The Ukrainian Weekly Published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal non-profit association

Vol. LXXXIX No. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 $2.00 Blasts at arms depots in Bulgaria, military threat remains as Zelenskyy part of Russian plot to thwart says Ukraine ‘must always be ready’

Office of the President of Ukraine Armed Forces of Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits the southern Kherson region near A U.S. military (left) and Ukrainian officer greet each other at Kyiv’s Boryspil the administrative border of occupied Crimea on April 27. Airport on April 28 upon the delivery of $7.85 billion worth of U.S. security assis- tance to Ukraine. She said the “purpose of the actions of by Mark Raczkiewycz by Mark Raczkiewycz While visiting Ukrainian military fortifi- the Russian citizens was to cut off the sup- cations near Crimea on April 27, Mr. KYIV – A secretive Russian military intel- ply of special products to Georgia and KYIV – After Russia announced that Zelenskyy said the country remains on ligence unit has been implicated in a series Ukraine.” more than 100,000 soldiers were ordered alert because Russia’s troops could return of explosions at munitions depots in Three Russian suspects who are “most back to their permanent bases on April 23 “at any moment.” Bulgaria and the Czech Republic as part of likely” agents of the Russian military intelli- following military drills near Ukraine’s “The fact the troops are withdrawing a long-term clandestine operation to crip- gence directorate (GRU) are also sought state borders and in occupied Crimea, doesn’t mean the army should not be ready ple the supply of weapons for Ukraine’s over two poisoning attempts of Bulgarian Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the possibility that troops could return war effort. arms trader Emilian Gebrev, who has sold said the threat of a full-scale war has not to our borders any moment,” he added. A spokeswoman for the Bulgarian millions of dollars’ worth of weapons to dissipated. “We must always be ready.” Prosecutor-General’s Office, Silka Mileva, Ukraine in the past, Ms. Mileva added. Moreover, much of the military hard- Russia’s display of military might during said on April 28 that six Russian nationals The news follows a report from two days ware that had been shifted toward the recent drills near Ukraine “was nothing are being investigated for their alleged role earlier by open-source research group Ukraine’s state borders stayed behind and less than a dress rehearsal for the full-scale in blasts at four weapons and armament that linked the GRU unit to sabo- Russia’s sizable naval force remains in the invasion of Ukraine,” wrote Vadym Deny­ facilities between 2011 and 2020, Radio tage and assassination operations in Black Sea and is larger than what it was senko, executive director of the Ukrainian Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported in one month ago, experts noted over the past Institute for the Future, together with (Continued on page 9) Sofia. week. experts Ihor Popov, Ihor Tyshkevych and Ilya Kusa. They added that “much of this potential future invasion force remains in position Ukraine elected to Executive Council of United Nations Women and poised for action.” Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu by Roman Tymotsko The last time Ukraine was represented “Ukraine having been elected to the in particular ordered that “weapons and in the Executive Council of U.N. Women U.N. Women Executive Council for 2022- equipment” are to remain at a military KYIV – The United Nations Economic was in 2011-2013. 2024 means that the international com- training base 250 kilometers (155 miles) and Social Council elected Ukraine to the “As part of the Executive Council, the munity is paying attention to Ukraine and north of Luhansk Oblast leading up to and Executive Council of U.N. Women for Ukrainian side will continue to strengthen wants us to have a seat at the table in through the September Zapad 2021 large- 2022-2024. Beginning on January 1, 2022, women’s leadership and promote wom- coordinating equality and human rights scale military drills, an analysis by the Ukraine will be among 17 states leading en’s participation in political processes, protection efforts in Eastern Europe and Center for Strategic and International the United Nations Entity for Gender particularly in the context of the imple- the world,” Maryna Prykhodko, the U.N. Studies said this week. Equality and the Empowerment of mentation of the ‘Women. Peace. Security’. representative for the World Federation of This development unsettles Viktor Women (U.N. Women). program,” the foreign affairs ministry Ukrainian Women’s Organizations said. Muzhenko, who was the chief of the gener- “The election of Ukraine to the govern- statement said. Ms. Prykhodko, who is also a board al staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in ing body of U.N. Women was a confirma- Ukrainian diplomats also said that the member of Razom for Ukraine, said that 2014-2019. In an interview with local tion of our state’s consistent adherence to main goal of Ukraine’s membership in the for Ukraine the news also comes with an media, he said Russia held drills and left the strategic course on ensuring equal organization will be to improve the effi- added sense of authority on behalf of dif- behind hardware, which takes longer to rights and opportunities for women and ciency of the U.N. development system’s ferent U.N. structures in the region. transport than troops, just weeks before men at the national and international lev- operational activities and provide assis- “U.N. Women solidifies its relationship the five-day war with Georgia in 2008. The els,” the press service of Ukraine’s Ministry tance to member states for recovery after outcome was that Tbilisi lost its South of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. the COVID-19 pandemic. (Continued on page 6) (Continued on page 5) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 No. 18

ANALYSIS

Russia’s bluffing, huffing and Head of Naftogaz replaced bility that troops could return to our bor- ders any moment,” Mr. Zelenskyy said while Ukraine’s government has replaced the visiting Ukrainian military positions near puffing: where do things stand? head of Naftogaz, the country’s largest oil Crimea on April 27. In , Russian and gas company, after it posted a loss of longer the Soviet stronghold, but neverthe- Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said that the by Bohdan Nahaylo nearly $700 million last year. The govern- less the capital of a Russia with its tradi- troop pullback had nothing to do with ment’s press service said on April 28 that Western pressure, adding that Moscow will While the tensions created by Russian tional imperialistic and authoritarian traits. Andriy Kobolyev was dismissed from the President Vladimir Putin’s massing of mili- Mr. Zelenskyy’s impressive legal advisor continue doing what is necessary to protect post and acting Energy Minister Yuriy itself. Mr. Shoigu also voiced concern about tary forces on Ukraine’s eastern border and the official dealing directly with the Vitrenko will take over the state-owned have temporarily abated, the uncertainty Russian aggressors, Deputy Prime Minister the presence of NATO forces near Russia. giant due to “unsatisfactory” results of the “Some even warned us that our activities on and apprehension continue. Where do and Minister for Reintegration of the company’s operations in 2020. Deputy things stand at present? Temporarily Occupied Territories of Ukraine our own territory will have consequences,” Energy Minister Yuriy Boyko will replace Mr. Shoigu said on April 27. “I would like to Behind the intensive diplomatic activity Oleksiy Reznikov, told Ukrainska Pravda the Mr. Vitrenko, the press service said. Earlier of recent weeks, posturing and probing by following on April 22: “For Russia it was emphasize that we don’t see such warnings in the day, a lawmaker representing the rul- as acceptable and will do everything that is all the actors involved have continued. On important to get attention, that they be ing Servant of the People party, Olha the surface no visible changes in the status taken into account and spoken to as equals… necessary to ensure the security of our bor- Vasylevska-Smahlyuk, wrote on Telegram ders.” Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby quo have occurred, but in fact there are We understand that we are at war with that the government fired Mr. Kobolyev “at signs that new nuances and dynamics have Russia. But Russians in their mind are not said recently that Washington had regis- last.” Mr. Kobolyev, who led the energy tered movements of some Russian troops been introduced with potentially signifi- fighting Ukrainians; they are fighting with giant for seven years, wrote on Facebook away from Ukraine’s borders, but added cant implications. the U.S. and NATO…Because they believe that he learned about his dismissal from that it was “too soon to tell” whether Russia Mr. Putin, confronted by a resolute they are fighting for their influence over us; the media and therefore could not com- was pulling back all forces. A cease-fire that Ukraine and expressions of strong “concern” they’re still stuck in that Soviet paradigm.” ment on the situation. Naftogaz, one of the took hold in July has been unravelling from its closest friends and the West gener- In Mr. Reznikov’s view, Mr. Putin has for country’s largest companies by revenue, recently, with clashes sharply increasing ally, may have blinked. Though, in the mean- the moment achieved what he wanted – a has long been the object of corrupt between Ukrainian forces and separatists. time, he is in effect getting away with closing call from U.S. President Joe Biden, and the schemes by officials and oligarchs. The situ- Around 30 Ukrainian soldiers have been off the Sea of Azov to international and prospect of a meeting with him. This has ation began to change after the 2014 killed since the start of the year compared probably Ukrainian shipping, and thereby allowed him to appear as important as he upheaval that swept pro-Kremlin President with 50 in all of last year, while the separat- extending his aggression still further. would like to be seen, and therefore to step Viktor Yanukovych from power. Ukraine’s ists have reported at least 20 military Perhaps, as numerous commentators back a little. Western backers tied financial aid to the deaths. On April 27, the Ukrainian Army suspect, after reminding his neighbor and But Mr. Reznikov also stressed that country to concrete steps to clean up state reported one soldier killed and three others the West of his menacing might, he has should Mr. Putin decide to attack Ukraine, companies such as Naftogaz, including call- wounded after their vehicle hit a mine. merely decided to step back, bide his time the consequences would be dire. Not only ing for the creation of an independent (RFE/RL, with reporting by Reuters, AFP and see if concessions of any sort will be because of the Western reaction and the supervisory board that would guard the and AP) forthcoming – if not from Kyiv, then per- imposition of potentially crippling sanc- company from political or oligarchic pres- haps from Western states anxious to pla- tions, but because Ukraine is well equipped sure. (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service) Security service says it foiled cyberattack cate him as a nuisance factor by soothing to resist, and its army and its population Zelenskyy wary of troop withdrawal Ukraine’s security service (SBU) says it his swollen ego and appetite. will fight back. has arrested a local resident suspected of But, for the moment, the Russian strong- Mr. Reznikov, like Mr. Zelenskyy, has Ukrainian President Volodymyr planning a Russian-ordered cyberattack on man clearly believes that he can still apply made it clear that Ukraine will not be Zelenskyy has urged the Ukrainian military Ukrainian state institutions. “The attack Lenin’s favorite dictum: one step back, two coerced into making concessions, whether to remain on alert despite Russia’s draw- targeted central and local governments, steps forward. on restoring water from the mainland to down of its troops from the country’s bor- and the aim was to block the operation of On the other hand, confronted with a Russian-occupied Crimea, or yielding on ders, saying they could return “at any information and critical infrastructure facil- very real military threat and the extent and the issues of recognizing Mr. Putin’s pup- moment.” Kyiv has been battling Moscow- ities,” an SBU statement said. SBU opera- nature of Western backing in a worse-case pets in occupied areas of eastern Ukraine, backed separatists in eastern Ukraine since tives “established that the special services scenario uncertain, the Ukrainian leader- or making the sort of constitutional amend- 2014, following Moscow’s annexation of the of the Russian Federation acted through a ship has calmy held its ground and has not ments that would undermine Ukraine as a Crimean Peninsula. A Russian troop buildup resident of [the southeastern Ukrainian city been bullied into any rash responses. sovereign state. in recent weeks near Ukraine’s northern of] Zaporizhia,” the statement said. The Kyiv has not only refused to be black- “There is a persistent threat,” Mr. and eastern borders and in Crimea has SBU said the hacker was meant to send a mailed into making concessions, but has Zelenskyy told the Financial Times on April raised concerns of a major escalation of the disguised file containing spyware to sought to persuade its Western partners 26. “Russia was intensifying psychological conflict in Kyiv and in the West. But on April Ukrainian officials. Russia’s Federal not to be soft with Moscow either, and to pressure, but Ukraine is ready for unpleas- 23, Moscow announced that it had started Security Service (FSB) did not immediately refrain from any hint of appeasement. ant surprises and its military is strong withdrawing its armed forces. “The fact respond to a request for comment. Last Kyiv has used the crisis not only to re- enough to deter any kind of threat of that troops are withdrawing doesn’t mean emphasize the danger that Russia poses to aggression.” the army should not be ready for the possi- (Continued on page 10) it, Eastern Europe and the international What has resonated most with Moscow order as a whole, but to seize the initiative and probably with some Western capitals and come off the defensive diplomatically. was Mr. Zelenskyy stating very bluntly that It has begun to speak more openly and after seven years of going around unpro- The Ukrainian Weekly FOUNDED 1933 clearly about what is needed to deter ductively in circles locked in the Normandy Russia and bring home the consequences Group format it is time to think outside this An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., of its aggressive behavior and reluctance to stifling diplomatic box. a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. play by the rules. According to the Financial Times, “The Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. Mr. Zelenskyy has been calling Mr. president called for the Normandy Group Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. Putin’s bluff by inviting him to meet and to be ‘extended and expanded,’ saying it (ISSN — 0273-9348) talk instead of threatening an intensifica- was not just up to the U.S. to reboot the tion of the war. And the responses from the grouping but that the U.K. and The Weekly: UNA: Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 Kremlin have been crude and typically should also participate.” unconstructive, indicating that the While the response from Washington, Postmaster, send address changes to: Ukrainian leader’s unexpected tactics are London and Ottawa, not to mention Berlin The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Andrew Nynka unsettling it. and Paris, is awaited, Moscow has not hesi- 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas The Ukrainian leader and his team know tated to show its anger. Mr. Putin’s spokes- P.O. Box 280 very well that what is at stake is not just person Dmitrii Peskov responded that Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] about Ukraine and its relationship with its same day, claiming that Mr. Zelenskyy’s rapacious Russian neighbor, but has broad- position sent “an alarming signal.” The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com er geopolitical implications. Moscow may On April 28 the Russian Minister of no longer be the Soviet stronghold, but nev- Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov elaborated on The Ukrainian Weekly, May 2, 2021, No. 18, Vol. LXXXIX ertheless it is the capital of a Russia retain- this theme. Not sparing the vitriolic rheto- Copyright © 2021 The Ukrainian Weekly ing its traditional imperialistic, authoritari- ric, he accused Mr. Zelenskyy of being a vir- an and anti-Western traits. tual anti-Russian fascist. “His main goal is The Ukrainian leader and his team know to stay in power. He is ready to pay any ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA very well that, despite the direct impact on price, such as pandering to neo-Nazis and his country and its population, what is at ultra-radicals who continue to brand the Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 stake is not just about Ukraine and its rela- Donbass self-defense fighters as terrorists.” e-mail: [email protected] tionship with its rapacious Russian neigh- Like Mr. Putin in recent days, Mr. Lavrov Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 bor. What is also at stake is the renewed e-mail: [email protected] struggle between Kyiv and Moscow, now no (Continued on page 9) No. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 3

