Inside: l Aldridge and Shevchenko: “Two Icons and Friends” – page 8 l Review of Oles Sanin’s new film, “The Guide” – page 9 l Archeological research in Baturyn continues – pages 10-11

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXII No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 $2.00 Patriarch Sviatoslav leads consecration Illegal elections prompt debate of new bishop for eparchy of Parma on strategy for the Donbas by Zenon Zawada collectively known as the Donbas. OSCE Secretary General Lamberto KYIV – Ukrainian President Petro Zannier warned on November 12 of a possi- Poroshenko announced on November 3 his ble imminent attack on the key Azov Sea intention to eliminate the self-governance port city of Mariupol in the Donetsk region, zones he pushed for as part of the September which remains under Ukrainian control. 5 Minsk ceasefire protocols after the illegal Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United Nations elections in the occupied districts of the Yuriy Sergeyev warned on November 11 that Donbas region, which essentially sealed Russia is planning a “full-scale invasion.” Russian-separatist forces’ control of the area. It’s widely believed the Russian govern- Since then, however, he has not made ment wants to capture territory along the Azov clear just what will be the new legal status Sea coastline, through the Zaporizhia and of the separatist-controlled districts. And Kherson regions, to create a transport corridor with another Russian military offensive to Crimea, which is isolated from Russia. expected before the winter, perhaps as Indeed the only direct link between early as this weekend, it’s also unclear Crimea and the Russian mainland is the fer- whether Mr. Poroshenko intends to put up ries that travel through the Kerch Strait, a serious fight, both militarily and economi- which are nowhere near frequent enough cally, or surrender more land. to accommodate the transport demand Department of Information of the UGCC “The Ukrainian citizenry needs decisive- that swelled following the Ukrainian penin- Patriarch Sviatoslav Shevchuk with Parma’s new eparch, Bishop Bohdan Danylo. ness. People are planning their lives: to sula’s annexation. PARMA, Ohio – On November 4, here in In his sermon, Patriarch Sviatoslav, plan for war or peace, to remain in Ukraine Ahead of the current escalation, the the Cathedral of St. Josaphat, Patriarch speaking in Ukrainian and English, said that or not, to begin business or close it and president said in a November 3 televised address to the nation that the Ukrainian Sviatoslav Shevchuk of the Ukrainian the bishop, among other duties assigned to transfer it abroad. There are dozens of government’s strategy against Russian mili- Greek-Catholic Church presided over the him, has to be “the light to those, who dwell important decisions that people need to tary aggression will consist of intense consecration and enthronement of the in darkness.” According to the patriarch, make. They need decisiveness from the president in order to make their decisions,” strengthening of its defense capability newly elected bishop of the Eparchy of St. “The Lord God sends His bishop to His said Serhiy Datsyuk, a Ukrainian contem- while maintaining a priority on diplomacy. Josaphat in Parma, Bishop Bohdan Danylo. Church in a very special time. We can say porary philosopher and political observer. Yet there was no indication of whether Co-consecrators during the ordination that today the world, in large part, lies in “If we want peace, let’s agree on a sacri- the government is committed to fighting an were Bishop Paul Chomnycky, eparch of darkness. How many people today [...] turn their eyes to the Church, because some- fice for peace. If we want war, there’s a supe- escalated war, critics said. Stamford; and Bishop John Bura, auxiliary rior strategy and there will be casualties in “The president isn’t ready to make direct bishop of Philadelphia. times the darkness of disbelief and confu- sion bothers them and only from the this war. Only let’s decide on what we want and clear decisions that would identify the The solemn liturgy was also attended by and what we’re ready to sacrifice,” he added. situation in the country and an exit from the many hierarchs, priests, deacons, religious Church emanates the light of truth that shows them the way in their lives.” The alleged lack of clarity comes as the crisis, and that would clearly distinguish the and the laity of the Ukrainian Greek- Therefore, addressing Bishop Danylo, Russian-Ukrainian war is approaching Russian Federation as an aggressor and Catholic Church (UGCC), Roman Catholic Patriarch Sviatoslav said: “In your ministry, another crossroads, with NATO reporting on enemy,” said Oleksii Holobutskyi, the deputy Church, Maronite Catholic Church and the may your eyes be always directed to the November 12 that the Russian armed forces director of the Agency for Modeling Ukrainian Orthodox Church from all over Source of the heavenly light.” are building up their military presence in the Situations in Kyiv. “It’s not his style. And that the United States and Canada, as well as occupied territory, which accounts for a Ukraine and Kazakhstan. (Continued on page 17) third of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, (Continued on page 3) NATO: Russian weapons, troops entering Ukraine howitzer artillery pieces and multi-launch present in Ukraine. Interfax news agency Zannier said on November 12 in Brussels RFE/RL rocket systems – travelling into the rebel quoted ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor that video footage recorded by the drones NATO says it has observed columns of stronghold of Donetsk on November 11. Konashenkov as saying that “there was and showed “nondescript militias wearing no Russian military equipment entering con- On November 12, Michael Bociurkiw, is no evidence” behind such statements. identification [fighting] on the side of the flict-wracked eastern Ukraine in the past spokesman for the OSCE Special Monitoring The sightings have fueled fears of an rebels” firing at the unmanned aerial vehi- two days. Mission to Ukraine, told RFE/RL’s Ukrainian escalation in the conflict in eastern Ukraine, cles with antiaircraft weapons. Speaking in Sofia on November 12, the Service in Kyiv that monitors near Donetsk where fighting persists despite a Mr. Zannier said that the drones were alliance’s top commander, U.S. Gen. Philip had observed 126 unmarked military vehi- September 5 ceasefire and more than 4,000 also subjected to “high-end military-grade Breedlove, said the columns included cles since November 8. people have been killed since April. jamming,” but added that he did not know Russian tanks, artillery, air-defense sys- “By unmarked, I mean no license plates. They have added to what Kyiv and NATO where the jamming originated. tems, and combat troops. We also mean that the men inside these say is overwhelming evidence of direct The OSCE on October 24 began drone “We do not have a good picture at this vehicles have no insignia on their uniforms. Russian military support for pro-Russian flights to record truce violations and moni- time of how many. We agree that there are But they’re towing very heavy equipment, separatists who control large parts of tor the general security situation in eastern multiple columns that we have seen,” Gen. and we’re talking about multiple rocket Ukraine’s Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Ukraine, where more than 4,000 people Breedlove said. launchers, we’re talking about 126-milime- Russia denies involvement have been killed since April in a conflict Gen. Breedlove made the comments ter howitzer guns. This is not what one between government forces and the rebels. after a report from the Organization for expects after the signing of the Minsk In related news, the OSCE says pro-Rus- The conflict, which erupted after Russia Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) accords,” Mr. Bociurkiw said. sian separatists have shot at some of its annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea said its monitors had seen a convoy of The Russian Defense Ministry later unarmed drones in eastern Ukraine. unmarked military trucks – some towing denied that Russian armed forces were OSCE Secretary-General Lamberto (Continued on page 6) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46

ANALYSIS

Two battalions of Chechens Biden and Poroshenko confer Republic,’ the continuation of acts aimed at further escalation of the situation in WASHINGTON – U.S. Vice-President Joe Ukraine, as well as the build-up of units of now fighting Russians in Ukraine Biden and Ukraine’s President Petro armed forces of the Russian Federation near Poroshenko spoke on the phone on by Mairbek Vatchagaev to strike against Russia seems to attract for- the state border of Ukraine,” he stated. The mer combatants of the Russian-Chechen November 10. The following readout of the note pointed to: ongoing operations by reg- Eurasia Daily Monitor war. Moreover, joining the war in Ukraine is conversation was provided by the White ular units of Russian armed forces jointly Reading the Ukrainian media earlier this seen as a counterbalance to those who House, Office of the Vice President. “Vice- with illegal armed formations in the territo- year gave one the impression that Ukraine would like to travel to fight in Syria, which, President Joe Biden spoke today with ry of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, in par- was fighting not Russia, but Chechnya (vesti. until recently, was the only outlet for those Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko ticular: artillery and mortar shelling of posi- ru, May 28). Few doubted that Chechens Chechens who fled to Western Europe as ref- about the situation in the east, the formation tions of units of the armed forces of Ukraine were fighting on the Russian side in eastern ugees after the second Russo-Chechen war of a new government and Ukraine’s commit- in the vicinity of Donetsk, Pavlopil, Schastia, Ukraine, but their numbers were greatly (1999) and acquired a new status in those ment to reforms. President Poroshenko Triokhizbenka, Stanytsia-Luhanska, exaggerated. The deployment of Russian countries, but continued to detest Russia’s informed the vice-president about Russia’s Olkhovatka, Chernukhyne, Nikishine, military units from Chechnya in Ukraine colonial policy in the North Caucasus. For blatant escalation of the situation in eastern Ridkodub, Leninske, as well as several tank- (kavkazcenter.com, August 8) was perceived those Chechens wanting to fight, the advan- Ukraine, including increased shelling of supported attacks against roadblock No.37 as the deployment of Chechen military units tage is quite obvious: in Ukraine, unlike in Ukrainian government positions and the of the forces of the anti-terrorist operation even though the percentage of ethnic Syria, they can strike the Russian army and transfer of additional heavy weapons to the in the vicinity of the settlement of Krymsk; Russian interests directly. Chechens in those units barely reached 1 separatists. The vice-president and the concentration of military equipment percent of their total. Those forces also For a long time, Ukrainian authorities President Poroshenko agreed it was critical and personnel of the Russian armed forces sometimes were referred to as “Kadyrovtsy,” hesitated to accept offers of assistance from for Russia to begin honoring its commit- in the territory of Kyivskyi district of the city but that was also incorrect, since the units Chechen volunteers. The status of the ments under the September 5 Minsk of Donetsk, in the vicinity of Kurakhove in sent to Ukraine were from the Defense Chechen volunteers in a military operation Protocol, which calls, among other things, the direction of Maryinka and Ministry, not the Internal Affairs ministry, was initially unclear and that is why the for Russia to: withdraw its troops, equip- Krasnohorivka, as well as in the direction of where the Kadyrovtsy actually serve. Chechen battalion could not move to the ment and mercenaries from Ukraine; return settlements of Frunze, Oleksandrivsk, The issue of Chechens fighting in the frontline in Donetsk to face the Russian control over the Ukrainian side of the inter- Slovyanoserbsk. The statement noted the Ukrainian war evolved in an unexpected army there. However, the Ukrainian author- national border to the Ukrainian govern- movement of multiple convoys of military way when a Chechen armed group started ities realized that they could resolve the ment; allow for the deployment of an OSCE equipment towards Krasny Luch, Luhansk to fight under the Ukrainian flag. The com- matter by issuing the Chechens Ukrainian border monitoring mission; and return Oblast; through Izvaryne, Luhansk Oblast; mander of the group, Isa Munaev, was quite IDs. That solution was proposed by Ukrainian hostages captured by Russian in the vicinity of Novoazovsk; from the clear from the very beginning about his Internal Affairs Minister Arsen Avakov forces and their proxies. The vice-president Diakove border checkpoint towards motives for fighting against the Russians in (gordonua.com, October 31). noted that if Russia continued to willfully Nyzhniy Naholchyk; from the Uspenka bor- Ukraine. “The fight of the Ukrainian people Ukrainian military officials then took the violate the terms of the Minsk agreement, important step of inviting Mr. Munaev, a der checkpoint towards Donetsk; from against imperial Russia is part of our com- the costs to Russia will increase. Finally, the former Chechen commander who fought Russia into the temporarily occupied terri- mon struggle for the decolonization of the vice-president urged the speedy conclusion Caucasus; we decided to express our sup- under former Chechen President Aslan tory of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea of a coalition agreement to enable the port,” Mr. Munaev said (golosichkerii.com, Maskhadov in both Chechen wars and had via the Kerch ferry; as well as an increase of Ukrainian government to continue the pro- March 20). In addition, he said that the developed a reputation for being a good the number of Grad MLRS in the vicinity of cess of passing and then implementing handful of Ukrainians who gave their lives tactical commander in fighting Russian Dzhankoi airport. The ministry also cited reforms, and delivering on other commit- for the freedom of Ichkeria in the first special forces. Mr. Munaev arrived in regular violations of Ukraine’s airspace and ments made to the Ukrainian people in the Russian-Chechen war in 1994-1996 meant Ukraine and began sharing his experience aerial reconnaissance by Mi-8 helicopters October 26 parliamentary elections. (White that Chechens were obligated to return the of fighting the Russian army in Chechnya in and drones of the Russian armed forces; the House, Office of the Vice-President) favor (YouTube, October 5). 