of armaments, the post-Soviet with Saudi money, the Grom-2; a powerful a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. states are particularly vulnerable in this Ukrainian electromagnetic radiation gener- Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. regard. First of all, the former Soviet Union’s ator to neutralize air-defense radars; high- Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. centralized economic planning and precision weapons-guidance systems; (ISSN — 0273-9348) resource deployment ignored market con- automatic troop control-and-communica- siderations; and second of all, Soviet indus- tions systems Ukraine is researching in The Weekly: UNA: Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 trial production chains were deliberately conjunction with the United Arab Emirates; dispersed among the various constituent as well as licensed production in Jordan of Postmaster, send address changes to: republics, which became independent Korsar anti-tank missile systems produced The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz states following 1991. The Soviet Union’s by the Ukrainian company GKKB Luch 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas most advanced shipyards were concentrat- (Delovaia Stolitsa, March 17, 2020). P.O. Box 280 ed in Ukraine: thus, all three classes of The Ukrainian government is taking the Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] Soviet aircraft-carrying cruisers were built espionage charges seriously: the captured at the Mykolayiv Communal Mykolayiv resident is being accused of trea- The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com (renamed the Black Sea Shipyard following son (Gazeta.ua, March 20). While the naval the fall of the Soviet Union), including the disparity between Russia and Ukraine is The Ukrainian Weekly, April 19, 2020, No. 16, Vol. LXXXVIII Russian navy’s current flagship, the Admiral vast, Soviet-era military-industrial legacies Copyright © 2020 The Ukrainian Weekly Kuznetsov (Fb.ru, November 28, 2017). as well as the fact that these two neighbors On May 20, 2015, a little over a year share the northern Black Sea coastline after Russia forcibly wrested Crimea away mean that the Mykolayiv incident is unlike- ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA from Ukraine, the Ukrainian prime minister ly to be the last. at the time, , said that the Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 Cabinet would terminate the May 26, 1993, The article above is reprinted from e-mail: [email protected] bilateral agreement on military-technical Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 cooperation with Russia, stating, “The its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, e-mail: [email protected] Russian Federation is an aggressor state; www.jamestown.org. No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 3

NEWS ANALYSIS Russia tries to capitalize on coronavirus pandemic

by Kseniya Kirillova Vladimir Putin proposed abandoning international sanc- Kremlin-controlled Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, recalled that Eurasia Daily Monitor tions related to medicines, food, equipment and technology some provincial Italian legislatures had already recognized during the coronavirus pandemic (Kremlin.ru, March 26). the Russian status of the annexed peninsula (Krymr.com, While the whole world copes with the crisis caused by To reinforce this message, the Kremlin sent medical equip- April 1). In this regard, the director of the Diplomatic the novel coronavirus pandemic responsible for COVID-19, ment to the United States under the guise of humanitarian Academy of Ukraine, former Ukrainian Ambassador to Moscow has been attempting to take advantage of the situ- aid. As it turned out later, this assistance was, in fact, Turkey (2008-2016) Sergey Korsunsky, noted that the ation. Under the pretext of helping them tackle a “common bought and paid for by the United States (Twitter.com, Kremlin is trying to use the pandemic not only to encour- misfortune,” the Kremlin hopes, at a minimum, to pressure April 1; Un.org, April 2). age the lifting of international sanctions on Russia but also Western countries into easing sanctions and accepting the Moreover, part of the equipment delivered to the U.S. to advance global recognition of the annexation of Crimea Russian annexation of Crimea. As a maximalist goal, included Aventa-M mechanical ventilators manufactured (Krymr.com, April 1). Moscow wants to use the crisis to set in motion a redivi- by the Radioelectronic Technologies Concern (RETC), a Such attempts have already provoked a negative reac- sion of the world. firm that notably falls under Russia’s high-technology state tion from some members of the European Parliament, who One of the first steps in implementing this strategy was corporation Rostec, sanctioned by the administration of addressed the EU leadership with a letter noting that the attempt, made earlier this month by Moscow and its President Barack Obama since July 2014. Indeed, RETC Russian political maneuvers around the possibility of lift- allies, to draft a United Nations resolution on lifting inter- has itself been under the same U.S. sanctions since that ing sanctions have nothing to do with the fight against national sanctions under the pretext of combating corona- time (RBC, April 3). Moscow’s “aid package” sale, without infection. The parliamentarians pointed out that the virus. The document was called the “Declara­tion of a doubt, was provocative because, having accepted this restrictions imposed for the annexation of Crimea and the Solidarity in the Fight Against Coronavirus” and, in addi- shipment, Washington unwittingly fell into a Russian pro- war in the Donbas in no way prevent Moscow from caring tion to general platitudes about the need for states to paganda trap. Soon thereafter, Russian propaganda sourc- for the health of its citizens or contributing to the global cooperate with each other and with the World Health es began stating that the U.S. government’s acceptance of fight against the coronavirus (Radio Svoboda, April 3). Organization (WHO), it urged countries to “abandon trade the aid effectively proved the “harmfulness” and futility of At the same time, some recent commentary by individu- wars and unilateral sanctions bypassing the U.N. Security sanctions, especially in the face of a global threat. als close to the Kremlin has been quite revealing: the goal Council.” The U.N. General Assembly rejected the version Russian assistance provided to Italy (see Eurasia Daily of Russian activities during the pandemic is to “dismantle proposed by Moscow, however, instead approving a reso- Monitor, April 8) was also accompanied by a large-scale the rotten system” of existing international institutions and lution titled “Global Solidarity to Fight the Coronavirus information campaign, which included disinformation create a new world order. “When this ‘third world war’ Disease 2019” (Deutsche Welle Russian service, April 3). regarding European Union aid to Italy and called for the Earlier, at a meeting of G-20 leaders, Russian President lifting of sanctions. Against this backdrop, the head of (Continued on page 4)

ly, domestic issues. Yermakgate... If Mr. Bohdan came across as strong-headed and bullish, Canadian organizations call (Continued from page 1) his successor, Mr. Yermak, is seemingly more slick and guarded. Both are lawyers, with the former having worked on government to take action pledging to root out corruption and nepotism, President for the notorious oligarch Ihor Kolomoisky, while the latter Zelenskyy remained conspicuously reticent on the matter. more recently has concentrated on the legal side of film against online hate On April 2, Mr. Leros published further extracts from the production. He remains an imponderable and, apart from leaked recordings indicating, among other things, that the his business contacts in Moscow, it is not clear why Mr. UCC discussions had involved even the posts of director of the Zelenskyy gave him responsibility for foreign affairs. OTTAWA – April 2020 marks the five-year anniversa- National Nuclear Energy Generating Company of Ukraine On ousting Mr. Bohdan, Mr. Yermak pledged to do things ry of the passing of Motion M-587 by the House of (EnergoAtom), the state enterprise operating all four differently and be more open in the way the Presidential Commons, recognizing April as Genocide Remembrance, nuclear power stations in the country. Office is run. This has not happened. Moreover, he shocked Condemnation and Prevention Month in Canada. The fallout from the scandal necessitated an April 2 many with what was seen as a tactless display of ostenta- On this occasion, a coalition of advocacy organiza- meeting for damage-control purposes with the leaders of tion: on March 11 he acquired a new Mercedes valued at tions, including the Armenian National Committee of the Servant of the People party. Mr. Zelenskyy managed to almost 3 million hrv, or over $100,000 (U.S.). Canada (ANCC), the Center for Israel and Jewish persuade them that he would not pressure the SBU and In their recriminations, Messrs. Leros and Yermak both Affairs (CIJA), the Ukrainian Canadian Congress and the SBI, and that the results of their “impartial” investi- have not hesitated to depict one another as dubious (UCC), the Humura Association and Romanipe gations would clarify matters. Ukrainian patriots. On March 29, Mr. Leros addressed the issued the following statement on April 14. On the other hand, Andriy Yermak reportedly attempted following words on his Facebook page to Mr. Yermak: “in “As we collectively face the Covid-19 pandemic, we to explain away the “erratic” behavior of his younger broth- our country, which is foreign for you, everyone is against are reminded of the importance of solidarity and er and convince Mr. Leros’s colleagues that the whistle- you…” Mr. Yermak countered publicly by emphasizing that unity during these difficult times. Time and again, our blower’s motives were entirely devious. Mr. Leros is of ethnic Armenian origin. history has proven that during times of uncertainty Thirty-year-old Mr. Leros, a typical political newcomer Mr. Yermak has also suggested that Mr. Leros is being and despair, those who are the most vulnerable often from Mr. Zelenskyy’s harvest of new lawmakers, fell out used by rogue oligarch Mr. Kolomoisky to weaken the face the most challenges. with Andriy Yermak on an entirely different matter. A well- Zelenskyy administration as it seeks a financial lifeline “In light of the current situation, we continue to known up-and-coming figure on Kyiv’s arts scene, the from the IMF. This accusation seems to ring hollow in light remain gravely concerned as the recent increase in young art and film director was best known for a project of the fact that a recent edition of Radio Liberty’s investiga- online hate incidents across the country and the globe known as “City Art,” which brought world-known mural- tive journalism program “Skhemy” has disclosed apparent – even more prevalent as communities and families ists to Kyiv to transform empty building walls into open-air regular covert meetings between Andriy Yermak and Mr. try to stay connected through online platforms at this art galleries. Kolomoisky’s close associate, Timur Mindich. time of enforced social distancing – shows us there is While Petro Poroshenko was president, Mr. Leros “Skhemy” also alleged that the Presidential Office chief much work still to be done. served as an advisor to the minister of information policy. used his personal influence to get one of his friends “We know that in the early stages leading to geno- President Zelenskyy subsequently appointed him as an appointed to a good position in the Kyiv administration. It cide, words are used to target and dehumanize groups advisor. also showed Mr. Yermak having a secret meeting in a car- of people. And with so much of the world online today, The conflict surfaced in March after Mr. Leros adopted park with an uknown man, something which, given his it is essential to combat on-line hate right at the an openly critical position after Andriy Yermak, the chief position, should not be hidden from the security services. source. Truly, ‘it starts with words,’ and the world Ukrainian representative during negotiations in Minsk Nevertheless, observers covering the Yermak scandal needs to be aware and vigilant, in order to effectively with the Russians, appeared to yield to pressure to estab- have noted that, after the story about the recordings broke, confront that hate. “Therefore, we ask the government of Canada to lish a consultative body that would include representatives the main media have fallen conspicuously silent about move forward with its policy on online hate based on of the fake Donetsk and Luhansk “people’s republics.” Mr. what is, after all, the most serious scandal involving leaked the work done by the House of Commons Standing Leros was one of 55 deputies from the Servant of the recordings since the notorious case of the Melnychenko Committee on Justice and Human Rights Justice in the People faction who signed a statement opposing such a tapes in 2000 during the era. last Parliament. Moreover, we urge the Parliam­ ent of move. This is all the more intriguing because two of the per- Canada to re-establish the All-Party Parliamentary But the national deputy went further and gave an out- sons implicated in the discussions conducted by Denys Group for Genocide Prevention and to provide the spoken interview to the press. On March 13 the president Yermak as his partners, Dmytro Stanko and Serhiy group with the necessary tools and funding to be able fired him as his advisor and Mr. Leros believes that Andriy Shumsky, appear to have turned “state’s evidence,” or are to execute its mandate, and to lead the way in fighting Yermak was behind this move. seeking to point the finger elsewhere. After questioning by genocide and hate. Andriy Yermak himself has not mentioned this as a fac- the bodies conducting investigations on April 5, they have “Our concerted efforts in combating hate, injustice tor, but he has insinuated that Mr. Leros might be a weapon both filed formal allegations against both Yermak brothers and discrimination have led us to many achievements of his predecessor as head of the Presidential Office, Andriy involving “facts of fraud and corruption.” and a stronger and more diverse Canada. We remain Bohdan. The latter was replaced on February 11 by Mr. So, as Ukraine remains preoccupied with the coronavi- confident and hopeful that the government of Canada Zelenskyy after losing a behind the scenes internal power rus threat and whether the IMF’s conditions for a bailout will continue to work with us and our communities in struggle. Since then Andriy Yermak has consolidated his will be met, the Yermakgate scandal is a potential time- making sure that ‘Never Again’ truly means ‘Never position as the most powerful figure next to the president, bomb, the fuse of which is burning and the consequences again’ ” responsible not only for foreign policy, but also, increasing- of which are hard to foresee. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 No. 16