FOR THE RECORD Coalition Against Funding Chornobyl’s deadly legacy: 35 years on The following statement was released by Chornobyl still haunts Ukraine. Today Putin’s Neo-Fascism the Ukrainian World Congress on April 26. Ukraine faces a new man-made environ- The following letter, addressed to German his will. This surely must be known to you mental catastrophe at the hands of Moscow. Chancellor Angela Merkel and signed by the and the profit-seeking businessmen and On April 26, the world marks 35 years Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine’s authors, was released on April 30 by the ad politicians who are behind it. (Ukraine’s since the Chornobyl nuclear disaster. The Crimea Peninsula and Donbas region are hoc Coalition Against Funding Putin’s Neo- pipeline could be modernized at a fraction world stands with Ukraine in honoring the zones of environmental disaster. Air and soil memory of the victims and remembering contamination, chemical spills, flooded Fascism. of the cost without the divisiveness and the heroism of the emergency responders. mines, and the threat of radioactive contam- environmental damage.) It is estimated Their sacrifices and suffering must never ination in Donbas, pollution of the Black and Dear Madam Chancellor: that when NS2 and the Turkish stream are be forgotten. Azov seas are all consequences of Russian We appeal to you, madam chancellor, to completed, Russian fossil exports to the In 1986, the Ukrainian World Congress aggression and disregard for human life. take immediate measures to halt all con- European market will grow from 40 to 70 (UWC) and its member organizations “Mr. Putin has delivered ‘Chornobyls’ to struction on Nord Stream 2 (NS2) until percent. helped expose the Soviet cover up and present-day eastern Ukraine and Crimea. [Russian President Vladimir] Putin That is why the termination of NS2 has denial of the worst nuclear disaster in his- Moscow has once again created and is cover- removes all Russian troops from Ukraine’s received strong bipartisan support in the tory. Our communities provided emergency ing-up a series of humanitarian and environ- territory, and Alexei Navalny is freed. U.S. Congress and why countries such as aid immediately following the disaster and mental disasters affecting millions of people Furthermore, we urge you to maintain a Ukraine, Moldova, Poland, Slovakia, the helped mobilize international support. In in addition to the war unleashed seven moratorium on NS2 pending reconsidera- United Kingdom, Sweden and Canada and the decades that followed, UWC and its years ago to re-establish Moscow’s hegemo- tion by an independent commission of even the European Union’s parliament have member organizations contributed numer- ny in the post-Soviet-space,” stated Paul experts on its impact on Germany’s and urged that the pipeline be closed. Even ous programs of medical, humanitarian Grod, UWC president. “Much like the Soviets Europe’s energy security in light of the ordinary Germans are divided with sub- and technical assistance to deal with the when they denied and covered up the truth ever-growing threat from a neo-fascist stantial numbers fearing its adverse impact legacy of the nuclear power disaster. The about what happened in Chornobyl, Mr. Russia. Lastly, we strongly recommend that on the environment, and others deeply international community contributed hun- Putin lies and distorts the truth about the you work with the new American adminis- troubled by the support and rewards it dreds of millions of dollars to help contain tragedies and disaster he continues to tration in a welcoming and trusting frame- offers those bent on warring against demo- and remediate the fallout. cause. We must expose Mr. Putin’s big lie.” work for mutual support and cooperation cratic European states. Tom Tugenhadt, After 35 years, the Soviet legacy of of Euro-Atlantic efforts in infrastructure chairman of the British Parliament’s cyber-security, clean energy, and adequate, Foreign Affairs Committee, termed NS2 “a #ВеликаБрехняПутіна #PutinsBigLie affordable energy supplies. project by the Russian government to As you well know, between 1939 and undermine the alliance and East European 35th anniversary of the Chornobyl disaster 1941 – in tandem with the Molotov-Rib­ states” and that undermines Europe and bent ­rop Pact – a series of trade and credit Germany. The following statement was released by occurred at Chornobyl, and that Moscow agreements between fascist Germany and Your government’s support for NS2 has the Ukrainian Congress Committee of was handling the situation. Their reaction Soviet Russia provided Germany with a disappointed many human rights support- America on April 26. was hardly appropriate to the magnitude of great many resources they needed to build ers with its unwillingness to leverage NS2 the situation. And as such, five days after up their military strength for the invasion of as a potent pressure point in changing Mr. On April 26, 1986, a tragedy of unspeak- the catastrophe, thousands of unsuspecting Eastern Europe and the USSR. Now history Putin’s behavior towards his political oppo- able magnitude occurred at the Chornobyl citizens, many of them children, paraded in nuclear power plant in northern Ukraine. At the streets of Kyiv, only 60 miles south of has come around full circle, and a democrat- nents or to refrain from aggression against 1:23 a.m., an explosion at the plant blew the Chornobyl, in celebration of May Day, obliv- ic Germany finds itself nearing closure on a countries like Ukraine and Georgia. Norbert concrete roof off reactor No. 4 spewing huge ious to the silent and invisible danger that new “pact,” but this time with neo-fascist Roettgen, head of the German Bundestag’s amounts of toxic radioactive particles into the had infiltrated their city. Russia receiving the resources it needs to Foreign Affairs Committee, declared that atmosphere. Other than immediate attempts On this 35th anniversary, the Ukrainian build up its military for the invasion of not “we must pursue hard politics, we must by Chornobyl workers to put out the fire Congress Committee of America (UCCA), only neighboring states, but to undermine respond with the only language [Mr.] Putin caused by the explosion, there was no official the largest representation of Ukrainians in and intimidate European democracies. understands – that is gas sales.” In government reaction to this catastrophe – no America, remembers all those who per- President [Joe] Biden stated that Nord response, there has been only a shameful announcements were made, no warnings ished in this catastrophe, and those who Stream 2 is a “bad deal for Europe.” It silence. given – nothing that showed the slightest con- survived. We honor the hundreds of emer- divides Europe, exposes eastern and cen- Canceling the NS2 pipeline is the single, cern for the population of Ukraine, or for gency workers who responded to the catas- tral Europe to Russian manipulation and most effective tool that the West has in the global community in general. In a delib- trophe; the hundreds of thousands who intimidation, and goes against Europe’s thwarting Mr. Putin’s ambitions and erate act of what can only be seen as negli- were uprooted from their homes; and the own stated energy and security goals. It is destructive actions. Over the years that NS2 gence and disregard for the safety of mil- millions who suffered and continue to suf- not even needed because Ukraine’s pipe- has been under construction, Gazprom and lions, Soviet authorities remained silent. fer from health issues related to Chornobyl. line, with Russia’s other Baltic pipeline, its Kremlin backers have done everything In the meantime, the people of Ukraine Today, as we mark this solemn anniver- have a capacity of nearly 210 billion cubic legally possible to subvert, circumvent, were completely unaware of the impending sary, UCCA reaffirms its resolve to do our meters of natural gas – more than twice as stone-wall and reject efforts by the danger to their lives. Soviet authorities did part in ensuring that the ongoing needs of much as Germany consumes, and without European Union or German energy regula- not initiate evacuations from the immedi- the victims of this tragedy in Ukraine are even factoring in the gas currently received tors to hold them to the same regulations ate area surrounding Chornobyl until 36 not forgotten. We will continue to condemn from multiple other sources and future and standards that affect all other gas pro- hours following the explosion. It was only all acts of negligence towards mankind reductions committed to [in the] Paris viders. Brussels’ efforts to ensure energy after high amounts of radioactivity were such as occurred at Chornobyl in 1986. In Accords. security for all of Europe and to provide for detected over parts of Europe and after this way, we hope to ensure that the victims Scandinavian experts determined that the of this tragedy are never forgotten and that NS2 is not at all about creating addition- transparency, open access to all, competi- source was Ukraine, did the Kremlin come such callous acts of inhumanity are never al capacity, but about supplanting the main tive pricing, and diversity in both energy forward to announce that an accident had repeated again. existing path for Russian gas to Europe that source and its transport have been frustrat- runs through Ukraine. That is why NS2’s ed and court decisions ignored. If Gazprom onshore extension, EUGAL (majority- behaves in such a manner when they are owned by Gazprom), allocates only 20 per- still “guests” in Germany, consider how cent of NS2’s gas to Germany and points they will conduct themselves once they feel Commemorating the Chornobyl nuclear disaster west, while the other 80 percent is to be safely “at home.” routed to the Austrian gas hub in Madame chancellor, the decision to The following statement was released by the scale of the tragedy from the world. Baumgarten, [Germany], to replace the gas withdraw from this politically ruinous the Ukrainian Canadian Congress on April Estimates on the of indirect 26. deaths resulting from the Chornobyl disas- supplied through Ukraine. According to the agreement with Russia rests entirely on ter range from the thousands to the tens of German Institute for Economic Research, your shoulders. Ukraine’s fate and Europe’s Today, the world commemorates the thousands. Ukraine and Belarus continue the consumption forecast on which Nord future that is free from the insidious grasp 35th anniversary of the Chornobyl nuclear to cope with long-term health, environ- Stream 2 is based “significantly overesti- of Russia’s tentacles rests squarely with disaster in Ukraine. The Ukrainian Canadian mental and economic consequences result- mates natural gas demand in Germany and this momentous decision. Congress (UCC) asks all Canadians to pause ing from this disaster. Europe” and that there will be no supply Respectfully, on behalf of the Coalition: today in remembrance of the thousands of On this 35th anniversary, we mourn the gap if the pipeline is not built. victims of this terrible tragedy. thousands of victims of the Chornobyl It should be self-evident that in the George Woloshyn, MBA, JD On April 26, 1986, a reactor at the disaster. We pray for the health of those Kremlin’s strategic planning NS2 is not, and Former associate director of FEMA Chornobyl nuclear power plant near whose lives are still affected by Chornobyl. never has been, a “commercial project” but Pripyat, Ukraine, exploded and melted This anniversary reminds us of the need for a political one, concocted by Mr. Putin to Eugene Stakhiv, PhD. down. The disaster affected the lives of hun- eternal vigilance to ensure the safe use of greatly increase European dependence on Former chief, U.S. Army Corps, dreds of thousands of people, with the effect nuclear power, the importance of demo- Russian energy, export his corruption and Policy Division still being felt today in Ukraine and Belarus. cratic oversight and accountability and the agents throughout Europe, and to isolate, The effects of the disaster were made far need to protect our environment. punish and coerce nations like Ukraine in Jaroslaw Martyniuk worse by the Soviet Communist regime’s May the memory of the victims be eter- eastern and central Europe to succumb to Former principal administrator, IEA/OECD obfuscations, lies and attempts to cover up