1990s and at the start of 2000s (nohchi- build-up of military equipment of the Mr. Munaev’s group is made up of people press.info, August 25). Ukraine on ongoing Russian aggression Russian armed forces in the territory of who fought at the beginning of the second Not surprisingly, such a friendly attitude Russia in areas bordering Ukraine. The Russian-Chechen war and ended up in on the part of the Ukrainian authorities KYIV – The spokesperson of the Ministry Ministry of Foreign Affairs demanded that European countries for various reasons of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Yevhen the Russian Federation “immediately halt (pravda.com.ua, September 8). The chance (Continued on page 17) Perebyinis, reported on November 11 on these internationally illegal acts, in particu- ongoing acts of aggression by Russia against lar the invasion of armed forces of the Ukraine. “Today another note was sent to Russian Federation, including heavy mili- the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, in tary equipment, to the territory of Ukraine, Moscow using Budapest to put which a resolute protest was expressed withdraw all armed forces of the Russian because of ongoing acts of aggression by the Federation from the territory of Ukraine, Russian Federation against Ukraine, the halt the violations of Ukraine’s aerial and Rusyns in play against Kyiv support of terrorist groups ‘Donetsk People’s Republic’ and ‘Luhansk People’s (Continued on page 12) by Paul Goble back Rusyn autonomy within Ukraine (us7. campaign-archive1.com, October 29). This Eurasia Daily Monitor demand is less than the secession that some In its efforts to promote secessionist in Hungary and Russia hope to promote. ideas among the half-million-strong Rusyn However, it has the effect of muddying the The Ukrainian Weekly FOUNDED 1933 community along Ukraine’s western bor- waters, thus allowing Moscow the opportu- der, Moscow is simultaneously pursuing nity for plausible deniability about its role. An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., three goals. First, it is forcing Kyiv to divert Furthermore, it exacerbates the ethnic feel- a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. its attention from Russian aggression in the ings between the Rusyns, on the one hand, Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. east to another theater, thus limiting the and ethnic Ukrainians, on the other, in the Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. ability of Ukrainian forces to counter what western portions of Ukraine. (ISSN — 0273-9348) Moscow is doing in Crimea and the Donbas. But Moscow’s involvement in the Rusyn Second, it is cementing an ever closer rela- issue is obvious both from a Russian- The Weekly: UNA: Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 tionship between Vladimir Putin and the inspired appeal of the Transcarpathian increasingly pro-Moscow Hungarian gov- Rusyns to Vladimir Putin (rossiyanavsegda. Postmaster, send address changes to: ernment of Viktor Orban, a government ru, October 28) and from a recent commen- The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz tary published in Moscow’s Segodnya that presents itself as a defender of the 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas Rusyns against Ukrainians. And third, newspaper. The Segodnya article explored P.O. Box 280 Moscow is suggesting that if Kyiv continues how Moscow can best make use of Rusyn Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] to resist, Russian forces could dismember aspirations by taking steps below the radar Ukraine to the point that it would be a land- screens of most observers and by coordi- The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com locked republic with no direct access either nating its activities with Budapest – which, to the Black Sea or to the countries of the paper argued, should remain in the lead Central Eastern Europe. on this issue (segodnia.ru, October 26). The Ukrainian Weekly, November 16, 2014, No. 46, Vol. LXXXII Yet, apparently unwittingly, some Rusyns In their appeal to Mr. Putin, the self-pro- Copyright © 2014 The Ukrainian Weekly – or Carpatho-Rusyns as many style them- claimed leaders of Transcarpathian Rus’ ask selves – in the West are helping the Kremlin the Russian president to support their aspi- in this effort. To give but one instance: last rations of independence from Ukraine and ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA week, the Carpatho-Rusyn Consortium of to defend them from “enslavement by North America launched an appeal aggressive Galician fascism,” which is alleg- Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 denouncing Ukraine for its failure to recog- edly oppressing the Rusyns and dispatching e-mail: [email protected] nize the Rusyns as a nationality, a step all the more ethnic Ukrainians to the area in order Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 other countries in the region have already e-mail: [email protected] taken. They demanded that Kyiv do so and (Continued on page 13) No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 3

NEWS ANALYSIS Secessionist leaders in Ukraine’s east step up demands in wake of elections by Vladimir Socor er-level local councils. There was no ques- Putin welcomed Kyiv’s enactment of this law their own “laws” on local elections in their Eurasia Daily Monitor tion of holding “presidential” or “legislative” as a move in the right direction, although subordinated administrative units, and will elections of the “DPR” and “LPR.” Such an still insufficient in his view (Interfax, stage those elections. This is a further The armistice agreements, signed on interpretation was ruled out, if only because October 17; see EDM, October 22). breach of the armistice protocol, which September 5 and September 19-20, remain Ukrainian legislation (both pre-existing and Moscow had timed “DPR” and “LPR” stipulated local elections to be held under basically unimplemented on the Russian new) would rule out those sorts of elections. “elections” for November 2 as a counter- Ukrainian law in the Russian-controlled side, politically and militarily. Russia’s Ukraine adopted that new law on blow to Ukraine’s October 26 parliamenta- areas on December 7. proxy forces have “de-escalated” their September 16 (see EDM, September 19, ry elections. Moscow could no longer con- Donetsk and Luhansk now propose attacks on Ukrainian positions, but contin- 23) and brought it into force on October 18, test the Ukrainian government’s legitimacy revising the September 5 armistice proto- ue attacking at a lower level of intensity, for application in the Russian-controlled with any degree of plausibility after col in a way that would signify their recog- inflicting Ukrainian casualties. Russia itself territory. The law’s intent was to devolve October 26. Accordingly, it moved to set up nition de facto by Kyiv. This proposal is far from fulfilling the armistice provi- substantial powers to elective councils at “elected” leaderships and state structures derives from their September 1 position sions on force disengagement and with- the district, city, town and village levels in those two “republics.” Moscow now paper that proved to be a non-starter in the drawal, border security and international (not to “DPR’s” and “LPR’s” “central” claims that the “DPR” and “LPR” leader- Minsk negotiations. Ukraine would recog- monitoring. These proxy forces retain the authorities). Under this law, elections to ships hold legitimate mandates to negotiate nize a “special status for the territories full capacity to scale up hostilities against district, city, town and village councils were with Ukraine’s central government, wheth- under ‘DPR-LPR’ control,” as well as recog- Ukraine, with cross-border support from to be held in the Russian-controlled areas er directly or in mediated formats. nize the results of elections held there. In Russia, depending on opportunities. on December 7, in line with Ukraine’s exist- Based on these “elections,” the “DPR” return, the two “republics” would “support Politically, the “presidential and legisla- ing legislation on local elections. and “LPR” are now moving to revise the peace and preserve Ukraine’s single eco- tive elections” just held in the Donetsk and This implied a political quid-pro-quo. armistice protocol, and the overall basis for nomic, cultural and political space,” as part Luhansk “people’s republics” have Kyiv would yield certain sovereign preroga- negotiations, in their favor (Interfax, RIA of an “overall space of the Russian- breached the armistice protocol with irrep- tives de facto to those lower-level councils. Novosti, November 3-5; dnr.today/news, Ukrainian civilization.” They would also arable effects. Those elections, staged on It expected the Russian side to recognize lugansk-online.info, November 5, 6). enter into contractual relations with November 2, have pre-empted the local Ukrainian sovereignty de jure by allowing The newly elected leaders, Aleksandr Ukrainian government- and oblast-level elections that were to be held in the same local elections to be held within Ukraine’s Zakharchenko and Igor Plotnytsky, demand authorities, in return for political recogni- territory on December 7, under Ukrainian legal framework. That was also the logic of “a new status,” to be negotiated with Kyiv tion. They intend to propose this at the next electoral legislation and in line with the Ukraine’s Western partners (foremost on a “co-equal basis” (ravnopravie), bilater- session of the Contact Group (comprised of September 5 armistice protocol (see Germany), who expected Moscow to “influ- ally and in the framework of the “Contact Ukraine, Russia, the Organization for Eurasia Daily Monitor, November 5). ence” its proxies and allow those elections Group” (Minsk Group). Security and Cooperation in Europe and That document had set the stage for to be held. This could have preserved a These leaders are no longer interested in the two “republics”) (dnr.today/news, holding local elections in Russian- minimal appearance of Russian compliance the Ukrainian “law on the procedure of lugansk-online.info, November 5, 6). controlled areas (referenced as “individual with Ukraine’s sovereignty, thus sparing local self-administration in individual dis- Following the November 2 “elections,” districts”) of Ukraine’s Donbas. Under the the European Union another hard debate tricts of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts,” held in breach of the armistice protocol and protocol’s Point 3, Ukraine would enact a over sanctions on Russia. Hence, Germany which Kyiv had designed for selective appli- Ukrainian law, Ukrainian President Petro “law on the procedure of local self-adminis- worked on Kyiv to bring this law into effect, cation to lower-level administrative units. Poroshenko moved to abrogate the law on tration in individual districts of the Donetsk in time for delivering it to Russian Instead, “DPR” and “LPR” leaders now “local self-administration in individual dis- and Luhansk oblasts.” Under Point 9, “local President Vladimir Putin at the Milan sum- demand that Ukraine “recognize the special tricts of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.” elections [were] to be held in accordance mit on October 16-17. status of the Donbas by a legislative act” – Mr. Poroshenko’s announcements on with [that] Ukrainian law” in those districts The Kremlin had pressed Kyiv to enact “Donbas” implying the compact territory of November 4-5 (Ukrinform, November 5) (osce.org, September 6). this law from entirely different calculations. both “peoples’ republics.” Furthermore did not, however, trigger the “DPR”-“LPR” Thus, the armistice protocol recognized, Moscow envisages a “special status” as a they assert that “no Ukrainian law will demands for status, recognition and revi- at least on paper, the supremacy of first step toward autonomy or federalization henceforth operate on ‘DPR-LPR’ territory sion of armistice terms. The two “republics” Ukrainian law in the Russian-controlled ter- for the Russian-controlled territory, or more unless approved by their elected authori- ritory. The elections were to be held for low- widely for “southeastern Ukraine.” Vladimir ties.” The two “republics” will soon enact (Continued on page 12)