symbolic transmission of a Plast necker- Plast in Ukraine... chief. When the person on the video (Continued from page 1) removed her neckerchief and “transferred” it to the next frame, the broadcast abruptly coronavirus epidemic. Preparations were stopped. It turned out that Facebook algo- frozen. Ivan Bratsyun, the head of Kyiv’s rithms concluded the girl had started Plast branch, suggested organizing the undressing, so it stopped broadcasting in event in an online format. We decided to accordance with its rules of use. Thus, the demonstrate… that despite the quarantine, team decided not to “transfer” neckerchiefs we are still together,” Mr. Hultai added. for the anniversary broadcast the next day. Organizers say the event aimed to show Although the festive event lasted for 11 the unity of Plast members and their readi- hours, organizers gathered for a private ness to overcome obstacles. “We thought video call afterwards and continued their globally,” so that branches from different communication. Someone jokingly came corners of Ukraine – from Lviv to Kharkiv, up with the idea of ​​repeating this format could be involved. “We thought it was bet- for an online Spring Festival (Sviato Vesny) ter to do one large-scale event than a few – the opening of the camp season. smaller ones, and we sent out a call. We On Plast Day, April 12, many Plast mem- were joined by Anya Bondarenko, Nadia bers, alumni and community leaders Tsyutsyak and Halyna Malchyk – coordina- recorded video greetings and posted on tors from Kharkiv, Ivano-Frankivsk and social media. Among the well-known Lviv, respectively,” Mr. Hultai said of the Sophia Opatska Ukrainians who publicly supported the start of this unprecedented project. Plast scouts, at home, participate in the online celebration of the scouting organiza- organization were the primate of the “We immediately created a joint chat, tion’s 108th anniversary. Orthodox Church of Ukraine, Metropolitan discussed the idea and started organizing Epifaniy; actress Irma Vitovska; ex-Ambas- it. It was planned that each of the four Plast development. “Plast in Kharkiv is as active This year’s online celebration of Plast sador of Canada to Ukraine Roman branches involved would have its own part as possible in the current circumstances. Oath Day is far from the beginning of Washchuk; writer Serhiy Zhadan; entre- of the program – we wanted to combine We conduct projects online, hold meetings, Plast’s activity via the Internet. Indeed, this preneur Yaroslav Azhnyuk; journalist fun and useful stuff. …We had to think gatherings. We are trying to take advantage event continues a long-term project that Yanina Sokolova and others. Ukraine’s through how the broadcast could be per- of the situation, to accumulate strength for significantly complements and replaces Prime Minister also con- formed, connecting different instructors action in the new branch’s year,” explained elements of the Plast program at this time gratulated the organization. and speakers. Vladyslav Malkov coura- Ms. Bondarenko, who heads the Plast of quarantine. “Plastuy Online” (Do Plast The head of Plast in Ukraine, Stanislav geously took on this part, and he practically branch in Kharkiv. “The plans for the com- Scouting Online) is an initiative of the Plast Andriychuk, recorded a video address for did not leave his monitor for 10 and a half ing months include the accumulation of Central Office in response to the new chal- this holiday of all Plast scouts. “At the age of hours of the live broadcast,” noted Mr. manpower. We are improving our internal lenge posed by the coronavirus pandemic 13, I joined Plast. It was here that I learned Hultai, adding that this was no small chal- processes, preparing for the next year and, and all its consequences. to work as a team member and to be a lenge, as the team was using this format for at the same time, we are not abandoning The project manager, Mr. Malkov, spoke leader, I learned how to take responsibili- the first time. Teamwork, he said, played a our hopes for summer camp,” she said. about how the idea came to life: “Stanislav ty,” he said. “The uniqueness of Plast is its key role. Plast’s Kharkiv branch began its rapid Andriychuk, the head of Plast in Ukraine, environment. Here a child has the opportu- On the day of the event, when thousands development after the Revolution of called me and said that we needed to cre- nity for self-development and self-educa- of eyes were glued to the action taking Dignity. It became a success story, proving ate a platform for online Plast activities. tion. I want my daughter Yaroslava and place on the participants’ screens, the orga- that it is possible to create a community of There are many initiatives from our Plast many other children to grow up in Plast’s nizing team needed to respond quickly and several hundred people from scratch and scouts, but we need to bring them together. environment. For every Ukrainian child to coherently to all challenges. “It was fun and to develop it into one of Plast’s largest Within a few days, the first videos were have this opportunity, support Plast for our tense during the broadcast itself: while it branches. “The dream about Plast in the released. The most popular videos we’ve 108th anniversary.” was happening, we added smaller ele- east of Ukraine has become a reality, and done have been about life in nature Since its inception in 1911, when the ments online – because we wanted to show now it is our great responsibility: to persist because Plast members are always drawn first Plast groups were organized, and the everything. …We were constantly in touch, in difficult social conditions and relations to nature and especially when quaran- first Plast Oath in 1912, Plast has educated the leaders controlled their parts of the with the authorities, to be useful to smaller tined.” conscious, responsible citizens of their program. …We organized all of this, never but no less important units of the organiza- Since he already had the experience of local, national and global communities and having met in person, working strictly from tion,” Ms. Bondarenko commented. implementing technical solutions for leaders of Ukrainian society. Every year, home,” the coordinator of the online anni- “Developing Ukrainian scouting in the east Plast’s online activities, Mr. Malkov also Plast’s volunteer scoutmasters invest more versary celebration summed up. and the south is what makes Plast truly all- took charge of the technical aspects of the than 668,000 hours in the upbringing of The anniversary program combined Ukrainian. It is reviving the national idea online Plast Oath Day. “It was a rather children and hold more than 200 scout various activities of Plast scouts. The event and Ukrainian history in these areas of spontaneous idea, and the active work camps – and that’s only in Ukraine. began with an official opening and ended Ukraine; currently it provides one of the began a week before the event. A a lot of With the onset of the coronavirus quar- in the evening with an improvised camp- few Ukrainian environments for children material came after the start of the broad- antine, Plast began to face new economic fire. The program also included workshops and volunteers. Of course, we need support cast, so we had to broadcast and simulta- challenges due to a sharp decline in busi- on making pysanky, lectures on parachut- to increase staffing and development, to neously process each succeeding piece of ness support and private donations in the ing, quizzes, online quests, greetings from prepare them properly, to maintain quality the program. In addition, I needed to ban wake of the crisis. Today, the organization various venues and speakers, and singing and quantity. And we are grateful to all provocateurs from the eastern neighbor is calling on all its friends for support in by the campfire. Plast members, parents, friendly communi- country, who sometimes came to comment order to nurture its development so that For several years now, large celebrations ty organizations and Plast’s friends who on the broadcast,” Mr. Malkov related. Plast can continue developing Ukraine and of the anniversary of Plast’s founding have helped and assisted us in activities and He also spoke about some curiosities. Ukrainian communities around the world. been held in eastern Ukraine, which is one projects. There is more is to come,” the For example, at an online rehearsal on the (Charitable donations to Plast can be made of the priority areas of the organization’s head of the Kharkiv branch promised. eve of the broadcast, the team conducted a at https://donate.plast.org.ua.)