nal. Вічная Пам’ять. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 No. 18 No. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 5

has “no intention of talking to terrorists and it is just impos- Russia military threat... sible for me in my position.” (Continued from page 1) Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov inferred a similar UOCC announces postponement message this week, telling reporters that only “issues of Ossetia and Abkhazia regions to de-facto Russian control. bilateral relations” could be discussed, not on the basis “of of 24th Sobor until 2022 “We…must understand that such a precedent has already seeking a settlement in southeastern Ukraine,” implying that existed in recent history. We are talking about the Russian troops aren’t in the Donbas and that the seizure of Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada ‘Caucasus-2008’ drills,” Mr. Muzhenko said. “Then, in my Crimea is a fait accompli. opinion, on July 23, [2008], the exercises were completed, the To ease tensions and bring new life to a stalled peace pro- WINNIPEG – The Consistory Board of the return of military units to permanent locations was also cess stemming from two roadmaps reached in Minsk in Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada (UOCC) announced, and in fact, two weeks later, on August 8, 2008, 2014-2015, Mr. Zelenskyy proposed changing the agreement resolved on April 16 to postpone its 24th Sobor of active actions of Russian troops against Georgia began.” to reflect the current reality on the ground. the UOCC, and requested that the Church’s prime At sea, Russia has kept in place through October unilateral “I’m now participating in the process that was designed hierarch, Metropolitan Yurij, immediately call the maritime “exclusion zones around Crimea [in the Black Sea] before my time,” he told FT. “The Minsk process should be Sobor to be held in 2022 at a time and place beyond those it earlier imposed in the Sea of Azov,” an analy- more flexible in this situation. It should serve the purposes of determined by the Consistory Board, no later than sis by expert Paul Goble said in the Washington-based today, not of the past.” July 10, 2022. Jamestown Foundation. Mr. Zelenskyy also proposed to expand the Normandy for- The 24th Sobor was originally scheduled for Ukraine says Russia blocking foreign naval and state ves- mat, consisting of Germany, France, Ukraine and Russia, who July 2020, but was initially postponed until July sels is a violation of international law and a bilateral agree- took part in brokering the current roadmap for peace that 2021. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic con- ment with Moscow for common use of the waterways they never took hold. straints, including an emerging new wave of the share. He said the addition of the U.S., Britain and Canada would pandemic in parts of Canada, has limited the abili- This naval force consists “of up to 25 ships…[and] is capa- be welcome. ty of its full membership to convene together. ble of landing some 5,000 marines and then providing them Still, tensions remain as daily shootings take place in the The virtual format has presented numerous with support both from the sea and via naval aviation,” Mr. Donbas with one Ukrainian soldier being killed and three logistical challenges, including time zone differ- Goble wrote. “This force had and retains a significant landing wounded on April 27 when their military vehicle drove over ences, internet limitations in rural parts of Canada, capability, suggesting Ukraine remains in Moscow’s cross- an explosive device in the combat zone. More than 14,000 the resulting limited pool of Sobor delegates who hairs from the sea if not immediately from land.” people have been killed since Russia covertly invaded the have computer resources, and a lack of assurance Meanwhile, Mr. Zelenskyy twice over the past week reiter- country in early 2014. of full compliance with Sobor By-Laws in matters ated his desire to hold bilateral talks with his Russian coun- This month, both sides expelled two diplomats. On April such as the participation of guests and voting. terpart Vladimir Putin, who has eschewed phone calls from 27, Ukraine ordered a Russian consular officer in Odesa to Metropolitan Yurij ratified the resolution on Kyiv and rejected the prospect of such a meeting taking place leave after Russia expelled a Ukrainian diplomat in Moscow April 17, when he issued a letter informing the to ease tensions and achieve peace. the previous day. And on April 17, Russia ordered a consular faithful of the decision by the Consistory Board. Speaking to The Financial Times, the Ukrainian leader said: officer in St. Petersburg to leave, after which Ukraine The letter stated: “It was not an easy decision “we don’t care about the venue, it’s about the substance.” expelled a Russian diplomatic adviser in Kyiv. nor was it taken lightly. Many factors were consid- In an interview with Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Mr. A Russian lawmaker said that nearly 1 million residents of ered and robustly debated. There was no perfect or Zelenskyy said a meeting with Mr. Putin at the Vatican the occupied parts of the Donbas would have Russian pass- even good solution to the problems we confronted “would be ideal.” ports by the end of the year, alerting Kyiv’s political leadership in planning a virtual Sobor. …We took what we The Kremlin has responded to the Ukrainian president’s further. Mr. Putin has previously said that protecting “Russian viewed to be the best decision in the best interests entreaties with disdain. Mr. Putin intimated that Russia isn’t citizens everywhere” is a Russian foreign policy priority. of our Church and all of Her membership in cir- involved in the Donbas, despite overwhelming evidence to More than 500,000 Donbas residents already have cumstances that did not offer any good options.” the contrary, while speaking to local media. He insisted over Russian citizenship, State Duma lawmaker Viktor Vodolatsky Metropolitan Yurij in his letter said that a bless- the week that Mr. Zelenskyy should speak to the Russian told state news agency TASS on April 25. ing from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will proxies in the occupied parts of Luhansk and Donetsk And the Kremlin announced it is drafting a list of coun- be sought for the 24th Sobor to be held in person oblasts before the idea of extending an invitation to his tries it says are “unfriendly” to Russia, a designation which on or before July 10, 2022. He added: “Much of the Ukrainian counterpart would be entertained. will entail a reduction in their diplomatic corps. work has already been done in the planning stages In turn, Mr. Zelenskyy told The Financial Times that he The Ukrainian Weekly monitored Russian state-controlled and will not have to be redone, rather readjusted TV channels, during which time Rossiya 1 leaked for the new reality. There will be no need for those a partial list of countries Moscow deems hostile parishes who have submitted resolutions to re- that soon will be approved by the government. submit them. We will continue to update our web- Among them are Ukraine and Georgia, with site [www.uocc.ca] with Sobor information to whom Russia has or is waging war, as well as the keep our UOCC informed of the progress towards U.S., Britain, Canada and Australia, all of whom the next Sobor. We invite your feedback and ask have imposed sanctions on Russia. for your prayers so that we may continue to labor Overall, Russia’s behavior toward its neighbors, and serve for the Glory of God and the good of our including Ukraine, is considered “reckless,” Glen beloved UOCC.” Grant, the new head of Britain’s Secret Asking for the Holy Spirit to guide and inspire Intelligence Service, told the London-based all to a fruitful conclusion on its third effort to hold Sunday Times on April 25. the 24th Sobor, Metropolitan Yurij prayed for the What Russia managed to achieve when it safety and health of all of the UOCC’s hierarchs, amassed its forces near Ukraine’s border earlier clergy and families, and all its faithful, calling on all this month was strategic, he said. Mr. Putin has, for understanding and support as the Church among other accomplishments, managed to test moves ahead during these trying times. Mark Raczkiewycz Ukraine’s and the West’s reaction while “keeping For additional and updated information, readers A screenshot of a Russian television channel showing a list of coun- in place many of the forces brought in who are in are directed to visit the UOCC website, www.uocc.ca. tries that Russia will designate as “unfriendly.” readiness to reactivate,” Mr. Grant said. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 No. 18