chairman of the Penta Center for Applied these discussions occurred, the Bolsheviks Criticism of the president’s involvement Illegal elections... Political Research in Kyiv. “The army and the won over most of the ships,” he said. in coalition-forming is unjustified, said Mr. state are not in a condition to win a war “Classic coalition-forming squabbles are Fesenko. It’s European practice for the head (Continued from page 1) against Russia. We need to prepare for a long occurring in conditions under which of state to initiate the coalition-forming applies to the unimpeded work of Russian conflict. When they say that this conflict or Ukraine faces a very serious threat. If these process, he said, in which the president has enterprises on our territory, trade with the war can be won quickly, it’s absolutely people think alike in terms of Ukraine’s ter- as much a right to be involved as the prime aggressor in general and serving Russian unprofessional and resembles an escapade.” ritorial integrity and national security, they minister. defense with our factories. And that certain- In contrast, numerous Ukrainian com- have nothing to talk about, all the more so Moreover, Mr. Poroshenko also played a ly also applies to transferring all of domestic manders in the war, particularly volunteer during a whole week. It’s an unacceptable constructive role in ensuring that Mr. industry onto a military track.” battalion commanders, insist that the war luxury for a country to talk about a coali- Yatsenyuk would remain as prime minister, Mr. Datsyuk called this the president’s would be winnable if the state’s resources tion agreement. But practically speaking, with whom he has a positive working rela- “smart ass approach” to the war, which were concentrated and organized properly. it’s really about divvying up positions.” tionship, he added. involves trading with the same enemy that The criticism of the president’s approach President Poroshenko revealed that he As for the duration of the coalition-form- you’re fighting. Not only is Russian business comes as the coalition government is tak- has been involved in coalition squabbling. A ing process, Mr. Fesenko pointed out that the in full swing in Ukraine (particularly banks), ing longer than expected to form, following large chunk of his November 3 address was German Bundestag took two months to form but the Ukrainian government hasn’t the pre-term parliamentary elections held devoted to arguing that the Poroshenko the coalition government and the Ukrainian imposed any visa regime on Russian citizens. on October 26. Bloc won the most delegates, “significantly coalition government will be in place soon- Meanwhile, the Russian government has Mr. Poroshenko boldly predicted a coali- more than any other political force,” and er than that. Claims that it’s taking too long introduced new trade barriers on Ukrainian tion agreement would emerge a day or two therefore has to take the lead in forming to form or comparisons to the Central Rada business on a monthly basis. This week, the after the vote, while most other observers the coalition, based on European tradition. are unprofessional, he commented. latest ban on cheese exports from Ukraine offered a more realistic prognosis of a week [The Poroshenko Bloc gained the most As for the president’s alleged indecisive- was imposed. or two. single-mandate seats despite finishing sec- ness, Mr. Fesenko pointed out that he took “The ‘smart ass approach’ won’t overcome Now estimates by government officials ond in election list voting, giving it 132 dep- the initiative on November 3 to ask the the insolence and savage fury of the majority range from November 25, as offered by uties’ mandates compared to 82 for the National Security and Defense Council, as of Russians,” Mr. Datsyuk said. “It needs to be National Bank of Ukraine Chair Valeriia runner-up People’s Front party.] well as the newly elected Verkhovna Rada, overcome with nobleness and strategic ini- Gontareva, to December 1, as suggested by What further discouraged segments of the to cancel the legislation creating the self- tiative, which should be multi-dimensional. Vice Prime Minister Volodymyr Hroisman. public was that he discussed the coalition governance zones in the Donbas. Peace in the military sphere doesn’t mean The foot-dragging by politicians at a more than the war, which barely got a men- [Mr. Poroshenko forcibly pushed the bill peace in other spheres. The political sphere time of war has frustrated segments of the tion during the November 3 video address. through Parliament on September 16 – requires independent generation of political public, particularly after Parliament met for “The president has engaged in forming amid accusations of grossly violating proce- initiatives, rather than hoping for interna- only three days in October. A coalition the coalition because he doesn’t have the dure – and signed it on October 16.] tional support and sanctions.” agreement can be written in an hour and desire or will to address the most critical The president stressed in his November In defense of the president’s approach, agreed upon within a day, political scientist issues facing the country,” said Mykhailo 3 address that the self-governance zones Kyiv political insider Volodymyr Fesenko Yuriy Paliychuk told the Sotsialna Krayina Basarab, a Kyiv political consultant who were a success because they helped avert a said maintaining economic activity with television network on November 10. worked for a People’s Front candidate in the Russian military threat and mobilize the Russia ensures domestic stability, which is “Symon Petliura wrote in his memoirs that October vote. “If he was committed to a quick support of Ukraine’s global partners. a critical long-term goal. in 1918, the imperial Black Sea Fleet was resolution of the Donbas conflict and the Indeed, the September 5 Minsk ceasefire “The minimum goal is to not allow the ready to swear an oath to the Central Rada fight against corruption, he would be far protocols were successful because they dem- conflict to spread beyond Donbas and not after the collapse of the Russian empire, but above the coalition-forming process and act- onstrated to the world that the Ukrainian play into the Russian government’s strategy the Central Rada spent weeks discussing ing as the leader of the nation. Unfortunately, government is willing to go to great lengths of undermining domestic stability and split- what the flag of the Black Sea Fleet of the he’s instead concerned himself with divvy- ting the country,” said Mr. Fesenko, the board Ukrainian National Republic should be. While ing up posts and petty matters.” (Continued on page 5) 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46 Permanent Conference of Ukrainian Orthodox Bishops meets SOUTH BOUND BROOK, N.J. – The hier- “In a time of political uncertainty, eco- archs of the Permanent Conference of nomic suffering and social and cultural cri- Ukrainian Orthodox Bishops Beyond the sis, men and women of good will must Borders of Ukraine convened their annual reach across the divisions that have sepa- meeting on September 9-11 in Clearwater, Fla. rated them and become peacemakers The meeting was hosted by refusing to be caught up in the whirlwind Metropolitan Antony, the primate of the of hatred and death that violence sustains,” Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A. they noted. and ruling hierarch of the Eastern Eparchy, The bishops also expressed their con- along with Bishop Daniel, president of the cern about the continued ecclesiastical Consistory of the UOC of U.S.A. and ruling division in Ukraine and called upon the hierarch of the Western Eparchy. hierarchs of various Orthodox jurisdictions The bishops in attendance were in Ukraine to live out the words of the Metropolitan Yurij, the primate of the Gospel in order to bring unity and healing Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada to the wounded Body of Christ. The disuni- (UOCC) and the ruling hierarch of the ty, which is already decades old, has severe- Central Eparchy of the UOCC; Bishop ly damaged souls while their spiritual lead- Ilarion, the ruling hierarch of the Western ers debate about who is good, who is right Eparchy of the UOCC; Bishop Andriy, the and who has the greatest number of clergy, Ruling Hierarch of the Eastern Eparchy of The participants of the annual meeting of the Permanent Conference of Ukrainian Orthodox faithful and parish communities. If the divi- the UOCC. Archbishop Ioan of Australia and Bishops Beyond the borders of Ukraine: (front row, from left) Metropolitan Antony and sions are not ended, one of the largest Metropolitan Yurij; (back row, from left) Bishop Ilarion, Bishop Daniel and Bishop Andriy. New Zealand and Archbishop Jeremiah of Orthodox Churches in the world may be so the Eparchy of South America were not ing political, economic and ecclesiastical of their ancestral homeland. The daily crippled that not decades, but centuries able to be present for the meeting. difficulties that exist in Ukraine, the Middle reports of conflicts, turmoil, bloodshed and may pass before she once again becomes Among the various topics discussed at East and in other countries where violence can leave no one indifferent and the moral conscience of the Ukrainian the meeting were the reports on the ongo- Ukrainian Orthodox Christians live outside unconcerned. The bishops stated that they nation, as she always was throughout histo- share a special bond with their brothers ry, the hierarchs said. and sisters in Ukraine, especially with the In addition, the bishops discussed vari- clergy who continue to guide their precious ous social, secular and moral issues that faithful and care for them in the most diffi- continue to affect the parishes of their cult of circumstances. Churches on the North American conti- The hierarchs adopted a pastoral letter nent. One example is the continued to the clergy and faithful of the Ukrainian encroachment of sporting activities in local Orthodox Church throughout the world, school systems and beyond into family life beseeching their prayers for an end to the on Sunday mornings. Mandatory atten- war conflict in Ukraine and the aggression dance at such events takes entire families of the Russian Federation against away from divine liturgy. The loss of Ukrainians. Although the war in eastern Sunday liturgical commitment on Sunday Ukraine has been called in many realms of mornings deeply impacts the youth of the life in Russia as a “civil” war, the bishops Church, denying them a religious upbring- stated clearly that the world fully under- ing. Emphasis must be made on the priori- stands that the war is the result of the inva- ties chosen by our faithful in such matters – sion of one nation by another – even to the helping them to comprehend a true point of the invading nation “annexing” Orthodox Christian lifestyle. portions of sovereign Ukrainian territory. The hierarchs discussed the upcoming In the pastoral letter, the hierarchs centennial celebrations of both the UOCC expressed concern, stating that “…When and the UOC-U.S.A., which will take place in innocent women and children are slaugh- 2018. The organizing committees will be tered in Ukraine and other places in the appointed by the primates of Churches in world, when journalists are kidnapped or order to share in the witness of Ukrainian killed pursuing their profession, when the Orthodoxy in North America and the possi- defenseless are cut down on their way to bility of a combined celebration in addition work or even in their homes, then those to the separate celebrations that will be responsible must be brought to justice before held in both Churches, or at least signifi- world courts. Violence, more often than not, cant participation of the clergy and faithful leads to further violence. War is always a loss of both Churches in the separate celebra- for humanity, regardless of how it begins.” tions. No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 5

