Inside: l EU includes on ‘green zone’ list – page 4 l Festival kicks off Soyuzivka summer season – centerfold l Ukraine sends 155 athletes to Summer Olympics – page 17

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal Wnon-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXIX No. 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 $2.00 NEWS ANALYSIS U.S., Germany green light deal on NS2, leaving Ukraine takes a big step toward judicial reform exposed to further Russian aggression

by Olena Halushka and potential international investors who might Tetiana Shevchuk otherwise have entered the Ukrainian mar- Ukrainian presidential advisor says separate U.S.-Ukraine UkraineAlert ket. security agreement is “hopeful but not certain” Ukraine’s judiciary is governed by two Ukraine took a potential landmark step bodies. The HCJ is the main body in the sys- toward judicial reform in mid-July when tem of judicial governance of Ukraine. It members of parliament adopted two laws has full control over the appointment and that should establish credible foundations dismissal of Ukrainian judges. Key respon- for the reboot of the country’s legal system. sibilities include protecting judges from On July 13, the Ukrainian parliament unlawful interference by other agencies backed legislation to relaunch the deeply and holding judges accountable for profes- compromised High Qualification Commis­ sional misconduct, including the granting sion of Judges (HQCJ) and the High Council of permission to pursue criminal prosecu- of Justice (HCJ). Crucially, independent tions against individual judges. international experts will participate in the The HQCJ is often referred to as the envisaged future selection process. human resources department for the For the past seven years, Ukraine’s flawed Ukrainian judiciary. It is responsible for the judicial system has been the Achilles heel of selection of future judges and it vets cur- the country’s reform efforts. Since the 2014 rent judges who do not meet professional- Euro-Maidan revolution, Ukraine has ism and integrity criteria during re-attesta- achieved progress in a range of reform areas tion processes. including government procurement, corpo- Both of these bodies have long been seen rate governance, banking industry transpar- as under the sway of existing interest groups ency and the fight against corruption. within the judiciary. Instead of cleansing the However, the dysfunctional Ukrainian court judiciary of tainted judges, they stand https://www.facebook.com/POTUS system has hung over this entire reform pro- accused of providing cover for them and German Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. President Joe Biden met at the White cess like a sword of Damocles, threatening successfully blocking all prior attempts to House on July 16. to reverse anti-corruption gains and under- overhaul the Ukrainian court system. mine Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations. Between 2014 and 2019, the HCJ and the by Mark Raczkiewycz to allow its completion, leaving Ukraine In addition to damaging the country’s HQCJ stand accused of securing the appoint- vulnerable to further Russian military reform efforts, this has resulted in signifi- ment of politically controlled and dependent KYIV – Ukraine is still pursuing a last- aggression. cant economic costs. Ukraine’s inability to judges to Ukraine’s new Supreme Court. gasp effort to halt a Kremlin pipeline The efforts come as a White House invi- provide genuine rule of law reform has project to Germany despite an agreement served to stunt GDP growth and scare away (Continued on page 12) reached between Washington and Berlin (Continued on page 3)

Svoboda awarded 2020

by Andrew Nynka (1991), Martha Bohachevsky-Chomiak and Lina of Ukrainian culture. Since then, it has donated nearly $5 Kostenko (1989), and million to help finance the development of many aca- WALTHAM, Mass. – Svoboda, the oldest continually (1987), and and (1982). demic and cultural institutions and monuments in published Ukrainian-language newspaper in the world, The 2020 Antonovych prize was to be given last year, Ukraine, among them, the reconstruction the National has been awarded the 2020 Antonovych prize, accord- but as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy’s main library, the ing to the Omelan and Tatiana Antonovych Foundation. because officials from the Antonovych Foundation did renovation of the Vasyl Stefanyk Library and Artists The prize – the Omelan and Tatiana Antonovych not want to bestow the award virtually, they decided to Palace in Lviv, and the building of the Boykivshchyna Foundation Award – is given for literary works written wait until they could hold the award ceremony in per- Museum in Dolyna, in western Ukraine, where Omelan in Ukrainian or about Ukraine and for research on son at the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington. Ukraine’s Antonovych was born in 1914. The foundation also pro- Ukrainian studies. It includes a monetary award. This Ambassador to the United States, Olena Markarova, is vided $100,000 to help finance the building of the year’s award will be bestowed during a ceremony in the expected to take part in the ceremony. Ukrainian in Washington. Ukrainian Embassy in Washington on October 30, Svoboda was founded on September 11, 1893, by the Omelan Antonovych spent his early adult years as a according to officials from the Antonovych Foundation. Rev. Hryhory (Gregory) Hrushka. It was adopted by the Ukrainian national activist and spent some time as a Ihor Voyevidka, president of the board of the Omelan Ukrainian National Association (UNA) on February 22, political prisoner in Polish and Nazi prisons. Later, he and Tatiana Antonovych Foundation, contacted Svoboda 1894, and has been published by the UNA continuously received a law degree at the Ukrainian Free University on July 13 and informed its editor-in-chief that the news- since that date. In 1933, the UNA began publishing The in Prague in 1943. After World War II, he married paper had been chosen for the annual award, which is Ukrainian Weekly, a sister publication to Svoboda and Tatiana Terlecky, a physician who later became a world- the 40th anniversary of the first award given and only the oldest English language newspaper of the Ukrainian renowned kidney specialist. the second given to an organization. In 1992 the award diaspora in North America. Svoboda became a bi-week- After the war, the couple emigrated to the United was given to the publication “Literaturna Ukrayina.” ly on March 1, 1894, a tri-weekly on August 8, 1914, States, settling in Washington, where Dr. Tatiana The first award was given to famed Ukrainian writer and a daily newspaper on January 3, 1921. It became a Antonovych worked as a scholar and taught in capital in 1981. Previous laureates include Alexander weekly again on July 3, 1998. area medical schools, while Mr. Antonovych focused on Motyl (2019), (2017), Timothy Snyder Omelan and Tatiana Antonovych established their ranching and real estate. She passed away in 2001, and (2014), (2005), and foundation in 1980, with the goal of advancing the study he died in 2008. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30

NEWS ANALYSIS

Defining America’s ‘national Relationship of ‘paramount importance’ important work done.” (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service) The current U.S. administration is eager interest’ in Ukraine’s security to deepen and strengthen ties with U.S., Germany reach deal on NS2 Ukraine, as the two countries’ military which have a far more direct claim on U.S. by Eugene Z. Stakhiv relationship is of “paramount importance” The United States and Germany say national interests, have been terminated for Kyiv’s goal of establishing a closer rela- they have reached an agreement to allow There are several ominous signs for because of the specter of fighting “endless tionship with NATO, a senior State the completion of Nord Stream 2, the con- Ukraine’s desire to gain security guarantees wars.” What is America’s interest in defend- Department official has told RFE/RL. U.S. troversial Russian gas pipeline to Europe from the U.S. and its main allies in NATO, ing Ukraine against ? Who defines State Department­ Counselor Derek Chollet that opponents say undermines the energy Germany and . None of the ‘big that “national interest” – the president, also said there would be “a lot of mutual security of Ukraine and other Eastern and three’ are ready to support NATO member- Congress or both? Finally, what sort of interest at stake” when the U.S. and Central European countries. The Biden ship or even a Membership Action Plan security agreement would best suit the Ukrainian presidents meet at the White administration is expected to face strong (MAP) for Ukraine. Ukrainian President purposes of both the U.S. and Ukraine? House, a visit that Washington on July 21 pushback over the deal from Congress, Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with German Ukraine has been in a state of war against announced would take place on August 30. which has twice passed sanctions legisla- Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin on July Russia for seven years now. Understandably, Mr. Chollet was in Kyiv on July 21 to dis- tion to stop the project with overwhelming 12 and walked away with no guarantees of it is difficult for Ukrainian-Americans to cuss ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine, bipartisan support. In a joint statement on military support, NATO membership, nor of separate U.S. national interests from those efforts to counter Russian actions in the July 21, the United States and Germany reversing the Nord Stream 2 pipeline deci- of Ukraine’s national interests, particularly region and economic and anti-corruption said they have agreed on a package of sion. Thankfully, Mr. Zelenskyy’s meeting those associated with its precarious securi- reform efforts. Mr. Chollet said President measures, including the possible imple- with President Joe Biden has been sched- ty circumstances. Ukraine’s demands for Joe Biden was “very keen to see this rela- mentation of sanctions against Russia, that uled for August 30, and there are reasons to NATO membership, for example, create a tionship get deeper and stronger.” Mr. will aim to soften any impact on Ukraine’s believe that important agreements will be thorny diplomatic problem not only for the budget and national security from the reached during that visit. Chollet stressed U.S. concern at Russia’s U.S., but for most of Europe and other NATO completion of the Kremlin-backed project. There is a ray of hope. Ukraine’s diplo- actions near its border with Ukraine, members who do not want to be involved in Nord Stream 2, which consists of two par- mats are negotiating a bilateral defense which is fighting a seven-year war against a confrontation with Russia over Ukraine’s allel pipelines stretching 1,230 kilometers and security agreement with the U.S. as an Moscow-backed separatists in its eastern demands for guarantees of a security regions. The State Department official said each along the Baltic Sea, is designed to intermediate alternative to NATO mem- umbrella against further Russian threats to bership. According to the Office of the Russia’s military buildup near the border reroute Russian Arctic natural gas bound Ukraine’s sovereignty. “is a concern of ours,” and that Mr. Biden for Germany around Ukraine and , President of Ukraine, as part of prepara- After Mr. Biden’s most recent press con- tions for Mr. Zelenskyy’s visit to expressed that to Russian President potentially depriving Kyiv of $2 billion in ference on July 8 where he explained his Vladimir Putin at their summit last month annual transit fees. Critics also say the Washington, Ukraine and the U.S. are work- rationale for pulling U.S. troops out of ing on bilateral agreements on enhancing in Geneva. “ have made clear that project undermines Ukraine’s national Afghanistan by the end of August 2021, threats from Russia to Ukraine are unac- security, arguing that Russia could act defense cooperation, on projects in defining and defending the U.S. national ceptable, and we are seeking to provide more aggressively toward its smaller research and development, and on U.S. interest in such one-sided alliances has the means to help defend neighbor if it does not rely on the country security assistance to Ukraine. become an even murkier proposition. In themselves,” Mr. Chollet said. He also said for gas transit. “Should Russia attempt to This raises the question of why it is in explaining his decision, Mr. Biden noted the United States will provide more than use energy as a weapon or commit further America’s national interest to negotiate that “we don’t want to fight the wars of the $400 million in security assistance this aggressive acts against Ukraine, Germany such an agreement, when two such agree- past 20 years – but those of the next 20 year to Ukraine, bringing the total to over will take action at the national level and ments with Iraq and Afghanistan, both of years.” What are the circumstances under $2 billion in seven years. “The U.S.-Ukraine press for effective measures at the which U.S. national interests would propel military relationship is a mature relation- European level, including sanctions, to the U.S. to engage in the wars of the next Eugene Z. Stakhiv is a lecturer at Johns ship...that has transformed just in seven limit Russian export capabilities to Europe Hopkins University and a visiting scholar at short years, since 2014,” Mr. Chollet said. in the energy sector, including gas, and/or the U.S. Army Institute for Water Resources. (Continued on page 15) “And when President Zelenskyy visits in other economically relevant sectors,” Washington soon to sit down with the statement said. Germany will appoint a President Biden, of course, the security special envoy to negotiate a 10-year exten- relationship, the military security relation- sion of Russia’s current transit agreement ship, as well as the energy-security rela- with Ukraine, which expires at the end of Putin’s fixation on Ukraine is demagogic, tionship, and all other aspects of this 2024, the statement said. Outgoing important partnership will be on the table German Chancellor Angela Merkel spoke delusional and dangerous for discussion,” he said. Mr. Chollet said with Russian President Vladimir Putin ear- there would be “no preconditions” for the and the clear failure of the costly effort to lier in the day to discuss the deal. U.S. law- by Pavel K. Baev presidential meeting in August, and he makers were quick to express opposition. Eurasia Daily Monitor pull the country into Russia’s “sphere of cited “the symbolism of the two presidents influence” needs to be explained away sitting down together, but also to get some (Continued on page 14) World leaders rarely publish their (Snob.ru, July 13). Incapable of admitting visions of current affairs in the form of any possible mistakes, Mr. Putin cannot essays, but President Vladimir Putin devel- accept the plain fact that Ukraine’s strong oped a habit of doing just that since return- drive Westward is a result of his policy ing to the Kremlin in 2012. His latest trea- (Moscow Echo, July 13). Mr. Putin is certain- The Ukrainian Weekly FOUNDED 1933 tise, “On the Historical Unity of Russians ly not modeling himself after Soviet leader and Ukrainians,” stands out among his Leonid Brezhnev, whose “memoirs” were An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., other works representing this vast body of widely ridiculed in the autumnal years of a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. literature. Instead of submitting it to a the ; rather, he apparently Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. Russian or Western media platform (German seeks to emulate Joseph Stalin, whose publi- Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. Die Zeit was the most recent periodical), he cations on matters as diverse as philology (ISSN — 0273-9348) published it directly on the Kremlin web- or genetics were consistently received as The Weekly: UNA: site, explaining further that this “analytical indisputable truth (Svoboda.org, July 13). Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 material” was “more than just an article” Stalin is, indeed, perceived by a large major- ity of today’s Russians as a “great leader,” (Kremlin.ru, July 13). The lengthy historical Postmaster, send address changes to: narrative is as selective with its facts and but the problem for the Kremlin is that only 16 percent of Ukrainians share this view The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Andrew Nynka contains as little actual truth as most of Mr. 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas Putin’s previous writings on contested his- (Levada.ru, June 23). Addressing the domestic audience, Mr. P.O. Box 280 torical subjects, but it is the political mes- Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] sage that is supposed to be clear-cut Putin seeks to establish that the officially denied but implicitly acknowledged (Meduza, July 14). Mr. Putin aims to address The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com several key audiences simultaneously, and Russian intervention in is justified by the historic blunder of transfer- the sum total of these mixed messages is ring several territories to the “artificially The Ukrainian Weekly, July 25, 2021, No. 30, Vol. LXXXIX convoluted and disconcerting. Copyright © 2021 The Ukrainian Weekly constructed” Ukrainian republic in the One impression from the lengthy and course of revolutionary state-building in stylistically incoherent text is that the the 1920s (Forbes.ru, July 13). The 2014 author is deeply involved with the theme, annexation of continues to be so quite possibly one key addressee of the ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA broadly supported in Russian society, but Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 (surely ghostwritten) argument is Mr. Putin the protracted, costly occupation of parts of himself (Ezhednevny Zhurnal, July 14). and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 the Donetsk and Luhansk regions is far less e-mail: [email protected] Ukraine has been a key part of his big proj- popular – thus, the authorities deem it nec- ect for making Russia the leader of Eurasian Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 e-mail: [email protected] integration and restoring its “greatness,” (Continued on page 18) No. 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 3