gender equality in the country. And there is Ukraine elected... an added concern that Russia will take The Ukrainian Weekly (Continued from page 1) advantage of the issue to sow further dis- cord and division in Ukraine. and cooperation with Ukraine and “As Ukraine is yet to ratify the Istanbul Commemorating Ukrainian women, successfully adding the Convention and Ukrainian women are yet voices of Ukrainian women in their strate- to be represented equally in government the victims of Chornobyl gies and effectively representing more and be given equal opportunities in per- Thirty-five years ago, on April 26, 1986, during a test meant to simulate an elec- women around the world,” Ms. Prykhodko sonal and professional spheres, there is trical outage, power to the No. 4 reactor at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant said. growing disenchantment,” Ms. Prykhodko unexpectedly dropped to a near-zero level. Reactor operators, who were not “Undoubtedly, for Ukraine to fully take said. scheduled to work and were not properly prepared to run the test, tried to restore advantage of its time on the Executive “With the Russian propaganda machine power. The core of the reactor, which had become unstable and suffered from vari- Council of U.N. Women, Ukrainians – both successfully spreading anti-gender messag- ous design flaws, exploded twice, spewing radioactive material across a large swath men and women – around the world will ing in Ukraine as yet another part of its out- of Europe. have to work together,” Ms. Prykhodko said. right assault against Ukraine, a good per- While Belarus, Ukraine and Russia were hit hardest by the fallout from the disas- “The international Ukrainian community centage of Ukrainians don’t quite see how ter, radioactive contamination reached as far away as Norway. In fact, the first pub- has much to offer Ukraine in its new role in gender equality can improve their lives. lic indicator that a major nuclear catastrophe had occurred came not from Soviet U.N. Women, including but not limited to Hopefully, with Ukraine being part of the authorities. Rather, it came two days later from workers at the Forsmark Nuclear resources, history, and established conduits U.N. Women’s Executive Council, there will Power Plant in Sweden – some 680 miles northwest of Chornobyl – who detected of information. Any long-term planning for be many opportunities to have this discus- unusually high radiation counts in their facility on April 28, 1986. reaching gender equality amongst sion on the national level,” said Ms. It is important to note, as Orest Deychakiwsky has in his column in this week’s Ukrainians should include those Ukrainians Prykhodko, a U.N. representative for the issue of The Weekly, the “monumental health, environmental, social, political and living outside of Ukraine,” said Ms. World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s economic consequences which linger to this day.” Mr. Deychakiwsky rightly notes Prykhodko, who is an active member of the Organizations. that on this 35th anniversary of the nuclear catastrophe, it is important to honor Ukrainian community in . The World Federation of Ukrainian the memory of all who have been impacted by the disaster. Indeed, we may never Volodymyr Beglov, a human rights activ- Women’s Organizations (WFUWO) is a really know just how many have been impacted by and suffered from Chornobyl’s ist from , said that Ukraine’s member- United Nations Economic and Social consequences. ship in the U.N. Women’s Executive Council Council (ECOSOC) accredited NGO in the Mr. Deychakiwsky rightly points out that, “while we will most probably never will benefit both Ukraine and the interna- U.N. with consultative status. WFUWO acts know the full scope of the devastation on human health, or on the environment, let tional organization. as a voice for Ukrainian women on the there be no doubt that it has been enormous. Its legacy persists to this day and will “We will strengthen our position in this international stage through the critical do so for generations to come.” context, and, for our part, we will at least international body of the United Nations. Which is why we are mystified that there seemed to be very little done this year speak louder about our own experience of “We bolster the image of Ukraine and to commemorate and honor all of the victims of this tragic event. This week’s issue fighting for women’s rights,” Mr. Beglov give Ukrainian women agency, so the inter- does include a short story about one such commemoration which took place in said. “We also have many unique, impor- national community hears them. Through Chicago, but it was organized by members of the Belarusian diaspora. Mr. tant cases that we are obliged to address, our activity in the U.N., we often partner Deychakiwsky rightly points out all of the truly amazing work that has been done from research in the field of women’s histo- with various U.N. structures and women’s over the past 35 years by various people and organizations. He notes that the U.S. ry to the experience of Ukrainian women at organizations to enhance our work in the has been the single largest country donor, “spending hundreds of millions to help the frontline of the war.” gender sphere and share the experiences clean up the site and build confinement structures, most recently the New Safe Mr. Beglov, who is the chairperson of the and history of the Ukrainian women’s Confinement (NSC) to contain destroyed reactor number 4, the building of which Educational Center for Human Rights in movement,” Ms. Prykhodko said. was completed in 2019.” Lviv, believes that progress has been made The WFUWO delivers statements and Those efforts have not only commemorated the dead, but they have also raised on gender equality in Ukraine, though there briefs wherever and whenever Ukraine is massive amounts of money to help survivors who have had to live with the conse- is more still that needs to be done. concerned and leads delegations of quences of the radioactive fallout. Indeed, their efforts should be applauded. But as “Fortunately, the issue of women’s rights Ukrainian women at various assemblies, we remember the events of April 26, 1986, let us also recommit ourselves to con- in Ukraine has been increasingly demythol- such as at the annual U.N. Commission on tinuing to honor and commemorate all those who have been impacted by the ogized in recent years. I notice that for an the Status of Women. world’s greatest nuclear catastrophe, precisely so that it may never happen again. increasing part of society, ensuring gender The United Nations Entity for Gender equality and condemning sexism is the Equality and the Empowerment of Women norm, not a matter for a long discussion,” was established by the U.N. General Mr. Beglov said. Assembly on July 2, 2010. The goal of U.N. “But this is not enough. There is still a lot Women is to accelerate the achievement of May Turning the pages back... of work. Needless to say, we have not yet the U.N. goals in the field of gender equality ratified the Istanbul Convention [on pre- and the empowerment of women, in partic- Thirty-seven years ago, on May 8, 1984, the venting and combating violence against ular by implementing policies, global stan- 8 announced it would not participate in the Olympic Games in Los women and domestic violence],” Mr. Beglov dards and norms in this area by providing Angeles that summer. Following suit, East Germany and Bulgaria said. technical and financial assistance to mem- 1984 announced that they would also not be sending teams to the Ukraine signed the Istanbul Convention ber states in the implementation of these Games, with similar statements made by other Soviet satellite in 2011 but has not yet ratified it. In June norms, strengthening effective partner- countries. Other countries that boycotted the 1984 Games 2020, in response to a petition, the presi- ships with civil society and the like. included Czechoslovakia, Poland, Hungary, Cuba, South Yemen, North Korea, Ethiopia, dential office stated that Ukrainian Ukraine was also re-elected for a three- Angola, Iran, Albania, Libya, Afghanistan, Laos, Vietnam and Mongolia. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would sub- year term to the Executive Board of the U.N. In a statement, the Soviet National Olympic Committee cited “the gross flouting” of mit a bill to parliament to ratify the Development Program (UNDP), the U.N. Olympic ideals by the , and underscored that plans by groups to stage anti- Istanbul Convention. Population Fund (UNFPA) and the U.N. Soviet demonstrations during the Games and the American refusal to ban such protests as The convention provides mechanisms to Office for Project Services (UNOPS). contributing factors in the decision to boycott. The Soviets claimed that the move was not combat gender-based violence. During the Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said a boycott in retaliation of the U.S. boycott of the Moscow Olympic Games in 1980 in COVID-19 pandemic, the situation seems to that it is among 30 countries on whose ter- response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Observers noted that the Soviet move also have gotten worse. According to the ritory significant projects are being imple- aimed to embarrass the Reagan administration in an attempt to hurt President Ronald National Police, there were 174,386 cases of mented with the support of the U.N. Reagan’s chances for re-election. Analysts said the Soviet move aimed to punish domestic violence reported in Ukraine over “Our state is especially interested in the Washington, not only for the 1980 boycott, but also for wider disputes between the two the course of 10 months in 2020. There U.N. operational activities being effective countries over nuclear weapons and other issues. were 114,00 cases throughout all of 2019. and result-oriented, eliminating duplica- The Reagan administration called the Soviet action a “blatant political action for which Asked about how she views Ukraine’s tion and avoiding gaps in the interaction of there was no real justification.” Sen. Alan Cranston (D – Calif.), who was a regular critic of progress on gender equality issues, Ms. agencies in the host countries,” the ministry the administration, did not blame the Reagan administration for causing the Soviet protest. Prykhodko also noted that progress is said. The Soviet press commented that Mr. Reagan and his advisors hoped to use the Games being made. It also added that U.N. agencies in to foster support in the election in which the Kremlin strongly favored a Democratic Party “Ukrainians and Ukraine are becoming Ukraine will continue to assist the govern- victory. more progressive as they reach the goals of ment in its efforts to overcome the impact Official Soviet statements mocked the U.S. boycott of the 1980 Olympics, but observers European integration and carry out long- of the coronavirus pandemic on Ukrainian noted that the U.S. move seriously undermined the efforts that the Kremlin had mounted awaited reforms. One of the areas where society over the next few years. in playing host for the Games and considerably weakened competition in many sports, societal change has been more successful Other areas of enhanced interaction will creating deep resentments. since Euro-Maidan is, in my opinion, that of occur in the development of democratic The Soviets also expressed concerns about its athletes and citizens defecting while in gender and women,” Ms. Prykhodko said. governance, sustainable economic growth, the U.S. In 1984, only one Soviet citizen had defected since the USSR had entered the “Outdated stereotypes and gender roles are employment, green energy and modern Olympics in 1952 – and later he voluntarily returned to the USSR. on their way out as the younger genera- technologies. The Ban the Soviets coalition, among other citizens’ groups, publicly stated that they tions of Ukrainians seek to step out of the “These projects are being implemented planned to encourage defections among Soviet and East European athletes. The coalition, confines of Soviet and post-Soviet mentali- within the framework of the partnership which was formed after the Soviets shot down an unarmed Korean airliner (KAL 700) in the ties.” between the government of Ukraine and fall of 1983 and was made up of a number of émigré and ethnic groups, said it had as many But Ms. Prykhodko also noted that more the U.N. for 2018-2022 with a budget of work needs to be done and there is a dan- $667 million,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry (Continued on page 7) ger of losing momentum in the fight for said. No. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 7

FROM FAR AND WIDE by Marco Levytsky 35 years since the Chornobyl disaster Canada asked to take a leading role Thirty-five years ago, the word tions with Soviet rule and provoked fur- Chornobyl first entered our lexicon and ther disillusionment with the system. It in Ukraine’s path to NATO left an indelible mark on the world’s con- shook whatever trust remained in the The recent buildup of Russian troops November 2019, the High Level Strategic sciousness. This catastrophe, the largest system. Chornobyl helped encourage along the border with Ukraine once again Advisers of the Defense Reform Advisory nuclear accident in history, had monu- Gorbachev’s policies of Glasnost (open- brought the question of Ukraine’s path to Board (DRAB) of NATO commended the mental health, environmental, social, ness) and Perestroika (Perebudova in NATO to the forefront. Even though Russia progress of reforms in Ukraine. political and economic consequences that Ukrainian, or re-structuring), notwith- decided to pull back their troops, the threat Ukraine has recently been given linger to this day. standing the shortcomings of their imple- remains constant. One can only speculate Enhanced Opportunities Partner (EOP) sta- Granted, with the passage of time, and mentation when it came to the Soviet whether this simply was a military exercise tus. The EOP was launched by NATO in at least the partial amelioration of some government’s response to the disaster whose goals were completed, as Russia’s 2014 and its goal is to strengthen the of its consequences, attention to and itself. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu claims, or interoperability of troops of the EOP coun- memory of this unprecedented disaster Chornobyl mobilized greater citizen whether Russian President Vladimir Putin tries with NATO forces. The next step is has faded somewhat. Other consequential activism across the Soviet Union, notably actually blinked, as some pundits would entry into the NATO Membership Action events have supplanted Chornobyl as his- a mass ecological movement in Ukraine, have us believe. Plan (MAP), a program of advice, assistance Regardless, the episode did demonstrate and practical support tailored to the indi- tory marches on – and there has been no which joined the movement for indepen- the need to take forceful action to deter vidual needs of countries wishing to join shortage of history in the last 35 years. dence and democracy. Thus, it galvanized Russian aggression and any escalation of the Alliance. This does not mean that Chornobyl has the Ukrainian people’s long-suppressed the conflict because one never knows Ukrainian President Volodymyr been forgotten altogether, as illustrated in efforts to determine their own fate and exactly what Mr. Putin may have in mind Zelenskyy has appealed directly to the critically acclaimed, award-winning achieve an independent state, which when he embarks on his adventurist cam- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to 2019 HBO miniseries “Chernobyl” or with delivered the death blow to the Soviet paigns. During an online press conference not only help Ukraine get in the MAP, but to books such as Serhii Plokhy’s 2018 book Union. Chornobyl, Ukrainian indepen- with foreign journalists that included close take the lead in doing so. This reflects the “Chornobyl: The History of a Nuclear dence and the fall of the USSR are all inex- to 100 participants from over 30 countries, “special relationship” the two countries Catastrophe.” tricably linked. Without a doubt, representing 14 time zones, on April 20 enjoy – a relationship that’s based upon And I’m sure it won’t be forgotten by Chornobyl was an important contributing Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Minister Dmytro Canada being home to the free world’s larg- those who have visited Chornobyl, as I factor in the downfall of what Ronald Kuleba urged Ukraine’s partners to impose est Ukrainian diaspora, as well as did in 2007 as part of a U.S. Congressional Reagan, only a few years prior to the acci- sectoral sanctions in addition to personal Ukrainians being a regional founding nation delegation led by Sen. Ben Cardin dent, had labeled the “evil empire.” ones. Specifically, Ukraine would like its of Canada. It was this special relationship (D-Md.). Especially vivid in my mind The dissolution of the Soviet Union partners to target the military industry, that prompted then-Prime Minister Brian remain the haunting images of the ghost- meant, however, that newly independent energy, construction, aero-space and finan- Mulroney to become the first Western lead- town of nearby Pripyat, which was hastily Ukraine inherited Chornobyl, adding to cial sectors of Russia. er to recognize Ukraine’s independence in evacuated a day after the explosion. the already many considerable challenges Ukraine’s NATO aspirations are based on 1991 and it is this special relationship that The Chornobyl catastrophe marks a facing the young state. To this day, several factors: has made Canada Ukraine’s principal tragic milestone in the history of Ukraine, Ukraine, as well as Belarus, is dealing spokesperson in international circles. Belarus, the surrounding region and, with its legacy. under which Ukraine voluntarily gave up While Canada is at best a middle power indeed, the world. It constitutes one of And what about the international its •nuclear The 1994 arsenal Budapest in return Memorandum, for guarantees in terms of military and economic clout, it the most bitter legacies of Soviet commu- response? A full accounting goes well of its sovereignty and territorial integrity enjoys a reputation as an “honest broker” in nism – and that is saying something, beyond the scope of one column. Indeed, by the United States, the United Kingdom international affairs, which allows it to exert and the Russian Federation. This guarantee given the number of bitter legacies left by it could fill quite a few tomes, including an influence that surpasses its military and was blatantly violated by Russia and, even economic weight. When asked how Mr. the Soviet system. Chornobyl has had tre- the question of whether or not the inter- though there is no legal obligation for the Trudeau reacted to Mr. Zelenskyy’s request, mendous human costs, especially for national response has been adequate. U.S. and U.K. to defend Ukraine from spokespersons for the foreign affairs minis- Ukraine and Belarus, which bore the But let me briefly touch upon just a few Russian aggression, there is a moral one. tries of both countries have kept mum. But a brunt of the radioactive fallout. Debate examples of Congressional and especially telling answer was given to me by the press continues and estimates vary as to the Helsinki Commission efforts. Many of Bucharest in 2008, NATO announced its secretary for Canada’s prime minister’s full extent of its health effects on the sur- these were devoted to not only ensuring intention• During tothe bring 20th NATOboth summitUkraine held and in office when pressed a second time to be rounding population, including the num- that Chorno­byl stayed on this country’s Georgia into the alliance. “NATO welcomes more specific. “We don’t have anything to bers of fatalities and illnesses due to radi- radar screen, but also with practical Ukraine’s and Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspi- add on the record at this time.” ation poisoning. While we will most efforts to address and mitigate its numer- rations for membership in NATO. We Given Canada’s behind-closed-doors probably never know the full scope of the ous consequences. Importantly, this agreed today that these countries will approach to lobbying on Ukraine’s behalf, devastation on human health, or on the included keeping Chornobyl on the become members of NATO,” read Article 23 this could be interpreted as a sign it will do environment, let there be no doubt that it Executive Branch’s radar screen and pro- of the official statement. so again. The government, however, is not has been enormous. Its legacy persists to viding substantial funding assistance. going to say so publicly. this day and will do so for generations to Indeed, Congress reacted quickly – just Ukraine want NATO membership and If that’s the case, then we can only hope come. within a few days after the resolution – Ukraine’s• The majority NATO aspirations of the population were even of and pray that other NATO members will On this 35th anniversary, it’s impor- passing a resolution introduced by Rep. written into the Constitution. come around. The Russian Federation can- tant to honor the memory of all of Mary Rose Oakar (D-Ohio), for whom my not be allowed to run rampant over Chornobyl’s heroes – the first responders, fellow Weekly columnist, Andrew NATO exercises and actions than any other Ukraine. Not only would that threaten the liquidators and others who selflessly sac- Fedynsky, worked at the time. non-member• Ukraine and has has participated been steadily in bring more- peace and security of the whole world, but rificed their health, and all too often their In the decades that followed, the ing its military up to Western standards. In given that Ukraine voluntarily gave up its lives, to limit the damage from the disas- Helsinki Commission, where I worked for nuclear arsenal, it would give a clear signal ter. 35 years, was instrumental in helping to Marco Levytsky may be contacted at to any rogue regime with nuclear ambi- As horrific as Chornobyl was, there keep the spotlight on Chornobyl and its [email protected]. tions to go forth and proliferate. was some good that came from it. It had consequences, holding public hearings swift and significant geo-political conse- exclusively devoted to Chornobyl on the quences. The accident itself and the 5th, 10th and 20th anniversaries of the to boycott the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Soviet response exposed deep flaws in disaster. The hearings, chaired by Rep. Turning... Games, citing China’s record of human the Soviet system. The Soviet govern- Chris Smith (R-N.J.) included testimony (Continued from page 6) rights violations. China won the nomina- ment’s silence and obfuscation in the from Ukraine’s ambassadors to the tion as host of the 2022 Games in 2015, immediate aftermath of the tragedy – United States, Dr. Yuri Shcherbak and, as 500 “safe houses” around Los Angeles in when it began to detain journalists, as well manifesting itself most starkly by the later, Oleh Shamshur, as well as experts which to harbor possible defectors. as harass and attack activists and dissi- authorities’ failure to warn the people of and NGOs. They addressed not only the A Soviet journalist in London was quot- dents even beyond China’s borders. The the surrounding areas with timely infor- aftereffects, but also how the U.S. and the ed as saying that plans were already under genocidal actions that China has reportedly mation regarding the dangers of massive international community could respond way to stage an athletic meet called the taken against its Uyghur Muslim popula- radiation – exposed the utter callousness to the many challenges left in Chornobyl’s “Friendship Games” for Soviet-bloc coun- tion is another major contributing factor, of the Soviet system. It created, or in wake. tries, which indicated that the Soviets had with more than 180 human rights organi- zations calling for a boycott of the 2022 many cases exacerbated, deep frustra- House and Senate members of the planned long in advance to pull out of the Winter Olympics. Commission initiated resolutions on 1984 Games. Orest Deychakiwsky may be reached at This year, the Biden administration has Source: “Soviets quit Olympic Games,” The [email protected]. (Continued on page 15) been increasingly receiving calls for the U.S. Ukrainian Weekly, May 13, 1984. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 No. 18 No. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 9