districts with mechanisms of self-gover- Illegal elections... nance, Mr. Fesenko said. Yet, any legal designation for the Donbas (Continued from page 3) region is months away, observers said. In Shevchenko monument grounds Mr. Fesenko’s view, there’s no need to rush to achieve peace, observers said. with that issue. In Mr. Datsuyk’s view, the “To the Ukrainian citizenry, it was a ges- lack of a designation serves Mr. in Washington now restored ture to show the president desires to pre- Poroshenko’s approach of avoiding respon- serve the territorial integrity of Ukraine,” sibility in the conflict. said Petro Oleshchuk, a political science “Any official status requires consequenc- lecturer at Taras Shevchenko National es, both political and economic,” he said. University in Kyiv. “To the world, it was to “Our government isn’t ready for that yet. If show that Ukraine is a peacemaker.” we call it a ceasefire, it has to be explained Yet the protocols were ultimately a fail- why there’s a war. If we call it a war, then ure because the Russian separatist forces martial law needs to be imposed. If we call didn’t uphold any of its points, observers it an anti-terrorist operation, then it needs said. In particular, the November 2 elec- to be explained what kind of anti-terrorist tions in Donetsk and Luhansk were a direct operation takes half a year.” flouting of the ceasefire, which called for Another controversial measure was the local elections to be held on December 7. Cabinet’s November 5 decision to continue They drew a voter turnout of about 85 supplying natural gas and electricity to the percent in the “Donetsk People’s Republic,” occupied Donbas territories at the central as reported by the RIA Novosti news agen- budget’s expense. cy. Its elected prime minister, Aleksandr The cost of providing this energy will be Zakharchenko, earned nearly 79 percent of drawn from the social payments (including the vote. For its Parliament, the Donetsk pensions) budget earmarked for the Donbas Republic party led by Mr. Zakharchenko region, which Prime Minister Arseniy earned 68 percent of the vote and the Free Yatsenyuk said haven’t been reaching the Donbas party earned nearly 32 percent of elderly and needy children, but have been the vote. appropriated by the Russian terrorist forces. Voter turnout in the “Luhansk People’s That decision came the same day that Republic” was nearly 69 percent, RIA Ivan Plachkov, the board chairman of the Novosti reported. Igor Plotnytsky was Kyivenergo state electricity producer, elected prime minister with more than 63 warned that higher electricity prices are percent of the vote. The Peace for inevitable for the country. Luhanshchyna party earned more than 69 “I am not ready to pay for a region that is percent of the vote, and the Luhansk systemically moving towards Russia,” Mr. Economic Union won 22 percent. Datsyuk said. “I want it to be disadvanta- These figures haven’t been verified by geous to engage in separatism in our coun- WASHINGTON – After four months of repairs to the Taras Shevchenko memo- international observers. The Ukrainian gov- try because it’s turning out to be a very rial grounds in Washington, visitors can now visit and pay their respects to the famous ernment alleged widespread intimidation, profitable enterprise. Those launching sep- Ukrainian poet up close. The National Park Service contractor recently finished restor- fraud and vote-buying. aratist activities engage in stealing, accu- ing the foundation and replacing the old crumbling concrete pavers in front of the mon- The elections were merely the latest vio- mulate capital, open up restaurants and ument and removed the high metal fence that kept visitors outside the monument con- lation of the ceasefire protocols, none of cafes in Russia, and continue to receive struction site since the repair work began in early July – one week after the Ukrainian which were upheld by the Russian-terrorist money from Ukraine.” American community celebrated the 50th anniversary of the memorial’s unveiling. forces. Since their signing, more than 100 In the government’s defense, Mr. (Apparently, some additional lawn and plant work was left for completion in the future.) Ukrainian soldiers died (not including Boyarchuk said cutting off electricity and – Yaro Bihun armed forces beyond the official military), natural gas to Donbas would only fuel the according to Foreign Affairs Ministry separatist sentiments and violent inclina- Spokesman Yevhen Perebyinis. tions in eastern Ukraine. The ceasefire also created the conditions Yet the president’s current strategy of for the Russian armed forces to significant- handling the war has created no conse- ly build up their military presence in the quences for the separatist forces, observers Donbas region. Moreover, the separatists pointed out. Furthermore, there’s nothing moved the ceasefire line further westward stopping the scenario from being repeated and gained territory during the ceasefire, in neighboring regions, such as Mariupol or said OSCE Secretary General Zannier on Zaporizhia. November 12. The alleged lack of a strategy also plays “Poroshenko’s not an independent figure into the hands of the Russian government, in these relations,” Mr. Oleshchuk said. “The which has a standard four-step strategy for ceasefire was proposed by Ukraine’s usurping foreign territories: separation, Western partners with the hope it would autonomy, sovereignty and occupation, Mr. create conditions for peace and compro- Datsyuk said. mise with Russia and halt its onslaught. But It will inevitably organize another mili- they don’t understand the nature of the tary offensive against Ukraine, Mr. Datsyuk conflict between Ukraine and Russia, and said. It’s just an issue of when and how. that’s why it has ended in failure.” “Putin needs the Donbas as a platform In his November 3 address, the best the for an offensive in the south, so that Crimea president could offer as his vision for the isn’t left isolated,” he said. “If we don’t take Donbas was reinstating the self-governance initiative now, we will have to defend our- zones once the separatists adhere to the selves in worse conditions.” September 5 ceasefire conditions, which The initiatives suggested by politicians numerous observers – such as Messrs. and observers include imposing martial Oleshchuk and Basarab – equated to having law, imposing a visa regime on Russian citi- no strategy at all for the region. zens, banning pro-Russian propaganda in “Is it a separated region? Is it a region Ukraine, imposing economic sanctions on where the anti-terrorist operation is taking Russian business in Ukraine, blocking place? Is it a region where a ceasefire is Russian banks from operating in Ukraine, being violated? Is it a region where there’s halting exports of military supplies to peace? Is it a region where there’s a state of Russia, mobilizing Ukrainian industry for emergency? Is it a region under occupa- the war effort, taxing oligarchs for the war tion? What is it? A leader is supposed to tell effort, launching an offensive into separat- his citizens what legal status he intends for ist-controlled territory, and imposing capi- this territory,” said Mr. Serhiy Datsyuk. tal punishment for any separatists on Dmytro Boyarchuk, executive director of Ukrainian territory. the CASE Ukraine Center for Socio- “Everyone understands there’s a war Economic Research, said he believes the going on, but not why the government Donbas will eventually get the legal status doesn’t publicly acknowledge that,” Mr. of a “temporarily occupied territory,” as Datsyuk said. “We need to fight or stop was granted to Crimea in mid-May. playing these games. If territory, and recov- In which case, the Russian government – ering territory, is valuable to us, then it can not the Ukrainian separatists – would be only be done through war. Donbas and deemed the occupier, Mr. Oleshchuk said. Crimea won’t be returned to us voluntarily. As another option, a new law could re- Any indecisiveness will lead to more loss of establish central governance in the Donbas territory and a worsening of our position.” 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46

WINDOW ON EURASIA The Ukrainian Weekly Freedom for Nadiya Putin asks Russians to feel his pain The case of 1st Lt. Nadiya Savchenko, 33, the Ukrainian pilot captured back on June 18 by Russian-backed forces in Ukraine’s Luhansk region and then illegally over lack of respect, says commentator transferred in July to Russia, remains unresolved. She is charged with complicity in by Paul Goble with that, but doing so misses the funda- the deaths of two Russian journalists in eastern Ukraine – spurious charges that are mental point. Seven years ago, Mr. Putin nothing less than a bold-faced lie. A remarkable change has come over gave a political speech in which he said After she was abducted – the Ukrainian officer says she was captured by pro-Rus- Vladimir Putin in recent months – one that what many were thinking about the dan- sian forces, hooded and handcuffed, and then smuggled across the border to Russia few anticipated but that carries with it gers presented by the actions of President – Lt. Savchenko was jailed and subjected to a psychological examination at Moscow’s some serious risks. He is no longer offering George W. Bush. Serbsky Institute, notorious during the Soviet era for its treatment of dissidents, answers and plans; instead, the Kremlin Stripped of some verbiage, Mr. Putin said where she was held for a month. She remains in pre-trial detention. In the mean- leader is asking Russians to share his emo- at that time only “the bitter truth about the time, she was elected on October 26 to the Verkhovna Rada, running as No. 1 on the tions over past events and the lack of unacceptability and impossibility of a ‘uni- list of the Batkivshchyna Party. respect he sees himself, and thus Russia, as polar world’ and about global crises,” Mr. Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S. Olexander Motsyk had written in an August 6 having received. Pavlovsky argues. op-ed in The Washington Post: “Her case is one of the clearest indications of Russia’s Somehow and in an almost unnoticed But now, during the Valdai conference at direct involvement in the conflict that has been imposed on our country by Kremlin- way, Gleb Pavlovsky says (daily.rbc.ru) Sochi, the Kremlin leader engaged in a kind backed terrorists.” He noted, “In Ukraine, Savchenko’s detention has resonated on a Russians “have ceased to expect from of “emotional theater.” Facing domestic massive scale. President Petro Poroshenko has held her up as a symbol of the strug- Vladimir Putin political declarations and problems and a world in which the gle facing the country and a serviceman who has demonstrated a true, strong, instead expect to get only confessions.” declared goal of the United States is to “cre- Ukrainian spirit. Ukraine’s Foreign [Affairs] Ministry has strongly protested her ille- Earlier, he was quite restrained about doing ate covertly a disloyal party of those at the gal transfer to Russia and considers her capture an act of terrorism. Millions of that; now he does so at length on any and top who could put pressure on Putin’s Ukrainians demand her release.” all occasions stressing “the hurt which has course,” the Russian president spoke not RFE/RL reported that U.S. State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said on been inflicted on him personally by history, about what to do but about how he feels October 29 that Lt. Savchenko’s pretrial detention in Russia is “an outrage” and violates Russian and world alike.” about past events. Russia’s commitments under the Minsk agreements. Ms. Psaki also said Washington is The upshot of these declarations, the The only message Mr. Putin sent with “deeply concerned about new criminal charges expected to be filed” against her. Moscow commentator says, is that Mr. this speech was to his subordinates, and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power cited the Savchenko case Putin “is demanding respect, and for such that message was that Russians have been in her statement at the November 12 meeting of the Security Council on Ukraine – respect, Russia may pay dearly” now and in treated so badly in the past that anything the 26th such session on the crisis in Ukraine. Lt. Savchenko, she said, is among the the future. they want to do is justified, perhaps even approximately 500 captives being held by Russia and the “separatists” it backs. The In speech after speech, “Putin offers no required. But that is a form of self-decep- ambassador noted that, in accordance with the Minsk protocol, “all sides commit- strategies but only experiences” and tion that carries with it a heavy price. A quarter of a century ago, Moscow “had ted to immediately free all hostages and illegally held persons,” including Lt. explains “the emotional motives of his the right to arrange the world order,” but Savchenko. In fact, the pilot was on Ukraine’s list of captives to be exchanged for pro- actions” rather than their logic. Everyone is thus supposed to share his feelings even that time “has passed.” To put Russia in a Russian rebels captured by Ukrainian forces in the conflict in eastern Ukraine. though they appear to be those of someone position to do so again would require that Through it all, this brave young woman has been defiant. Asked by her interroga- “who has come from a world that hasn’t Moscow give “the necessary content” in tors after she was captured who is fighting against the “rebels,” Lt. Savchenko existed for a long time.” terms of consumption, finance and ideology replied, “I think all of Ukraine.” She is seen on video posted on the Internet as she Such experiences “are existentially impor- that would allow it to act. But Mr. Putin isn’t entered the courtroom on November 7 exclaiming “Slava Ukraini.” And she address- tant,” of course, “but as political speech,” they offering anything in any of these sectors now. es the court only in her native Ukrainian. offer little guidance. It may be interesting to Instead, what the Kremlin leader is say- 1st Lt. Savchenko is a true Ukrainian hero whose only “crime” was to defend her know how Mr. Putin feels about the end of ing is needed is something that is “danger- homeland as a soldier. She cannot be forgotten by her nation or the world. Her con- the Soviet Union or even more distant his- ously little: respect.” That is both flexible tinued detention is a contemptuous mockery of international law and an egregious torical events, but few except for him are and something that can come cheaply, violation of human rights. We must demand freedom for Nadiya. really interested in discussing them or decid- especially if respect is offered in exchange ing now who deceived whom, the question for something real, as happened when Mr. Putin asks. Moscow was offered a seat on the G-8 in Just how odd Mr. Putin’s words now exchange for NATO moving eastward. sound becomes obvious if one compares What is dangerous, Mr. Pavlovsky says, is Nov. Turning the pages back... them with those he used in Munich in that Mr. Putin’s tone now suggests he is 2007. Some equate what he is saying now prepared to make similar exchanges inter- Two years ago, on November 16, 