from San Francisco and a member of the ties not only to intercept but even replace with quarantine issues, but also with the Russia tries... Free Russia Forum, Michael Talanov, these all Internet traffic inside Russian borders search for coronavirus tests, remedies, (Continued from page 3) systems were originally tested in Moscow with government-approved messaging. access to medical care and so on (Region. and occupied Crimea. According to the Paradoxically, against the backdrop of expert, April 3). At the same time, as against the coronavirus ends, it will be nec- expert, the Kremlin fears that the new these attempts to strengthen centralization, Russian commentators note, residents of essary to hold a ‘new Yalta’ conference, pos- restrictions caused by the pandemic may the COVID-19 pandemic in Russia has actu- the Russian periphery are not receiving the sibly in Crimea, and discuss a new world fuel popular discontent against the govern- ally led to the increased independence of same support and benefits as Muscovites, order,” said Alexander Malkevich, the chair- ment; therefore, officials are trying to intro- the regional governments. After Vladimir resulting in greater regional dissatisfaction person of the Public Chamber’s Media duce total control over everything happen- Putin dodged responsibility for setting (Ura.ru, April 5). Therefore, when the pan- Commission and the president of the ing on the peninsula – including groups tra- appropriate self-isolation measures by demic is finally over, Moscow may encoun- Moscow-based Foundation for National ditionally opposed to Russian rule, such as passing the burden on to the regional gov- ter difficulties trying to drive the regions Values Protection (Vechernyia Moskva, the Crimean Tatars (Krymr.com, April 8). ernors, the subjects of the federation intro- back into the “strict vertical” of power. April 3). At the same time, Moscow is increasing duced their own laws regarding quarantine Russian authorities are also using the its confrontation with global digital giants. and its implementation (see EDM, April 6). The article above is reprinted from global pandemic as an opportunity to intro- Pro-Kremlin media routinely claim that U.S. As a result, each region of the Russian Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from duce a mass surveillance system to keep IT companies seek to “kill” Russian busi- Federation is presently forced to cope with its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, tabs on the country’s citizens. The govern- nesses and that the state’s task is to pre- the pandemic on its own, dealing not only www.jamestown.org. ment has already implemented a facial rec- vent them from succeeding (Life.ru, April ognition system on street video cameras 2). According to Talanov, the Kremlin is that automatically mines online social attempting to create the illusion of a media networks, allowing a targeted per- “besieged fortress” in order to justify the The Ukrainian Weekly son to be fully identified and electronically introduction of a “sovereign Internet.” Such monitored. According to an IT specialist a system would allow the Russian authori- LIKE on Facebook! No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 5

FOR THE RECORD American Association for Ukrainian Studies protests Ukraine’s cuts to funding for scholarly, cultural institutions Following is the full text of the open letter from the Ukrainian State Film Agency and others. For the first time American Association for Ukrainian Studies regarding bud- in Ukraine’s almost 30 years of independence, the get cuts following the formation of the Stabilization Fund. Ukrainian state had begun actively promoting Ukrainian culture, history, language and scholarship in Ukraine and TO: abroad. These institutions did foundational work in estab- Volodymyr Zelenskyy lishing in the world an image of Ukraine as a country that Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal deserves respect and fascination for its cultural riches and The UNA ANNoUNces Minister of Finance of Ukraine Serhii Marchenko scholarly traditions. Minister of Foreign Affairs Within the short period since their inception, these ScholarShipS Interim Minister of Culture institutions implemented hundreds of projects, including scholarly exchange with prominent international institu- and awardS As American scholars of Ukraine, we appeal to you in tions of research and learning, support for Ukrainian stud- for StudentS attending college defense of Ukrainian cultural and scholarly institutions that ies in Ukraine and abroad, participation in international in the 2020-2021 academic year. are disproportionately threatened by the proposed budget conferences and book fairs, translation of Ukrainian litera- cuts following the formation of the Stabilization Fund. ture and historical documents into most widely used for- Students wishing to apply for a UNA scholarship eign languages, promotion of Ukrainian music and contem- Specializing on Ukraine in subjects ranging from poli- or award must meet the following criteria: tics, energy and economics to media, literature and history, porary art at leading international festivals and competi- we intimately understand the dire situation in which tions, and many more. l Have been an active, premium-paying Ukraine finds itself following the outbreak of the coronavi- For the first time since its independence, Ukraine was UNA member for at least two years rus and the rapid economic downfall that it precipitated. At actively investing in creating a formidable cultural and by June 1st of 2020; the same time, we appeal to you to review the proposed scholarly bulwark against the threats to the country’s very l Have had a life insurance policy or existence. All these projects and international alliance cuts to the national budget as they will disproportionately an annuity, valued at a minimum of affect cultural and scholarly institutions leading to the col- building efforts are now under threat of being eliminated $5,000 during the last two years lapse of their activities in Ukraine and abroad, with devas- entirely and completely. tating consequences for Ukraine’s ability to defend itself We appeal to you to consider the grave consequences (term policies excluded); against the many global threats it faces today. that the cessation of this work will have for Ukraine’s stand- l Be enrolled in an accredited college or As experts who have dedicated our lives to studying ing in the world and for the defense of Ukraine among edu- university in USA or Canada. Ukraine and Eastern Europe, we emphasize with urgency cated, influential audiences in international capitals around The application for a UNA scholarship or award the world. We urge you to reverse your decision to dispro- that culture, education, the arts and sciences are key to the must be postmarked no later than June 1, 2020. global recognition of a country’s sovereignty. They defend a portionately cut the budgets of these cultural institutions country against a foreign aggression and mobilize interna- and work with their leaders to determine reasonable reduc- For complete details and applications, please tional support in the time of need as effectively as the mili- tions with the goal to preserve as many vital projects as is call the UNA Home Office or visit the Our tary defends it on the ground. As history has proven more possible. Benefits page on the UNA website at: than once, without culture and scholarship, a country Sincerely, www.UNAInc.org amounts merely to a territory that invites colonization and American Association for Ukrainian Studies pays for it with the lives of its citizens. It is for these rea- Signed by (on behalf of the association): sons that Ukraine’s neighbors such as Russia, Poland, the Oxana Shevel, Tufts University, President Ukrainian National Czech Republic, Hungary, and others spend hun- Association, Inc. dreds of millions of dollars annually on stimulating and Paul D’Anieri, University of California Riverside, Vice-President 2200 Route 10, promoting their own culture both in the country and Parsippany, NJ 07054 Ostap Kin, Zimmerli Art Museum, Rutgers University, abroad. Ukraine must do the same and forcefully promote 800-253-9862 its culture and scholarship to maintain and strengthen its Secretary-Treasurer ext. 3035 cultural and political sovereignty. * * * We had welcomed with enthusiasm the creation in To see the full list of signatories, go to https://ukraini- Ukraine under the auspices of government agencies of anstudies.org/open-letter-from-american-association-for- such institutions as the , the Ukrainian ukrainian-studies-regarding-budget-cuts-following-the- Cultural Foundation, the Ukrainian Book Institute, the formation-of-the-stabilization-fund/. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 No. 16

EASTER PASTORAL LETTER The Ukrainian Weekly Russia’s coronavirus manipulations The Resurrection is a joyful beginning

If there’s one thing we know about Russia and its mendacious leader, it’s that you Paschal Letter of the Permanent Therefore, rejoicing, we will thank the can never take anything they say at face value. Recently, Russia tried to pull a fast one Conference of Ukrainian Orthodox Bishops Savior for His great and incredible Mercy to at the United Nations. At the General Assembly, Russia sponsored a draft resolution Beyond the Borders of Ukraine us, always glorifying His Third Day whose ostensible topic was the raging coronavirus pandemic. According to an Resurrection. ”The angel cried to the Lady Associated Press story, the resolution called for U.N. solidarity at this time of world- God-Loving Pastors, Honorable Monastics Full of Grace: Rejoice, Pure Virgin. Again I wide crisis and urged an end to trade wars, protectionist practices and unilateral and all Faithful Children of the Ukrainian say, Rejoice! Your Son is risen from His sanctions without U.N. Security Council approval (please do recall that Russia has Orthodox Church Beyond the Borders of three days in the tomb. With Himself, He veto power on the Security Council). and in Ukraine: has raised up all the dead. Rejoice, all peo- Russia’s resolution had the support of the Central African Republic, Cuba, Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen! ples.” (Easter Canon) Nicaragua and Venezuela. The European Union, the United Kingdom, the United “And now go quickly, tell His disciples In these holy days of Pascha – the States and Ukraine were opposed. that He is risen from the dead and He is Resurrection – we greet one another with The Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform reported on April 3 that Ukraine succeed- going ahead of you to Galilee, there you will the words “Christ is Risen.” These words ed in blocking the resolution. It quoted Ukraine’s ambassador to the U.N., Serhiy see Him.” (Mt.28:7&10) unite heaven and earth, creation with the Kyslytsya, as saying that Ukraine “blocked Russia’s manipulative draft resolution It is with these words of joy through the Creator, mankind with God. The submitted to the U.N. General Assembly, which opened a window of opportunity for lips of an angel that God announces the Resurrection of Christ strengthened the political manipulation, in particular lifting sanctions, under the guise of fighting the Resurrection of His Only Begotten Son, our faith of the apostles and, through them, the novel coronavirus.” Savior Jesus Christ, to Mary Magdalene and faith of all Christians in the world. The Ukrainian diplomat told Ukrinform there were a number of reasons the the other Mary, the women who had come The present threat of the coronavirus Russian initiative could not be approved by the General Assembly. “First, the remov- to see His Tomb. The entire Orthodox pandemic has shocked the world. Every al of trade barriers and economic security measures should be discussed at a spe- world today celebrates the Feast of Feasts, day we hear about the numbers of people cialized agency of the U.N. – the World Trade Organization – not on the margins of the new Passover of Salvation, and thus joy- infected and the mounting death toll. All the General Assembly,” he said. Second, the proposed clause on the abolition of sanc- fully glorifies the Source of Life – the One this makes us think about our personal tions “destroys the logic of responsibility for gross violations of the U.N. Charter” and Risen from the Tomb, Christ our Lord. lives and our behavior. During this difficult other norms of international law. The first words Christ spoke to the period, when we think about this unprece- Third, Mr. Kyslytsya pointed out, Russia’s initiative was a classic example of propa- Apostles after his Resurrection were “Peace dented crisis, let us remain at peace and, ganda camouflage: “On the one hand, Russians declare their intention to help other be with you.” Let us look deeper into the most importantly, be in fervent daily prayer. countries during the pandemic and, on the other, block the transit of humanitarian meaning of these words of the Savior. He May our faith be strong and firm. We pray goods to Ukraine. In addition, they close the occupied territories of the Donbas for speaks here of peace and tranquility in our and hope that the Lord, through His glori- international observers and humanitarian aid and do not respond to threats of possi- souls and hearts, which we can only achieve ous Resurrection, will set us free from this ble infection faced by Ukrainian political prisoners in prisons in temporarily occupied through genuine, genial love, harmony, pandemic and all our suffering and worry. Crimea or in the Russian Federation.” Fourth, the lifting of sanctions should not be understanding and mutual forgiveness. Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, driven by the fight against a pandemic but as a consequence of “the termination of “The Great and Sacred Feast has arrived dear Ukrainian people beyond her borders violations of international law by the aggressor,” the envoy stated. – the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ: and in Ukraine! We wholeheartedly greet Furthermore, “The Kremlin understands perfectly well that international sanc- the foundation of peace, the initiation of rec- you all on the Feast of the Resurrection of tions do not affect the humanitarian assistance needed to counter Covid-19,” onciliation, the cessation of hostilities, the Christ, and we pray that the Risen Lord will Ambassador Kyslytsya underscored. He added that Russia’s draft resolution in fact destruction of death, the victory over Satan. bestow upon all of you His gracious undermined the efforts of the secretary-general and U.N. member states who were Today, mankind has united with angels, and strength to do good works, to increase gen- seeking true solidarity in battling this pandemic. Ultimately, the General Assembly we are one body together with celestials erous love, to bring peace to your families, did approve a resolution, sponsored by Ghana, Indonesia, Liechtenstein, , singing Paschal hymns. Today, Satan’s friends and neighbors. We pray for peace Singapore and Switzerland, that was titled “Global Solidarity to Fight the power is destroyed, the bonds of death are throughout the whole world, especially in Coronavirus Disease.” Recognizing “the unprecedented effects” of the pandemic, it vanquished, hell is astonished because it is the east of our native Ukraine and all the reaffirmed the General Assembly’s “commitment to international cooperation and shattered.” (St. John Chrysostom, Epistle for multilateralism, and its strong support for the central role of the United Nations sys- Easter) (Continued on page 7) tem in the global response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.” The move at the United Nations was just one example of Russia using coronavirus for its purposes. On March 26, at a videoconference of G-20 leaders, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested that there should be a moratorium on sanctions, that there should be “green corridors free of trade wars and sanctions” to ensure supplies of medication, food, equipment and technology. (We direct readers’ atten- tion to the news analysis on page 3 for more on this topic.) In a statement issued on March 30, Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Minister Dmytro Kuleba got right to the point: “Russia tries to persuade those around that sanctions limit its ability to tackle the pandemic. These claims are an imitation. No sanctions package imposed on Russia for its aggression in Crimea and the Donbas affects its ability to protect Russians from the coronavirus or to contribute to global efforts to overcome the crisis. Russia’s misuse of the pandemic for political purposes, its calls to lift sanctions are a dirty manipulation and an attempt to benefit from the suffering of millions.” The good news is that hardly anyone is falling for Russia’s latest scheme.