Ukraine are no coincidence. Blasts... “Then, the explosions that took place in (Continued from page 1) Ukraine, if you put it all together, it seems that the weapons that we really needed at Bulgaria and the Czech Republic that was the front were actually destroyed not only part of an effort “to undermine Ukraine” in Ukraine but also in other countries,” he during the first two years of an undeclared said over the past week. war with Russia in 2014-2015, Bellingcat As a result, Ukraine has lost about 40 said. percent of its ammunition stocks, or Earlier this month, Czech authorities 210,000 tons, in the depot explosions, announced they are seeking at least two according to the TV channel Ukraine 24. officers of GRU unit 29155 for their alleged The losses are the equivalent of more than connection to two explosions at arms $2 billion, former lawmaker Serhiy depots in the eastern part of the country in Pashynskyi, who headed parliament’s 2014. Committee on National Security, Defense Mr. Gebrev, the Bulgarian weapons man- and Intelligence, said in 2018. ufacturer, had arms stored at one of the In 2019, the SBU said it thwarted a sub- depots at the time of the blasts. versive act in the planning stage at an arse- The GRU officers named by Czech nal of the Armed Forces without disclosing authorities are the same two suspects its location, Interfax news agency reported. sought by British detectives in the 2018 None of the five explosions since 2014 in poisoning attempt of former Russian mili- Ukraine have been solved and a special par- tary intelligence officer and liamentary commission to investigate them his daughter in England. was formed in December 2019. Those GRU officers, Aleksandr Mishkin In April 2020, a preliminary report was and Anatoly Chepiga, allegedly used a mili- RFE/RL published with findings for two of the tary grade nerve agent called Novichok on blasts. A map of Bulgaria showing where the explosions took place. their targets. A banned pesticide known in It first focused on the one in Russia as Tetram was used to twice target It took part in the forcible seizure of by Bellingcat show that several members of because it was the biggest arms depot in the Bulgarian arms dealer. Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula in 2014, a [GRU] unit 29155 communicated actively eastern Europe where 91 percent of muni- Both had used fake Moldovan and Tajik failed coup in Montenegro in 2016 as the with Russian military officers deployed to tions were destroyed on March 23, 2017, identities when registering their interest to Balkan country sought NATO membership, the Donbas, as well as with local militant the report said. visit the Vrbetice arms depot that exploded possible destabilization operations in Spain commanders fighting against the central It furthermore debunked the SBU’s in eastern Czech Republic. Citing a during the Catalonia independence refer- Kyiv government, in 2014 and 2015,” the working theory that a drone had set off the Ukrainian source in the arms trade, endum of 2017, and the assassination of a research group said. explosion. Instead, a “detonation of an open Bellingcat said it is standard practice by former Chechen rebel commander in Berlin In Ukraine, explosions or fires have ammunition storage site by exploding Russian military intelligence to offer “sig- two years ago. erupted at five different arms depots since explosives sunk into the ground” caused the nificantly above market prices” to purchase Bellingcat posited that the GRU’s opera- Russia covertly invaded the country in initial explosions, the report stated. weapons Ukraine has sought as a preven- tions in Bulgaria and the Czech Republic 2014 in a war that has entered its eighth Yet, the SBU still maintains that an tive measure. were initiated “shortly after July 2014 year, killed more than 14,000 people and unmanned aerial vehicle caused the explo- Russia has denied involvement in the when Russian authorities subordinated the displaced at least a million more. sion, the report said. Czech and Bulgarian blasts as well as the disparate Russia-supported militant groups They took place in the regions of In Vinnytsia region, the parliamentary poisoning of Mr. Gebrev. in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine Kharkiv, Vinnytsia, Chernihiv, Luhansk and commission “found that during the almost “Either the Bulgarian side knew nothing under central control and military supervi- Dnipropetrovsk. 2.5-year pre-trial investigation, the investi- about this for the past 10 years and only sion of the GRU.” Speaking to Ukrainian media during the gators did not reliably establish not only the now, after the Czech Republic announced In yet another connection to Ukraine, past week, Viktor Yahun, a major-general causes but also the circumstances of the the 2014 incident, decided to outshine the Czech authorities on April 21 detained five who was the deputy head of the Security event. The perpetrators have not been Czechs and look further back into history, of their citizens on suspicion of fighting on Service of Ukraine (SBU) from March 2014 brought to justice, which casts doubt on the or they knew about it for all this time but the Russian side of the Donbas war. Three to June 2015, said the blasts in and outside objectivity of law enforcement actions.” did not make it public for some reason,” of the suspects were jailed two days later. Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei The two other suspects were released on Lavrov told reporters on April 28. their own recognizance. GRU unit 29155 is an elite group that In addition, at the time of the 2014-2015 has been linked to assassinations and explosions in the Czech Republic and attempted assassinations, coup attempts, Bulgaria, Ukraine was Russia’s only ongo- sabotage and other subversive activities in ing large-scale battleground. Europe, including Ukraine. Moreover, “telephone records analyzed

crisis has been averted, or depending on Russia’s bluffing... what ensues, deferred. Kyiv is holding firm (Continued from page 2) and asking its allies to join it in changing their tune toward an intransigent and bel- placed all the blame on what has occurred ligerent Moscow. It has also begun press- in Russian-Ukrainian relations on Kyiv and ing for the rules of the diplomatic “game” emphasized that Moscow is not willing to and the participants to be changed. budge at all and he insisted that any peace The underlying question, and challenge settlement be made on the Kremlin’s terms. for Kyiv, remain – what will it take to get In the meantime, Moscow has been play- across the message that Ukraine is a victim ing up the Belarusian factor, because the of Russia’s aggression and remains at war Belarusian dictator, clinging for his political with it, and that the outcome of this conflict life through the use of harsh repression at will determine the future not only of home and reliant on the Kremlin’s support, Eastern Europe, but it will also determine is demonstrating that he is willing to allow the line between Europe and Eurasia, and, Russia to absorb his country through nego- more broadly still, between democracy and tiated “integration.” Russian troops autocracy, as U.S. President Joe Biden put it. deployed in Belarus would not be good Ukraine must also secure the unambiva- news for Ukraine, or for that matter Poland, lent support of Europe’s strongest players – Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Berlin and France. Just this week the The Belarusian president, Alexander German minister of foreign affairs came out Lukashenko, was in Moscow again on April against strengthening the sanctions against 23 groveling before Mr. Putin and joining Russia. And Berlin, despite everything, him in a public Ukraine-bashing exercise. continues to stick to its notorious Nord He now reiterates Moscow’s position that Stream 2 pipeline project with Russia. Ukrainians, Belarusians and Russians are Small wonder that Kyiv is looking to one people, and that the U.S. is behind the Washington, London and Ottawa, not to Ukrainians breaking ranks, and that the mention its east European partners, to help democratic revolution in Belarus, like find an effective and principled way for- Ukraine’s Revolution of Dignity, has been ward. On May 3, Mr. Zelenskyy will be in instigated by Western enemies. Poland and have a timely opportunity to This then is the unresolved situation. A continue this task. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 No. 18