2012, Ukraine’s Minister of nationally to get respect, but “in this situa- 16 Energy Yurii Boiko spoke on the Inter TV channel, noting that Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on tion, a healthy isolationism would be more Kyiv was dissatisfied with the price Russia’s Gazprom charged ethnic and religious questions in Eurasia appropriate, which would offer the chance” 2012 Ukraine for gas. “We know there will be arguments, even court who has served in various capacities in the to get out of the Ukrainian mess, focus on battles with our Russian colleagues,” he said, but Ukraine intends U.S. State Department, the Central domestic problems and seek an escape to defend its national interests. Intelligence Agency and the International from sanctions. In 2009 Ukraine and Russia signed agreements on gas pricing during a dispute Broadcasting Bureau, as well as at the Voice “In the game that is being carried on between the two countries over the transit of gas. The dispute resulted in a suspension of of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio now,” the commentator says, Russia “can Russian gas supplies through Ukraine and left areas of Eastern and Central Europe facing Liberty and the Carnegie Endowment for only lose.” severe shortages of gas during winter. International Peace. Mr. Goble writes a blog “One must not try to redraw the world Vadim Chuprun, the deputy chairman of Naftohaz Ukrayiny, Ukraine’s state gas compa- called “Window on Eurasia” (http://windo- as teenagers love to do.” Engaging in such a ny, stated that Ukraine would cut gas imports from Gazprom further in 2013 and would woneurasia2.blogspot.com/). The article quest as Mr. Putin is now doing, Mr. only purchase up to 20 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas. above is reprinted with permission. Pavlovsky concludes, “will end badly.” Russian government and Gazprom officials insisted that Ukraine pay for all the gas it agreed to purchase, whether it accepts the full volume or not. Mr. Boiko, in his television statement, said Ukraine could buy gas from Germany’s RWE city of Mariupol, which is controlled by gov- gas company at $40 to $70 cheaper (per thousand cubic meters, or tcm) than Russia’s NATO... ernment forces and is seen by the separat- price, and during the summer that price could be as much as $100 cheaper (tcm). The gas ists as a key prize. would be shipped via Hungary with initial shipments at 5 bcm of gas in 2013. (Continued from page 1) Also on November 12, reports said Naftohaz stated that Ukraine was paying $430 per tcm for Russian gas in the fourth in March following the ouster of a Russian- heavy shelling rocked Donetsk. quarter of 2012. backed president and the advent of a pro- An Agence France-Presse correspondent Mr. Boiko also explained projects between Ukraine’s gas pipeline network and Western government in Kyiv, has brought said mortar shells were being fired from an Azerbaijan’s Shah Deniz gas fields that would transport Azeri gas to Europe via Turkey ties between Moscow and the West to post- area near the city center toward govern- and the Black Sea, and the usage of Ukraine’s underground gas storage facilities. The idea Cold War lows. ment-held positions around Donetsk’s had support from Turkey and Azerbaijan, but it was unclear whether the consortium international airport. developing the Shah Deniz field was also favorable toward the plan. Fears of separatist offensive Shelling occurs almost daily around the British Petroleum and Norway’s Statoil are the major partners in the project (each with airport despite the September 5 truce, a 22.5-percent stake), but LukAgip, a joint company of Italy’s Eni and Russia’s Lukoil, also In Kyiv, Ukrainian Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak said government forces are which Gen. Breedlove said on November 11 own a 10-percent stake in Shah Deniz. was a ceasefire “in name only.” Ukraine’s shift toward less dependence on Russian gas gained momentum after the redeploying in preparation for a possible offensive by pro-Russian separatists. 2009 spat between Kyiv and Moscow that saw gas supplies cut to Europe, with Kyiv and With reporting by Agence France-Presse Moscow blaming each other and Europe left in the cold. “We are repositioning our armed forces to respond to the actions of the fighters,” and Reuters. Ukraine currently pays $375 per tcm of gas from Russia in a recently inked deal Copyright 2014, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted between Kyiv and Moscow that was stalled due to pricing issues. As a result of the 2009 Mr. Poltorak told a government meeting. “I see my main task is to prepare for military with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ cut-off, Europe has also begun to reduce its dependence on Russia for gas and oil, and has Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, pursued the development of alternative energy sources. action.” A military spokesman said on November Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see Source: “Ukraine reduces Russian gas import,” (RFE/RL), The Ukrainian Weekly, 11 the rebels were beefing up their forces, http://www.rferl.org/content/nato-russia- November 25, 2012. including around the Donetsk region port troops-ukraine/26687406.html). No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 7

OPINION COMMENTARY Sanctions and weapons An “election” amid Kalashnikovs,

by Askold S. Lozynskyj tary solution, as well as encourage Ukraine to create a sustainable defense, rather than cabbages and Moscow’s fascist fans The recent Milan summit with Ukraine, strive to reacquire lost territory. In turn, by Halya Coynash only turnout was required. Nobody was in Russia and the European Union under- this will bring Russia to the negotiating any doubt about the supposed outcome of scores once again why simple diplomacy table with a viable and palatable offer. As in Soviet times, all that mattered in the voting. Gazeta Wyborcza journalist may not be the solution to the current The script could not have been better the November 2 pseudo-elections in Piotr Andrusieczko reported from Donetsk Ukraine-Russia crisis. That was strikingly written in Moscow by Mr. Putin himself. Ukraine’s east was the turnout. That was that in the area which the Kremlin-backed evident from remarks made by Russian This is precisely what Russia wants – a con- provided for by coercion of public sector militants claim is the “Donetsk People’s President Vladimir Putin questioning arro- firmation of the “status quo” and a reward workers and enticement with food and Republic” there were two parties: the gantly the sovereignty of Ukraine so that for bad behavior. The result, however, is a near free vegetables. Russia and its faithful Donetsk Republic Civic Movement and the even Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel death sentence not only for Ukraine but for far right and Stalinist “observers” did the Free Donbas movement. Only three candi- felt compelled to reprimand the Russian the civilized world and its ideals of democ- rest. dates were named for each, and virtually president, reminding him of the Budapest racy. Having been rewarded for its aggres- The exit polls, Russian TV channels no information was known of their pro- Agreement of 1994. She could have men- sion, Russia will sit back temporarily, declared, give “Incumbent PM Zakharchenko gram, should there be such a thing. Mr. tioned many more agreements and treaties replenish its strength, reinvigorate its econ- lead in Donetsk elections.” A couple of hours Zakharchenko’s two “rivals” might have to which Russia or its predecessor, the omy and within a few years move on to the later, he and Igor Plotnitsky, leader in been known to him, but they were most next adventure. Ukraine will be the first to USSR, was a signatory. A signature on a Luhansk, were supposed to be in the lead unlikely to have impinged on the “elector- legally binding document means nothing to fall, but certainly, not the last. after a staggering 50 percent of the “votes” ate’s” consciousness. The situation was Mr. Putin or Russia. This type of strategy is wrong not only had been counted. comparable in the Luhansk Oblast. Ukraine’s President Petro Poroshenko, morally, but strategically. Furthermore, it Russia just as swiftly issued a statement Much was made in the Russian media of also present in Milan, is not delusional. He plays directly into Russian expectations that saying that it “respects the expression of the “international observers” present, with knows that the only way to stop Russia’s Russia will ultimately prevail because the Russia Today claiming there to be as many aggression is through deterrence, not West does not want conflict, while Russia will” of the southeast and pointed to the diplomacy or an appeal to Russia’s sense of actually benefits from its aggressive procliv- high turnout. as 300. On Saturday, November 1, it was what is fair. By now most Western govern- ities. Yes, even the Russian people have The latter was especially cynical, given announced that these observers were from ment leaders have learned this. Chancellor been trained over centuries to be aggres- the ways in which the turnout was ensured. something called the ASCE [the Agency for Merkel herself has come to a realization sors. Russia’s current nine time zones are This was how a journalist writing from Security and Cooperation in Europe]. This about her longtime friend. not enough. Aggression feeds the Russian Donetsk for the Polish newspaper Gazeta was a fairly obvious attempt to deceive Fora like the Milan summit are afforded bear. Unfortunately, many analysts in the Wyborcza described it: people since the name sounds very similar and will continue to be proposed in order to West – even those with the best intentions – “Loud music, cheap food, coffee, tea and to the OSCE, which does, in contrast, exist. enable President Putin to save face and cannot comprehend the Russian mindset most importantly potatoes, carrots, onions, There is, in fact, no such monitoring organi- acquiesce in some form of peaceful arrange- because it is so foreign to our own. beetroot and cabbage for the throw-away zation as the ASCE, or at least there wasn’t ment, but only when sanctions and losses by There is only one solution to the current price of I hrv per kilogram were intended until Saturday evening before the Sunday Russia become unbearable. However, for Ukraine-Russia crisis: deterrence not to attract residents to the ballot boxes. And, “elections.” summits to have any success, Russia has to appeasement. The West tried appeasement indeed, in places there were crowds.” It was clear after the March 16 pseudo- find itself in an untenable position, pressed in the past with Hitler, with Stalin. Only This corresponds to the reports from referendum on the Crimea’s status who on all sides by a depressed Russian econo- when the West moved on to deterrence did Ukrainian journalists present and the pho- was likely to be invited to observe these my, a Ukraine armed to the teeth and a West the Soviet Union fall. Today Ukraine bears tos they took. It is unclear only whether the supposed elections. Once again, there were with the will and fortitude to stop Russia. the brunt of Russia’s newest aggression. vegetables could be bought by people who mainly people from far-right parties, such It is a curious phenomenon that, while Ukraine has manifested a willingness to be had not entered the polling booths. It as the Hungarian Jobbik or Belgian Vlaams Western leaders have learned the lesson of the West’s and, in particular, Europe’s sur- seems most likely that the vegetables were Belang, or Stalinist parties, such as Greece’s who is Putin and what is Russia, many ana- rogate against this newest Russian adven- part of the latest so-called “humanitarian Communist Party. lysts in the West continue to offer delusional ture. Sanctions against Russia and provid- assistance” from Russia. Anton Shekhovtsov has been trying to solutions and recommendations. Naturally, ing both non-lethal and lethal weapons to The enticement was serious given the establish exactly who did appear, and as of there are also pro-Russian scribes with a Ukraine will stop Russia and compel it to terrible hardship people have suffered Sunday evening he knew of 37 “observers,” Russian agenda. Often it is difficult to distin- join the negotiating table, albeit reluctantly, since the fighting began. It is doubtless no many of those with whom he comes in con- guish between the disingenuous and the with a different mindset somewhere accident that the majority of people voting tact through his work researching radical simply delusional. Unfortunately, the dis- between its customary bad faith and the were over age 55. movements. He pointed out, quite rightly, tinction is often imperceptible. good faith necessary for diplomacy to pre- As in Soviet times when coveted goods that since all these people arrived in Consider the following solution offered vail. At that point, diplomacy has a chance. appeared, you were only allowed three Ukraine from Moscow and did not go by some Western analysts: The U.S. and its Mr. Putin’s Russia is a cancer not unlike kilograms per person. However, Novosti through mandatory border crossing proce- NATO allies should refrain from supplying ISIS. The difference is that Mr. Putin decapi- dure, they must be considered to have tates and massacres in myriad forms and Donbasa reported that it was possible to weapons to Ukraine and limit visible entered Ukraine illegally. involvement in the conflict’s military often does it surreptitiously, simultaneous- vote by presenting