tary side. Some 14,000 people have been U.S., Germany... killed in Ukraine since early 2014 after Russia forcibly seized Ukraine’s Crimean (Continued from page 1) Peninsula and subsequently invaded cer- tation has been extended to Ukrainian tain parts of the easternmost regions of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for August Luhansk and Donetsk. 30 and while the chief executive of the Earlier this year, Russia held large-scale country’s main oil gas company – Naftogaz military drills involving 100,000 soldiers – Yuriy Vitrenko, is on a two-week lobbying near Ukraine’s state border that U.S. offi- visit to Washington to reap bi-partisan cials said were intimidating and foreign Congressional support to re-impose sanc- experts described as reenacting a full-scale tions on the project. invasion. Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Minister Russian state-owned gas giant Gazprom, Dmytro Kuleba furthermore met with his moreover, this summer has restricted gas Polish counterpart, Zbigniew Rau, to dis- supplies to Europe, driving up prices that cuss the Russian-controlled Nord Stream 2 would normally be cheaper during non- (NS2) project that will not only circumvent peak months when household heating isn’t Ukraine’s existing pipeline network to required. Europe but also adversely affect the energy The Baltic countries of Estonia, Lithuania security of Europe, according to critics of and , as well as Poland and other EU the pipeline project. countries, have opposed the $11 billion In a joint statement released on July 21, project, which is nearing completion. Messrs. Kuleba and Rau castigated the U.S.- Russia through Gazprom is financing Germany “energy deal” for being meaning- half of NS2, while five European companies https://www.facebook.com/YVitrenko less and containing no elements that would are splitting the rest of the cost, including Pictured during a meeting in Washington on July 21 are (from left): Andrew Mac, reduce the pernicious effects of the project OMV, Uniper, Wintershall, Royal Dutch Shell non-staff adviser to the Ukrainian president; Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Yuriy on national and energy security. and Engie. Vitrenko, chief executive of Naftogaz. “Currently, this crisis is significantly U.S. President Joe Biden waived sanc- deepened by the resignation from attempts tions on NS2 in May, defending the decision language of the statement was left deliber- protect transatlantic security and Ukraine’s to stop the launch of the NS2 gas pipeline,” as a fait accompli because it is more than ately vague so that Russia wouldn’t develop sovereignty.” the joint statement said. “This decision has 90 percent complete. Resistance from bi- countermeasures. Both sides of the aisle have also urged created [a] political, military and energy partisan congressional lawmakers has The joint package for Ukraine includes the White House to reschedule Mr. threat for Ukraine and Central Europe, ensued, while Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has Germany utilizing “all available leverage to Zelenskyy’s upcoming visit because of the while increasing Russia’s potential to desta- blocked certain Biden administration facilitate an extension of up to 10 years to summer recess, which would deprive him bilize the security situation in Europe, per- appointments until the corresponding Ukraine’s gas transit agreement with of the opportunity to meet with lawmakers. petuating divisions among NATO and restrictive measures are reinstated. Russia, including appointing a special Regarding the timing of Mr. Zelenskyy’s European Union (EU) member states.” Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela envoy to support those negotiations, to visit, Ms. Kaptur said: “I don’t like that time The following day, Mr. Kuleba said on Merkel, who brokered the energy security begin as soon as possible and no later than at all,” while adding that “we have sent let- Facebook that Kyiv has “many questions” deal with Mr. Biden, called it “good” for September 1,” according to the terms of the ters to President [Joe Biden] urging that on how the agreement “is capable of reduc- Ukraine while speaking on July 22 to jour- agreement. this date be changed so that members of ing security risks for Ukraine…we honestly nalists in Berlin after returning from The U.S. and Germany committed to Congress can be here in Washington at the always said for us NS2 is foremost a securi- Washington. establishing a “Green Fund” for Ukraine of same time.” ty matter.” Released on July 21, the U.S.-German at least $1 billion to diversify its energy A separate security agreement with the NS2 is an underwater, 55-billion-cubic- energy deal has four principal points resources, an endeavor upon which Kyiv U.S. is being discussed behind closed doors meter (bcm) pipeline that will supply designed to mitigate the national and ener- has already embarked. that might include giving Ukraine non- Russian Arctic gas to Germany and will gy risks to Ukraine. For example, a decade ago Ukraine was NATO ally status, a Ukrainian presidential double the capacity of the current volume “Should Russia attempt to use energy as importing 70 bcm for domestic use. That adviser told The Ukrainian Weekly. The sent to the country through Nord Stream 1. a weapon or commit further aggressive number is now down to 10-15 bcm. deal is “hopeful, but not certain,” the advis- As much as 40 percent of the gas imported acts against Ukraine, Germany will take Conversely, Ukraine would transit more er said. yearly by Europe comes from Russia, and action at the national level and press for than 100 bcm of gas from Russia, but now The Ukrainian Congress Committee of as a result NS2 will essentially eliminate effective measures at the European level, Ukraine can hardly expect to ship 60 bcm. America (UCCA), which is the largest repre- Ukraine as a strategic gas transit country to including sanctions, to limit Russian export Speaking to journalists in Kyiv on July sentative body of the Ukrainian diaspora in the continent. capabilities to Europe in the energy sector, 21, U.S. State Department Counselor Derek the U.S., also criticized the agreement. Russia’s current gas-transit contract including gas, and/or in other economically Chollet rebuffed a report by U.S.-based “Nord Stream 2 is a geopolitical scheme with Ukraine expires in 2024. As a result of relevant sectors,” the statement said. Politico that suggested the U.S. had pressed designed to provide [Mr.] Putin’s Russia that contract, Ukraine usually receives No specific measures were mentioned in Ukraine to not criticize the Russian gas with additional malign influence on our between $2 billion and $3 billion in hard the statement, including a so-called kill- pipeline. European allies and partners,” a statement currency revenue. switch clause that would enable Berlin to He said that “Ukraine is a democratic released on July 20 by the organization said Critics in and outside Ukraine fear that cut gas flows should Russia act aggressively country. It has its own voice.” in response to reports of the deal that was once the pipeline becomes operational, toward its neighbors, however. The unveiled energy package hasn’t made public the following day. Russia could further coerce Ukraine on all Officials in Washington who provided stopped Mr. Vitrenko, the CEO of Naftogaz, Representing nearly 2 million American fronts, including on the conventional mili- briefings on the agreement said that the from seeking congressional support for Ukrainians, the group said that Washington sanctions in Washington, especially since should “not only fully administer congres- the Ukrainian president’s White House visit sionally mandated sanctions against… will take place when Capitol lawmakers [NS2]…it should further sanction any of the will be in summer recess from August 7 to subcontractors that work… [it]…to ratchet September 20. up the pressure on Russia to finally leave So far, he said on Facebook, “we have Ukrainian territory.” strong bipartisan and bicameral support! Former Russian world chess champion Our American partners in Congress fully Garry Kasparov, who lives in exile and share the position that Nord Stream 2 chairs the Human Rights Foundation, ques- threatens Ukraine’s security.” tioned the timing of the energy deal. The tools to stop the project “are still “What do the U.S. and Germany have to there,” he added. talk about regarding Ukraine and Russia Democratic and Republican lawmakers now? Telling [Russian President Vladimir] have criticized the Washington-Berlin ener- Putin he can’t fire the gun Germany built gy security agreement. and they helped him load and point at Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), member Ukraine’s head,” he tweeted on July 20. of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Germany’s The Greens party, the main said that he had no doubt Russia “will use opponent to Ms. Merkel’s party when she the Nord Stream 2 pipeline as a weapon of steps down during the September 27 coercion against Ukraine and transatlantic Bundestag elections, also voiced opposition energy security as soon as it is operational.” to the deal. U.S. Sen. Jim Risch (R-Wis.), who sits on “At a time when [Mr.] Putin is putting the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, massive rhetorical and military pressure on said the agreement “was negotiated with- Ukraine and once again questioning the out the participation and consent of key country’s sovereignty, Washington and allies like Ukraine and Poland.” Berlin are sending the wrong signals to Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio) said before Moscow,” said Oliver Krischer, the vice- www.euactiv.com the agreement was announced that chairman of the party’s parliamentary A map shows gas transit routes from Russia to Europe. “Congress must reject any deals that fail to group, as cited by Ukraine Business News. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30

UCEF wins four stars, a top rating from Charity Navigator

by Alex Kuzma third consecutive year motivates our team to share the good news and accomplish- HARTFORD, Conn. – For the third con- ments of UCU with all our supporters and secutive year, the Ukrainian Catholic friends.” Education Foundation (UCEF) has won the Based on the latest data from the highest four-star rating from the presti- Ukrainian Ministry of Education, for the gious Charity Navigator rating service in past several years UCU’s students have recognition of its strong performance as a achieved the highest average scores of any cost-effective and mission driven charity. incoming class of students on national stan- UCEF is known throughout the Ukrainian dardized tests: the ZNO’s (the Ukrainian community as the primary fundraising arm acronym for external independent tests). of the Ukrainian Catholic University in Lviv, UCEF Information Office The University’s reputation for intellectual widely recognized among the finest institu- integrity and moral leadership is one of the UCEF Chief Operating Officer Joe UCEF Chairman of the Board Taras tions of higher education in Ukraine. strongest motivating factors for many UCEF Solimini Szmagala, Jr. In a July 1 letter to UCEF’s Chief donors. Many donors have also been Operating Officer Joseph Solimini, Charity donors that their funds are being used as Navigator was established to help donors inspired by the university’s strong commit- Navigator President and CEO Michael intended – to help the Ukrainian Catholic and foundations navigate the more than ment to public service and civil society, and Thatcher applauded the UCEF. University,” Mr. Szmagala said. 160,000 charities operating in the United the strong performance of UCU’s students “I wish to congratulate the Ukrainian In his letter, Mr. Thatcher elaborated on States, to help evaluate their cost efficiency in business, applied science, journalism, Catholic Education Foundation on attaining why the UCEF was given the four-star rat- and impact of their operations in the U.S. history, law, sociology and women’s studies. the coveted 4-star rating for demonstrating ing. non-profit sector. Forbes, Business Week, In June, UCU completed the construction of strong financial health and commitment to “This is our highest possible rating and and Kiplinger’s Financial Magazine, among its second residential building – Collegium accountability and transparency,” Mr. indicates that your organization adheres to others, have profiled and celebrated 2. Its administration hopes this will attract Thatcher said. sector best practices and executes its mis- Charity Navigator’s unique method of even more students from eastern and Responding to Charity Navigator’s latest sion in a financially efficient way,” Mr. applying data-driven analysis to the chari- southern Ukraine. appraisal, UCEF’s chairman of the board, Thatcher said. “Attaining a four-star rating table sector. Tax-deductible donations to support Taras Szmagala, Jr., noted how much the verifies that the Ukrainian Catholic “The four-star rating awarded by Charity UCU can be addressed to the Ukrainian rating means for the UCEF. Education Foundation exceeds industry Navigator underscores UCEF’s respect for Catholic Education Foundation, 2247 West “This four-star rating underscores standards and outperforms most charities our donors and their designated usage of Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60622. UCEF’s commitment to efficiency and in your area of work.” funds,” said UCEF Chief Operating Officer Donations can also be made on-line at transparency, and it reconfirms to our As its name would suggest, Charity Joseph Solimini. “Receiving this award for a www.ucef.org.

EU includes Ukraine on its ‘green zone’ list

by Roman Tymotsko Ukrainians to travel this summer and this is an important signal to countries that the BRUSSELS – The Council of the European incidence of COVID-19 in Ukraine has sig- Union announced on July 15 that Ukraine nificantly decreased and our state is has been added to its list of countries it responding appropriately to the challenges believes no longer require certain travel of the pandemic,” Mr. Kuleba said. restrictions. Member states of the EU use The Ministry of Foreign Affairs nonethe- those recommendations to decide whether less recommends that Ukrainians check to impose COVID-19-related travel restric- current travel information before travelling tions. to EU member countries. Despite an agreement by which Most European countries allow non- Ukrainians can enter European Union coun- essential entry for Ukrainians who have tries without needing a visa, entry from received a full dose of an EU-approved Ukraine to the EU had previously been COVID-19 vaccine. The EU list of approved restricted since March 2020 due to the vaccines does not include the CoronaVac coronavirus pandemic. vaccine produced by Chinese manufacturer “Following a review in line with the rec- Sinovac, which is widely distributed in ommendation to phase out temporary Ukraine. As a result, many Ukrainians can- restrictions on non-essential travel to the not enter the EU. They are, therefore, likely Roman Tymotsko EU, the EU Council has updated the list of to wait for vaccines produced by Pfizer or Passports used by The Weekly’s correspondent to enter the European Union. countries for which travel restrictions Moderna, which are approved by EU mem- should be lifted. In particular, and ber states. allow entry from Ukraine without COVID- Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal during a Thailand have been removed, and Ukraine Ukraine’s Health Minister, Viktor Lyashko, 19-related documentation. meeting of the government. has been added [to this list],” the press ser- said that the World Health Organization has A correspondent for The Weekly People in those groups remain a priority vice of the Council of the European Union approved the use of all vaccines offered in entered Spain a week before the EU moved “because they are in the zone of highest reported on July 15. the country and he urged Ukrainians not to Ukraine to its “green” list. Together with an risk and most vulnerable to COVID-19. Based on the criteria and conditions set choose between vaccines because “the best online form required by the Spanish gov- They will continue to be given priority in out in the recommendation, member states vaccine is the one that has been introduced ernment, a vaccination certificate was all immunization,” Mr. Shmyhal said. can gradually remove restrictions on travel into the body and is already working.” this correspondent needed to board a flight The prime minister noted that, to date, at external borders for residents of the list- Mr. Lyashko said that he believes the from Kyiv to Barcelona. almost 4.3 million vaccinations have been ed countries, including Ukraine. In total, European Union will soon allow people Despite different entry requirements, administered in Ukraine. Nearly 2.8 million the EU’s “green list” includes 23 countries who have been given the CoronaVac vac- Ukrainians can enter one EU country and Ukrainians have received their first shot of for which it recommends that entry restric- cine to enter the EU. cross borders to another country regard- vaccine, and 1.5 million have received their tions be lifted. “I have communicated with the European less of travel restrictions in the country of second dose. Ukraine has planned to deliver The EU council’s recommendation does Regional Director of the WHO office and col- entry. The Weekly’s correspondent crossed 13 million doses of the vaccine by the end of not automatically give people from Ukraine leagues in the European Commission. Soon, borders between Spain and France, France the summer, according to the government. permission to enter EU countries, and the EMA [the EU regulator of medications] and Belgium, Belgium and Germany with- The National Academy of Sciences member states can still impose their own will add CoronaVac to its list of approved out a single document check. Direct access recently published a report noting that, entry restrictions. vaccines,” Mr. Lyashko said. to France from Ukraine was possible only while the number of cases of COVID-19 has Several EU countries had already With each EU country implementing its under limited conditions, and Belgium pro- declined in Ukraine, there is a danger of an allowed entry from Ukraine, though indi- own entry rules, Ukrainians likely will hibited all Ukrainians from direct entry. “explosive rate” of further growth as a viduals needed to meet certain COVID-19 require a negative PCR test to enter the Meanwhile, on July 21 Ukraine began a result of new strains that are now preva- preconditions. European Union. Border guards may new phase in its effort to vaccinate its pop- lent in other parts of the world. “I welcome the EU decision recommend- require a negative test conducted no more ulation of some 41 million people. Now all “It is worrying that three key epidemic ing the resumption of visa-free travel with than 48 or 72 hours before departure. In categories of citizens, regardless of age and indicators have risen in the last week, Ukraine. It shows that the epidemic situa- some cases, only a completed vaccination profession, are eligible to receive a vaccine. which we believe reflect current epidemic tion in Ukraine meets EU requirements,” together with a negative PCR test will be “Groups such as doctors, educators, dynamics: the number of positive PCR said Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Minister sufficient for a border guard to allow entry. social workers, the military, the elderly and tests, new hospitalizations and new report- Dmytro Kuleba. However, Albania, Northern Macedonia people with concurrent illnesses remain a ed cases,” National Academy of Sciences of “These are new opportunities for and Montenegro do not require a test and priority for the government,” said Ukrainian Ukraine said in their report. No. 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 5 UCU senator emeritus Mykola Kmit awarded Order of Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky

Ukrainian Catholic University Exarchate; the development of sports; and for being an example of good Christian life LVIV – During a national pilgrimage to and active lay service, which is based on Zarvanytsia, Ukraine, on July 18, Major Christian values and the social teaching of Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk of the the righteous Metropolitan Andrey Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church (UGCC) Sheptytsky. presented Mykola Kmit, senator emeritus In the words of His Beatitude Sviatoslav, and benefactor of the Ukrainian Catholic the award is presented to those who con- University (UCU), the Church’s highest tinue the work of Metropolitan Andrey, honor, the Order of Metropolitan Andrey look on the world with his eyes and strive Sheptytsky. to achieve the heights of his thought. An entrepreneur and president of IDS “I have today the special honor and priv- Group, Mykola Kmit was given the award ilege to award this order to Mykola Kmit. for his active civic and social position as He is truly inspired by the gifts of Andrey senator of the UCU; for his dedicated ser- Sheptytsky and generously supports key vice as a member of the Commission for initiatives of our Church,” Major Arch­ Honoring the Memory of Blessed Priest and bishop Sviatoslav said during the award Martyr Omelyan Kowcz, which popularizes ceremony on July 18. the person of the new martyr of the 20th “Today we recalled how many myths century; for encouraging the acknowledge- exist regarding Kyivan Christianity, our ment in society of worthy laureates of background and roots, because someone awards in his honor; for active support of always wants to appropriate our history, UGCC the Kyivan Christianity project, and for ecclesiastical and national. And so, Mr. Kmit Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk (right) of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic many projects of the UGCC, in particular the supports projects of scholarly studies Church (UGCC) presents the Order of Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky to Mykola construction of a church in the Lutsk researching the sources of Kyivan Christian­ Kmit, senator emeritus and benefactor of the Ukrainian Catholic University, during a pilgrimage to Zarvanytsia, Ukraine, on July 18. ity … So today, before the face of God, the Bishops for their support and trust, which faces of our bishops and laity, I gladly sing was shown to me through this award.” ‘Axios’ to you,” Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Mr. Kmit said that the award he received said during the award ceremony in was a recognition of the work he has done Zarvanytsia. together with other benefactors of the Mr. Kmit said that he did not expect to Church. receive such a distinguished award. Before “A few years ago, His Beatitude Sviato­ the pilgrimage to Zarvanytsia, he received a slav gathered us for a joint breakfast, where telephone call from the UGCC Synod of he managed to encourage support of UGCC Bishops asking if he could be present at the projects,” Mr. Kmit said. “When we first liturgy. And even then, Mr. Kmit said that he saw the results of our donations, we saw had no idea that he would receive an award. how small this contribution was in compar- “When on the stage His Beatitude started ison to what had been done. This was also to list all my accomplishments over the in great part thanks to the late UCU Prof. years, I was surprised that he knew all of Ihor Skochylias, who together with his his- that. It was very moving. My dad watched torian colleagues tirelessly worked to study the recording of this part three times,” Mr. the sources of Kyivan Christianity. In a short Kmit said. “Really, this award is also in great time, they managed to publish a whole part thanks to my parents, for they raised series of 20 volumes. It was easy for me to me with a desire to help others. So, on behalf coordinate these processes, maybe because of the whole Kmit family, I want to thank His people gladly gathered around the idea, Participants of a national pilgrimage gathered in Zarvanytsia, Ukraine, on July 18. Beatitude Sviatoslav and the UGCC Synod of because each understood his or her role.”

Cyprus archbishop puts dissenting bishops on notice, while one dissenting bishop releases book on Ukraine

by Matthew Dubas to a break in Eucharistic communion with- Church–Moscow Patriarchate, as well as The table of contents of the book also in the Archdiocese of Cyprus, Archbishop other UOC-MP bishops in Ukraine), the asks odd questions, such as: “Ukraine PARSIPPANY, N.J. – Archbishop Chrysos­ Chrysostomos replied: “I have ways to put Bulgarian Orthodox Church, the Serbian belongs to the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of tomos, primate of the Orthodox Church of them [bishops] in their place, but I will not Orthodox Church, the Georgian Orthodox what patriarchate?” The answer, however, Cyprus, issued a statement that he will start now.” Church, the Antiochian Orthodox Church, is clear. When Kyivan-Rus received baptism implement methods to put in place mem- Meanwhile, Metropolitan Nikiforos on and the Orthodox Church of America. into Christianity in 988 by Byzantine bish- bers of the Synod of the Church of Cyprus July 1 released a book, “The Ecclesial Crisis However, the 2016 Council included rep- ops from Constantinople, the lands today who do not agree with the decision to rec- in Ukraine and its Solution According to the resentatives of the patriarchates of that are known as Ukraine and beyond ognize the autocephaly of the Orthodox Sacred Canons,” by Holy Trinity Constantinople, Alexandria and Jerusalem, were placed under the jurisdiction of the Church of Ukraine (OCU) that was granted Publications (Russian Orthodox Church the Serbian Orthodox Church, the Church Ecumenical Patriarchate (Church of by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in Outside of Russia) in Jordanville, N.Y. Many of , the Church of Cyprus, the Constantinople), as the Moscow Patriar­ January 2019. of the reviews on the website, including by Church of Greece, the Church of Poland, the chate did not exist at the time. Metropolitan Athanasius of Limassol, Metropolitan Timotheos of Bostra Church of Albania and the Church of the Patriarch Bartholomew underscored neophyte of Morphia, Metropolitan (Patriarc­hate of Jerusalem), are critical of Czech Lands and Slovakia. this on July 26, 2008, during his visit to Nikiforos of Kykkos, Metropolitan Isaiah of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s deci- The book description on the Holy Trinity Ukraine for the 1,020th anniversary of the Tamasos, as well as Bishop Nicholas of sion to grant autocephaly to the OCU, calling Publications website continues: “In this Christianization of Kyivan-Rus Amafunt and Bishop Epiphanius of Ledera, the OCU faithful “schismatic groups.” Other pithy text he [Metropolitan Nikiforos] elo- “This initiative [to celebrate the 1,020th who do not recognize the autocephaly of Orthodox bishops from various jurisdic- quently explains why the actions of the anniversary] is an obligation insofar as all the OCU, refused to take part in the concili- tions have also posted comments on the Ecumenical Patriarchate have created a great nations ought to guard most zealous- ar service appointed by the Synod of the book. schism in the Orthodox Church worldwide ly their historic memory, especially of those Archdiocese of Cyprus on July 10. A description of the book notes, “All of and how in turn they reflect the promotion events that have sealed indelibly the prop- Archbishop Chrysostomos stated that this [the process of granting autocephaly to of a new ecclesiology that distorts the tra- er spiritual identity of their national con- the refusal of hierarchs to perform concili- the OCU] transpired without any attempt ditional understanding of the Orthodox sciousness and determined, more or less, ar service indicates disrespect for the deci- by the Ecumenical Patriarchate to seek a Church as headed only by Christ Himself. their perennial contribution to the commu- sions of the Synod and an attempt to “cir- consensus of all the Orthodox Churches He is clear that the only road to healing and nity of nations. It is also and particularly cumvent the primate.” “I’m not dead. I’m before embarking on this course of action.” ending schism is a return to a form of inter- significant today, for the depth of the great still alive,” the archbishop said. This, however, is untrue, as all of the Orthodox relations which respects both people’s history constitutes an inexhaust- Archbishop Chrysostomos said hier- Orthodox Churches in communion with conciliarity and hierarchy. In doing this he ible resource of strength and radiation to archs who refuse to serve him are mistak- Constantinople were invited to the Holy stresses his utmost respect for the histori- those near and afar,” Patriarch Barthol­ en, and if he begins to restore order, the and Great Council of the Orthodox Church cal place of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of omew said. Metropolitans will cease to be members of in 2016 in Crete, which was not attended Constantinople and the hope that it will Patriarch Bartholomew is scheduled to the Synod. “That’s why I keep silent, so as by the Russian Orthodox Church (whose turn back from the path it is currently on to visit Ukraine in August for the 30th anni- not to harm the Church,” he said. delegation was to include Metropolitan resume its rightful place in the plurality of versary celebration of the country’s When asked whether this crisis will lead Onufriy, head of the Ukrainian Orthodox the Orthodox Church.” renewed independence. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30