those who lost their lives in the accident. NEWSBRIEFS An explosion and fire caused by a reactor (Continued from page 2) meltdown at the Chornobyl power plant, located 110 kilometers north of Kyiv on month, the SBU said it had prevented a large April 26, 1986, sent clouds of lethal nuclear TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL WALTER HONCHARYK (973) 292-9800 x3040 cyberattack by Russian hackers aimed at material across much of Europe. Pripyat, or e-mail [email protected] classified government data. Ukraine has pre- home to some 50,000 people, was evacuat- viously accused Russia of orchestrating ed along with other communities in a SERVICES PROFESSIONALS cyberattacks as part of a “hybrid war” against 30-kilometer exclusion zone around the Ukraine. Russia denies this. Relations radioactive wreckage. Dozens of people, between Ukraine and Russia have been particularly firefighters and other first МИХАЙЛО КОЗЮПА tense since Russia’s annexation of Crimea responders, died as a direct result of the Ліцензований Продавець disaster, but radiation poisoning is believed Страхування Життя from Ukraine in 2014 and its involvement in a conflict in Ukraine’s east. Kyiv, its Western to have killed thousands more across MICHAEL KOZIUPA allies and NATO have accused Russia of a Ukraine, Belarus, Russia and other coun- Licensed Life Insurance Agent tries in the years that followed. In 2016, a Ukrainian National Assn., Inc. provocative troop buildup on Ukraine’s east- ern border and in Crimea. (RFE/RL, with crumbling “sarcophagus” used to contain 973-723-4387 reporting by Reuters) radiation from the smoldering reactor was [email protected] replaced with a $2.3 billion metal dome in a Kyiv expels Russian consul bid to stop future leaks. More than 200 tons of uranium remain buried inside. The area Ukraine has declared the Russian consul has attracted tourists, with flora and fauna SERVICES МАРІЯ ДРИЧ in the Black Sea port city of Odesa as “per- taking over deserted streets and buildings, Ліцензований Продавець sona non grata” after a second Ukrainian Страхування Життя and Kyiv wants to make it a UNESCO World diplomat was kicked out of Russia in an Heritage Site. “Our goal today is to trans- МАRІA DRICH ongoing diplomatic spat between the two form the exclusion zone...into an area of Licensed Life Insurance Agent countries. The consul must leave the coun- Ukrainian National Assn., Inc. renaissance,” Mr. Zelenskyy said in his try by April 30 at the latest, Ukraine’s address. (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service, with 2200 Route 10, Parsippany, NJ 07054 Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement reporting by AFP) Tel.: 973-292-9800 ext. 3035 on April 27. Amid already heightened ten- e-mail: [email protected] sions between Moscow and Kyiv, the latest Two theories on Czech arms depot blast diplomatic row was sparked by the arrest Czech President Milos Zeman has said and subsequent expulsion of a Ukrainian there are two theories about what caused SERVICES consul earlier this month in St. Petersburg. the 2014 arms depot blast that has sparked Russian authorities accused the diplomat of a severe diplomatic rift with Russia, and trying to acquire personal data from secret that both must be investigated. Speaking service agents. In return, Kyiv expelled a for the first time about the incident during Russian diplomat, prompting Moscow to a televised address to the nation on April respond by expelling a second Ukrainian on 25, Mr. Zeman said that one version of April 26. “We completely reject the unsub- events is that Russian intelligence was stantiated allegations that the declared involved in the deadly explosion. The other ‘persona non grata’ Ukrainian diplomat version, he said, was that the blast was allegedly engaged in activities incompatible caused by inexpert handling of ammuni- with diplomatic status. The employee of the LAW OFFICES OF tion. “I take both lines [of investigation] Embassy of Ukraine in Moscow did not ZENON B. MASNYJ, ESQ. seriously and I wish that they are thor- ______carry out any actions that would go beyond oughly investigated,” Mr. Zeman said. Prime In the East Village since 1983 PERSONAL his diplomatic and consular functions,” the Minister Andrej Babis on April 17 Ukrainian statement said. “If the Russian Serious personal injury, real estate announced that investigators from the side continues to provoke against employ- Czech intelligence and security services for personal and business use, ees of diplomatic missions of Ukraine in A 35 y.o. highly educated and good had provided “unequivocal evidence” that representation of small and mid- Russia, we reserve the right to take further size businesses, divorce, wills and looking man wishes to meet a lady there was “reasonable suspicion regarding action in response,” it added. Tense ties probate (New York matters only). a role of members of Russian military intel- of Ukrainian descent for a long- since Moscow’s annexation of Ukraine’s term relationship. Please email: ligence GRU’s unit 29155 in the explosion (By Appointment Only) Crimea region in 2014 and Russia’s backing of the munition depot in Vrbetice in 2014.” [email protected] of separatists in eastern Ukraine have been 140 Second Avenue Citing the report by the Czech Security recently heightened by a buildup of Russian Information Service, Mr. Zeman said that New York, NY 10003 troops near Ukraine and military drills in 212-477-3002 there was “neither proof nor evidence” that [email protected] Run your advertisement here, the annexed region. For years, neither the two Russian GRU agents being sought Russia nor Ukraine have had ambassadors in The Ukrainian Weekly’s regarding possible involvement in the If 212-477-3002 landline busy, in each other’s capital. (RFE/RL, with explosion were at the arms depot. “I hope please call 201-247-2413 CLASSIFIEDS section. reporting by Reuters, dpa and AFP) that we will determine the truth and find Zelenskyy marks Chornobyl anniversary out whether this suspicion [of Russian intelligence involvement] is justified,” Mr. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelens­ Zeman said. “If that is the case – although I kyy called on the international community support fair relations with all important to work together to prevent a repeat of the countries – the Russian Federation would 1152 Route 10 West, Suite N, Randolph, NJ 07869 Chornobyl disaster on the 35th anniversary have to pay the price of this presumed ter- 862-219-5344 of what is considered the worst nuclear rorist act.” Mr. Zeman suggested that elimi- disaster in history. “Our task is to do every- nating the Russian company Rosatom from thing possible to bolster security and consideration in a bid to construct a new strengthen safety to avoid and never repeat nuclear plant would be one possible pun- a similar disaster in the future,” Mr. ishment. However, he also said that if Zelenskyy said in a televised address on Russia were cleared of responsibility it April 26 during a visit to the Chornobyl “could bear serious consequences for our exclusion zone to mark International internal politics.” Mr. Zeman, whose powers Chornobyl Disaster Remembrance Day. In as president are largely ceremonial, has the capital, Kyiv, dozens of people joined a often expressed pro-Russian views and is ceremony and placed flowers at a seen as being friendly toward Moscow. The Chornobyl memorial. Others gathered in blast in Vrbetice on October 16, 2014, set the ghost town of Pripyat overnight and KULINSKI MEMORIALS held a vigil with 35 candles in memory of (Continued on page 11) 809 SOUTH MAIN STREET • MANVILLE, NJ 08835 Tel. 800-458-5467 • 908-722-3130 • Fax 908-253-0027 [email protected] • KulinskiMemorials.com YAROSLAVA TKACHUK, Realtor • Serving Ukrainian families for over 60 years • Over 40 granite colors to choose from Real estate sale and purchase • Custom etchings in Hunter, NY, and surrounding area. • House appointments available • Serving the tri-state area Cell: 518-653-7742 • 5 minutes from St. Andrew Ukrainian Cemetery in South Bound Brook, NJ Email: [email protected] No. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 11

ing seven diplomats. The Czech Foreign Affairs Ministry has given Russia until the NEWSBRIEFS In Loving Memory: (Continued from page 10) end of May to cut the number of its person- nel at its embassy in by 63 people. off 50 metric tons of stored ammunition. Russia, which has denied any involvement Walter Anastas Two months later, another blast of 13 tons in the arms depot blast, has pledged to (1930-2021) respond. Czech media has reported that the of ammunition occurred at the same site. In Ukrainian-American Community Leader, response, the Czech government ammunition and weaponry destroyed in Lawyer, and Survivor of the Second World War announced the expulsion of 18 Russian the first Vrbetice blast, which killed two diplomats it considered to be spies, setting people, was intended for Ukrainian forces Walter Anastas (b. Volodymyr Anastasievsky) was off a string of tit-for-tat moves between fighting against Russia-backed separatist a Ukrainian-American lawyer, academic, veteran, Prague and Moscow. In what is considered troops in eastern Ukraine. The two Russian refugee, human rights advocate, polyglot, and a to be the worst spat between the former intelligence officers sought in relation to devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He passed Cold War allies since communist rule the explosion are the same GRU officers away peacefully at home in Roseville, Minnesota on April 24, 2021, at the ended in Czechoslovakia in 1989, the two accused of a nerve-agent poisoning in age of 90. sides exchanged ultimatums and hiked the England in 2018 that targeted former Walter was born in Mława, Poland on December 14, 1930 to Mykola number of diplomatic expulsions. On April Russian double agent Sergei Skripal. Mr. Anastasievsky, a Ukrainian landscape painter and art professor, and 19, Russia announced that 20 employees at Skripal and his daughter survived the Sofia Anastasievsky, an actress in regional folk theater. He was raised the Czech Embassy in Moscow would be attack carried out with what British investi- between the town of Yavoriv, in Ukraine’s Carpathian Mountains, and expelled. On April 23, Czech Foreign gators determined was the Soviet- Kholm (Chelm) in Eastern Poland until becoming displaced during the Minister Jakub Kulhanek said that the num- engineered nerve agent Novichok. A British Second World War. After the war, Walter attended a trilingual Ukrainian ber of people allowed by the Czech woman who accidentally came into contact gymnasium (secondary school) in Berchtesgaden, Germany. His first Republic and Russia at their respective with the substance died. (RFE/RL, with employment was as a translator between English, Polish, and German embassies would be limited to 32, includ- reporting by Reuters and TASS) personnel on the front lines of the Berlin Airlift at Frankfurt am Main, where he conveyed messages between truck drivers carrying supplies for delivery to Berlin and loadmasters who packed the aircraft (1948-49). The Anastasievsky family emigrated to Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1950. After arriving in the United States, Walter volunteered for the United States Army during the Korean War, where he worked in military intelligence at Fort Meade, Maryland (1951-53). At that time, Walter abbreviated his surname to Anastas. He became a citizen of the United States in 1953, a path that was accelerated because of his military service. Subsequent to his discharge, Walter received a bachelor’s degree With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing into eternity in business administration under the G.I. Bill, from the University of of our dear mother and grandmother Minnesota, where he was first in his class. He graduated with distinction in 1956 and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. DARIA LYSYJ Walter then received his Juris Doctor from William Mitchell College of Law in 1964, where he was also first in his graduating class. After a year of (née Antochy) practice with a Minneapolis law firm, Walter returned to William Mitchell as the Louis W. Hill Professor of Corporate Law, where he taught courses in on March 22, 2021 in Concord, Massachusetts, corporations, securities law, and allied courses for twenty years, retiring in 1985. Walter was also proud to have completed several summers of LLM born in Chernivtsi, Ukraine, in 1937, coursework in Corporate Law at New York University School of Law in the daughter of the late late 1960s. In addition to his academic service, he worked in private legal Very Rev. Nicholas and Dobrodiyka Olga Antochy practice, serving the Ukrainian, Polish, Russian, and Jewish communities in the Twin Cities. He married his wife, Julia, on October 6, 1957 and together The Antochy family left Ukraine at the outbreak of WWII, and lived they had two children, Walter, Jr. and Natalie (Natalka). and worked in forced-labor camps in Austria and Germany. Over the course of his lifetime, Walter was actively involved in numerous After the war they settled in the “Orlyk’’ Displaced Persons Camp bar association, immigration, community service, and human rights activities in Berchtesgaden, Germany. In 1950 they immigrated and organizations. He was a longtime member and former president of the to the United States, settling in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dnipro Chorus (Khor Dnipro), a Ukrainian diaspora community choir. Walter Daria graduated from Edison High School and received her also served as legal counsel to the founders of the Ukrainian American BA from the University of Minnesota. Community Center in Minneapolis, MN in 1964. While Walter’s activities in service of the Ukrainian community are far too numerous to list, a highlight She married Dr. Anatol Lysyj in 1960. They spent 53 wonderful of this work includes hosting Leonid Kravchuk, the first president of Ukraine, years together until his death in 2013. The Lysyjs raised three on an official visit to Minnesota in 1992. His lifetime of commitment to children, loved to travel, entertain, and support Ukrainian causes. Ukrainian and broader Eastern European immigrant causes in the Twin Cities Daria epitomized elegance and hospitality in her home established him as a pillar of the diaspora community. and churches in Minnesota, Kyiv and Florida. Walter’s humanitarian legal service took him to Israel as representative She leaves a legacy of Ukrainian art and culture, having initiated of the Ukrainian American Bar Association in 1986-87 to monitor the trial a 50-year tradition of teaching youth of Ukrainian descent of John Demjanjuk for Nazi war crimes. This work also took him to Ukraine the art of writing pysanky (Ukrainian Easter Eggs.) as an advisor in the drafting of the Constitution of Ukraine, immediately She helped organize summer camps for the ODUM/AAYUD following the country’s independence from the USSR in 1991. Reflecting Ukrainian youth at Sibley State Park in Minnesota. With the kids his dedication to promoting cultural understanding, Walter served as a out of the house, and Anatol not yet retired, Daria opened an Eastern long-time member on the board of the Friends of the Immigration History European gallery, where she imported and showed high art and Research Center and Archives (IHRC/A) at the University of Minnesota, folk art from a freshly free Ukraine, and created a nexus the oldest and largest interdisciplinary research center and archives of connections for new immigrants to their new world. devoted to preserving and understanding immigrant and refugee life in In retirement, they felt most relaxed in Florida, North America. In 2015, that same organization conferred Walter with a most secure in Minneapolis, Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his many years of service. and most alive in Kyiv. Walter is survived by his wife of 63 years, Julia, children Walter (Luda) Funeral Services were held, March 27, 2021 Anastazievsky and Natalie (Marko) Jachtorowycz, and four cherished grandchildren—Sophia, Irene (Irka), Matthew (Matvij), and Thomas at St. Michael & St. George’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Minneapolis (Tomczyk). He will be remembered and honored for his legacy of limitless with burial at Hillside Cemetery. intellectual curiosity, his memorable and understated sense of humor, his commitment to preserving Ukrainian history and heritage and promoting Survived by children- freedom and democracy in Ukraine, and, above all, his unending love for Son Bohdan (Lesya) Lysyj his family, especially his grandchildren. Daughter Natalia (Mark) Rieland Daughter Sonia (Andrew) Smyk May his memory be eternal. and seven adored grandchildren: Visitation at Kozlak-Radulovich Chapel (1918 University Ave. NE) Sasha, Kalyna, Mykola Rieland, Friday, April 30, 2021 from 5-8 PM with Vigil Prayers (Panakhyda) at 7 PM Tatiana and Emiliya Smyk, followed by family remarks. Panakhyda and family remarks will be live Lev and Nika Lysyj streamed. In lieu of owers, memorials appreciated by the family for distribution to: Requiem Divine Liturgy at St. Constantine Ukrainian Catholic Church St. Michael & St. George’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Minneapolis, MN, (505 University Ave. NE) Saturday, May 1, 2021 at 10 AM with visitation St. Michael’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Pinellas Park, FL, one half hour prior. Interment at Gethsemane Cemetery. Kyiv-Mohyla Academy - Culture and Arts Center for Emerging Artists in Ukraine. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Ukrainian Catholic University Foundation, Friends of the Immigration History Research Center (IHRC/A) Memory Eternal! or St. Constantine Ukrainian Catholic Church 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 No. 18 Belarusian community marks 35th anniversary of the Chornobyl nuclear disaster