a copy of your passport, One person who not only attended but aspects while diplomatically demonstrat- ly denying complicity. Yet every so often he rather than the original. Since you could made sure to take part in a photo-call with ing its support for Ukraine. This, in turn, and his reps feel so emboldened by the also vote wherever you wanted, people will disabuse Ukraine of pursuing a mili- West’s naivete that they do or say some- could effectively “vote” 10 times or more at top rebel Mr. Zakharchenko was Mateusz thing outrageous. Malaysia Airlines Flight different polling stations, perhaps availing Piskorski. This right-wing Polish politician Askold S. Lozynskyj is an attorney based 17 was merely one example. Delusions themselves of the refreshments and deficit dabbled with neo-Nazi parties in his young- in New York City. He is a former president of about and appeasement of Russia can only items at the same time. Voters were enticed er years. More recently he has been noted the Ukrainian World Congress. end badly. to the polling stations in the Luhansk for his support for all Kremlin-moves espe- Oblast through “social cards” also provid- cially with respect to Ukraine. He was ing much-needed assistance. among the “observers” swift to praise the GUIDELINES Judging by reports from witnesses, such supposedly exemplary running of the FOR SUBMITTING MATERIALS TO THE WEEkLY as Pastor Sergey Kosyak, methods of coer- Crimean “referendum.” He has shown cion were also applied, especially with equivalent haste on this occasion, waxing In order to facilitate preparation of The Ukrainian Weekly, we ask that the guidelines respect to teachers, doctors and other pub- eloquent about both the “elections” and the listed below be followed. lic-sector workers. They had their pass- future of the self-proclaimed “Donetsk People’s Republic”: • E-mail submissions are preferred. Stories and photos may be sent to [email protected]. ports taken away from them the day before and had to sign an agreement that they “Having visited the electoral commis- • Materials may also be mailed to: The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, sions in several regions, I can say with full Parsippany, NJ 07054. would turn up to vote. The social cards are also, in fact, a form of overt blackmail. The responsibility that for the local population • Stories should have the name of the author; photographers should be credited for pho- daughter of one elderly woman living in the the new political formula which is the tos. All photos must be clearly labeled and accompanied by captions. territory controlled by the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic gives great hope • Persons who submit any materials must provide a complete mailing address and day- “Luhansk People’s Republic” explained that for the formation of conditions of stable time phone number where they may be reached if any additional information is required. pensioners have been told that pensions development, but most of all for depart- • News stories should be sent in not later than 10 days after the occurrence of a given event. will be paid out soon. To get it people will ment from the oligarch capitalism which functioned in Ukraine since its indepen- • Full names (i.e., no initials) of all persons mentioned in stories and captions must be have to present not only their passport, but dence in 1991. The pathological features of provided. English spellings must be verified. the LPR social card. For the latter they this system, flavored over several months needed to go to their polling station on • Information about upcoming events must be received one week before the date of The with the sauce of extreme nationalism, November 2. The pensioner in question is Weekly edition in which the information is to be published. For items to be listed in Preview rejected by the people of Donbas, led to of Events, information must be sent to [email protected]; information for the Out & totally against the militants, and rejected Kyiv’s bankruptcy in the eyes of local resi- About listing must be e-mailed to [email protected]. their pseudo-referendum on May 11, but dents.” Any questions? Call 973-292-9800 or e-mail [email protected]. she can simply not live without a pension. Another echo from Soviet times was that (Continued on page 12) 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46 Presentation explores “Ira Aldridge and Taras Shevchenko: Two Icons and Friends”

by Mary Kalyna that he and all African American actors have to the trail- blazing Aldridge, calling him the “father of the dream” that NEW YORK – One of the more original and thought-pro- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of in 1963. voking tributes during the Shevchenko bicentennial year was Mr. De Shields drew parallels between Aldridge and presented by The Ukrainian Museum and the Yara Arts Group Shevchenko: both artists, both fighters against slavery in on November 1. “Ira Aldridge and Taras Shevchenko: Two their countries, both highly identified with their people. He Icons and Friends” explored the little-known but significant concluded with a reading in English of Shevchenko’s friendship between the acclaimed African American actor “Letter to My Countrymen Dead, Alive and Not Yet Born” and the Ukrainian poet. that brought a new depth and universality to the iconic The evening was part lecture, part poetry performance, poem. and included a video from Kyiv of Yara’s new theatrical piece, Museum member Cathy Zadoretsky said it was “a stunning “Dark Night Bright Stars,” about Shevchenko and Aldridge, historical moment, and an honor to be present when an artist which will premiere in New York in February 2015 (an ear- of his stature linked the legacy of African American icons lier work-in-progress previewed in March of this year). with Shevchenko and Ukraine.” In a coup for Yara Arts Group and a special treat for the Bernth Lindfors, professor emeritus at the University of audience, the program was introduced by Broadway star Texas and an Aldridge scholar, described the life of André De Shields, best known for his performance in the Aldridge in the context of his time, focusing on his relation- title role of “The Wiz” in 1975 and later for “Ain’t ship with Shevchenko. Misbehavin’ ” in 1978. Mr. De Shields highlighted the debt Aldridge was born in 1807 in New York City to a free Pavlo Terekhov Black family. While not a slave himself, his artistic possibili- Yara artists Shona Tucker and Olga Shuhan. ties were severely limited by slavery and institutional rac- ism. Like many African American artists who made the Prof. Lindfors said Shevchenko and his circle of artist journey since, Aldridge traveled to Europe, where he even- friends were captivated by Aldridge as an actor and inter- tually found great honor and acclaim. He was best known preter of Shakespeare, attending every performance in St. for his portrayals of Shakespeare’s tragic heroes, including Petersburg and sometimes becoming so emotionally over- Othello, Macbeth, Shylock and King Lear. whelmed that they were evicted from the theater – this Aldridge met Shevchenko during his first tour of Russia despite not understanding a word of the original English spo- in 1858, not long after Shevchenko had been released from ken by Aldridge. His performance conveyed a shared under- compulsive military service in Central Asia as punishment standing of the human condition – including the enslavement for writing poems satirizing Tsar Nicholas I. Despite the of both their peoples – that transcended language. barrier of language, the two immediately became fast The evening at The Ukrainian Museum also included friends, sharing similar artistic temperaments, values and stirring performances of several Shevchenko poems, in politics. Aldridge was shocked to learn that Shevchenko, a Ukrainian and English, by Yara artists Sean Eden, Maria white man, had been born a slave (serf) and that his free- Pleshkevich, Olga Shuhan and Shona Tucker. Yara’s Artistic dom had been purchased in 1838 through the efforts of his Director Virlana Tkacz conceived and directed the pro- friends. The two men also shared a bond of sorrow, both gram, and translated the poems with African American losing their mothers at the early age of 9. poet Wanda Phipps. The friendship culminated in Shevchenko drawing the Mr. De Shields began the evening by proposing that the actor’s portrait, and it was signed by both men. The original, artist is primarily a storyteller, that stories have the power owned by the Shevchenko Museum in Kyiv, is currently on loan to keep the faith and can heal wounds. Aldridge and to The Ukrainian Museum in New York as part of the compre- Shevchenko were two storytellers who changed the course hensive and well-organized exhibit “Taras Shevchenko: of history – their bright stars still speak to us in our own Broadway star André De Shields. Poet, Artist, Icon” (on view through November 30). dark night. Bandura Downtown series examines “Shevchenko’s Sources” by Ihor Slabicky Bandura Downtown productions. Shevchenko visited. The effect was one of Mr. Malkovych is a graduate of the intimacy, of being there personally with NEW YORK – The ninth season of the Department of Theory and Practice of Shevchenko, seeing the same sights, Bandura Downtown concert series at The Translation at the Taras Shevchenko Kyiv breathing the same air. Ukrainian Museum in New York opened on National University. Presently, he is a visit- The second part of the program, hosted Saturday, October 25, with “Shevchenko’s ing Fulbright scholar at Columbia by Mr. Malkovych, presented contemporary Sources: 2014,” a program in keeping with University. His poems and translations poetic works that reflected Shevchenko’s the yearlong celebration of the 200th anni- have been published in Ukrainian literary style, genre, and oeuvre. Alternating with versary of Taras Shevchenko’s birth. The periodicals and literary web resources. He Mr. Kytasty, they read or presented the evening featured bandurist Julian Kytasty, is the author and compiler of the anthology poems of: Yaroslav Gadzinsky, Lesyk dancer and choreographer Inka Juslin and “Snovydy: Sny Ukrainskykh Pysmennykiv” Panasiuk, Mykhailo Zharzhailo, Oleh poet Taras Malkovych. (The Sleepwalkers: Dreams of Ukrainian Kotsarev, Bohdan-Oleh Horobchuk, Mr. Kytasty is a world-renowned ban- Writers) and the author of the poetry col- Bohuslav Polak, Halyna Kruk, Myroslav durist who studied theory and composition lection “Toy, Khto Lyubyt Dovhi Slova” (The Laiuk, Zaza Paualishvili, Pavlo Korobchuk at Concordia University in Montreal. He has One Who Loves Long Words). and Mr. Malkovych. performed and recorded as a soloist, with In the first half of the program, Mr. Throughout, Mr. Kytasty provided inci- ensembles including the Experimental Kytasty recalled his tour of Ukraine this dental music on his sopilka or bandura. Bandura Trio and Paris to Kyiv, and with past summer as part of the “Shevchenko’s Joining in, and interpreting the poetry and international collaborators including pipa Sources: 2014” project. With projected music with her choreography, was Ms. player Wu Man, Mongolian singer and photographs behind him, he described the Juslin. The dancer’s performance of the multi-instrumentalist Battuvshin, and estates where Shevchenko lived, like “Coat” was riveting: the coat that was part improvisational guitar master Derek Bailey. Berezova Rudka, the estate of Zakrevsky, of her costume both hiding her movements He has created music for theater with Yara which is still intact. Here, the railing up the and yet accentuating them. The pieces pre- Arts Group, modern dance, and film, and is grand stairs to the ballroom is original, so sented were ones that the contemporary the artistic director of the Bandura under all those layers of paint is one of the poets wrote with Shevchenko in mind. In Downtown concert series. He recently spots that Shevchenko would have proba- doing so, they tied the present to the past, released two albums: “Night Songs from a bly leaned on, looking down to see who is for if Shevchenko was alive today, surely he Neighboring Village,” with Michael Alpert, coming up the stairs. The audience saw the would write about what was happening explores Ukrainian and Yiddish musical monasteries and churches Shevchenko vis- now as powerfully as he wrote about what interactions; a solo album, “Songs of Truth,” ited and so beautifully captured within his Ihor Slabicky happened in his time. features traditional kobzar songs from the art, where he wrote “Rozryta Mohyla,” the Julian Kytasty performs during Presenting a marvelous background for 17th and 18th centuries. tree that he sat under – yes, that tree is still “Shevchenko’s Sources: 2014” at The this event was the “Taras Shevchenko: Poet, Ms. Juslin is a dancer and choreographer there. Ukrainian Museum. Artist, Icon” exhibit at The Ukrainian who has studied in Finland, the Laban Interspersing his dialogue, Mr. Kytasty ta Vechirnaya” (Come Out, Night Star) was Museum, which showcases numerous orig- Center in London and the University of sang several songs, accompanying himself a song that Shevchenko himself sang. inal artworks by the poet and artist. Seeing Hawaii. Besides her work with American on the bandura. “Ruyina (Zazhurylas “Mnozhestvo az Sohrishykh” (The Sinner at the originals is eminently engaging (some choreographer Adam Darius and choreo- Ukraina),” written in the 1670s at the the Gates of Heaven) recalled the atmo- of the works are smaller than expected, graphing many solo and collaborative proj- Chyhyryn fortress, told of the ruination of sphere of the