April Turning the pages back...

Last year, on April 25, 2019, the adopted a 25 sweeping language law that elevated the status of Ukrainian in nearly every facet of life. 2019 A solid majority of 278 lawmakers voted for the bill that makes Ukrainian the sole language in all government activities and for officials while performing official duties. The law also ensured Ukrainian dominance in the public sphere of media, culture and education. However, the law does not apply to private communication or language used in religious ceremonies. Overcoming centuries of oppression by its neighbors, which continues to be felt today, the has become a symbol for the country’s struggle for independence and a key component of identity. Russian still dominates as the lingua franca in print and online media, as well as in commerce, where menus, labels and outdoor signage appear mostly in Russian. After voting for the final version of the bill, national deputies sang the national anthem. This was outgoing President Petro Poroshenko’s last legislative legacy before President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was sworn in on June 3. The law went into effect on June 16, 2019,

(Continued on page 14) Artwork by Yaroslava Surmach Mills. No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 7

COMMENTARY: Ukraine’s land sale law: Boom or bust?

by George Woloshyn case of billionaire oligarch Victor Pinchuk) related to pow- eign ownership. By some estimates, foreign corporations erful politicians. Therefore, it should come as no surprise already control (though they do not own) up to 10 percent Shortly after the collapse of the USSR, the CIA rated that – unlike American “robber barons” who left the coun- (2.2 million hectares) of Ukrainian agricultural land. Ukraine as the most likely to succeed and prosper in the try more prosperous and powerful – these “shanovnyky” Mr. Smeshko believes that the law should not be imple- post-Soviet era. Indeed, all the objective indicators were who had “privatized” Ukraine’s vast industrial wealth but mented during a period of deep global recession and possi- there: a highly educated population, unrivaled agricultural contributed very little, are responsible for Ukraine’s rank- ble depression, as this would border on criminality. He is potential, a wide and diverse array of industry, an abun- ing as Europe’s poorest country. very much concerned that “speculators” would buy up dance of natural resources, temperate climate, and a strate- Why this “walk down memory lane” when the issue hundreds of thousands of greatly undervalued parcels gically favorable location between the Occidental and before us is the lifting of the moratorium on land sales? from desperate owners “for nothing and cause a colossal Oriental worlds Remember the adage “fool me once, shame on you; fool me fall in the value of national assets and impoverishment of But, in the short term, Ukrainians would have to survive twice, shame on me”? That is why we must be reminded the population.” a very difficult transition while the economy ground to a that the same people who bear direct responsibility for the Second, the government is unprepared to monitor and halt. All assets in Ukraine, other than small private homes endemic corruption, exploitation and looting of the control the process, even though this has been raised as a and tiny plots of adjacent land, had been owned by “the nation’s industrial assets are still in control of much of source of concern multiple times. The inventory of agricul- people” (i.e., the government), and Soviet authorities never Ukraine’s government and media, are aware of Ukraine’s tural land is incomplete, and no procedures are in place for envisioned or provided for any other possibility. So the first agricultural potential, and may be positioning to “privatize” registration of land plots, including the filing of surveys, order of business was to print up and distribute to “the large swaths of Ukraine’s “black gold” with which its very identification of owners, availability and current uses. workers” shares of ownership in the plants where they had culture and national identity has been linked through cen- There is no assessment of soil condition, type, composition been working, and to the farmers, portions of the land turies – its “chornozem.” and quality of the land. The government’s database is which they had worked “collectively.” At present, 75 percent of Ukrainian land belongs to the incomplete and full of errors. But this failed to produce a revival of the economy approximately 7 million citizens who had each received In short, the law’s failure to ensure accuracy and trans- because starting up industrial plants and farming small five to six acres as their share of the dissolution of collec- parency risks a second “Wild West” in which corruption private plots of land required capital to pay for utilities, tive farms. The remaining 25 percent remains in the hands would flourish. fuel, current and back wages, equipment, supplies, etc. of the state. However, the moratorium on sale of land, dat- Third, the law fails to protect and support small and Neither workers, nor farmers, nor their managers, nor ing back to 2001, makes it impossible to establish land val- mid-sized farmers who have been the backbone of banks, nor the government had the capital, and the little ues, and, therefore cannot serve as collateral for loans from Ukraine’s agriculture and the carriers of its culture. they had was in a currency that was quickly losing value banks for additional purchase or investment in land. Most Ukraine’s law enforcement and judiciary systems, corrupt domestically and almost worthless abroad. And the of the owners who are not actively engaged in farming and ineffective as they are, will not be able to cope with the “shares” of ownership as well as land lots became mean- lease out their lots to others for periods of eight to 10 years large-scale land speculation that this law will generate. ingless because there was no money to restart them or at annual rentals ranging from $100 to $400. Farmers, family farms, and voluntary co-ops should be even to buy seeds. The “owners” quickly traded them away The land sale issue has been a controversial one for 19 given ownership incentives and provided with low-interest for a sack of rice or a bottle of vodka. years and has attracted very unlikely coalitions. On the one credit for expansion of land ownership or for seasonal So, President Leonid Kuchma had a seemingly bright hand, patriotic and nationalistic Ukrainians, mindful of all the loans based on newly created land values resulting from idea. His administration would cobble together “financial- sacrifices Ukrainians had suffered in defense of their land, are land sales or future harvests. Otherwise, they may end up industrial” groups (later known as “clans”) consisting of fearful of dispossession of the land from small farmers into in debt, dispossessed and working merely as hired hands anyone who had hard currency and offered to invest in the the hands of oligarchs and foreigners. Communists, who on lands they once owned, operation of specific, largely dormant, industrial sectors were instrumental in imposing the moratorium, are ideologi- Fourth, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had signaled his and/or facilities. Ownership of these facilities would be cally committed against private land holding. The pro-Rus- intention to call for a national referendum on the right to transferred from the state to private individuals or groups sian parties are against any accommodation to requirements sell land to foreigners. The current law allows such sales. responsible for kick-starting the nation’s industrial econo- of the International Monetary Fund and to economic growth He would be wise to follow through with his suggestion. my. Huge, highly sophisticated plants and complexes worth that would further push Ukraine out of Russia’s orbit. And In short, while the government’s intent may be com- hundreds of millions of dollars and which may have taken populist politicians like ’s Batkivshchyna mendable, the timing for implementation (October 1) years to construct were thus “privatized” for little more party are simply responding to the 60-70 percent of the could not be worse, and its failure to include measures to than pennies on the dollar. nation that also – intuitively – resists land sales. protect and support Ukraine’s small farmers and suppress Naturally, all the “plum” assets which were sure money- The moratorium has been lifted on the eve of April Fool’s corruption and abuse may snatch a bust out of (what makers and required very little capital were the first to be Day. In itself, this is welcome news because the land, if pri- should be) the jaws of a boom. “privatized”; only those assets that were deemed to be of vately owned and managed and the allowed to be freely Ukraine’s first major sale of its industrial assets turned strategic importance or were “losers” (such as the coal sold, is a guarantor of prosperity for Ukraine and food for an out to be a bust. Its land sales law would usher in the sale of mines) remained with the state. The “clans” then used these increasingly hungry world. According to some estimates, its remaining, agricultural, assets. The stakes are very large, assets to further bootstrap themselves – with the aid of brib- Ukraine’s GDP would increase at an annual 19 percent rate and Ukraine should not rush into a law for which the timing ery, intimidation, extortion, “raids” and occasional “con- and the value of its agricultural land would more than triple. is so bad and for which it is unprepared. Perhaps Ukrainian tracts” on partners and competitors – into their current roles Based on the economics alone, those who are opposed to authorities could agree with the IMF to pass a law allowing as “captains of industry” and, collectively, as the owners of an lifting the moratorium have lost that argument long ago. for a longer implementation period – not sooner than the estimated 80 percent of the nation’s industrial economy. By But the issue is not the benefit of land sales – but rather return of a robust domestic and global economy. 2008, the wealth of the 50 top oligarchs was equal to 85 per- how and when the lifting of the moratorium is implement- cent of Ukraine’s GDP, and with it came their stranglehold on ed and to whom it is sold. These appear to be the major George Woloshyn, MBA, JD, was a senior executive under Ukraine’s economy, politics, foreign relations, media, culture, concerns and the common rallying cry of the opposition. In three U.S. presidents: Ronald Reagan, George Bush and Bill civic activism, judiciary, law enforcement, etc. fact, this point is so important that Col. Gen. Ihor Smeshko, Clinton. He served as the Office of Personnel Manage­ment’s It must be remembered that these “captains of industry” one of Ukraine’s most outspoken defenders of private own- Director of the Office of Federal Investigations, the Federal were, generally, not very nice people. They were the ones ership and the free market, predicts a “social explosion” if Emergency Management Agency’s Director of National who (legally or illegally) had access to hard currency or the land sale law is handled without adequate protections Prepared ­ness, and as Inspector General of a bank regulatory assets – either KGB, Soviet-era satraps, thugs or (as in the for the small and medium farmer and restrictions on for- agency. GUIDELINES glorified with Him. Yesterday I was dying with Him, today I The Resurrection... have come to life.” FOR SUBMITTING MATERIALS TO THE WEEKLY (Continued from page 6) In celebrating the Passover of Christ, we ask the Risen In order to facilitate preparation of The Ukrainian Weekly, Savior to help us all see with His Glory with pure hearts, we ask that the guidelines listed below be followed. other war-torn areas of our world. Let us remember that “Glory as the only begotten of the Father.” (Jn 1:14) • E-mail submissions are preferred. Stories and photos may be sent to [email protected]. true joy and peace will be in our hearts only when we sow May the Grace of the Risen Lord Jesus Christ from His • Materials may also be mailed to: The Ukrainian Weekly, goodness among ourselves. Our Heavenly Father will for- Radiant Tomb be with you all! 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. give us our transgressions only if we sincerely forgive the With Archpastoral blessings, • Stories should have the name of the author; photogra- transgressions of others. phers should be credited for photos. All photos must be Through the Resurrection our Lord opens the doors for + Yurij – Metropolitan, clearly labeled and accompanied by captions. Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada • Persons who submit any materials must provide a com- us to eternal life – that precious treasure that “neither plete mailing address and daytime phone number where moth nor rust destroys” (Mt 6:20), because He “destroyed + Antony – Metropolitan, they may be reached if any additional information is Death by death and to those in the tombs He bestows life.” Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A., South America required. Therefore, let us not pass by and ignore this occasion for and Diaspora • News stories should be sent in not later than 10 days eternal life, but let us give our hand to one another and say, after the occurrence of a given event. • Full names (i.e., no initials) of all persons mentioned in “Brethren, even by those who hate us, let us forgive all for + Jeremiah – Archbishop, Ukrainian Orthodox Eparchy of South America stories and captions must be provided. English spellings the sake of His Resurrection.” must be verified. St. Gregory the Theologian says: “The day of the + Daniel – Archbishop, • Information about upcoming events must be received Resurrection is a joyful beginning. Enlighten ourselves Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A. and Diaspora one week before the date of The Weekly edition in which with this celebration and let us hug one another. Let us say the information is to be published. For items to be listed in + Ilarion – Bishop, Preview of Events, information must be sent to preview@ ‘brethren’ to those who hate us and, even more so, to those Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada ukrweekly.com; information for the Out & About listing must who love us, or have done or suffered anything because of be e-mailed to [email protected]. us. In the spirit of the Resurrection, we are forgiving one + Andriy – Bishop, Any questions? E-mail [email protected]. another... Yesterday I was crucified with Christ, today I am Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 No. 16