COMMENTARY The Ukrainian Weekly Repeating the Memorandum War criminal numbers It is disheartening to hear that, despite the lengths to which Ukraine has gone to protect Europe’s eastern flank from Russian aggression, key allies in Europe are still have been ‘grossly exaggerated’ unwilling to support even a Membership Action Plan (MAP) for Ukraine. And many by Lubomyr Luciuk the pages of The Toronto Star, on June 18, who support and fight for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, whether 1982, David Matas gave a figure of 50-60, from within the country or externally, are rightly fuming that the United States and We always suspected it. We tried to tell outdone by Sol Littman, the Canadian repre- Germany announced on July 21 an agreement that will allow completion of the Nord reporters, politicians, RCMP investigators, sentative of the Los Angeles-based Simon Stream 2 pipeline, which clearly undermines the energy security of Ukraine as well even a few of those who were against us in Wiesenthal Center, who touted the figure of as other eastern and central European countries. the public arena, about what we were cer- 3,000 on November 8, 1984, repeating this In a truly delusional statement made on July 22, outgoing German Chancellor tain was true – but they wouldn’t believe for The Toronto Star on January 25, 1985. Angela Merkel, who brokered the energy security deal with U.S. President Joe Biden, us. I can’t blame them. There was no hard After reviewing all these claims, Justice called it “good” for Ukraine. proof, not in the 1980s, to confirm Soviet Deschênes observed: “Outside interveners Despite remarkably deep political discord among U.S. politicians, even members agents of influence had initiated “active concerning alleged war criminals residing of U.S. Congress have tellingly united in their disdain for the pipeline. Rep. Michael measures” to undermine the anti-Commu- in Canada have spread increasingly large McCaul (R-Texas), who sits on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that he had nist Ukrainian community in the West. and grossly exaggerated figures as to their no doubt Russia “will use the Nord Stream 2 pipeline as a weapon of coercion Now there is. Code-named Operation estimated number.” against Ukraine and transatlantic energy security as soon as it is operational.” U.S. Payback, this plan was cynically orchestrat- After also carefully studying the wartime Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) said via tweet that, “Nord Stream 2 will strengthen ed to exploit the understandable desire of history of the Galicia Division, the Russia, undermine America’s national interest and threaten the security of Ukraine – the Jewish diaspora to see perpetrators of Commission concluded it should not be a key U.S. ally.” The day before the U.S.-German agreement was announced, Rep. some of the greatest atrocities of the 20th indicted as a group; that members of the Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio) said that “Congress must reject any deals that fail to protect century – the Nazis – brought to justice. By Division were individually screened for secu- transatlantic security and Ukraine’s sovereignty.” the late 1960s, quite alarmingly from a rity purposes before admission to Canada; Meanwhile, and not coincidentally, the Biden administration almost simultane- Soviet point-of-view, Jewish and Ukrainian that charges of war crimes against members ously announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will visit the U.S. on émigrés had begun to rally together in of the Division had never been substantiated, August 30, and there are indications that the two presidents will sign an important defense of human rights activists and dissi- either in 1950 when they were first prof- bilateral defense and security agreement when the Ukrainian president visits dents in the USSR. By propagating stories fered, or in 1984 when they were renewed, Washington. Speaking with The Weekly, a Ukrainian presidential advisor said that about “thousands” of Nazis supposedly hid- or before the Commission; and that, in the an agreement is currently being finalized behind closed doors. That deal is “hopeful, ing within North America’s Ukrainian and absence of participation in, or knowledge of, but not certain,” the advisor said. Baltic communities, Moscow’s men deliber- specific war crimes, mere membership in the Talk of such a bilateral security agreement immediately raises the specter of the ately and effectively fragmented this com- Galicia Division was insufficient to justify 1994 Budapest Memorandum, which utterly failed to ensure Ukraine’s territorial mon front. prosecution. Finally, the Commission noted integrity after Ukraine agreed to give up what was at the time the third largest nucle- These KGB covert operations were out- no case could be made against members of ar arsenal in the world. It is difficult to hold out hope that any new bilateral agree- lined candidly in a now-declassified memo- the Division for revocation of citizenship or ment will have the necessary teeth to deter further Russian aggression against randum, analyzed by Prof. Olga Bertelsen, deportation since the Canadian authorities Ukraine, particularly as officials negotiating on the Ukrainian side have little lever- age left that they can use to demand stronger terms to repel the looming Russian as published in 2020 in the respected were fully aware of the relevant facts in 1950 threat. And there should be little doubt regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s International Journal of Intelligence and and admission to Canada was not granted intentions in Ukraine. He made that very clear with his manifesto “on the historical Counter Intelligence. because of any false representation, or fraud, unity of Russians and Ukrainians.” On October 18, 1985, Stepan Mukha, or concealment of material circumstances. head of Soviet Ukraine’s Committee of State Despite these rather definitive findings, Security, addressed Volodymyr Shcher­ allegations about the Galicia Division have bytsky, first secretary of the Communist sporadically been resuscitated. In October Party of the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist 2017, Kiril Kalinin, operating out of the Turning the pages back... Republic. Following consultations with his Russian Embassy in Ottawa, even circulat- July Russian KGB counterparts, Comrade ed mendacious tales about the family histo- Mukha wrote, his operatives so effectively ry of Chrystia Freeland, then Canada’s Thirty years ago, on July 25, 1991, the last henchman of the deployed their “operational capabilities” Minister for Foreign Affairs, while tweeting Stalin regime – Lazar Kaganovich – died in Moscow at the age of 25 that Washington was “compelled” to create provocative statements about imagined 97. The Ukrainian Weekly’s editorial of the August 4 issue that an Office of Special Investigations within ‘Nazi war memorials’ in Canada. After his year reminded readers that the man known as the “Iron 1991 the Department of Justice in 1979. To fur- subterfuges were exposed, Kalinin was Commissar” helped Joseph Stalin institute and maintain his reign ther shape general opinion, polemical declared persona non grata and expelled. of terror in the USSR during the 1930s and 1940s. Kaganovich is most known by Ukrainians as the man whom Stalin charged with enforc- tracts were circulated widely denigrating Tellingly, the annual report of the ing the agricultural policies behind collectivization that resulted in the Famine-Genocide the Ukrainian nationalist movement. Such National Security and Intelligence of Ukraine, known as the Holodomor of 1932-1933, which targeted and killed millions of tracts included one by the American Committee of Parliamentarians identifies Ukrainians. Communist Party leader Michael Hanusiak the Russian Federation as a “primary threat Born in 1893 in Kabany, the Kyiv region of Ukraine, Kaganovich became the first secre- titled “Lest We Forget.” It was reissued actor” conducting foreign interference tary of the Communist Party (Bolshevik) of Ukraine in 1925 until 1928, and he was a twice. Even I got a copy. activities in Canada. Yet there are journal- member of the all-union party Central Committee. Five years later, as mayor of Moscow, he “Considering the positive evolution” of ists who studiously ignore this geopolitical was named a member of the Politburo. Operation Payback in America, measures reality, not to mention the findings of the Kaganovich is remembered for his iron-fisted rule, having destroyed hundreds of “aimed at unfolding a similar campaign in Deschênes Commission, preferring to re- churches, as well as for mass deportations and purges. Canada were implemented” in 1980-1985. spew the concocted, hateful and divisive However, he did not earn respect from his fellow Communists, including Soviet leader Materials about the alleged wartime crimi- fables Mr. Mukha and his minions spread, Nikita Khrushchev, who in his memoirs described Kaganovich as one of the most “vicious” nality of the Galicia Division were “planted” starting decades ago. Distracting attention of all Bolsheviks. In 1947, Kaganovich was sent to Ukraine to assume the position of first in The Toronto Star with the resulting out- from Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine secretary of the CPU, which was held previously by Khrushchev. rage stoked until, this spymaster claimed, and the fascistic agenda of the KGB man in “Ukraine: A Concise Encyclopedia” writes: “Kaganovich’s first assignment was to cope Ottawa was “forced” to establish the the Kremlin seem to be the goals of the cur- with the outcome of the famine in the countryside and to bring order to Ukrainian agricul- Commission of Inquiry on War Criminals, rent disinformation campaign. One hopes ture. For this purpose he restored his favorite ‘political departments’ in the machine-trac- headed by Justice Jules Deschênes in North America’s security and intelligence tor stations and state farms and relied heavily on their dictatorial powers.” Kaganovich is February 1985. All this skullduggery services will help counter those who seek also held responsible for orchestrating the 1947 purge of Ukrainian cultural cadres for obliged the Ukrainian Canadian community to riven what remains of the Free World. alleged nationalism. to “divert efforts and funds” to its own Hooligans scuttle about in the dark and It was only when Khrushchev became leader of the USSR in 1957 that the last Stalinists defense, weakening its capacity to other- destroy private property. Their ilk, who – Molotov, Malenkov and Kaganovich – were ousted. Kaganovich lost all of his party and wise challenge Soviet narratives and behav- desecrate cemetery monuments or spray- government posts, even his party membership, but he was later rehabilitated. ior. I know this is true. I was there. paint Ukrainian community memorials, are The editorial concluded: “It is indeed ironic that this man, responsible for the repression How many stories were planted? The best left for the police to round up. As for and deaths of countless millions, was allowed to live out his life peacefully in Moscow and Deschênes Commission’s final report listed anyone who turns a blind eye to criminal was never brought to justice for his crimes. Though he dies as the last vestige of the Stalin several dozen articles about “Nazi war crim- vandalism, or tries to justify a hate crime, I era, his legacy of terror will serve as a constant reminder of the horrors of communism.” inals in Canada.” For example, Irwin Cotler, recommend the words of the evangelist In the fight against Soviet nostalgia that is utilized by Putinism, and as Ukraine prepares as reported in the Ottawa Citizen on July 13, (Matthew 7:5): “You hypocrite, first take to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its renewed independence on August 24, Ukrainians 1981, said “at least 100” Nazis were the plank out of your own eye, and then count down the days when the Soviet-era statue “Rodina Mat” (Ukrainian: Batkivshchyna amongst us, a number he inflated to “maybe you will see clearly to remove the speck Maty) in Kyiv and the Lenin mummy and mausoleum on Red Square in Moscow will be 1,000” for La Presse on April 13, 1983. In from your brother’s eye.” sent to the dustbin of history. The Soviet hammer and sickle are featured on a shield car- ried by the statue in Kyiv. Historians have called for the Soviet symbol to be removed in Lubomyr Luciuk is a professor of political A version of this column previously line with Ukraine’s decommunization laws. geography at the Royal Military College of appeared in the August 16, 2020, edition of Source: “Legacy of terror,” The Ukrainian Weekly, August 4, 1991. Canada. The Ukrainian Weekly. No. 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 7

FROM FAR AND WIDE by Marco Levytsky Ukrainian Canadian churches vandalized Lifting Lenin Since the remains of 215 children bur- the web site of the Archeparchy of As improbable as it may seem to us by his findings on a tour of the Volga Valley ied on the site of the former Kamloops Winnipeg, which serves Manitoba, while today, the United States saved the Soviet and reported that 10 million peasants Indian Residential School in British Bishop David, Eparch of Edmonton, which Union twice: the first time was in 1921, faced starvation in Ukraine.” Columbia were found on May 27, the issue serves Alberta, said that, “Many of us were during Lenin’s rule when famine struck “A Russian university professor reported of residential schools and the treatment of saddened earlier this week when we Russia and thousands were perishing from in November 1922: ‘Families were killing indigenous people has dominated learned that the Assumption of the hunger; the second time came during and devouring fathers, grandfathers and Canadian media. More such discoveries Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Stalin’s tenure, when the Soviet Union was children,’” Mr. Jeansonne wrote. followed, including 751 children at a for- Parish in Calgary had been vandalized by desperate for American military assistance. Although the Soviets distrusted the ARA, mer residential school in Cowessess, individuals acting on their own – not once, Let’s look at the first instance. Lenin himself came to believe that the ARA Saskatchewan, and another 160 at the for- but twice – alongside many other Roman At the end of World War I, the Russian could be an avenue to diplomatic recogni- mer Kuper Island Industrial School site Catholic parishes throughout Calgary. people were suffering. War with Germany, tion and trade with the U.S. “In a note to a near Chemainus, B.C. More such discover- “While the Ukrainian Catholic Church in civil war, crop failures and the misrule of Kremlin colleague, Lenin observed, ‘Hoover ies are expected as indigenous groups use Canada never ran Residential Schools, we the Bolsheviks had wreaked havoc. Famine is a real plus,’” Mr. Jeansonne wrote. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) units to can relate to the pain and suffering that was ravaging the land. According to Mr. Smith, one of the most locate more potential unmarked burial our indigenous brothers and sisters are On July 13, 1921, the celebrated Russian amazing men associated with the ARA at sites. In most cases the deaths were enduring in the recent recovery of the writer Maxim Gorky penned an open letter this time was Frank Golder, sent to Russia caused by disease and neglect. graves of hundreds of children found in to Western nations pleading for assistance. by Mr. Hoover himself to reconnoiter the Residential schools were government- several cemeteries in western Canada,” the “Gloomy days,” Gorky wrote, “have come to situation. Born in Odesa, it was Mr. Golder sponsored religious schools that were bishop said. the land of Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Mendeleev, who decided to visit Ukraine even though established to assimilate indigenous chil- The Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Pavlov, Mussorgsky, Glinka and other the ARA mission was restricted to Russia dren into Euro-Canadian culture. Although Alberta Provincial Council called on law world-prized men…Russia’s misfortunes by the agreement. “There is a cry for the first residential facilities were estab- enforcement agencies to fully investigate offer humanitarians a splendid opportunity help from Ukraine,” he wrote, “the inhabit- lished in New France, the term usually these attacks, noting that, “These are plac- to demonstrate the vitality of humanitari- ants are suffering from hunger and the ter- refers to schools established after 1880. es of worship, where people gather to pray anism… I ask all honest European and ror of bandit raids.” Sadly, the ARA could do Residential schools were created by the and to reflect. For their parishioners, they American people for prompt aid to the little to help. are places of peace and spiritual unity. To Canadian government as an attempt to Russian people. Give bread and medicine.” Still determined to obtain hard currency desecrate these places is unacceptable and both educate and convert indigenous The letter reached Herbert Hoover, then to build their industry, the Soviets has no place in Canada.” youth and to assimilate them into serving in President Warren G. Harding’s informed Mr. Haskell on November 6, 1922, The Ukrainian Canadian Civil Liberties Canadian society. They were run by Roman administration as secretary of commerce. that they planned to export $50 million Association was even more forthright. Catholic and Protestant churches. Years earlier, Mr. Hoover, director of the worth of grain in the coming months. Mr. “What happened to indigenous peoples However, the schools disrupted lives and American Relief Administration (ARA), had Hoover was furious. It was time to cut bait. as a result of the residential school system communities, causing long-term problems earned an international reputation as the So how much help did the ARA provide is appalling and we support their efforts to among the First Nations. The last residen- man most responsible for saving the peo- in lifting Lenin from calamity? secure a recognition for what they suf- tial school closed in 1996. ple of Belgium from starvation during “According to the Soviet press,” Mr. fered,” said Roman Zakaluzny, chairman of It was indeed a racist policy, rooted in World War I. Smith wrote, “it had fed 11 million people UCCLA. “But to desecrate churches and the concept that indigenous people were The story of how Mr. Hoover and the – almost a tenth of the population – in frighten their peaceful congregants is primitive savages who had to be stripped 28,000 towns and villages and distributed appalling and must be investigated as a American people responded to Maxim of their culture and heritage, and assimi- Gorky’s plea is related in “The Russian Job: over 1.25 million food parcels. It had lated into white Canadian society. There hate crime against an identifiable group, specifically Ukrainian Canadians. Those The Forgotten Story of How America Saved restored 15,000 hospitals serving 80 mil- they were forbidden to speak their own responsible for this vandalism are obvious- the Soviet Union From Ruin,” a book lion patients and inoculated 10 million language, practice their own culture and ly ignorant – the Ukrainian Catholic Church authored by American historian Douglas people against a variety of epidemic dis- they were subjected to all sorts of physical is independent of the Roman Catholic Smith, and in “Herbert Hoover: A Life,” by eases.” and even sexual abuse. It remains a Church and no parish of our Ukrainian Glen Jeansonne. Wrote Mr. Jeansonne: The ARA “distrib- shameful episode in Canada’s history and Catholic Church in Canada was ever A copy of Gorky’s appeal landed on Mr. uted $8 million in medical supplies and one that deserves to be acknowledged, involved in the creation, management or Hoover’s desk on July 22. “As soon as he $1.5 million in clothing, and it provided studied and commemorated. functioning of any of the residential read it,” writes Douglas Smith, “Hoover seed for the 1923 crop. By the summer of But the reaction has been severe, schools in this country.” knew what has to be done.” 1923, the corner had been turned.” prompting many to think that it has gone Not only was no parish of the Ukrainian Mr. Hoover despised the gangster gov- Were the Soviets grateful for Mr. too far. Statues of John A. MacDonald, who Catholic Church involved with residential ernment of the Bolsheviks, but he abhorred Hoover’s herculean efforts? Some were. as the first prime minister of Canada initi- schools, but relations between the indige- the thought of starving people, especially The Soviet government itself presented Mr. ated the policy in 1880, and Queen nous people of Canada and the Ukrainian children, even more. The ARA would once Hoover with a scroll proclaiming that the Victoria, who reigned at the time, among pioneer settlers were remarkably amica- again be called upon to assist. Russian people “will never forget the help many others, have been torn down. This ble. Unlike the British and French, Talks with the Soviets began in Riga, given them.” Maxim Gorgy composed a year’s Canada Day celebrations were sub- Ukrainians had no prejudicial feelings Latvia, in August. The United States had personal letter to Mr. Hoover stating that dued, and even cancelled in some places. about the First Nations and the indigenous three major demands: the immediate “your help will be inscribed in history as a Flags were flown at half-mast to honor the people helped them survive the bitter win- release of all Americans languishing in unique memory of millions of Russians victims. But, by far, the worst reaction has ters by pointing out which berries were Soviet prisons; free movement of ARA offi- who you saved from death.” been the destruction and defacement of safe to eat and which plants provided cials in Soviet territory; and “all warehous- The Soviets, or course, did forget. By the churches across the country. As of July 14, medicinal herbs. There was considerable es, offices, vehicles, trains and kitchens be time of Hoover’s death in 1964, the Soviet 47 Christian churches in Canada have been interaction and even intermarriage clearly marked as belonging to the press was condemning the man as “a spy vandalized, burned down or desecrated, between the indigenous people and the ‘American Relief Administration.’ If the for the bourgeoisie.” including two Ukrainian Catholic ones – St. early Ukrainian settlers. This is a part of ARA was going to go to the considerable The American people also forgot. This Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in history that is little known, but it deserves trouble of aiding the people of Russia, it is unfortunate. At a time when too many Fisher Branch, Manitoba, and Assumption to be both acknowledged and learned. I was going to make certain everyone knew in our nation are pushing the narrative of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian will talk more about this topic in my next who was helping them,” Mr. Smith wrote. that we are a self-centered, uncaring, Catholic Church in Calgary, Alberta. column. With the blessing of President Harding, greedy populace, we need to recall those The Ukrainian Catholic Church has been Mr. Hoover floated the idea to the American heroes of our past who once walked on rather muted in its response. There was no Marco Levytsky may be contacted at people. Criticism exploded from the right the international stage and made a differ- statement regarding the vandalization on [email protected]. (“why are we aiding a regime that wants to ence in the lives of so many. Maxim Gorky destroy us?”), and the left (“there is no was looking for “humanitarians.” He found Opinions question that Mr. Hoover plans to use the them in Herbert Hoover and the American ARA for political purposes”). The latter people. In the next chapter we will learn how Opinions expressed by columnists, commentators and letter-writers are their commentary added to the Soviet’s worst fears about the ARA. the United States of America saved Stalin. own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of either The Weekly editorial Stay tuned. staff or its publisher, the Ukrainian National Association. Mr. Hoover selected Col. William N. Similarly, paid advertisements do not reflect the opinions of either The Haskell, a West Point graduate who had Ukrainian Weekly or its publisher. once directed relief in Armenia. Mr. Myron Kuropas’s e-mail address is Jeansonne wrote that “Haskell was shocked [email protected]. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30 No. 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 9 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30

Nestor Yavdoshnyak The Roma Pryma Bohachevsky Dance Academy Workshop performs the always popular Hopak.