music of the lirnyky and while others are much larger), and ects in Finland and New York, she has Ukraine in a way that it could have been kobzari that one would have heard near Shevchenko’s technique and attention to appeared in several Yara Arts Group and written recently. “Oy Ziydy Ziydy, ty Zironko the churches and monasteries that detail are without par. No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 9 FILM REVIEW: Oles Sanin’s “Th e Guide” by Ali Kinsella orphan guide, in exchange for care and food. Ivan is gruff and taciturn, but Peter is Oles Sanin’s new film, “The Guide” in no position to be picky. Their journey to (“Povodyr, abo Kvity Mayut’ Ochi”), is beau- return the boy to Kharkiv, then the capital tiful. It’s beautiful in the conventional way of Ukraine, is continually frustrated and the word is applied to films in that it pairs a becomes further complicated when Ivan moving storyline with artful acting, result- learns Peter is unwittingly stewarding a ing in a glimpse of life that, for all its speci- dangerous secret. ficity, articulates universal human emotion On a couple of occasions, the pair comes and experience. It’s also beautiful because dangerously close to crossing paths with Pronto Film every single one of its hundreds of shots is the NKVD secret police who show no Stanislav Boklan as Ivan, the blind bandura player (left), and Anton Sviatoslav deliberately composed and visually stun- mercy to others who have given the boy Greene as the American boy Peter Shamrock. ning. Truth and goodness notwithstanding and the bandurist shelter. Meanwhile, the ing resounds with audiences. suffered in accordance. She has potential, – though Mr. Sanin observes these virtues countryside is starving and functionaries in Without a doubt, “The Guide” is very though, and might shine in a more-devel- as well – the combination makes for a pow- the cities are becoming more ruthless. The much a genre film intended for a broad oped role. Oleksandr Kobzar’s Volodia, erful picture of sacrifice for loved ones in gravity of the national situation comes audience and represents not, say, Ukraine’s while menacing, was somewhat forgettable. the face of great constraint. through at the annual congress – of ban- burgeoning art film scene, but the kind of In only his second feature film in over a The story of Joseph Stalin’s ceremonious durists, not party members – which is both technically sound, aesthetically pleasing, decade of work, Mr. Sanin shows great execution of Ukraine’s bandurists coming a portent of the fate that awaits them and a large studio productions Ukraine is capable progress and promise. He toned down right on the heels of his finely orchestrated peek into a lost way of life. Ivan and Peter of producing when funding and talent some of the auteurism that made his Terror-Famine is almost too fantastical to are separated and only reunite – a train come together. For Ukraine to have a com- “Mamai” a little unpalatable to broad audi- believe. Yet, like many other inconceivable being the perpetual place of their meetings plete national cinema, all categories – doc- ences and the result is winning. He again tragedies, it did happen. This is the terrible – when the old bandurists are being con- umentary, short feature, horror, porno and worked with cinematographer Serhii culmination Mr. Sanin’s movie builds veyed to their deaths. Despite the endless so on – must flourish. “The Guide” can help Mykhalchuk, who was responsible for the towards as he depicts the increasing terror suffering, the characters retain their pave the way and prepare the screen. In stark, captivating images that distinguished – terrifying in no small part because the humanity and dignity. this, it is not so much simply a cheap their earlier narrative film. The consistency violence was capricious – Ukrainians lived With “The Guide,” Mr. Sanin shows how Hollywood rip-off, but a harbinger of a new and beauty of the cinematography, costume with as Stalin brought a swift end to the a handful of enthusiastic ideologues and era in Ukrainian cinema. design, washed-out palette and overall nationalizing policies and forced collectiv- opportunistic sell-outs can smother the will As better and better films come out of artistic direction indicate a common vision ization and submission. of a population that retains esteem for Ukraine each year, it is exciting to watch for that the director managed to execute. Due to an unfortunate turn, a young higher virtues. new faces: Where did this Stas Boklan, with A final observation, one that doesn’t American boy, Peter (the affable Very superficially, “The Guide” has some all of his sensitivity to his character and detract from the quality of this movie: Michigander Anton Sviatoslav Greene) things in common with “The Firecrosser,” viewers, come from and how did he learn to Bilingual films continue to be en vogue ends up on his own and on the run in Ukraine’s 2012 Oscar entry: both are block- do this? Ukraine, in fact, has flocks of equal- among even Ukraine’s best directors. When Ukraine. He makes friends with Ivan, an busters many years in the making, and ly talented performers who are waiting for confronted about this, they hem and haw, old, blind bandurist (veteran of the stage both attempt to mimic the style of filmmak- their chance to reach larger audiences than pointing to their commitment to present- Stanislav Boklan) who takes him on as his ing popularized by Hollywood. In the for- live theater can accommodate. Crimean ing reality or their abhorrence of the Soviet mer’s case, though, this attempt is actually Tatar pop star Jamala was an exciting choice practice of having everyone communicate successful. For one, Mr. Sanin started with a to convey some of the decadence of the in the language of internationalism. Screenings of solid script that was co-written by some early 20th century Ukrainian city, unfortu- very talented contemporary authors: nately, her character was flat and her acting (Continued on page 12) “The Guide” Oleksandr Irvanets, poet, novelist, drama- tist, translator, and Iren Rozdobudko, nov- elist and author of the recently translated University, Schermerhorn Hall, 7:30 p.m. “The Lost Button” (whose name, for some • December 2: New York, Columbia reason, appears in the credits but not on Ukrainian Cultural Center, 7 p.m. the film’s website). The talented bunch • December 3: Jenkintown, Pa., managed to finally adapt a historical event Harvard University, Center for Govern- for the screen without any of the over- ment• December and International 4: Cambridge, Studies, 6 Mass.,p.m. blown pathos or preaching that plagues most such Ukrainian ventures. Cultural Center, 7 p.m. There’s none of the blunt moralizing or • December 5: Chicago, Ukrainian uncritical analysis that can make the view- Michigan Theater, 7 p.m. er secretly want the bad guys to win. To the • December 9: Ann Arbor, Mich., contrary, the feelings of empathy and com- University, Manoogian Hall, 7 p.m. passion evoked by “The Guide” are propor- • December 10: Detroit, Wayne State tional to the trials the heroes must go Ukrainian Museum, 6 p.m. through. True, with its extraneous love story and somewhat formulaic plot, there All• December screenings will 11: be New attended York, by The the are moments when the film feels like a director, Oles Sanin; those in Chicago, copy of Western movies that have seen Ann Arbor, Detroit and New York will be attended by the lead actor, Anton commercial success as exports. But at the Sviatoslav Greene. same time, who cares? Such films are popu- lar, in part, because their type of storytell-

FOR LOVERS OF UKRAINIAN ART Several works of art from a significant private collection are being released for sale. The private collection includes icons as well as works by Mykola Pymonenko, Ivan Trush, Vasyl Kassian, Roman Selsky, Roman Kurach, Mykola Azovsky, Oleksa Hryshchenko, Victor Cymbal, Borys Kriukov, Nadia Somko, Volodymyr Makarenko and Mykola Nedilko. All of the artwork, which was maintained in the diaspora, can be authenticated. For more detailed information, please contact the following email: [email protected] 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46 Archeological research in Baturyn continues by Volodymyr Mezentsev Special to The Ukrainian Weekly Canadian and Ukrainian archeologists and historians continued their annual sum- mer excavations in the town of Baturyn, Chernihiv Oblast, in 2013. Prof. Zenon Kohut, the leading historian of the Hetman state and former director of the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies (CIUS) at the University of Alberta, heads this project. Last year, nearly 70 students and scholars from the universities of Chernihiv, Hlukhiv, and Sumy, as well as the National University of Kyiv Mohyla Academy participated in the Baturyn archeological expedition. Archeologists Yurii Sytyi and Dr. Viacheslav Skorokhod of the Chernihiv National University led this expedition. Dr. Volodymyr Mezentsev (CIUS, Toronto) is its Canadian co-director and the Baturyn project coordi- nator. The renowned historian of Kyivan Rus’, Prof. Martin Dimnik of the Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies at the University of Toronto, also takes part in the research of Baturyn and the dissemination of its find- ings in North America and Ukraine. Between 1669 and 1708, this town was the capital of the Kozak state that achieved Log walls and towers of the Baturyn citadel, reconstructed on the basis of archeological data in 2008. Photo by Volodymyr Mezentsev. prominence under the dynamic leadership of Hetman Ivan Mazepa (1687-1709). palaces, villas, castles, city halls, universi- elongated six-angled and square glazed America, private residences using such Baturyn’s fortunes were cut short during the ties, monasteries and residential urban floor tiles as in the Honcharivka palace. The construction are known as Tudor-style tim- suppression of Mazepa’s revolt for the liber- houses feature whitewashed elevations floor chess pattern that has been discovered ber-framed houses. A fachwerk structure ation of central Ukraine from the increasing articulated with bright red vertical and/or and reconstructed in the latter was widely could fit well with the Central European power of Moscow. In 1708, Russian troops horizontal projecting decorative details, employed in palaces, basilicas, and monas- baroque style of Mazepa’s palace. stormed the hetman capital and looted and usually pilasters or columns. Prior to 1708, teries in Ukraine, Poland, Italy and other Artifacts unearthed during the 2011- burned it to the ground. They slaughtered to the red order elements and the entire exte- European countries. It is represented in the 2014 excavations give me grounds to sur- a man 11,000 to 14,000 captive Kozaks and rior of Mazepa’s palace were covered with images of interiors of many secular and mise that this sizeable service structure unarmed burghers as a massive punitive a layer of lime, as was typical of other mon- ecclesiastical buildings found in Ukrainian housed either Kozak officers (“starshyna”), measure ordered by Tsar Peter I. The town umental structures in the Hetmanate. baroque engravings and icons. Original members of the hetman guard (“serdi- lay in ruins and remained primarily desert- The floors in Mazepa’s residence were 16th-18th century checkered floor inlays uky”), adjutants, and/or clerks working ed for half a century until it was rebuilt by paved with ornate ceramic tiles of several have been preserved at the residences of within Mazepa’s private quarters or for Hetman Kyrylo Rozumovsky (1750-1764). geometric forms. Many of them were faced Polish kings on Wawel Hill in Krakow and state institutions at his court. Last year, at In 2013, excavations were mainly carried with green and blue glazing, while others the Wilanow district of Warsaw (1677). this site, were found: 14 silver Polish and out in the Baturyn suburb of Honcharivka. were just plain terracotta. This writer and Of all the known architectural monu- Russian coins, a silver pendant with a relief Before 1700, Mazepa constructed a richly Serhii Dmytriienko (Chernihiv), the Baturyn ments of early modern Ukraine, Mazepa’s plant pattern, a round dress ornament with embellished three-story masonry palace archeological expedition’s graphic artist, con- main residence in Baturyn stands out for a rock crystal, a silver wire earring with a there; it was destroyed by Muscovite forces ducted a detailed examination of the numer- the largest number, variety and distinctive glass bead, four broken silver decorative in 1708. A rampart with bulwarks and a ous fragments of tiles found during the pal- features of the decorative types of glazed plates, three bronze clasps and four figured moat protected the hetman’s principal resi- ace excavations. We prepared hypothetical monochrome and terracotta floor tiles appliqués with relief patterns, engravings dence on the field side, while a palisade computer reconstructions of nine complete uncovered there. This attests to its compar- and incrustations which adorned the costly stretched along the high bank of the adjacent tiles of varying shapes and ornamentations, atively large size, multi-storied and multi- leather belts of officers, four plain iron Seim River. Footings of these wooden fortifi- as well as an equal number of floor pavement chamber architectural design, and excep- clasps from the belts of ordinary Kozaks, a cations were uncovered by archeologists. designs of the palace’s reception halls, living tional embellishment. copper wedding ring, 10 lead musket bul- An examination of bricks from the semi- quarters and office premises. By extension, Our expedition continued to excavate lets, a bronze screw and flint from a rifle, a columns, as well as fragments of the lime- this suggests that Mazepa’s residence had at the remnants of a spacious service struc- splinter from an iron cannonball or gre- stone Corinthian capitals and figured least nine rooms, halls, vestibules, corridors, ture (19 by 5 meters) of the early 18th cen- nade, an iron arrowhead of local manufac- ceramic bases of the palace, has deter- storage areas, and the like. tury located at the hetman’s court in ture, and many shards of ceramic glazed mined that these order elements were ini- Ceramic floor tiles discovered in some Honcharivka. It had a wooden post-and- multi-colored and terracotta stove tiles tially painted with red ochre. The rest of churches and monasteries of Kyiv, frame (in German: “fachwerk”) construc- (“kakhli”) produced conceivably by skilled the facades were plastered and white- Chernihiv, Hlukhiv, Baturyn and other tion design, which was extensively artisans summoned to Baturyn from Kyiv, washed. This combination of colors was towns of the Kozak realm are different in employed in urban and rural dwellings as well as imported German majolica table- likely borrowed from the ornamentation of formats, adornments and settings. The throughout medieval and early modern ware of the 17th and 18th centuries. Using the Renaissance and baroque architecture 16th-18th century castle of the Ostrozky Europe, from Britain to western Ukraine. computer techniques, Mr. Dmytriienko and of Central Europe. In Poland, Bohemia/ princes in the town of Ostroh, Rivne Oblast, The majority of buildings in 17th-18th cen- I have reconstructed two ornamented belts Czechia and Germany some early modern however, used the same combination of tury Lviv were of fachwerk design. In North of wealthy hetman officers. One stove tile bears the incised Cyrillic