Ukrainian American Youth Association hails debutantes

Bitcon Productions 2020 Ukrainian American Youth Association debutantes and escorts with the ball’s organizing committee.

by Stephanie DeBruin pices of the National Executive Board, is a Following a bustling cocktail hour, ballroom, trading her single white rose for longstanding tradition among UAYA mem- guests were seated in the Grand Ballroom an elegant bouquet. She was then led by RYE BROOK, N.Y. – The Ukrainian bers of the Northeast. The event has its and officially welcomed by organizing com- her escort around the perimeter of the American Youth Association (UAYA) hosted roots in European court custom and was mittee member Valentyna Kapitula (UAYA dance floor as the emcees shared her aca- its 56th annual Debutante Ball at the Hilton adopted in the mid-20th century by Yonkers Branch). From there, the master demic accolades, hobbies, and involvement Westchester in Rye Brook, N.Y., on February Ukrainian American diaspora organiza- and mistress of ceremonies, Peter Kolinsky in the UAYA and the Ukrainian American 22. Over 800 guests gathered to celebrate as tions. This year’s debutantes joined the (UAYA Hartford) and Adriana Krasniansky community. Amid thunderous applause, 15 young women made their formal debut ranks of nearly 900 young women who (UAYA Cleveland) began the formal presen- each debutante concluded her presentation into the Ukrainian American community. have taken part in this rite of passage over tation. Each debutante was introduced as The UAYA Debutante Ball, under the aus- the past half century. she met her parents at the center of the (Continued on page 11) Plast’s Cleveland chapter presents 2020 debutantes

by Natalie Bendiuk-Oryshkewych INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Six debutantes were presented at the Plast Cleveland chapter’s Debutante Ball, which was held on February 15 at the Embassy Suites Hotel Cleveland-Rockside. This year’s debutantes hailed from Ohio and Canada, with escorts from Ohio and New York. Presented at the ball were: Talya Dolban, escorted by Darien Kulchytsky; Emily Polatajko, escorted by Nicholas Jarosewich; Melanie Polatajko, escorted by Andrew Lisowsky; Sophia Rakowsky, escorted by Roman Jakubowycz; Sofia Zunt, escorted by Paul Williams; and Adrianna Zura, escorted by Daniel Rakowsky. Daria Kowcz-Jakubowycz, head of Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization’s Cleveland chapter, began the evening by welcoming over 300 guests in the hotel’s elegant Grand Ballroom. Ms. Kowcz- Jakubowycz remarked that it was Plast, and the friendships forged through the organization, that brought together the debutantes, their escorts and guests for this celebration. She further commented that these relationships are truly a unique gift that will last a lifetime. The program proceeded to the evening’s Human Artist Photography main event – the presentation of the debu- The debutantes and their escorts (from left): Sophia Rakowsky and Roman Jakubowycz, Adrianna Zura and Daniel Rakowsky, tantes. Ms. Kowcz-Jakubowycz was joined Sofia Zunt and Paul Williams, Emily Polatajko and Nicholas Jarosewich, Talya Dolban and Darien Kulchytsky, and Melanie Polatajko and Andrew Lisowsky. (Continued on page 9) No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 9

Plast Newark branch’s debutante ball begins the season

Dan Bitcon Debutantes perform their choreographed dance during the Plast Newark Debutante Ball.

by Natalia K. Bilash WHIPPANY, N.J. – The Parent’s Association (Lanka Batkiv) of the Newark, N.J., branch of Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization held its annual Plast Debutante Ball at the Hanover Marriott in Whippany, N.J., on January 25. The deb- utante ball is a traditional event at which each debutante is formally presented to the community as a young lady. Marta Sygida-Kowal and Orest Temnycky served as this year’s masters of ceremonies, and they formally opened the event by welcoming the debutantes, their families and guests. After being formally introduced, each debutante was welcomed as she was escorted through the center of the ballroom. This year’s debutantes included young ladies from the Passaic, N.J., and Kerhonkson and Albany, N.Y., chapters, as well as a young lady from Lviv. They included: Daryna Behen, escorted by Darius Kulchyckyj; Valeria Drybushar, escorted by Michael Knysh; Adriana Hotsko, escorted by Roman Zharovsky; Vera Hrab, escorted by Gregory Gawdiak; Olena Hryvnak, escorted by Valentyn Boyko; Viktoria Kuz, escorted by Ihor Shkvarok; Kateryna Morhun, escorted by Ivan Soroka; and Sophia Myshchuk, escorted by Stephan Bilyk. The debutantes in their flowing white gowns danced with their escorts to a choreographed arrangement by dancemaster Andrij Cybyk. Each debutante also joined her father in a special waltz. Following dinner, more guests arrived and danced the night away to the music of Tempo and Philadelphia Funk Authority, including the traditional 30-minute “Kolomyika.” The success of this memorable annual event was made possible by members of the organizing committee: Anya Tomko (chair), Alexandra Zawadiwsky, Natalia Bilash, Oksana Shyprykevych, Anna Kukurudza, Renata Hanchuk, Juliana Haluszczak and Ms. Kowal. Next year’s debutante ball will take place at the Hanover Marriott on January 25, 2021. A view of the dancing during the debutante ball.