Soyuzivka Heritage Center: alive and hopping Creating a festival as 2021 cultural festival kicks off summer season in 21 days by Adrian Bryttan by Adrian Bryttan Zoom meeting can ever replace that; otherwise, our hrom- ada would disappear through isolation. But after breathing Scheduling performers and advertising while forti- KERHONKSON, N.Y. – For more than 12 months, the the fresh, clean air of these beautiful surroundings and fying a huge venue like the Soyuzivka Heritage Center Soyuzivka Heritage Center in Kerhonkson, N.Y., had rested reconnecting with fellow Ukrainians, we’ll all return stron- for the influx of many hundreds of concertgoers usual- in eerie silence, and for the second straight year, odds for ger and spiritually refreshed.” the Soyuzivka Cultural Festival seeing light of day appeared The following speaker was Andrew Nynka, the new edi- ly requires many months of detailed work. But the slim indeed. But after many grim warnings regarding tor-in-chief of Svoboda and The Ukrainian Weekly. Mr. Ukrainian Cultural Festival is such an important part COVID-19 and mandated lockdowns, the Ukrainian commu- Nynka acknowledged the more than four decades of ser- of the mission of the Ukrainian National Foundation nity was parched for an opportunity to reconnect and to cel- vice of former editor-in-chief Roma Hadzewycz, and (UNF) that all involved rolled up their sleeves and ebrate the cultural ideals that bind its members together. reminded those gathered that Svoboda is the oldest contin- completed the task in only three weeks (The VIP gala Only round-the-clock efforts enabled the dedicated orga- uously published newspaper in the for donors was actually finalized with merely one nizers and sponsors to present a top-notch program on July world. Rather than settling for the mere survival of week lead time). 10, barely three weeks after New York Governor Andrew Ukrainian institutions and the diaspora community, Mr. UNF Board Member Valentyna Tabaka labored Cuomo gave the green light for large public events (Readers Nynka insisted on a forward-looking agenda. day and night to organize all the complicated can learn more about that topic in the adjacent side bar). All “I believe we can and must turn the conversation so that aspects of the gala and concert. This was Ms. of these issues were discussed during the festival’s VIP gala, in the years to come we can talk about growth and suc- Tabaka’s first time coordinating these two aspects held inside the Veselka auditorium on the evening of July 9. cess,” Mr. Nynka said. “What I see both in the United States of the festival. In past years, many artists flew in and Canada are millions of people – and there truly are mil- from Ukraine to take part. But in spite of all the visa VIP gala lions – who care deeply about Ukraine and Ukrainian problems as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms. Yuriy Symczyk, the chief operating officer of the causes. It is our challenge to figure out how to channel all Tabaka still managed to line up a strong cast of per- Ukrainian National Association (UNA), spoke on behalf of of that passion and love for Ukraine and our diaspora into formers, either those already residing here or the UNA, a long-time festival sponsor, about this eagerly growth, so that our community no longer talks about sur- native-born Ukrainian-Americans (For more on this, awaited reawakening. He thanked Ukrainian National viving, but instead we talk about thriving.” see additional sidebar). Foundation (UNF) Director Valentyna Tabaka for her During the Gala, attendees enjoyed a special preview of She was supported in her efforts by UNF Board unflagging efforts to schedule a solid artistic program and several performers slated for the next day’s big stage. Member and Treasurer Roma Lisovich as well as by expressed his gratitude to Soyuzivka managers for their Vocalists Christina Yavdoshnyak, Anna Kosachevich, UNF board members Taras Sochan, Stefan Kaczaraj technical preparation. Anychka, Iryna Lonchyna, and “Ukrainian Cowboy” and Yuriy Symczyk, who all attended the festival. All But Mr. Symczyk’s core message was directed at the Liubomyr Chermak took turns entertaining the donor audi- logistics for the events were ably handled by attendees. ence in styles ranging from pop and folk to ballad and coun- Soyuzivka management (Nestor Paslawsky and Stefko “You did well to come here,” Mr. Symczyk said. “We are Drabyk) and staff. all here to sing and dance and reconnect. No Skype or (Continued on page 11)

Dancing in a bubble

by Adrian Bryttan The Roma Pryma Bohachevsky (RPB) Dance Academy Workshop has invariably been one of the highlights of the Ukrainian Cultural Festival. The group’s exciting dance presentations are not only entertaining, but they also preserve Ukrainian heri- tage by illustrating steps and costumes from various regions of Ukraine. Due to COVID-19 concerns, co- director Anya Bohachevsky-Lonchyna adhered to Ulster County guidelines to assure the safety of all par- ticipants at the two-week Workshop by requiring proof of vaccination, COVID-19 tests and question- naires. Ms. Bohachevsky-Lonchyna also provided par- Anna Kosachevich Liubomyr Chermak Iryna Lonchyna ticipants with six gallons of hand sanitizer and air purifiers. In addition, unvaccinated parents were not permitted to visit the camp, dancers underwent daily temperature checks and no dancers were allowed to go into town. None of these COVID-19-related restrictions and requirements dampened the camaraderie of members who organized their own entertainment. All the danc- ers view the RPB Workshop as their family and home. Last summer, a virtual dance camp was conducted over Zoom sessions, with many new viewers from as far away as Sweden. This year, three participating Workshop dancers came from non-Ukrainian back- grounds. Co-directors Orlando Pagan and Ms. Bohachevsky-Lonchyna are optimistic about main- taining classes throughout the fall. UNA Chief Operating Officer Yuriy Members of the VIP gala enjoyed dinner and an intimate preview of the Symczyk speaks during the VIP gala. festival’s musical performances. No. 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 11

Nestor Yavdoshnyak Members of the Roma Pryma Bohachevsky Dance Academy Workshop during their performance on July 10. Liubomyr Chermak and Christina Yavdoshnyak

blankets, dotting the grassy hill above the tennis courts. Soyuzivka Heritage... As always, the Ukrainian Veterans of America (UVA) honor guard presented flags for the national anthems (see side- Two homegrown stars (Continued from page 10) bar). As the concert unfolded, it became clear that all five try. The program was smoothly guided by the affable team female vocalists were on the highest professional level and by Adrian Bryttan of emcees, Andrij Dobriansky and Bohdan Tabaka, who could have graced any stage in the world. And, once again, traded quips as they introduced speakers and entertainers. Mr. Dobriansky and Lydia Kulbida kept things flowing nicely. Two exciting diaspora singers especially wowed UNF Treasurer and Board Member Roma Lisovich Ms. Yavdoshniak and Ms. Kosachevich, reprising their Festival audiences: Christina Yavdoshnyak and Anna acknowledged sponsors who helped make the weekend performance from the gala, presented a wide variety of hit Kosachevich. It was indeed gratifying to witness such possible. Those sponsors included Self Reliance Federal songs and both were enthusiastically acclaimed by the mature performances by both polished vocalists who Credit Union (SRFCU) of New York, N.Y., the UNA, SRFCU audience (see sidebar). are still in their teens. Also participating in the concert was Julia Busko, a rous- Chicago with New Jersey SRFCU branches in Newark, Hailing from Yonkers, N.Y., Ms. Yavdoshnyak has a ing performer with an agile voice, who had previously per- Whippany and Jersey City, Ukrainian Federal Credit Union clear voice that can boom like a cannon, yet she can formed at Soyuzivka. A finalist in the Chervona Ruta Vocal of Rochester, N.Y., and the NOVA Ukrainian American modulate styles from pop and folk to Broadway and Competition in Ukraine, she sang the famous song the festi- Federal Credit Union of Clifton, N.J. opera. At only 19, she is already an experienced veter- val is named for (Volodymyr Ivasiuk’s “Chervona Ruta”), Additional donations were received from the Executive an performer and has won first prizes at vocal compe- Board of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of along with “Songs of Brave Girls” (Pisni Smilyvykh Divchat) titions in Yonkers Junior Idol, The International Rondo America (UNWLA), Yaroslava Mulyk, Christine Nestor and and “Let Me Paint You the Stars” (Namaliuj Tobi Zori). In an Van Guard Competition in opera, and the Grand Prize the Erachshaw Family. Ms. Lisovych stressed that the UNA interview with The Ukrainian Weekly, she bemoaned what in Kyiv. Three years ago, she toured Ukraine from Kyiv and the Ukrainian credit unions are the backbone of the she considers a primitive regression in many song entries to Kolomyia. At the Festival, she delivered a notably Ukrainian community and she entreated everyone to for the Eurovision Contest. Ukrainian songs form the solid become a member of those organizations. core of Ms. Busko’s repertoire, and she was thrilled to have poignant and sensitive rendition of “Malvy” by Volo­ “We’re lucky to be Ukrainian Americans. Be proud of our her eight-month son hear her singing them that evening. dymyr Ivasiuk, among other songs. Ms. Yavdoshnyak multi-heritage!” Ms. Lisovich said. Ms. Lonchyna has also previously sung at Soyuzivka. A is minoring in music at Binghamton University while Following the closing benediction by the Rev. Ivan dynamic performer who loves to get close to her audience, pursuing a major in pre-med. She looks forward to a Kaszczak, the band Brattia z Prykarpattia provided music she enjoys composing her own songs and has already career in integrative neuroscience. for the concluding VIP dance. released four albums. From the time she was in the first Ms. Kosachevich showcased her versatility in grade, Ms. Lonchyna always had a song on her lips. She humorous pitter-patter Ukrainian folk songs, torch Festival concerts shared with this author that her songs are “God’s children” songs and jazzy quasi-improvisations, like the sultry The gods of weather served up a pleasant, sunny day on – a conversation with God, and a light for all people. Two of “Paint the Night for Me” (Namaliuj Meni Nich). Hailing July 10, as vendors set up their stands and information sta- her original songs are “This is My Ukraine” and “Let Me from New Jersey, Ms. Kosachevich, with her vibrant tions along Poltava Road, including a special outdoor BBQ Light Up the Stars.” bell-like voice, is comfortable with the demands of at the Veselka Gazebo. The afternoon program on the Also performing at the event was Anychka, an impas- opera as well as with folk, jazz, ballads and musical Veselka Patio featured vocalists Ms. Kosachevich, Ms. sioned vocalist with Lemko roots. At the Gala, she hear- theater. She was a winner in the Sanremo Junior inter- Yavdoshnyak, Mr. Chermak and Julia Busko, and the band kened back to Polish Operation Wisla, which forcibly national singing competition held in Sanremo, Italy. Brattia z Prykarpattia. As emcees, Mr. Dobriansky part- uprooted her ancestors and thousands of Ukrainians from Ms. Kosachevich is currently majoring in classical nered with Lydia Kulbida, anchorperson for News 10 ABC/ their age-old Lemko lands. Her beloved Lemko folk songs vocal performance. Fox 23 in Albany. They reminisced about their dance histo- comprise a central part of her repertoire, along with bal- ry together, which began with the Roma Pryma lads and pop songs. The catchy syncopated Kucheri, Bohachevsky (RPB) Dance Academy. Kucheri (O These Beautiful Curls) was an audience favorite. spouse, Laryssa), a Lemko Dance (choreography by co- By early evening, spectators had begun to migrate to the While on tour, she has devoted many concerts to benefit director Anya Bohachevska), and the always popular Pryvit main show, which was held on Soyuzivka’s lower slopes wounded Ukrainian soldiers and has been recognized by (Greeting) and Hopak. A special treat was the elegant red behind the pool. While many listeners arrayed themselves the Ukrainian Armed Forces for her commitment to the and black choreography by Stefan Calka “For Roma with on rows of white chairs before the stage, others spread cause. A stylish performer, she accompanies her songs with Love,” which featured a lovely solo by Marisa McDonald (for expressive hand movements and gestures. more on RPB Dance Workshop, see sidebar). ­Trading in Ukrainian steppe ponies for American mus- Gremo is singer and actor Alex Hramakouski. He was tangs, Mr. Chermak appeared wearing his emblematic cow- born in and became an arm and body- Ukrainian American boy hat, to belt out his “country” style songs, composed by building champion, while acting in Ukrainian movies, com- himself and his spouse, Nataliya. The audience was particu- mercials and television shows. In 2015 he moved to the Veterans larly delighted with one catchy tune, which rhymed U.S., where he learned the Ukrainian language and began “Tennessee” with “tsi pisni” (these songs)! by Adrian Bryttan performing his Ukrainian compositions at festivals. At The RPB Dance Workshop always takes pride in coupling Soyuzivka, as elsewhere, his ensemble’s snappy songs cap- Uniformed members of the Ukrainian American expressive choreography with authentic and brilliant cos- tured the attention of the onlookers. Veterans (UAV) have long comprised the honor guard tumes. This year the performers showcased dances from The festivities closed with a zabava dance and the carrying the flags at the main program of the Soyuzivka Volyn (choreography by co-director Orlando Pagan and his Brattia z Prykarpattia band. festivals. This non-political brotherhood of American veterans is united by shared military experience, com- mon Ukrainian heritage and the desire to help other current or newly discharged brothers and sisters with- in our community. Responding to ongoing Russian invasions, they continue to raise much needed aware- ness and funding for wounded Ukrainian veterans. The UAV coordinates with Ukrainian officials to provide medical aid via PTSD programs and special- ized physicians for Ukrainian soldiers. In America, the organization maintains a Welfare Fund for members in need, and sponsors scholarships for students. Most of the current UAV members served their country dur- ing the era, but they encourage all Ukrainians from Afghanistan and Iraq theaters to join their orga- nization. Ihor Rudko serves as National Commander. Their website is http://www.uavets.org. Anychka A dancer leaps during a performance of the Hopak. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30