It is with a heavy heart that we share the sad news of the passing into eternity of Andriy Meleshevych President of National University “Kyiv-Mohyla Academy” (2014-2019) Dean of Kyiv-Mohyla Law School (2005-2014)

Marta Farion Yuriy Makar and a member of the Belarusian diaspora take part in a commemora- tion of the Chornobyl nuclear disaster that was held along Lake Michigan in Chicago on April 25.

by Marta Farion Committee of America-Illinois Division and Yuriy Makar from the community attended. On behalf of the administration, faculty, and students of National CHICAGO – To mark the 35th anniversa- - ry of the tragic disaster at Chornobyl, the ered the event for the Polish press. The University “Kyiv-Mohyla Academy”, and the board of directors Belarusian community of Chicago hosted a localA journalist NBC Channel from Dziennik 5 television Związkowy station covalso of Kyiv-Mohyla Foundation of America, we express our sincere tree-planting event in memory of the vic- covered the event. condolences to the family and friends of Andriy Anatoliyevych. tims of the nuclear disaster on the morning On April 26, 1986, the nuclear plant in of April 25. The Park District of Chicago Chornobyl, Ukraine, exploded. Over 190 supplied tree saplings and bushes, which tons of highly radioactive uranium and May his Memory be Eternal! were planted on the beach at Toughy Ave. graphite were thrown into the atmo- May he rest in Peace! and Lake Michigan. sphere. The radioactive cloud was blown Вічна пам’ять! The Ukrainian and Polish communities by the wind to Belarus. The disaster sent representatives to the event. Marta Farion from the Ukrainian Congress (Continued on page 15) No. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 13

St. Andrew Society marks 30 years of service, plans for new projects

UOC-U.S.A. elderly in Kyiv and in the Donbas region, various outreach projects that support the SOUTH BOUND BROOK, N.J. – The Saint needy, including the production of sanitiz- Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Society in 2020 ers and providing supplies for Social marked its 30th anniversary since it was Services of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, founded in December 1990. The organiza- and direct financial aid for families devas- tion’s mission continues to support the tated by floods in western Ukraine in the rebirth of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in spring of 2020. Ukraine and to promote Christian ideals The St. Andrew Society also aids semi- through charitable and humanitarian efforts. narians studying in the U.S. through the Its humanitarian aid projects have Rev. Lewytzkyj Seminarian Scholarship helped refugees in Ukraine, with aid pro- Foundation, which was founded in 1990 in vided in Kyiv, Pereyeslav, Chernihiv, memory of the Rev. Dr. Wolodymyr Lewytz­ Ternopil, Chernivtsi and Mariupol. Through kyj (1896-1969). More than 800 scholar- its Soup Kitchen Program, which is boosted ships have been awarded since 1990. by the annual Souper Bowl Sunday soup For 2020, St. Andrew Society has provid- fundraisers that are organized by local ed philanthropic assistance totaling chapters of the Ukrainian Orthodox League $55,276 to those in need. This ministry is of the U.S.A., over 4,000 hot and nutritious possible through the support of the faithful, meals are provided per month at cafeterias, the parishes and chapters of the Ukrainian churches and social service centers in uocofusa.org/DeaconAndriySydor Orthodox League. Ukraine. Archbishop Daniel (right) distributes nourishment on the streets of Kyiv in March. In the planning stage, new charitable While in Kyiv during March of this year, projects are being developed for the Poltava, Archbishop Daniel, who was joined by the Roman Kholodov, Ivan Mychko, Deacon Metropolitan Antony, the clergy and the Vinnytsia and Khmelnytsky regions. Rev. Taras Naumenko of St. Vladimir Ivan Tsiko, Vitaliy Fernati and Deacon faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church Readers may support St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Andriy Sydor. More than 200 individuals of the U.S.A. (UOC-U.S.A.), especially the Ukrainian Orthodox Society through tax- Philadelphia, participated in the Soup were cared for and fed in the early spring members and supporters of the St. Andrew deductible donations sent to St. Andrew Kitchen Ministry of the Orthodox Church of temperatures that dipped below freezing. Ukrainian Orthodox Society. Society, Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Ukraine (OCU). With the blessing of The need is great, Archbishop Daniel noted, St. Andrew Society in 2020 successfully U.S.A., P.O. Box 495, South Bound Brook, NJ Metropolitan Epifaniy of the OCU, a food sta- who said he was honored to have been able raised funds and supported ongoing and 08880; e-mail, saint.andrew.society@uocu- tion was set up with the assistance of to assist these people on behalf of new projects, including assistance to the sa.net; or telephone, 732-356-0090.

St. Nicholas Cathedral capital campaign now in full gear

by Oleh John Skubiak limited but not inconsiderable progress on the other two goals. Specifically, $100,000 CHICAGO – The ongoing capital cam- has been allocated from the Campaign to paign, “Building Our Faith Together, in seed an endowment fund to support the Unity and with Gratitude,” of the St. eparchy’s parishes, $20,000 has been Nicholas Eparchy began nearly two years raised to support John the Baptizer Parish ago on May 12, 2019. It was undertaken to in San Diego in their campaign to build a sustain the long-term viability of the St. new church, and nearly $12,000 has been Nicholas Eparchy and to restore the raised for the Solidarity Fund through the 114-year-old Cathedral in Chicago’s Christmas campaign. The Stewardship and Ukrainian Village, particularly the cupolas Development Office also has resumed its and roof. Considerable progress has been Share Program that supports Eparchial made in the eparchy’s effort to raise funds Administration and has raised over for the project, as campaign donations have $45,000. surpassed $2.4 million. Readers interested in contributing or In addition to restoring the cathedral’s learning more about this critically impor- cupolas and roof, funds from the campaign tant Campaign can visit the Campaign web- were also designated to seed an endow- site at esn-cc.org and click “donate.” They can also contact Mariya Kokor at mariya. ment fund to better support all parishes Fr. Roman Bobesiuk [email protected] or Oleh Skubiak at Construction personnel review architectural drawings as part of the project to restore [email protected]. the 114-year-old St. Nicholas Cathedral. Oleh John Skubiak is chair of the and missions within the eparchy, and to Stage 1 of the project also provided dis- Stewardship Committee of St. Nicholas further develop eparchial resources, partic- appointing news and clearer insight into Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy. ularly in the areas of administration and the extent of the damage that has taken the continuing education of priests, dea- place over more than a century. It is now cons and laity. known that the total cost of the restoration The eparchy – a community of faithful will considerably exceed the initial esti- from 43 parishes, missions and monaster- mate of $2,650,000 and will total more ies in the United States that range from than $5 million. In light of this, the Capital Michigan to California and Alaska – also Campaign will continue beyond the initial announced that considerable progress has three-year time frame and will be expand- also been made in the restoration of the ed to include new grants and other new cathedral and in the pursuit of the other fundraising channels of support. Also, a Campaign goals. fourth stage will be added to the Campaign and will encompass geography beyond the Cathedral restoration Midwestern and Western United States. Given the magnitude of the cathedral Addressing all campaign goals restoration, the project has been divided into several stages. The first stage of the Bishop Benedict (Aleksiychuk), bishop project was recently completed. That stage of St. Nicholas Eparchy, and the Capital addressed the urgent issues in the roof and Campaign leadership are committed to copula above the sanctuary. Work on the achieving all three goals of the Campaign, second phase has now been initiated. That namely: completing the Cathedral restora- work will address the entrance and front tion; supporting all parishes, particularly end of the cathedral. The eparchy thanked those with the greatest financial needs; and the Renovation Committee and the clergy developing administrative and educational for their leadership and efforts. As a result eparchial resources. of that work, the engineering and structur- The eparchy has appreciably moved for- Workers install the new cross atop the al issues have been resolved. ward with the renovation, and has made cathedral. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 No. 18