rations, as well as their involvement in both Following the presentation, the debu- music of Klopit from Chicago. The dance Plast’s Cleveland... the Ukrainian and American communities. tantes and their escorts performed a beau- floor overflowed with both young and old (Continued from page 8) Highlighted in each introduction was the tiful waltz under the expert choreography the entire evening. debutante’s role in Plast. of Jonathan Hejnal. This traditional first Special thanks were expressed to the by Natalie Bendiuk-Oryshkewych in pre- In her congratulatory address, Ms. waltz was followed by the debutantes danc- organizing committee: Ms. Bendiuk- senting the young ladies. Each debutante Kowcz-Jakubowycz noted the inner beauty ing with their fathers, while the escorts Oryshkewych, Larisa Bendiuk-Popadiuk was escorted into the Grand Ballroom on and strength of character possessed by danced with the debutantes’ mothers after and Adrianna Lisowsky for what was a the arm of her father and individually rec- each debutante. She encouraged each of the presenting each with a single rose. truly memorable affair. All proceeds from ognized for her academic achievements, debutantes to give back to the community After dinner, the debutantes, escorts and this event are earmarked for Plast Camp artistic and athletic talents and future aspi- so that others may benefit as they did. guests danced well into the night to the Pysanyj Kamin in Middlefield, Ohio. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 No. 16

Detroit celebrates 51st Engineers’ Society debutante ball

George Dzahristos Photography Debutantes and their escorts (from left): Lesia Adriana Zaryckyj, escorted by Alexander Sydor; Emiliya Taisa Smyk, escorted by Teodore Melnyczuk-Gould; Alina Mykhaylyak, escorted by Joseph Tegler; Anastasiya Ilkiv, escorted by Maximilian Lawrin; Sofiya Synychych, escorted by Andriy Tryshnivskyy; Katarina Christine Eby, escorted by Daniel Sawicky; Julia Matryfaylo, escorted by Yuri Tomkiw; Zoriana Victoria Sobol, escorted by Jeremy Stefaniuk; and Ava Kalyna Zarewych, escorted by Sawyer Szajenko.

by Natalia Lewyckyj dinner and ball. This year’s debutantes continue a tradition UESA, had the privilege of welcoming the guests to the 51st and join a group of nearly 500 debutantes that have graced Winter Ball and introducing the master of ceremonies for DEARBORN, Mich. – This year marks the 51st anniversa- Detroit’s debutante stage since the inaugural ball in 1959. the evening, Marko Lawrin. ry of the annual Winter Ball and Presentation of Debutantes The 2020 debutante ball formally introduced nine beau- In her opening remarks, Ms. Lewyckyj shared the hosted by the Detroit chapter of the Ukrainian Engineers’ tiful young ladies to the Ukrainian community as family incredible historic role Detroit’s Winter Balls have had Society of America (UESA). The celebrated event, with near- and guests looked on with pride and loving emotion. The enriching the very fabric of the local Ukrainian community. ly a year’s preparation, arrived with tremendous support debutantes were: Katarina Christine Eby, escorted by These events have welcomed nearly 500 debutantes to the from the local community and those traveling long distances Daniel Sawicky; Anastasiya Ilkiv, escorted by Maximilian Ukrainian society in the Detroit area, many of whom today for the occasion. This elegant event was held on Saturday, Lawrin; Julia Matryfaylo, escorted by Yuri Tomkiw; Alina are among its greatest organizational, business and parish January 25, in the Grand Ballroom of the historic and ornate Mykhaylyak, escorted by Joseph Tegler; Emiliya Taisa leaders. The Winter Ball and presentation of debutantes Dearborn Inn Marriott situated on the spacious grounds of Smyk, escorted by Teodore Melnyczuk-Gould; Zoriana continues to be a valuable opportunity to bring the com- the Henry Ford Greenfield Village, in Dearborn, Mich. Victoria Sobol, escorted by Jeremy Stefaniuk; Sofiya munity together and to show our youth that their role The memorable evening began with guests gathered in Synychych, escorted by Andriy Tryshnivskyy, Ava Kalyna within the Ukrainian community is well recognized and the elegant foyer of the Dearborn Inn Marriott for cocktails Zarewych, escorted by Sawyer Szajenko; and Lesia Adriana warmly welcomed, she noted. and hors d’oeuvres, before being ushered into the Grand Zaryckyj, escorted by Alexander Sydor. All attention was focused as the master of ceremonies, Ballroom for the formal presentation of the debutantes, the Natalia Lewyckyj, president of the Detroit chapter of the Mr. Lawrin, formally introduced the debutantes to the com- munity, sharing their highest academic achievements, remarkable artistic and athletic talents, and determined aspirations for the future. Each debutante, in a flowing white gown and elbow- length gloves holding an orange rose bouquet adorned with a white ribbon, made a grand entrance and was wel- comed by guests as she was gracefully escorted through the center of the ballroom. Their proud parents and guests looked on, as the debutantes formally curtsied before the crowd, signifying their official debut. Following the formal introductions, the debutantes graced the dance floor for the first waltz, dancing elegantly and effortlessly with their escorts. The elegant presenta- tion, newly and beautifully choreographed by Dr. Christina Korduba Zachar, continued as the debutantes joined their proud fathers in a special waltz. Following this touching moment, the debutantes presented their loving mothers with a long-stemmed rose, an emotional expression of their sincere love and gratitude for their lifelong unwaver- ing support and a bittersweet farewell of sorts as the debu- tantes prepare for independent adulthood and their futures away from home. The formal presentation of the evening’s events con- cluded with a joyous champagne toast to the debutantes, greeted with resounding applause. Mr. Lawrin addressed the debutantes with a congratulatory message that noted in particular the importance for the debutantes to realize A circle of beauty – Detroit’s debutantes (from the bottom left, proceeding clockwise): Zoriana Victoria Sobol, their boundless potential, assume leadership roles in the Lesia Adriana Zaryckyj, Emiliya Taisa Smyk, Katarina Christine Eby, Sofiya Synychych, Julia Matryfaylo, Anastasiya Ilkiv, Alina Mykhaylyak and Ava Kalyna Zarewych. (Continued on page 11) No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 11

Chervona Kalyna Cotillion Ball presents debutantes

Orest Sochan/Montas Studio PEARL RIVER, N.Y. – Over 700 guests celebrated 15 debutantes at the Chervona Kalyna Cotillion Ball on February 8 at the Hilton Pearl River in Pearl River, N.Y. A por- tion of the proceeds from the evening’s event will benefit the Ukrainian American Veterans’ Wounded Ukrainian Soldier Project. Pictured above are the debutantes and their escorts (from left): Nicholas Santone, Solomiya Koziy, Mark Klemick, Kalyna Woloszyn, Roman Zharovsky, Sofia Turko, Michael Knysh, Juliya Martchiuk, Roman Raguso, Adrianna Mandzy, Darius Kulchyckyj, Katerina Bazarko, Azarchyk Babczenko, Katherine Anne Czernyk, Catherine Marie Tymkiw Hanifin, Lev Lysyj, Hannah Bazylevsky, Paul Williams, Sofia Tetiana Savchuk, Alex Brandafi, Alexa Sophia Malone, Taras Erachshaw, Kristine Kostiv, Andrey Petruniv, Olya Yezerska, Alexander Jaroszak, Natalia Elizabeth McMeekin, Daniel Ougrin, Arianna Porytko Thomson and Michael Wroblewski. – Andriy Tytla

Dinner began with a blessing led by Father Rector UAYA... Bohdan Tymchyshyn. Following dinner, two talented (Continued from page 8) bands, New York’s Hrim and Toronto’s Zapovid, kicked off the zabava. Their spectacular performances kept guests with the inaugural curtsy. dancing all through the night. The rousing “Kolomyika,” as This year’s debutantes were: Yana Baltsevych (Shelton, in years past, was one of the highlights of the night. Conn.), escorted by Daniel Mychjlyszyn; Martha Honcharyk The debutante ball was a joyous evening for the debu- (Cedar Knolls, N.J.; UAYA Whippany), escorted by James tantes and a wonderful celebration for the UAYA community Cairns; Daria Kubska (Jersey City, N.J.; UAYA Jersey City), and guests in attendance. It continues to be one of the high- escorted by Max Gorin; Kalyna Kuzemczak (Yonkers, N.Y.; lights of the youth association’s calendar and an event many UAYA Yonkers), escorted by Roman Kuziw; Natalia Klapacz Ukrainians in the Northeast look forward to annually as a (Oak Ridge, N.J.; UAYA Whippany), escorted by John Soroka; time to celebrate the new generation of UAYA members and Khrystyna Kovtun (Elmwood Park, N.J.; UAYA Passaic), catch up with old friends. escorted by Adrian Baran; Daniela Agne (Westfield, N.J.; This event would not be possible without the generous UAYA Irvington), escorted by Mark Andrew Klemick; Valya support of the sponsors and supporters, including SUMA Pogoda (Carteret, N.J.; UAYA Carteret), escorted by Lukian Wernyj; Alexa Benejam (Eastchester, N.Y.; UAYA Yonkers), escorted by Alexander Jaroszak; Aleksandra Shuter (Montebello, N.Y.), escorted by Pavlo Pencak; Patricia Wasiczko (Yonkers, NY; UAYA Yonkers), escorted by Ruslan Semenko; Yuliana Berdin (Redondo Beach, Calif.; UAYA Yonkers), escorted by Rostyk Fedorko; Kaitlyn Kotys (Cedar Grove, N.J.; UAYA Passaic), escorted by Alexander Zielonka; Stephania Korenovsky (East Haven, Conn.), escorted by Matthew Bzowyckyj; and Sophia Alexandra Priatka Bitcon Productions (Stamford, Conn.; UAYA Stamford), escorted by Roman Debutante Aleksandra Shuter performs her bow. Pychil. After the presentation, National Executive Board Federal Credit Union in Yonkers, Ukrainian National President Adrian Dlaboha delivered his remarks, congratu- Federal Credit Union, Self Reliance Federal Credit Union of lating the debutantes and escorts on entering into this new New Jersey and Yonkers Dim-SUMA. Also key were the phase in their young lives. He also encouraged their contin- numerous volunteers, as well as debutantes, escorts and ued participation in UAYA activities and the Ukrainian parents whose efforts contributed to a wonderful evening. American community. Following his speech, debutante The UAYA Debutante Ball Committee for 2020 was com- Sophia Alexandra Priatka had the honor of delivering the posed of Chairperson Tatiana Palylyk Andersen (UAYA annual dedication. Yonkers), Valentyna Kapitula (UAYA Yonkers), Solomia To conclude the formal portion of the program, the deb- Pylypiw (UAYA Whippany), Stephanie DeBruin (UAYA utantes and their escorts performed an elegant and intri- Yonkers), Natalka Kudryk (UAYA Passaic), Alexandra cate group waltz, choreographed by Hryhoriy Momot with Kushnir (UAYA Yonkers), Christine Porada Walsh (UAYA the assistance of his daughter Khrystyna Momot. Upon Passaic), Juliana Horbachevsky (UAYA Yonkers) and Jessica concluding the waltz, the debutantes’ fathers took their Demianicz (UAYA Jersey City). daughters to dance, marking the end of their formal pre- The UAYA invites all to save the date for next year’s ball, sentation. Debutante Yana Baltsevych is presented at the ball. which will take place January 30, 2021.