while the G-7 Ambassadors Reform Support Ukraine takes... Group included it in its roadmap for Dear Readers! strengthening the rule of law in Ukraine. (Continued from page 1) After a number of judicial reform false The Ukrainian Weekly is accepting greetings Critics also say the two bodies failed to starts, the engagement of foreign profes- remove judges who persecuted protesters sionals in the selection of members of on the occasion of the during the Euro-Maidan, and did not act Ukraine’s judicial governance bodies has led against judges caught making false state- many to take the recently adopted reforms ments in their asset declarations. Mean­ particularly seriously. A similar approach 30th Anniversary while, the HCJ was involved in efforts to has previously been used during the compe- of the Independence of Ukraine cover up for tainted judges and silence whis- tition to recruit members of Ukraine’s High tleblowers using disciplinary sanctions. Anticorruption Court and proved effective. By 2019, it had become painfully clear For the HQCJ, three foreign experts will We invite individuals, organizations and businesses to show their pride that reforming the judiciary without chang- be part of a six-member selection panel, and support for those individuals who through personal dedication ing the approach to composing these vital which will shortlist 32 candidates for 16 judicial governance bodies was impossible. HQCJ offices. For the HCJ, three foreign and sacri ce have secured a free and independent Ukraine. The idea of a new approach was supported experts will be part of a six-member Ethics Council, which will assess HCJ candidates Special Rates by reformers within government, civil soci- ety experts and Ukraine’s international on the basis of integrity and shortlist the 1 /8 page - $50 1 /2 page - $200 partners. During his successful presidential best candidates. The Ethics Council will election campaign in spring 2019, also conduct a one-time integrity screening 1 /4 page -$100 1 page - $400 Volodymyr Zelenskyy also promised com- of current HCJ members and request the prehensive reform of judicial governance. appointing bodies to fire or reconfirm the Please send your greetings by August 10, 2021 to: Despite the fact that the recently adopt- HCJ members in question. Ukraine is now in the early stages of The Ukrainian Weekly, P. 0. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054 ed approach goes beyond established European recommendations on the judicia- what promises to be one of the most deci- Тел.: (973) 292-9800 дод. 3040 • e-mail: [email protected] ry, the Venice Commission of the Council of sive battles for the historic transformation Europe positively evaluated the proposed of the country. The new laws adopted in international engagement in the cleansing July are only the first step in a necessarily of Ukraine’s judicial governance bodies. long and complex journey toward estab- These reforms are in line with the expec- lishing genuine rule of law in Ukraine. tations of the International Monetary Fund, Much still has to be done in order to fully which made it one of the key conditionali- and transparently implement the adopted ties for their ongoing program with Ukraine. laws. Far too often in Ukraine’s reform The reboot also features in the EU-Ukraine story, legislation that looks good on paper macro-financial assistance agreement, has fallen flat when it comes to implemen- tation. Moreover, it is also important to note that the laws themselves are not ideal and contain some flaws that opponents of reform will likely seek to exploit. Despite these concerns, there is good cause for optimism. The recent adoption of these new laws is arguably the closest Ukraine has been to genuine judicial reform since the country renewed its inde- pendence in 1991. As Ukrainians prepare to celebrate the 30th anniversary of state- hood on August 24, this reform progress is also worth toasting.

UkraineAlert is a comprehensive online publication of the Atlantic Council that pro- vides regular news and analysis on develop- ments in Ukraine’s politics, economy, civil society, and culture. The views expressed in UkraineAlert are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Atlantic Council, its staff or its supporters. The article above is reprinted from UkraineAlert with the permission of its edi- tor. It was first published online at https:// www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/ukrai- nealert/ukraine-takes-a-big-step-towards- judicial-reform/. No. 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 13 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30

to host a morning radio program when an discuss the lack of progress in the case. Mr. since 2014. Mr. Avakov unexpectedly sub- NEWSBRIEFS improvised explosive device planted under Monastyrskiy has said he will evaluate the mitted his letter of resignation on July 13 his vehicle detonated and killed him. investigation of Mr. Sheremet’s killing after without disclosing the reason for his move. (Continued from page 2) Commemorations for the Belarusian-born the trial of Ms. Duhar, Mr. Antonenko and His resignation came amid growing specu- “Nord Stream 2 will strengthen Russia, Russian citizen who had made Ukraine his Ms. Kuzmenko is over. Some investigators lation that Mr. Zelenskyy would fire him undermine America’s national interest, permanent home took place at a monu- have said that Mr. Sheremet’s killing might for his failure to back certain decisions and threaten the security of Ukraine – a ment near the site where he was killed. be linked to his investigative reports about taken by the National Security and Defense key U.S. ally,” Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) The anniversary put the spotlight back on fugitive Ukrainian tycoon and former poli- Council, of which Mr. Avakov is a member. said in a tweet. Rep. Marcy Kaptur the government, which has faced persis- tician Oleksandr Klymenko. Others have Immediately after Mr. Avakov announced (D-Ohio) said the day before amid rumors tent criticism over a perceived lack of suggested that secret services working for his intention to resign, Mr. Zelenskyy of a U.S.-German agreement that “Congress progress in solving the case. In December authoritarian Belarusian ruler Alyaksandr named Mr. Monastyrskiy as his successor, must reject any deals that fail to protect 2019, Ukrainian investigators arrested Lukashenka may have been involved in Mr. prompting speculation that the president transatlantic security and Ukraine’s sover- three suspects in Sheremet’s case – Yana Sheremet’s killing. Until 2010, Mr. She­ had been planning to oust the long-serving eignty.” A House of Representatives panel Duhar, Andriy Antonenko, and Yulia remet was a Belarusian citizen and known official. Mr. Avakov in March said he would earlier this month passed an amendment Kuzmenko. Mss. Duhar and Kuzmenko for his open criticism of Mr. Luka­shenka not support imposing sanctions on Mr. seeking to stop the Biden administration’s were later transferred to house arrest. The and his regime. (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Zelenskyy’s chief rival, former President ability to waive sanctions on the project trio took part in military operations in dif- Service) Petro Poroshenko, adding he was not “an that Congress calls mandatory. (RFE/RL’s ferent capacities in Ukraine’s east, where enemy of Ukraine.” Mr. Avakov served U.S. donates 2 million vaccine doses Ukrainian Service, with reporting by government forces are fighting against under Mr. Poroshenko, who is now under Reuters, AP, AFP, and dpa) Russia-backed separatists. The Interior Ukraine has received 2 million COVID- investigation for abuse of office charges he Ministry and the National Police said in calls politically motivated. Mr. Avakov was Sheremet commemorated in Kyiv 19 vaccine doses from the United States December that the trio’s goal was “to through the international COVAX program. one of only two ministers from Mr. Dozens of relatives, friends, colleagues destabilize the political and social situa- Health Minister Viktor Lyashko said on Poroshenko’s team to be invited to join Mr. and other supporters gathered in the tion in Ukraine” by killing Mr. Sheremet. July 18 that the Moderna vaccine shots Zelenskyy’s first government in 2019 head- Ukrainian capital to commemorate the All three have denied any involvement in would start going into arms in the coming ed by Prime Minister Oleksei Honcharuk. fifth anniversary of the killing of journalist Mr. Sheremet’s killing and their trial, days. Priority will be given to companies The other – Finance Minister Oksana Pavel Sheremet, whose death underscored which started a year ago, has stalled sever- with more than 50 employees and essen- Markarova – was fired in March 2020. Mr. concerns about a climate of impunity for al times due to inconsistencies in the tial workers such as teachers and educa- Avakov’s departure potentially strengthens attacks on journalists and others who investigation. Mr. Sheremet’s mother and tional staff, law enforcement and medical the power concentrated in the presidential challenge the authorities. Mr. Sheremet, colleagues said earlier this week that they workers. “The United States donated 2 office, said former U.S. Ambassador to who worked for the online newspaper are seeking a meeting with Internal Affairs million doses of the Moderna vaccine to Ukraine John Herbst. The internal affairs Ukrayinska Pravda, was leaving his apart- Minister Denys Monastyrskiy, whom law- Ukraine. This step furthers the U.S. com- minister controls most of Ukraine’s law ment on July 20, 2016, to head to a studio makers approved to the post on July 16, to mitment to defeating the global COVID-19 enforcement bodies, from the National pandemic,” U.S. Secretary of State Antony Police force down to local police depart- Blinken wrote on Twitter. Made by U.S. ments, as well as the National Guard. The pharmaceutical company Moderna, the border guards, Coast Guard, Emergency vaccine requires two doses about four Situations Ministry and Migration Service weeks apart. Since Ukraine launched a also fall under the control of the Internal national immunization campaign in late Affairs Ministry. (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL Walter Honcharyk (973) 292-9800 x3040 February, around 4 million vaccine shots Service, with reporting by Reuters and the or e-mail [email protected] have been administered. Only 1.4 million Kyiv Post) people, or about 3 percent of the total pop- Lawyer questions journalist’s treatment SERVICES PROFESSIONALS ulation, are fully vaccinated. (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service, with reporting by the A lawyer for RFE/RL freelance corre- Kyiv Post) spondent Vladyslav Yesypenko, who has ОКСАНА СТАНЬКО been in detention in Russia-occupied Ліцензований продавець Rada approves Denys Monastyrskiy Страхування Життя Crimea since March and was charged with possession and transport of explosives, OKSANA STANKO Ukrainian lawmakers have approved Licensed Life Insurance Agent Denys Monastyrskiy as the country’s new said the defense wants to investigate his Ukrainian National Assn., Inc. internal affairs minister, replacing Arsen claims that he has been subjected to psy- Avakov, who resigned this week. Mr. chological and physical pressure in deten- Tel.: 908-872-2192 Monastyrskiy is a 41-year-old lawmaker tion. Dmytro Dinze said the defense will email: [email protected] from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s try to investigate the claims during court Servant of the People party. Parliament hearings in and will demand materials voted on July 15 to accept the resignation related to the case from the military inves- of Mr. Avakov, 57, one of Ukraine’s most tigation department, according to RFE/ powerful officials, who had been in charge of the ministry in the last four governments (Continued on page 17)