SPORTS Saroya Tinker standing up and speaking out

by Ihor N. Stelmach with her sport because she took on a lead- flict between the two Riveters players who ing role in the advocacy group, using her were guests on the podcast and teammate It was only a little over a decade ago that platform to raise awareness and funds. Tinker. Some of the things said on social a 12-year-old girl in , Ontario, suf- She went even further, establishing a media were described as disgusting. fered through the trauma associated with mentorship program through the Black For her part, Tinker talks a lot now being told by a teammate to, “Shut up, you Girls Hockey Club for girls aged 8 to 17 about being a new, unapologetic version of stupid n-----,” in a hockey arena’s dressing who can take advantage of Tinker’s experi- herself. The little girl who was stunned room. This, of course, was not the first time ence and knowledge via Zoom workouts, speechless when called the N-word by a Saroya Tinker experienced the disgust of nutritional advice and newsletters. teammate has found her voice, using it in racism. The first times go back to when she Upon entering the ill-fated NWHL bub- any way possible. It could be as an advo- was a little girl on the ice who was occa- ble with the Riveters this past January, cate for a safe space for BIPOC girls and sionally shunned by her fellow skaters, Tinker established a GoFundMe initiative women in hockey or calling out those made to sit in a certain area of the dressing for the Black Girls Hockey Club Scholarship whose mindset is in conflict with that goal, room and not always included in off-ice Fund, with a goal of raising $5,000. When Tinker is now confident, bold and daring to activities. Sometimes the racism was more she finally shut it down in March, the initia- step out of her comfort zone. She has covert and ignorant, like the time her tive had reached nearly $31,000, which is learned to love herself and care much less twitter.com/saroyatinker71 Ukrainian Canadian mother, Mandy, was being dispersed in $1,000, $3,000 and about what other people may think of her, Saroya Tinker in a photo taken on asked which girl was her daughter, and $5,000 installments to BIPOC hockey-play- instead steadfastly standing up for what International Women’s Day on March 8. when she pointed Tinker out, she was told, ing girls from Toronto to Kenya, helping she truly believes is right. “Crossbreeds make the best athletes.” them cover any playing costs (BIPOC = Her Ukrainian mom, Mandy, could not who excels on the penalty kill. She earned a Tinker, whose father is Jamaican, still has Black, Indigenous, People of Color). Thanks be prouder. silver medal at the Women’s Under-18 difficulty comprehending that the episode in large part to her efforts, each player who “As a parent, it has honestly been so World Championship in 2016 representing really happened. applied for a scholarship received at least amazing to see our daughter grow up to be Team Canada. Not the fastest skater on the One would surmise things would get $1,000. Tinker cried tears of joy because such an incredible human being on and off team, she does possess the smarts to be an better at an institution like Yale University, she was amazed that people supported her the ice,” Mandy said. “Her struggles with fit- elite shutdown player. a respected fortress of higher education initiative, that people hear what she’s say- ting in at hockey definitely weren’t easy to If the NWHL continues, Tinker is seen as with centuries of history where keen young ing and that her voice is being heard. see her go through, but she always handled a potential star player as a dominant minds go to be broadened and enriched. Her voice was heard loudly and clearly things with such grace and integrity.” defender, physically strong and very com- Yet even after starring for four years on the when the Riveters and Tinker found them- Mandy also is thrilled with how her mitted. Mark Bolding, her former coach at ice at Yale, Tinker’s overall experience selves in some controversy when two daughter uses her platform through hockey Yale, references Tinker as a “high-end hock- there was far from great. Her stay at school Riveters players were featured on the to advocate for communities who need ey mind,” with a unique understanding of did not live up to her expectations, in part Barstool Sports podcast in January. Fans of assistance. the game’s flow, likely the reason why she because she still felt like an outsider. It did women’s hockey raised concerns about any “She has become such an incredibly defends so capably. When she first got to ultimately make her stronger as a human association between the NWHL and the strong voice for the BIPOC community on Yale, she was more of a rushing defender, being. Barstool Sports website, which has a well- and off the ice. We love to see it. Despite but had to adapt and become more of a It eventually got to the point where documented history of misogynistic and her struggles, she has turned them into tri- defensive, stay-at-home defender. Her Tinker wondered if continuing to play the racially insensitive conduct. umphs and it is so encouraging to see her coaches have always leaned heavily on her sport of hockey was worth the struggles. Tinker was quick to condemn Barstool grow and use her voice for good and to to kill penalties. She decided it was, for which the National on Twitter, saying Barstool is an “openly affect change.” Interestingly, while her game is more Women’s Hockey League (NWHL), the racist platform” that “promotes…white grinding and defensive, off the ice Saroya Tinker the player Metropolitan Riveters and the Black Girl supremacy” and told them to keep their Tinker has some artistic pizazz. When she’s Hockey Club are all very grateful. The money. This prompted Barstool to attack Not to be forgotten is that this young not playing hockey or working with the Riveters drafted her fourth overall in 2020 Tinker, saying she should go to jail for her lady happens to be a very good hockey Black Girl Hockey Club, Tinker trains in and utilized her talents in their drastically reactive tweet. player. At 5-foot-9 and 155 pounds, Tinker Calgary with her partner, Dante Djan, a shortened season. The Black Girls Hockey There was severe blowback from refined her game during her four years at Club is incredibly grateful Tinker stayed Barstool followers and internal team con- Yale, developing into a defensive defender (Continued on page 15)

Concorde Capital announces Veres Rivne soccer club IPO PARSIPPANY, N.J. – Ukrainian investment procedure like an IPO.” Kyiv have gone by the wayside after respec- company Concorde Capital announced on Mr. Mazepa said he believes the club’s tive owners withdrew funding in the face of March 14 an internal IPO for the Ukrainian move signifies a growing trend in Ukraine. the economic downturn caused by the war soccer club NK (Narodniy Klub) Veres “There is now a huge group of investors in in the Donbas. Rivne, based in Rivne. This is the first time the country. Our fellow citizens are bring- NK Veres plays in the second tier of the in 15 years that such a move has occurred ing money into the stock market.” Ukrainian soccer league, and shares were in Ukraine and the first time that a profes- Other companies that are expected to made available on April 12 on the sional Ukrainian team is to be publicly list- follow the example set by Veres include Ukrainian Stock Exchange, with half a mil- ed. telecom provider Kyivstar, postal service lion shares available initially, at 100 hryvnia The launch of the IPO took place on Novaposhta and medical clinic chain per share. It is hoped that the Veres experi- March 16 at Aloft Kyiv hotel with Veres Dobrobut. ment will provide the club with a more sta- President Ivan Nadein. Also present were This is the first public joint-stock compa- ble source of funds and partly insulate it Ruslan Magomedov, chairman of the ny in the Ukrainian soccer sector, which from the whims of individual owners or National Securities and Stock Market hopes to attract investment in sports and to majority shareholders. Commission, Maksym Lyabanov, member break the grip that oligarchs have tradition- With a focus on youth development, self- of the Commission, and Concorde Capital ally had in the ownership of Ukrainian soc- sustaining business models can give the CEO Igor Mazepa. cer clubs. club the means to raise even larger sums of Mr. Nadein, who owns 70 percent of Often times, club owners would neglect money in the future from player sales. It is Veres, stated that the club plans to raise 50 www.facebook.com/veres.club youth team development in favor of foreign also hoped that the opportunity to pur- million hryvnia (1.5 million euros) by NK Veres Rivne logo imports, to the detriment of Ukraine’s chase shares in a local club can bring the March 2022, and that funds would be used national teams. These arrangements have club closer to the community that the club to grow the club, focusing on youth devel- million hryvnia (30,000 euros) in NK Veres. put the clubs at the mercy of their finan- represents. opment and training infrastructure. He said Other European publicly traded clubs ciers, as was seen with Dnipro Founded in 1957, Veres is in third place he plans to buy 60 percent of the 500,000 include Arsenal, Barcelona, AS Roma and Dnipropetrovsk, which was owned by oli- of the Ukrainian First League; it held sixth publicly listed shares to continue as majori- Juventus, which are all listed on the stock garch Igor Kolomoisky and saw the team place in the in ty shareholder. market. In Germany, however, only non- rise to the finals of the UEFA Europa League the 2017-2018 season after which it was However, “all shareholders will be able profit fan associations are allowed to own in 2015, only to have Mr. Kolomoisky cut merged with FC Lviv; later it was renewed to see what the club’s budget is, and what majority shares in a soccer club. funding in 2016. By 2018, the team was rel- as Veres under the leadership of Mr. the money is spent on,” he said. “An element Mr. Magomedov said Veres can “set an egated to the lowest tier of Ukrainian soc- Nadein. of transparency and accountability will example for others willing to start trading cer leagues. appear.” Mr. Nadein also said that business- on Ukraine’s stock exchanges” and “illus- Similarly, teams such as Metalurh Sources: Concorde Capital, concorde.ua; men from Rivne have pledged to invest 1 trate that Ukraine can handle a complicated Zaporizhia, Metalist Kharkiv and Arsenal Emerging-Europe.com. No. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 15

Department of Energy and other agencies 35 years since... throughout the last 35 years has been (Continued from page 7) considerable. The U.S. has been the single largest country donor, spending hun- Chornobyl, which overwhelmingly passed dreds of millions to help clean up the site both chambers. A joint resolution intro- and build confinement structures, most May 5 Webinar with George Grabowicz, “Bazhan’s ‘Blind Bards’ duced on the 10th anniversary by recently the New Safe Confinement (NSC) Online Reconsidered: The Poem’s Ontology and Form and the Question Helsinki Commissioners Rep. Smith in the to contain destroyed reactor No. 4, the of Deception,” Harvard University, www.huri.harvard.edu House and Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) building of which was completed in 2019. in the Senate both urged the Ukrainian Many tens of millions more have been May 6 Online workshop with Marichka Marczyk, “Ukrainian Spring government and G-7 countries to imple- spent on direct Chornobyl-related Online Ritual Songs,” St. Vladimir Institute, www.stvladimir.ca ment a memorandum of understanding humanitarian and health assistance and calling for all of Chornobyl’s nuclear reac- millions more addressing other May 7 Fundraiser, “Plants & Purses,” to benefit beautification of tors to be shut down in a safe and expedi- Chornobyl legacy issues. Whippany, NJ Hoverlia Social Club’s outdoor seating area, Ukrainian American Cultural Center of , [email protected] tious manner. Among other provisions, it Finally, in the United States alone, also called upon the president to support there were numerous organizations and May 8-9 St. Thomas Sunday pilgrimage, Metropolia Center of the and enhance our own medical, humani- individuals, including many within the South Bound Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A., www.uocofusa.org tarian and other assistance, expand Ukrainian American community, who did Brook, NJ research into its public health conse- yeoman’s work in not only assisting the quences, and “to support the broadening victims of Chornobyl, but also in ensuring May 11-13 Online conference series, “Ukraine in Washington,” U.S.- of Ukraine’s regional energy sources, that it stayed on the U.S government’s Online Ukraine Foundation, www.usukraine.org which will reduce its dependence on any radar screen. And while there are too individual country.” Obviously referring many to mention, I cannot help but single May 12 Book panel discussion with Margarita Balmaceda, Paul to Russia, the energy issue, alas, remains out the Children of Chornobyl Relief and Online D’Anieri, Andras Deak and Andrian Prokip, “Russian Energy relevant to this day. Development Fund. Under the leadership Chains: The Remaking of Technopolitics From Siberia to Members of Congress, including of Dr. Zenon and Nadia Matkiwsky, with Ukraine to the European Union” by Margarita Balmaceda, Helsinki Commissioners such as Sen. Alex Kuzma serving as executive director, Harvard University, www.huri.harvard.edu Dennis DeConcini (D-Ariz.) and Rep. and a small staff as well as countless vol- May 12 Online performance, featuring soprano Stefania Dovhan, Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) ensured that funds unteers, the charity provided more than Online Shenson Chamber Music Series, co-sponsored by The were included in various foreign aid $60 million of medical assistance to Washington Group Cultural Fund, National Museum of appropriations bills for humanitarian Ukraine, as well as helping to bring U.S. Women in the Arts, https://nmwa.org assistance for the victims of Chornobyl government, including the Congress, and and to help mitigate its health, environ- public attention to Chornobyl’s health May 16 Varennyky-making workshop with Mykola Rutkay, “My Baba’s mental and other consequences. Indeed, and social consequences. Their efforts, Online Varennyky,” www.stvladimir.ca U.S. government support through the U.S. along with those of many others both in Agency for International Development, the U.S. and around the world, should be May 16 Performance, “Songs My Mother Taught Me,” with cellist State Department, Defense Department, applauded. New York Sophie Shao, violinist Solomiya Ivakhiv and pianist Tanya Bannister, featuring music by Nadia Boulanger, Bohdanna Froylak and Antonín Dvořák, Music at the Institute, Ukrainian Selfreliance Federal Credit Union (Philadelphia), Chornobyl is a historical reminder of the Ukrainian Institute of America, www.ukrainianinstitute.org Belarusian... incompetence of the Soviet Union and any (available online on May 23) (Continued from page 12) authoritarian system. It exposed the lies, the corruption, the disinformation, and the Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events directly affected the people in Belarus, cruelty of a system that eventually caused advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions Ukraine and western Russia. They were the break-up of the Soviet Union. The disil- from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors exposed to radioactivity 90 times greater lusion with the government served as the and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. than that released from the atomic bomb seed for the beginning of Ukrainian inde- that was dropped on Hiroshima, Japan. pendence, with the establishment of the The United Nations declared the disaster organization Mothers of the Children of the worst environmental catastrophe in Chornobyl and the organization Rukh, history. which led the movement for Ukrainian The disaster could have been avoided. independence.

Whether the canvas is the ice, the public Saroya Tinker... domain or an actual painter’s canvas, (Continued from page 14) Saroya Tinker will go big and take chances. The portrait of the artist as a young woman Canadian college football quarterback. who plays hockey is still a work in prog- Tinker supplements her NWHL salary by ress, although there is much to be excited selling artwork she creates with oil paint about for her, both on the ice and in the on canvas. She paints portraits of nude men social justice arena. and women, as well as some favorite music (Above quotes courtesy of the Oshawa artists like Lauren Hill and Tupac Shakur. Generals hockey club.) Her paintings are usually large in size and typically sell for between $300 and $1,000 Ihor Stelmach may be reached at iman@ each. sfgsports.com.

Plast Sorority „Pershi Stezhi“ announces that 2021 „Tabir Ptashat“ Day Camp at Soyuzivka has been CANCELLED! „We hope to see you next year.“ 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 No. 18