The festivities continued after dinner as guests were The decades of successes and the future outlook of the Detroit... entertained by the lively music of the renowned band Winter Ball is a reflection of the continued support of the (Continued from page 10) Klopit from Chicago. The evening was thoroughly enjoyed Detroit Ukrainian community and the dedication of the by all, the dance floor and cocktail services being crowded UESA members. The 2020 Debutante Winter Ball Ukrainian community and always keep the patriotic love up to the very end. The Grand Ballroom served as the Committee that orchestrated this elegant event was co- for Ukraine alive in their hearts. Finally, the guests sang an showplace for all sorts of dances, including the amazing chaired by Dianna Korduba Sawicky and Ms. Lewyckyj. emotionally charged rendition of “Mnohaya Lita” and the acrobatics showcased during the rousing and much-antici- Committee members included Mr. Lawrin, Dr. Zachar, ceremonial acceptance of the nine debutantes into the pated traditional “Kolomyika” that, as in the past, was one Oksana Woloszczuk, Gregory Woloszczuk, Zenon Lewyckyj community was sealed in history. of the highlights of the evening. and Roxanne Smyk. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 No. 16

as he crashed into the boards when he and Fill-in to full-time for Fedun Wild forward Eric Nystrom raced for a puck. Nystrom, trying to reach around Taylor Fedun’s 2018-2019 hockey sea- Fedun to touch the puck and avoid icing, son did not begin on a positive note. He had got his stick caught in Fedun’s skates, send- difficulty cracking the line-up on a regular ing him into the boards. basis in Rochester, N.Y., the Buffalo Sabres’ Fedun ended up in the hospital, where AHL affiliate, due to a numbers issue – not doctors repaired the damage with a rod because of his play. The 30-year-old has and four screws. This incident revived the veteran status in the AHL, where teams are debate over touch icing, which was eventu- limited to dressing a specific number of ally taken out of the NHL. He suffered veterans per contest. There were too many through a long rehabilitation period, veterans in Rochester, so Fedun played in returning in 2012-2013 to play for only five of the club’s first 14 games. Edmonton’s AHL affiliate in Oklahoma City. At a time when he found himself won- Two expert trauma surgeons assured him dering if his playing days were coming to he could get back to playing pro hockey, an end, along came an opportunity. eliminating any uncertainty and doubt in The Dallas Stars were hurting on his mind. defense: John Klingberg had a broken hand, Fedun made his NHL debut during the NHL.com Marc Methot hurt a knee, Stephen Johns 2013-2014 season, and he impressed right was out with a concussion and Connor Defenseman Taylor Fedun celebrates with the Dallas Stars. away. He scored in his first NHL game on Carrick had a bad foot. Dallas had already November 5, 2013, at Florida. Two days 54 out of 60 games since being recalled games while averaging 13.51 minutes of ice raided its AHL affiliate for help, calling up later, he scored in his second game when from the AHL. time per game. He played on the third three defensemen from Texas, so the orga- the Oilers played at Tampa Bay. He played Fedun recognized the opportunity with defense pairing, saw regular time on the nization’s depth on defense was thin. in a total of four NHL games before being the trade, thinking he’d get in some games penalty kill and at one point even saw some The Stars turned to the trade market sent back to the AHL for the rest of the and then return to being a depth guy. time on the power play. His steady perfor- and found a willing partner in Buffalo, campaign. After that season, he started Instead, the Stars coaching staff tweaked mance over several months helped the which had a surplus of defenders. On moving around, looking for an opportunity. his game, built up his confidence and Stars overcome a challenging part of their November 10, 2018, Fedun was dealt to In the summer of 2014 he signed with San allowed him to succeed. schedule. Dallas in exchange for a conditional sev- Jose, a year later with Vancouver and with The Fedun trade was barely a blip on the Fedun finished his eighth season of pro- enth-round pick in 2020. Assigned to Buffalo in 2016. He played seven games transactions wire. The condition on the fessional hockey following a four-year Texas, Fedun skated in three games, scor- with the Sharks, one with the Canucks and draft pick compensation was if he played career at Princeton University. Growing up, ing a goal and two assists, before the call- 34 over two seasons with the Sabres. 25-plus NHL games, Dallas would send Fedun had a passion for school and hockey up to Dallas on November 22. Now he finds himself in Dallas, where he Buffalo a seventh-round draft pick. If he with the hope of pursuing both – a goal he In his very first game with Dallas, Fedun is capitalizing on the latest opportunity in didn’t hit the 25-game mark, there would realized at Princeton where he earned a immediately impressed by scoring a goal in his career after seriously wondering where be no compensation. Buffalo received the degree in mechanical engineering. On the a 6-4 Stars win over Ottawa. He’s never his career was headed as he struggled for pick in early 2019. hockey side he totaled 68 points (20G, 48A) looked back since. The Stars eventually got playing time with Rochester of the AHL. Dallas received a production line of 11 in 127 NCAA games. He was twice named healthier on defense, but Fedun retained For Fedun, the trade to Dallas and the his regular spot in the line-up. He played in points (4 goals, 7 assists) in those 54 to the ECAC’s All-Academic team, was an ECAC Second Team All-Star in 2010 and a chance with the Stars was totally unexpect- First Team All-Star in 2011. Playing hockey ed at the age of 30. at Princeton opened up new career possi- Could it be he has found his permanent bilities. NHL home? Fifty-plus games with the Stars Fedun was not drafted by an NHL team, has at least proven he belongs in this but the Edmonton, Alberta, native was league and is doing what needs to be done signed as a free agent out of college by his as an NHL defenseman. hometown Oilers in March 2011. His pro Fedun was rewarded for his role in pro- career got off to an inauspicious start when, viding strong depth defense when the Stars in a pre-season game between the Oilers and Minnesota, he suffered a broken femur (Continued on page 13)