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U.S., NATO and the EU to have Ukraine as a Obviously, full NATO membership is even less reason to admit Ukraine, if Defining... major active deterrent to Russian expansion Ukraine’s ultimate goal because of Article 5 Ukraine became a formal ally of the U.S. – such as the role that Poland now plays for of the NATO Charter. Article 5 encapsulates That would avoid the prospect of triggering (Continued from page 2) NATO. While Ukraine gains security protec- the core principle of collective defense that Article 5 actions in the event of a full inva- two decades? Is defending Ukraine’s sover- tion, weapons and intelligence, the U.S. and is at the very heart of NATO’s founding sion by Russia. Opponents of MNNA also eignty against Russian assaults and incur- its allies gain influence and the ability to treaty. Collective defense means that an say that it provides neither the desired sions into Ukraine’s territory among those project power in the Black Sea region, attack against one ally is considered to be security guarantees, nor enhanced military interests? together with NATO ally Turkey. an attack against all allies. NATO invoked equipment acquisition status over existing Ukraine has been the only European So, what are the next steps in any short- Article 5 for the first time in its history after status quo agreements. nation actively engaged in an armed resis- term strategy to bolster Ukraine’s defenses the 9/11 terrorist attacks against the The “Ukraine Security Partnership Act of tance against Russia’s grand imperial enough so that they can repel or at least United States. For the foreseeable future, it 2021” (S. 814) under consideration in designs. As such, it protects Europe’s and withstand an initial assault and make the is the least likely option. Congress does not offer the hard “security NATO’s southern flank. Protecting Ukraine’s Russians pay dearly? Ukraine obviously According to a recent article by guarantees” that are desired by Ukraine, sovereignty and security is much more needs more lethal armaments to be deliv- Ukrainian journalist Volodymyr Krav­chen­ which would be available under either important for Europe than the U.S. Yet, the ered sooner, rather than later, as well as an ko (see https://zn.ua/ukr/international/ NATO MAP status or as part of a bilateral U.S., and to a lesser extent Britain, has been improved missile defense system and an ne-vse-jde-za-planom.html), Ukraine is defense and security agreement. It would, in the forefront of arming and aiding upgraded air force. NATO membership negotiating a bilateral defense and security however, serve as the default option for Ukraine’s fight against Russia. But those would have provided both a guarantee of agreement with the U.S. Department of Ukraine, except that the House of Repre­ efforts are not enough to thwart Russian security and an upgraded defense system, State. It is being prepared as a key item for sentatives has not yet offered a comparable President Vladimir Putin’s ambitions for comparable to what Poland has received discussion during Mr. Zelenskyy’s visit to piece of legislation. S. 814 has the following reunifying Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. from its NATO partners, primarily the U.S. the U.S. where he is to meet with Mr. Biden. features: it reaffirms the United States’ Much more needs to be done to assist Under the U.S.-Poland bilateral defense and A key ‘security’ provision in the document commitment to Ukraine’s democratic tran- Ukraine, but the major European nations security agreement, Poland just purchased is the stipulation of a rotational presence of sition, to deterring Russian aggression have done little on behalf of their own self- 250 Abrams tanks for $6 billion. American units throughout Ukraine. While toward Ukraine and refuses to recognize interest, while holding Ukraine back from Poland has become the linchpin of this may not protect Ukraine from an out- Crimea’s illegal annexation; it authorizes achieving NATO membership. NATO’s defense in the east. NATO forces right invasion by Russia, it will increase the $300 million in foreign military financing A day after Mr. Biden met with Mr. Putin deployed in Poland will be able to respond deterrence factor and reduces the risk of (lethal and non-lethal), of which $150 mil- in Geneva on June 16, Kremlin spokesman not only to direct attacks on that country further Russian incursions. lion will be subject to conditions; it allows Dmitry Peskov said that Russia was con- but to Russian aggression against the Baltic House Resolution 3047 – the Ukraine to receive expedited excess cerned by talk that Kyiv may one day be States and those NATO nations bordering “U.S.-Ukraine Security Cooperation defense article transfers; it authorizes $4 granted a NATO Membership Action Plan, a the Black Sea. This is why Washington and Enhancement­ Act” – was drafted in the pre- million for international military education first step toward membership in the agreed in 2019 to accept the vious session of Congress (May 30, 2019, and training; it requires a strategy on vul- Western alliance. deployment of a U.S. armored division on 116th Congress), but it has not been resub- nerability to predatory investments in “This is something we are watching very Polish territory. By the same token, Ukraine mitted to the current Congress. The aim Ukraine’s defense industry; it requires a closely, and this really is a red line for us – could be viewed as an equivalent critical was to provide direct support by granting report on the strategy for how the United as regards the prospect of Ukraine joining stop-gap nation, protecting the southern Ukraine major non-NATO U.S. ally (MNNA) States will support Ukraine diplomatically; NATO,” Mr. Peskov said. flank of NATO, and do so as an ally of status. The resolution also called for modi- it encourages the creation of a Ukraine Mr. Putin’s “red line” is like the “sword Poland, , Romania and Turkey. fying military assistance authorities to working group with European allies; and it of Damocles” hanging over both Ukraine While Ukraine is not a NATO member, it include offensive weapons and systems for encourages the appointment of a special and Europe. If NATO membership is a “red serves as an important military asset that Ukraine, such as “anti-tank weapons sys- envoy for Ukraine on negotiations and line” for Moscow, what are Ukraine’s confronts Russia daily, and has for the past tems, anti-ship weapons systems and anti- regional issues. options for more reliable security assur- seven years. aircraft weapons systems.” The last option is the current status quo ances and enhanced military cooperation From Ukraine’s standpoint, there are MNNA status does not provide the level of having an annual appropriations pro- with NATO members – especially the U.S. – two key interlocking components to its of security guarantees of either NATO mem- cess, under the overall National Defense given the difficult circumstances in which it requests for enhanced security: guarantees bership or, to a lesser degree, a bilateral Appropriations Act, authorizing up to $350 finds itself? Since the bitter experiences of of security, sovereignty and territorial security agreement. Today, 17 countries million per year in expenditures on various broken ‘security assurances’ in the integrity, and a stable and predictable bilat- have MNNA status, including , military items, subject to presidential dis- Budapest Memo­randum of 1994, Ukraine’s eral military support program. Ukraine was Argentina, Egypt, Israel, Kuwait, New cretion. Regardless of which option ulti- diplomatic corps is more experienced in burned by the “guarantees” within the Zealand, Pakistan, the Philippines, South mately wins out, all of the options require the legal nuances of international diplo- Budapest Memo, and is now much more Korea and Japan. Major non-NATO allies are Congressional budgetary approval and matic exchanges and will demand much sophisticated about legal arrangements. eligible for many benefits, among which are appropriations to execute the terms of the more clarity and precision from any future The more important element is the guar- priority delivery of military surplus; permis- agreements. Ultimately, the differences agreement. antee of “security.” Security agreements sion to use American financing for the pur- among the options are qualitative – in the First, how does one interpret a “red line” may provide guarantees of protection, chase or lease of certain defense equipment; level of implied and direct security ‘guaran- statement from Moscow? It will not be the deterrence or reassurance during volatile reciprocal training; and permission for the tees,’ and the ease and predictability of mili- same as former U.S. President Barack situations, along with the prospect of country’s corporations to bid on certain tary hardware transfers. Obama’s “red line” over Syria’s gassing of enhanced capabilities during wartime, mili- Department of Defense contracts for the Both Mr. Biden and U.S. Secretary of State its population. Mr. Putin had already tary training or financial assistance, and repair and maintenance of military equip- Antony Blinken have repeatedly proclaimed amassed 100,000 soldiers on Ukraine’s specialized intelligence. Security agree- ment outside the United States. a strong U.S. national interest in protecting borders in April 2021, along with massive, ments often include positioning supplies, However, according to Ukraine’s Foreign Ukraine’s sovereignty against Russia. The armored divisions and aircraft. Most are troops, military bases and missile defense Affairs Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine U.S. Congress, through its numerous legisla- still positioned close to the border, ready to systems on the territory of the requesting should not pursue MNNA status, rather it tive acts since the Crimean invasion of 2014, strike. Mr. Putin is ready to act on his “red nation. This is the case with Poland, Japan, should concentrate on full NATO member- has repeatedly declared its strong support line,” and neither Ukraine nor NATO are Germany, the Philippines, et al. ship and/or a U.S.-Ukraine bilateral securi- for Ukraine, short of providing security ready to confront Russia, should they move The second component of a defense and ty agreement (see https://zn.ua/ukr/ guarantees. This collection of official state- into eastern Ukraine. security agreement is the “defense” ele- POLITICS/kuleba-ne-vpevnenij-chi-potri- ments comprises the body of principles that To a large extent Congress, through its ment, which provides direct and easy ben-ukrajini-status-osoblivoho-partnera- form the legal and philosophical basis for various pieces of legislation supporting access to military assistance in the form of poza-nato.html). Several former U.S. diplo- America’s ‘national interest’ in assuring Ukraine and its territorial integrity, has both offensive and defensive weapons, as mats, including William Taylor and John Ukraine’s security. defined a compelling U.S. national interest well as military training, cybersecurity and Herbst, favor MNNA status as the most prac- There are other, more practical, strategic and has specified how much direct and indi- intelligence gathering. An agreement can tical outcome of negotiations. However, reasons why strong support for Ukraine’s rect aid Ukraine may receive. It also gives have the defense component – i.e., ready there is a serious debate within Mr. security is in the “national interest” of the the president a great deal of discretionary access to military equipment, without guar- Zelenskyy’s administration as to which United States and NATO: first, Ukraine has authority to act unilaterally to either accel- antees of security, which is what is pro- option to pursue. Kyiv would like to have an been on the front lines of active military erate arms deliveries or withhold such arms posed as part of Senate legislation (S. 814, agreement in place by the time Mr. resistance to Russia’s imperial ambitions for and to decide on the levels of U.S. military 117th Congress, “Ukraine Security Zelenskyy visits Washington, and, at the lat- the past seven years; second, through its interaction with Ukraine’s military, either Partnership Act of 2021”). est, during the annual United Nations military defense, Ukraine has become a directly or through joint NATO maneuvers. There are basically five variants of a General Assembly meeting in September. valuable proxy for NATO by protecting Mr. Biden has made many declarations of security and defense arrangement that There are good arguments to be made, NATO’s southern flank, just as Poland pro- support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, most exist for Ukraine, in descending order of both pro and con, for MNNA status. It is tects the Baltics; third, an alliance between recently during the Biden-Merkel meeting desirability, from Ukraine’s security-orient- easier and faster for a nation under threat Poland, the U.S. and Ukraine would be a at the White House on July 15. ed vantage point: first, full NATO member- to obtain this status, and it will give Ukraine strong deterrent to further Russian incur- At this point, entering a formal alliance ship or accelerated MAP status; second, several financial and military advantages, sions; fourth, Ukraine’s naval forces, coordi- with the U.S., in the form of a bilateral bilateral defense and security agreement including simplified procedures for acquir- nating with those of NATO members defense and security agreement, is clearly in with the U.S. (which, as mentioned above, is ing surplus American military equipment. Bulgaria and Turkey, could contain Russia’s Ukraine’s national interest. While such alli- now under negotiation); third, major non- The big advantage is that MNNA status can control of the Black Sea trade corridors and ances and agreements make sense for NATO ally (MNNA) status as proposed in be granted by the president, without coastal zones; fifth, if the EU and NATO allow smaller powers to increase their own secu- House Resolution 3047 (116th Congress); requiring lengthy congressional approval. Ukraine to fall, Russia will be free to engage rity, it makes less sense for strong states fourth, Senate legislation (S. 814, 117th The biggest concern about MNNA status in other extortion, coercion and blackmail that become burdened with security com- Congress, “Ukraine Security Partnership cited by the Ukrainian side is that it will, in efforts of EU nations – especially those mitments and guarantees. In the case of Act of 2021”), and, fifth, “status quo” annual all likelihood, shut the door to NATO mem- served by the Nord Stream pipelines; and, Ukraine, it would be an asymmetric alliance, defense appropriations via the U.S. National bership. The European nations currently sixth, Ukraine is to the EU what Taiwan is to except that there is an overall benefit to the Defense Appropriations Act. opposing Ukraine’s MAP status would find southeast Asia – it cannot be allowed to fall. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30

Barron Arts Center in N.J. features Ukrainian embroidery and folk art

Barron Arts Center beautiful traditional women’s and men’s Embroidery,” that was made available on Township Cultural Arts Commission with shirts, folk costumes, pillows, table July 22. Her presentation showcases the the support of Mayor John McCormac. WOODBRIDGE, N.J. – The Barron Arts scarves, runners (servetky) and rushnyky, variety of stitches found among Ukrainian Grant funding has been provided by the Center presents “Textiles: Reimagining which exemplify the uniqueness of region- embroidery examples: folk costumes, wom- Middlesex County Board of County New Jersey,” a multi-faceted arts series al motifs, designs and colors, and types of en’s and men’s shirts, as well as other tradi- Commissioners through a grant awarded that explores the “common threads” of the stitches. tional embroidered articles for ceremonial by the Middlesex County Cultural and Arts cultural landscape of the United States of Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandem- and ornamental uses. Trust Fund. America. ic, exhibits will be presented in-house The events are free with a suggested The Barron Arts Center is located at 582 Among the scheduled exhibits are with a limited number of guests at one donation of $5. Donations are appreciated Rahway Avenue, Woodbridge, N.J. Gallery “Decorative Folk Art of Ukraine,” on dis- time. Reservations are not required. In and are essential to the continuation of hours are Monday through Friday, 11 a.m.- play from July 1 through August 27, featur- addition, all exhibits and lectures will be free quality arts programs and exhibits. 4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 2-4 p.m.; ing the collection of Yuri Mischenko and presented virtually on the Woodbridge The Barron Arts Center always accepts closed on holidays. The building that hous- Natalie Pawlenko, that will include a selec- Township website (twp.woodbridge.nj.us) donations for The Mayor’s Food Bank and es the Barron Arts Center is listed on the tion of Petrikivka style paintings on canvas as well as the Barron Arts Facebook page the Woodbridge Animal Shelter. National Register of Historic Places and and paper, as well as embroidered ritual (facebook.com/BarronArtsCenter). “Textiles: Reimagining New Jersey” is a recently celebrated its 144th anniversary. cloths (rushnyky). As a supplement to the exhibit, visual arts and lecture series showcasing With the support of the Woodbridge Another Ukrainian-themed exhibit, “Decorative Folk Art of Ukraine,” Mr. the varied fabric arts of the culturally Township Cultural Arts Commission and “The Art of Ukrainian Embroidery,” on dis- Mischenko presented a lecture, “Inside the diverse state of New Jersey, emphasizing under the direction of Cynthia Knight, the play from July 1 through August 27, fea- Exhibit: Decorative Folk Art of Ukraine,” how one of the oldest forms of art devel- Barron Arts Center offers programming to tures heirloom traditional Ukrainian that was made available online on July 15. oped by mankind has evolved into a the public free of charge. embroideries presented by the Ukrainian Olga Kobryn, a member of Branch 98 of the strong representation of ethnic pride as For more information, readers may National Women’s League of America UNWLA, presented an illustrated lecture, well as source of artistic individuality. The telephone the Barron Arts Center at 732- (UNWLA) Branch 98. The exhibit includes “The History of Traditional Ukrainian series is sponsored by The Woodbridge 634-0413.

Ukrainian Sports Club of N.Y. relocates to Brooklyn, N.Y.

by Ulana Pryjmak field at McCarren Park in Brooklyn, N.Y. Members were happy to see their new BROOKLYN, N.Y. – The Ukrainian Sports home, walking through the new home and Club of N.Y. (known by its Ukrainian acro- popping open a bottle of champagne to cel- nym YCK) is excited to announce that they ebrate. have officially relocated to the Greenpoint YCK President Willie Zinkewitsch neighborhood of Brooklyn, N.Y. wished everyone the very best at the club’s After a great win by the N.Y. Ukrainians new location. Reserves soccer team on April 25, club “We would like to move forward with members for the first time visited the new the same effort and spirit our previous YCK building at 663 Manhattan Avenue, just founders provided for many of us – a venue blocks away from the N.Y. Ukrainians home to engage in humanities, social develop-

JACQUES HNIZDOVSKY A Great Selection: 45 Prints Email or call us for a list with prices: [email protected] or 508-284-7036 Members of the Ukrainian Sports Club of N.Y. celebrate the move to a new location in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn, N.Y

ment, culture and sports for youth/adult include a complete demolition on the male and female members in our extended ground floor. The organization is excited community,” Mr. Zinkewitsch said. “Let’s that athletes will have a great space in the show our founders that with hard work basement to utilize as a locker room before and dedication, we can build our new club and after games. for our youth to participate in and be part Further progress of the renovations can of for many generations to come.” be seen via the organization’s social media The club is moving full speed ahead with platforms, which include https://www. necessary renovations, including by con- facebook.com/YCK1947 and https://www. tacting contractors to replace the roof. The instagram.com/fc_nyukrainians/. The club next phase of the renovation project will looks forward to having visitors soon!

We have been buying and selling ne prints and art for more than 50 years. Please contact us about selling or purchasing prints, drawings or paintings by Mr. Hnizdovsky. William Greenbaum Fine Prints Rockport, MA 01966 Open By Appointment Website: www.greenbaumprints.com The facade of the club’s new headquar- Charter Member: International Fine Print Dealers Association ters, located on Manhattan Avenue in The YCK banner hangs in the window of Brooklyn, N.Y. the club’s new home. No. 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 17