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although it failed to adopt a revised budget NEWSBRIEFS for 2020. “We welcome the support by the Ukraine and Russia-backed forces (Continued from page 2) Ukrainian Parliament in the first reading of the legislation aimed at strengthening the begin new round in prisoner swap Ukrainian soldier was wounded in action. fundamentals of bank restructuring, and we the swap before Julian calendar Easter on During that period, the ministry said, expect its final adoption,” IMF envoy Goesta RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service April 19. “Russian-terrorist forces opened fire on Ljungman said in a statement on April 4. KYIV – Ukraine and Russia-backed “sep- Ukraine’s relationship with Russia has Ukrainian positions in the Luhansk and “We also look forward to the adoption of aratists” in the east of the country have been tense ever since protests in Kyiv led to Donetsk sectors of the front – three times amendments to the budget for 2020, which begun another prisoner swap. the overthrow of the country’s pro-Russian in total.” On the dates of April 10-11, no will help the authorities respond to the Ukrainian President Volodymyr leader in February Ukrainian soldiers were killed and four extraordinary challenges that have arisen as Zelenskyy’s office said in a Facebook post 2014. Ukrainian soldiers were wounded in action. a result of COVID -19.” The banking bill pre- on April 16 that 19 Ukrainians who were in Russia annexed Ukraine’s Crimean pen- During those two days, Ukrainian positions vents the former owners of banks that were the custody of the Russia-backed militants insula shortly thereafter and backed mili- in the Luhansk and Donetsk sectors of the nationalized or liquidated in recent years are being returned to Kyiv. tants in eastern Ukraine, sparking a war in front were fired upon 23 times in total, during a widespread financial-sector clean- According to Russian news agencies, the the eastern region known as the Donbas including at least 10 times with heavy up from regaining ownership rights or swap is taking place near the town of that has resulted in some 13,200 deaths. weapons – mortars and artillery. (Ukrainian receiving monetary compensation. Though Horlivka in the region of Donetsk. That war continues to this day. Canadian Congress Daily Briefing) the legislation also has other implications At this point, it is not clear how many The prisoner swap comes as United for Ukraine’s banks, observers say its main IMF praises adoption of legislation individuals held by the Ukrainian side will Nations Secretary-General Antonio purpose is to prevent one of Ukraine’s most be handed over to the separatist-controlled Guterres in March called on warring parties The International Monetary Fund (IMF) powerful tycoons, Ihor Kolomoisky, the for- territories. in conflicts around the world to halt fight- has praised the Ukrainian Parliament’s mer co-owner of PrivatBank, from regaining The Ukrainian and Russian sides in the ing due to the coronavirus pandemic. adoption of legislation on banking and land ownership rights to the bank. Lawmakers so-called Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) With reporting by Ukrayinska Pravda and reforms that could unlock billions of dollars also approved legislation lifting a ban on the said on April 8 that they had agreed to hold TASS. in loans. Ukraine has been in talks with the sale of farmland, which is expected to IMF for months about a three-year, $5.5 bil- unlock enormous investment potential in lion loan tied to reforms to help the country what is already one of the world’s top grain meet a spike in debt repayments this year. exporters. The land market should be Zelenskyy: Ukraine will work to bring back The Verkhovna Rada on March 30 voted to opened by July 1, 2021, based on the bill’s lift a ban on the sale of farmland and provisions. (RFE/RL, based on reporting by captives until all its citizens are released approved in the first reading a banking law, Interfax and Reuters) Presidential Office of Ukraine ed that the release be carried out as soon as possible without waiting for the comple- KYIV – Ukraine will continue to imple- tion of quarantine measures due to the ance, sportsmanship and dedication to ment a strategy to return people illegally spread of coronavirus. Ukrainian Pro Hockey... hockey. detained in the temporarily occupied territo- “We can wait for the quarantine to end (Continued from page 12) ries and in Russia until it releases all its citi- and then make a bigger exchange, but our Oleksiak back in Dallas zens, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. party insisted that we don’t have to wait for signed him to a two-year, two-way contract Defenseman Jamie Oleksiak is back with The third stage of the mutual release of anything. Twenty people have been con- in late June 2019. Establishing a career the Stars, and it’s as if his trade to the detained persons within the “all for all” for- firmed to us – let’s return 20 people. If high in games played (54), Fedun was Penguins never happened. Dallas reac- mat has now been completed. Ukraine has tomorrow there are two more people, we selected as the Stars candidate for the Bill quired the behemoth defender on January returned 20 of its citizens held captive in will return two people. The next day there Masterton Trophy, an award given to the 28, 2019, from Pittsburgh in exchange for a the temporarily occupied territories. are 100 people, we will return 100,” the NHL player who best personifies persever- fourth-round pick in the 2019 draft. This “The first stage was when 35 people president said. was the same selection the Pens sent to the were returned: political prisoners and our Upon their return, the released Ukrainians Stars to originally acquire Oleksiak on sailors. That was the first part. The second will be sent for mandatory observation. December 19, 2017. Dallas selected the exchange was after the Normandy four Negotiations on the release of those Ukrainian-Polish blueliner in the first round arrangements – 76 people were released. detained in occupied Crimea and in Russia of the 2011 entry draft, and he played parts We are returning 20 people now,” Mr. are ongoing. of six seasons in the organization. Zelenskyy said. “Ukraine must liberate all its citizens,” In his 83 games with Pittsburgh, The president noted that Ukraine insist- Mr. Zelenskyy stated. Oleksiak tallied eight goals and 17 assists while averaging 16.44 minutes of ice time per game. He appeared in an additional 12 With deep regret we inform you that on Friday, April 10, 2020, playoff tilts. our loving mother, grandmother and great- grandmother Oleksiak was acquired to help the Stars deal with the absence of defensemen Marc STEFANIA POKORA Methot and Stephen Johns, both out with season-ending injuries. General Manager née Morawsky Jim Nill was banking on Oleksiak utilizing departed for eternity. his strong physique to be an intimidating force while also showing more maturity in She was born February 25, 1929 in the village of Nosiv in Western Ukraine. his second tour of duty with Dallas. Stefania was predeceased by her husband Stefan Pokora in March 2001. At 6-foot-7, 255 pounds, Oleksiak adds size to a group of defensemen that features A graveside service was held on April 15, 2020, at St. Michael’s Ukrainian undersized players like John Klingberg, Catholic Cemetery in Glastonbury, Connecticut. Miro Heiskanen and Julius Honka. His 97 Remaining in deep sorrow: hits were third on the Penguins in 2018- sons - Bohdan Pokora with wife Anna 2019. Alexander Pokora with wife Vera Interestingly enough, he has occasional- grandsons - Andrew Pokora with wife Vera ly been partnered with fellow Ukrainian Roman Pokora Fedun on Dallas’ third defense pairing. Mark Pokora with wife Jana great-grandchildren - Lucas Pokora Ihor Stelmach may be reached at iman@ So e Pokora sfgsports.com. Leon Pokora We will always carry her memory in our hearts. Memorial donations can be made to her parish church: St. John the Baptist Church 26 New London Turnpike, Glastonbury, CT 06033

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COMMUNITY CHRONICLE A Ukrainian history lesson spans two continents

by Pavlo Pencak The history lesson presenters were a group of “yunaky” (Plast scouts) from Kyiv, WHIPPANY, N.J. – Never did I expect that whose scout troop is named in honor of the a historical event would make history a sec- Battle of Kruty. These Plast members learn ond time 102 years later. not only about scouting but also about the On Saturday, February 29, our Saturday history of Ukraine. In fact, they live this his- School of Ukrainian Studies (Ridna Shkola) tory. This particular troop makes an annual in Whippany, N.J., and the Plast Ukrainian trip on the Battle of Kruty anniversary to Scouting Organization branch of Newark, commemorate the event. Also worth noting N.J., which is based in Whippany, gave Plast is that a significant number of the troop’s scouts the opportunity to once again learn scouts have made their Plast Pledge on the about the Battle of Kruty. site of this historical battle. With the help of Plast senior counselor The Battle of Kruty, which took place on Roman Shyprykevych and in conjunction January 29, 1918, was significant in many Roman Shyprykevych with Ridna Shkola, a Skype meeting was ways. The town of Kruty, located 130 kilo- Plast scouts gathered in Whippany, N.J., play an online trivia game with scouts in arranged for us to learn more about this meters northeast of the capital of Ukraine, Ukraine. significant battle in Ukrainian history. The was a significant railroad hub for military Skype meeting took place in the main hall transport. There, a group of about 400 Riflemen, were able to halt the advance of which we answered event-related trivia. at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center young men, consisting mostly of university Russian troops towards Kyiv, the capital of The call ended with a question and of New Jersey in Whippany where we Plast students from the Kyiv Cadet School and Ukraine. The group of 400 was hugely out- answer session with the Plast scouts from scouts attend Ridna Shkola. students from the Legion of Ukrainian Sich numbered by the Russian force of close to Kyiv and Whippany discussing Plast life: 3,000 soldiers. how many members each group has, what Nonetheless, they were able to slow the camps are like (how long they are, what advance of the invading Russian army, a feat kind of food is served, etc.). It was a bunch that was key in giving the Ukrainian delega- of kids talking to a bunch of kids. tion time to sign the Peace Treaty of Brest- In the end, the historical events of Litovsk that recognized the Ukrainian Ukraine in 1918 were overtaken by the his- National Republic. Unfortunately, the torical nature of this day in February 2020 – Ukrainians at Kruty suffered many losses dur- an intercontinental lesson via the Internet ing the battle. While many of the young sol- and the beginnings of new friendships. Both diers were able to return from the battle, the groups exchanged Instagram information last group farthest from the escape train was with the intention of staying in touch. unable to make it fast enough and its mem- We expressed thanks to Mr. Shypryke­ bers were captured and killed by the enemy. vych for arranging this online meeting and What intrigued me most and really setting up the technical requirements of the helped bring this history lesson into focus call, and to Ridna Shkola’s Director Yuriy was that the young men who fought in the Kosachevich for allowing us to try this dis- Plast members from New Jersey conducted a Skype video call with their counterparts Battle of Kruty 102 years ago to defend tance learning experience. But most of all in Ukraine (seen above) to talk about the history of the battle of Kruty. Ukraine’s freedom were largely the same we thanked the yunaky of Troop No. 75 age as the young men (the yunaky) on the named in honor of the Battle of Kruty for Skype call in Ukraine on this Saturday. presenting this history lesson to us in such These Plast scouts were well organized, a novel way. and they gave us a brief introductory lesson about that day in Ukraine’s history. They Pavlo Pencak is a 12th grade student of had pictures and even battle diagrams the Lesia Ukrainka School of Ukrainian showing how the group of young men Studies in Whippany, N.J., a senior at Morris impacted and influenced Ukrainian history. Knolls Regional High School in Denville, N.J., To reinforce the information that was and a member of Troop No. 5 of Plast shared with us, the scouts from Ukraine Ukrainian Scouting Organization’s Newark prepared an interactive online game during branch.

one version of their publication in Turning... Ukrainian and at least 50 percent of print (Continued from page 6) media offered at retailers must be in Ukrainian. two months after the law was officially Administrative fines for non-compliance published. range from $128 to $447 based on the Mr. Poroshenko noted that the law is not exchange rate at the time. A national com- meant to “squeeze any other language,” but mittee was to be established to monitor is more “about protecting our language. For compliance, approve language standards no place, except Ukraine, will it be protect- and review language knowledge for candi- ed.” Mr. Zelenskyy was critical of the law, dates seeking government work or citizen- adding the Ukrainian language should be ship. developed through incentives and positive The new law fills a legal gap that was left examples, rather than with “prohibitions after a controversial language law that was and punishments.” passed under ex-President Viktor Yanuko­ Ukrainian is the mandatory language of vych in 2012. He used the European Charter instruction in education from fifth grade for Regional or Minority Languages, onward, but the law does not prohibit pri- designed to protect lesser used languages vate institutions from teaching minority in a country, and allowed Russian to languages such as Hungarian or Romanian. replace Ukrainian as an official regional In advertising, Ukrainian letters would language where at least 10 percent of an be larger if another language is used. Films ethnic minority resides. would also have subtitles or voiceovers in Russia has used language as a pretext for Ukrainian and museums would also incor- its annexation of Crimea in 2014, by claim- porate Ukrainian. Within five years ing that it was “protecting” Russian speak- Ukrainian-language quotas will increase to ers. Ukraine’s history shows how language 90 percent for national television channels has been manipulated as a tool of suppres- and 80 percent for regional ones. Different sion, including Polonization under Polish rules apply for the Crimean Tatar language rule, and Russification during tsarist times and “other languages of indigenous peo- and the period under Soviet domination. ples.” Source: “New law protects Ukrainian lan- Thirty months after the law went into guage in society,” by Mark Raczkiewycz, The effect, print media must publish at least Ukrainian Weekly, May 5, 2019. No. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 15 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020 No. 16