Ukraine sends 155 athletes to Summer Ukraine’s performances in the previous canoeing (11), wrestling (10), swimming three bronze (includes Summer Youth three Summer Olympic Games have been (nine), artistic swimming (eight), diving Olympics). on a downward trend: 22 medals (seven and judo (seven), shooting and (six) Oleksiy Sereda – The 15-year-old made gold) in Beijing (2008) with 243 participat- follow with a somewhat significant number his Ukrainian national debut in 2019 at the ing athletes, 19 medals (five gold) in of hopefuls, giving Ukraine a decent chance age of 13. He placed fourth in both individu- London (2012) among 238 athletes, and 11 of ending up on the medal podium. al and synchronized dives on 10-meter plat- medals (two gold) in (2016) Ukraine has enjoyed past Summer form, resulting in Olympics qualification. with 203 Ukrainian Olympians. Hopes of Olympics success in gymnastics, canoeing, Sereda became the youngest ever European reversing the above trend will be quite fencing and athletics. In the last two champion in August 2019, after winning challenging in Tokyo with Ukraine sending Olympics, Team Ukraine athletes have won gold in the individual platform at the 2019 155 athletes to compete in 22 sports. five medals in canoeing and four in fencing. European Diving Championships. He also Granted, the postponed 2020 Summer Gymnastics, both men’s and women’s, were won a silver medal in synchronized diving Olympics will be seriously impacted by the a strength in 2016, while athletics were a with his partner Oleh Serbin. The two will COVID-19 pandemic, which may or may not highlight in 2012, with Ukraine winning be partnered at the Tokyo Olympics. even the playing field for smaller, under- three medals in each sport. Kseniya Baylo – The 16-year-old won a funded nations like Ukraine. All things con- Prior medalists Olha Kharlan (fencing) gold medal in the mixed 10-meter platform sidered, it will be a major achievement for and Zhan Beleniuk (Greco-Roman wres- synchronized event at the 2020 European the Games to play out, and a significant tling) return for yet another Olympiad and Aquatics Championships in Budapest, positive for Ukraine to actively participate, will rank as favorites in their events. , in May. Baylo and Lyskun also Wikipedia.com/Ivasykus regardless of the total medal count. Shooting ace Serhiy Kulish is another hope- won a bronze medal in the women’s Oleksiy Sereda, a 15-year-old from Team Ukraine’s squad of 155 competi- ful returnee in his respective discipline. 10-meter synchronized platform event in Ukraine, won the gold medal at the 2019 tors are scheduled to participate in the fol- Yuriy Cheban has retired from canoeing Budapest. Kseniya was born in , European Diving Championships. lowing 21 sports: archery, artistic swim- and Anna Rizetdinova became a mother in Ukraine. ming, athletics, badminton, boxing, canoe- 2017, likewise retiring. Gymnast Oleh men’s lightweight category for Ukraine. He Wrestlers hope to pin down ing, cycling, diving, equestrian, fencing, Verniaiev has been banned from gymnas- was the 2018 World Championship bronze a few medals gymnastics (artistic and rhythmic), judo, tics competition for four years following a medalist, and a bronze medal winner at the karate, modern pentathlon, rowing, shoot- failed drug test. He won gold and silver at A very formidable team of 10 Ukrainian European Championships in both 2019 and ing, swimming, table tennis, tennis, triath- the 2016 Summer Games and will be wrestlers (five men, five women) are realis- 2020. He lost his qualifying round match in lon, weightlifting and wrestling. missed. The hope is that Team Ukraine will tically expecting to return home with a cou- the men’s 60 kg event at the 2012 Summer Athletics (track & field) has 44 Ukrainian surprise with a few young first-time ple of Olympic medals. Here is a “take- Olympics in London, representing his athletes (19 men, 25 women) vying for Olympians who have undergone aggressive down” on four Ukrainian Olympians: adopted nation Ukraine. gold, silver and bronze medals on the training and demonstrated their potential Iryna Koliadenko – The 22-year-old Kharlan inspires Barbie doll world’s most competitive sporting stage. in European and world competitions over won a gold medal at the European Wrest­ Artistic and rhythmic gymnastics (14), the past five years. ling Championships in April, winning the In March 2020, Ukrainian Olympic 62 kg event. She has won a total of five champion and world-renowned fencer Ukrainian divers on board medals in international competitions: one Olha Kharlan had a “Shero” Barbie doll cre- with Olympic form gold, one silver and three bronze. Her silver ated in her likeness as part of an effort to Team Ukraine arrives in Tokyo with a medal came at the 2019 World Champion­ raise awareness of female role models in respectable squad of seven divers, three ships held in (65 kg event). the world of sports. In an attempt to broad- men and four women. Here is a “Speedo” Oksana Livach – Born May 14, 1997 (age en their product base, the popular brand look at four Ukrainian Olympians: 24), in Dolyna, western Ukraine, Oksana is a developed a line of dolls celebrating Oleh Kolodiy – The 28-year-old special- member of Spartak Lviv sports club. She famous sportswomen. The toy company izes in synchronized diving off 1-meter and won a gold medal (50 kg) at the European released the newly designed dolls in honor 3-meter springboards. He has won a total Championships in 2019, silver medals at the of International Women’s Day on March 8, of 8 medals in international competitions: European Championships in 2020 and 2020. one gold, two silver, five bronze. The gold in 2019. In European U-23 “When I was little, I always dreamed to was the team competition in Glasgow Championships, she won gold medals in have a Barbie doll. And I was like most girls. (2018) at the European Championships. consecutive years (2018 and 2019). But I couldn’t even think I would once Oleh began diving at age 12 in his home Vasyl Mykhailov – The 25-year-old become a Barbie doll myself! It’s crazy to town of Mykolaiv, Ukraine. qualified at the World Qualification Tourna­ be able to motivate the legendary Barbie Sofiya Lyskun – She is 19 years young, ment to represent his native Ukraine at the brand to create this cutie,” Kharlan wrote from Luhansk, Ukraine. One of her two gold Summer Olympics in Tokyo. He has won on Instagram in early March 2020. medals was won with Oleh Kolodiy in the five bronze medals in 70 kg, 74 kg and 79 Shero dolls were also made in honor of team event at the 2018 European Cham­ kg events: European U-23, World U-23, Britain’s fastest female sprinter Dina Asher- pionships. At this event she gained fame for World Beach Games, Individual World Cup Smith, France’s soccer captain Amandine a difficult dive of a back two-and-a-half som- and European Champion­ships. He weighs Henry and Turkish Paralympic swimmer Wikipedia/Andriy Makukha ersaults and one-and-a-half twists in a pike 175 pounds and prefers the 74 kg weight Sumeyye Boyac. Olha Kharlan during Ukraine’s Olympic position off a 10-meter board which earned class. Kharlan’s doll is wearing the classic Team meeting with President Volodymyr her the highest final round mark of any Lenur Temirov – Thirty-one-year-old white fencing outfit and holds a and a Zelenskyy after the 2016 Summer Olym­ diver. In her brief diving career she has Lenur is a Crimean Tatar amateur Greco- helmet, which is painted in Ukraine’s pics in Rio de Janeiro. earned six medals: two gold, a silver and Roman wrestler who competes in the national colors of blue and yellow.

“box” while being transported from court Federal Security Service (FSB) detained willing to go to silence independent NEWSBRIEFS back to the detention center. He told his Mr. Yesypenko, a dual Russian-Ukrainian reporting about the true situation in (Continued from page 14) wife that he fainted due to heat and lack of citizen who contributes to Crimea. Crimea. Journalism is not a crime – and oxygen in the metal box after his request Realities, on suspicion of collecting infor- Vladyslav Yesypenko is not a criminal,” Mr. RL’s Ukrainian Service. Mr. Yesypenko tes- that a door be opened to allow in air was mation for Ukrainian intelligence. But the Fly said. Russia has sought to crush dis- tified during a closed-door court hearing denied. He wrote to the judge and the indictment made no mention of espionage sent in Crimea, including prosecuting in April that he was tortured with electric head of the detention center the next day, or work for Ukrainian intelligence, as stat- journalists and human rights activists, shocks, beaten and threatened with death informing them that he refused to be ed previously by the FSB. The process has since seizing the Ukrainian peninsula in unless he “confessed” to spying on behalf transported that way again because he been decried by Kyiv, the United States, March 2014. Press freedom advocates, of Ukraine, his lawyer reported. Mr. Dinze feared for his life and health. Russian law and press advocacy groups as a sham to including the Committee to Protect also noted that Mr. Yesypenko fainted enforcement agencies have not comment- crush dissent and information. RFE/RL Journalists and Reporters Without while being transported from an earlier ed on the situation. A court in Simferopol President Jamie Fly has described the case Borders, along with Ukrainian Foreign pretrial hearing. Mr. Yesypenko’s wife told in Russia-occupied Crimea on July 15 for- as the latest example of the Kremlin’s Affairs Minister Dmytro Kuleba and the Crimea.Realities, a regional news outlet of mally charged Mr. Yesypenko with the campaign to target independent media U.S. State Department, are among those RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service, that Mr. possession and transport of explosives. He outlets. The case “is a mockery of justice,” who have called for Mr. Yesypenko’s Yesypenko informed her about the faint- pleaded not guilty. He has been in deten- Mr. Fly said in a statement on July 15 after immediate release in the absence of any ing episode in a letter. It happened on July tion since March and would face up to 18 Mr. Yesypenko was formally charged. “It evidence of wrongdoing. (RFE/RL’s 6 after he was kept in an unventilated years in prison if convicted. Russia’s shows the lengths to which the Kremlin is Ukrainian Service) 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30

essay the Russian president also fruitlessly Putin’s fixation... tries to address Ukrainian public opinion. Seeking to juxtapose the Ukrainian people (Continued from page 2) with the elites, he provocatively attacks essary to make Mr. Putin’s text a compulso- Ukraine’s leadership. President Volodymyr ry read in the Russian army (RBC, July 15). Zelenskyy, however, opted not to recipro- That essay owes much to the informational cate and even sardonically complimented ground built up for years by the relentless Mr. Putin for publishing a version of his text Russian propaganda campaign, which por- in Ukrainian (Novaya Gazeta, July 13). trays Ukraine as a failed state and amplifies Moscow-based pundits rushed to argue every political scandal and economic set- that the key point of Mr. Putin’s narrative is to restore cooperative ties between two back in the “brotherly” country so that uniquely close states. However, denying Russia’s own problems pale in comparison Ukraine any national identity and portray- (Izvestia, July 16). This distortion of reality ing it as a construct of foreign intrigues is is accompanied by expanding repressions hardly a practical means to that presumed against independent Russian media, since end (Kommersant, July 14). The claim that the latter dares to persist in focusing on the aspirations of millions of Ukrainians for Russia’s problems (Znak.com, July 15). The closer ties with Russia are severely sup- Kremlin is also increasingly worried by the pressed can only puzzle the ever-argumen- widespread resistance in Russian society to tative Ukrainian polity. On the other hand, anti-pandemic measures, including COVID- the threat contained in Mr. Putin’s pledge 19 vaccinations. The defamation of Ukraine not to tolerate the exploitation of “our his- is, thus, seen as a key means of restoring torical territories” cannot be ignored control over the domestic agenda (Moscow (Rosbalt, July 13). Echo, July 15). By threatening Ukraine and rejecting the The failure to connect with the core legitimacy of its borders, Mr. Putin seeks to domestic audience is unsurprising, given deter its Western supporters from building Mr. Putin’s self-isolation and informational up any military infrastructure or capacity bubble (see Eurasia Daily Monitor, on that country’s territory. And in the opin- February 4, May 26), but in his history ion of some Russian experts, this boils down to an ultimatum to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) not to proceed with issuing Kyiv a Membership Action Plan (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, July 15). The big lie of Russian propaganda about Western instigation and manipulation of the “coup” in Kyiv in 2014, which resulted in the establishment of “external manage- ment” over Ukraine’s politics and economy, can hardly find new believers after Mr. Putin’s recycling. However, he uses it as a means of dissuading the conflict-averse Europeans from engaging with Ukrainian troubles (Republic.ru, July 14). Ukrainian politics are, indeed, volatile, and the recent ousting of the influential long-time minis- ter of the interior, Arsen Avakov, did not refute that characterization. Still, Mr. Zelenskyy delivers firmer and smarter leadership than the amateurish wobbling the Kremlin had expected (Carnegie.ru, July 15). The Ukrainian leader builds an increasingly convincing case about the need to discard the patently impracticable ceasefire agreements. Whereas, Mr. Putin’s claim that Kyiv “does not need ” further pressures France and Germany – which have clung to the notion that the Minsk accords remain a useful con- flict-resolution mechanism – to re-evaluate Moscow’s true intentions in this contesta- tion (Moscow Echo, July 16). Mr. Putin tried to further camouflage these intentions in his latest essay, but by revealing the intensity of his feelings, he inadvertently exposed the likely drivers of Russia’s future aggression toward Ukraine. Namely, the inability of the corrupt, auto- cratic regime to check Russia’s decline, aggravated by the badly mismanaged pan- demic, compels the Kremlin to resort to escalating domestic repressions and exter- nal bellicosity; the Kremlin’s risk assess- ments change in sync with the building frustration over the mismatch between desired greatness on the one hand and the reality of degradation on the other. The vicious propaganda that fails to mobilize the struggling and disconcerted society increasingly shapes the perceptions of Mr. Putin’s anxious minions, and Ukraine, which refuses to see the aggression as a “brotherly” embrace, unintentionally focus- es its irritation with its own blunders. Every step Ukraine makes in consolidating its democratic institutions amounts to crossing a “red line” drawn by the watchful Kremlin autocrat, who has declared a read- iness to enforce his delusions.

The article above is reprinted from Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, www.jamestown.org. No. 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 19

July 26 Bandura Summer Program, Hryhory Kytasty Cleveland August 24 30th anniversary Ukrainian Independence Day celebration, through August 7 School of Bandura, St. Vladimir Ukrainian Cultural Center, Philadelphia Honorary Consulate of Ukraine in Philadelphia, Ukrainian Parma, OH www.facebook.com/HKClevelandBanduraSchool or Federation of America, 215-364-1200 or [email protected] [email protected] August 24 Annual celebration of Ukraine’s Independence Day, with July 30 Webinar, “Grey Bees: Andriy Kurkov in Conversation with Jenkintown/ flag-raising ceremony at Philadelphia City Hall, evening Online Emily Channell Justice,” Temerty Contemporary Ukraine Philadelphia program at the Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center, Program, Harvard University, https://huri.harvard.edu www.uecc-phila.org

August 2-4 Wreath making with fresh and dried flowers, Music and August 27 Presentation by Andrew Oleksiuk, “Postmarked Through Jewett, NY Art Center of Greene County, 518-263-4670 or Chicago History: Discover the History of Ukraine Through the www.grazhdamusicandart.org Visuals on Stamps,” Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, www.uima-chicago.org or 773-227-5522 August 2-5 Ukrainian embroidery workshop with Lubow Wolynetz, Jewett, NY Music and Art Center of Greene County, 518-263-4670 or August 28 Season closing concert and fundraiser, featuring mezzo Jewett, NY soprano Vira Slywotzky and pianist David Sytkowski, [email protected] performing works by Copland, Stepovyi Weill, Verdi and Sonevytsky, Music and Art Center of Greene County, August 3, 5, 10, 12 Youth Summer Soccer Skills Clinic, Ukrainian Athletic www.grazhdamusicandart.org Hanover, NJ Educational Association Chornomorska Sitch, Allegro School, www.sitchsports.com/program-registration or August 28 30th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, with divine [email protected] Naples, FL liturgy and reception, Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (Branch 136), St. John Neumann Catholic High August 7 Folk singing children’s recital, Music and Art Center of School, 239-592-5707 or 480-235-4563 Jewett, NY Greene County, www.Grazhdamusicandart.org August 28-29 Ukrainian Food and Culture Festival, St. Michael the August 14 Virtual concert from Lviv, with violinist Solomia Soroka Jenkintown, PA Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church, https://mykhailivka.org or 215-576-5827 Jewett, NY and pianist Arthur Greene, performing works by Berezovsky, Skoryk, Stankovych and Chopin, Music and August 29 Ukrainian Parade, celebrating the 30th anniversary of Art Center of Greene County, www.grazhdamusicandart.org Chicago Ukraine’s renewed independence, Ukrainian Congress Committee of America-Illinois Division, August 21 Ukrainian Village Independence Day Parade, City of Parma, https://uccaillinois.org or ucca-ilexecutiveboard@ Parma, OH Ukrainian Organizations of Ohio and Ukrainian Village uccaillinois.org (Parade route on Michigan Avenue) Committee, https://ukrainianvillageparma.org (Parade route is along State Road) Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions August 21-22 Ukrainian Festival, Ukrainian Homestead, from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors Lehighton, PA [email protected] or 610-377-6561 and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2021 No. 30