the name of the person who commissioned inscriptionthe work or “Pets” some (“Пец”). mark of This the ceramistcould be who executed it. In any case, this is evi- dence of that craftsman’s literacy. A number of arrowheads have been found in Mazepa’s court. Their presence indicates that the hetman troops, like the rest of the Ukrainian Kozaks, conservative- ly continued to practice archery until the 18th century, although firearms increasing- ly dominated their arsenal. Mr. Sytyi has suggested that hetman officers had to be proficient in all kinds of Kozak weaponry, including obsolete ones, and trained their soldiers in these military arts. In 2013, among the debris of the service building, an elongated bronze plate with engraved linear and geometric ornaments was discovered. It can be identified as a Silver ornaments with rock crystal and Fragments of glazed ceramic polychrome Fragment of a terracotta female statuette or section of the back end of a book casing. glass bead of local production discovered stove tiles uncovered during the 2013 exca- doll of the late 17th or early 18th century dis- Written sources inform us that Mazepa’s at Mazepa’s manor, 17th -18th century. vations of Mazepa’s manor in Honcharivka. covered in the fortress. Baturyn Museum of Photo by Volodymyr Mezentsev. Photo by Volodymyr Mezentsev. Archeology. Photo by Volodymyr Mezentsev. (Continued on page 11) No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 11

Archeological... (Continued from page 10) palace in Baturyn included his library. This collection of publications and manuscripts was unrivalled in Ukraine at the time. In the former Baturyn fortress, east of the cemetery of the ruined Holy Trinity Cathedral (1692), archeologists have exca- vated the remnants of a spacious granary from the 17th to early 18th century. They unearthed 16 pits for storing grain, which were covered by a timber roof, as well as remnants of wooden building for the dry- ing and processing of grain. In 2003-2004, near the Baturyn citadel, our expedition excavated the substructures of a similar complex containing 10 grain pits. It occupied over 100 square meters in area and in all likelihood belonged to the hetman. Tsarist troops sacked and burned these large grain magazines in 1708. Mazepa could have commissioned them when he secretly organized a military base in his capital for his rebellion and supplies of the allied Swedish army. Archeological research has shown that as a rule every burgher’s household in Baturyn had several pits for storing grain. According to Mr. Sytyi, the impressive num- Reconstructed fortifications of the Baturyn citadel with the Resurrection Church and the initial hetman residence and treasury of ber of granaries that have been uncovered 17th century. Aerial photo by Serhii Chynin. Baturyn National Preserve. indicates the significance of grain produc- tion to the economy of the hetman capital, grain pit, researchers found the skeleton of turies in the cemetery of the Trinity Hlukhiv universities as well as the National as well as the prosperity of its population a teenager who lost his/her life during the Cathedral. Mr. Sytyi discovered several vic- University of Kyiv Mohyla Academy suc- prior to the 1708 tragedy. massacre in Baturyn. Amidst the debris of a tims of the 1708 carnage within the fourth cessfully continued with systematic excava- Close to the grain magazine excavated burnt dwelling (House No. 3) the leg bones level of graves there. Last year, archeolo- tions in Baturyn. Their results will be anal- near the Trinity Cathedral probably existed of its slain inhabitant have been unearthed. gists exhumed eight 17th-18th century ysed and disseminated in publications and a contemporaneous dwelling of a well-to- Archeologists also found there the broken graves at this cemetery. The remains of a lectures in 2015. Our Canada-Ukraine do resident. There were found: fragments head of a terracotta female statuette, seem- man with a pierced skull (Grave No. 4) can archeological expedition is preparing to of stove tiles, ceramic and glass utensils, ingly a doll. It may have been broken during be associated with other casualties of the resume the field research of Mazepa’s capi- two ceramic chibouks of Kozak tobacco the destruction of the house. I believe that a Muscovite onslaught. tal next summer. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian pipes, a carved bone mouthpiece made on local artist fashioned this figurine in a naïve The 2013 excavations in Baturyn have government, burdened with heavy military a lathe, and fragments of iron craft tools realistic manner under the influence of some yielded important data regarding the expenditures, is unable to fund our scholar- from the 17th-18th century. Western Renaissance or baroque sculpture. adornment of Mazepa’s main residence ly project. At the same time, the price of Two fragmentary terracotta stove tiles This find represents a rare and valuable and the little-known ceramic folk sculpture food, gasoline and transportation in of the Mazepa period feature identical bas- piece of ceramic three-dimensional anthro- in the hetman capital. New archeological Ukraine has increased considerably. reliefs of a horseman fashioned in a folk pomorphic sculpture, specifically the art of evidence of its sheer destruction has come The continued support of archeological style. These tiles were made from a single vernacular toys of Ukraine at the turn of the to light. My video interview for Ukrainian research in Baturyn and the publication of chiseled wooden mould. On both frag- 17th-18th centuries. media about the findings of last year’s exca- its findings by Ukrainian organizations, ments, only the lower half of a man dressed Clay female statuettes from the 14th to vations in Baturyn is available on YouTube foundations, companies, and private bene- in a short jacket with a belt, close-fitting 18th centuries have been found in Kyiv, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= factors in the United States and Canada will pants and high boots has been preserved. Vyshhorod and Bila Tserkva in Ukraine, odhNdkIb2wY&feature=c4-overview&list= be vital in 2014-2015. They are kindly Both of his legs lean against one side of a and in Belarus. Among the 20 fragments of UU_5I-7Yh_EmnU1rrRtkWO8w. invited to send their checks with donations harnessed horse. Such a naïve manner of Kyivan ceramic dolls of this time, series of * * * to: Prof. Martin Dimnik, Pontifical Institute representing the pose of a rider was used the 17th-18th century broken heads con- For 14 years, the excavations in Baturyn of Mediaeval Studies, 59 Queen’s Park in some 17th century vernacular tiles. stitute the closest analogies to the Baturyn and the publication of its materials have Crescent East, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5S Comparable reliefs of mounted Kozaks, figurine. They have delicately modelled been sponsored by the Kowalsky Program 2C4. Please make checks payable to: hunters, Western knights or uhlans armed faces, and sometimes are painted in vari- for the Study of Eastern Ukraine at CIUS, Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies with spears are depicted on many 16th to ous colors. Researchers maintain that the the Shevchenko Scientific Society of (Memo: Baturyn Project). The institute will 18th century stove tiles found in Baturyn, realistic and humanistic Renaissance and America, the Pontifical Institute of send tax receipts to all donors in the U.S.A. Chernihiv, Subotiv, Kyiv, Cherkasy, Uman baroque art of Italy, Germany, Poland and Mediaeval Studies at the University of and Canada; those who assist this under- and other towns in central Ukraine. Czechia influenced the sculptural tech- Toronto and the Ucrainica Research taking will be gratefully acknowledged in These motifs were derived from the niques and artistic designs of these Kyivan Institute in Toronto. The Chernihiv Oblast related publications and public lectures. image of the mounted knight with sabre on dolls. Archeological finds of this kind testify State Administration contributed a subsidy For additional information or questions the state coat of arms of the Grand Duchy to the vibrant cultural ties between early for our excavations. about the Baturyn project, readers may con- of Lithuania, as well as that of St. George on modern Ukraine and these countries. Despite the tense situation in Ukraine, tact the author of this article, Dr. Volodymyr a horse piercing a dragon with his lance. In 2006-2009, our expedition excavated during August of this year, archeologists Mezentsev via telephone, 416-766-1408, or These images were often employed for about 300 graves of the 17th and 18th cen- and students of history from Chernihiv and e-mail, [email protected]. heraldic emblems, flags, coins, book illus- trations and icons during the Kozak era, and they were replicated in a distinctive folk manner by Ukrainian artisans. A typical ceramic toy with whistle in the shape of a stylized animal has also been found in Baturyn. It was decorated with brown and yellow ochre stripes. This exam- ple of vernacular art has numerous analo- gies among the ceramic glazed, painted and terracotta zoomorphic figures of medieval and modern Ukraine. A deeply rooted tradi- tion of its production for the market lasted until the 20th century. Several similar 14th to 18th century terracotta and stripe-paint- ed toys or whistles in the form of stylized horses or other domestic animals and birds have been found in Kyiv. While investigating the trench for a water pipe crossing the fortress’ territory, archeologists discovered the remnants of Main elevation of Mazepa’s palace in the 17 ordinary wooden dwellings, and service Baturyn suburb of Honcharivka with semi- Glazed ceramic chibouk of a Kozak tobac- Fragmented painted ceramic toy whistle in columns painted red before 1700. co pipe and ornamented bone mouthpiece or storages structures from the 17th and the form of a stylized animal, 17th-18th Hypothetical reconstruction by Volodymyr of local manufacture, 17th-18th century. early 18th centuries, all burned by the century. Baturyn Museum of Archeology. Mezentsev, computer graphic by Serhii 2013 excavations in Baturyn fortress. Russian invaders in 1708. In an empty Photo by Volodymyr Mezentsev. Dmytriienko, 2013. Photo by Volodymyr Mezentsev. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46

Organization for Security and Cooperation and arms. “No one should be surprised by “intensifying policy of confrontation” as NEWSBRIEFS in Europe (OSCE) said its monitors had wit- reports today that large columns of Russian shown by its seizure of the Crimean penin- nessed an apparent build-up of heavy weap- tanks, artillery, and military personnel have sula from Ukraine. Mr. Komorowski told (Continued from page 2) ons and tanks in parts of the Donetsk region moved back into eastern Ukraine. If true, journalists in Warsaw on November 5 that this would be the latest and most conclusive land border with Russia and the supply of controlled by the separatists. Ms. Psaki things have “changed for the worse to the accused Russia and the separatists of “bla- reason to believe that the ceasefire agree- armaments and military equipment to mili- east of Poland’s borders, where an area of tant violations” of a ceasefire signed in ment is effectively dead. The United States tants-mercenaries of terrorist organiza- instability has emerged.” He said strength- Minsk on September 5, and warned that the and Europe need to stop assuming that the ening Poland’s defenses against the threats tions.” Ukraine also demanded that Russia costs to Moscow will rise if it “continues its provision of lethal military assistance to now posed by Russia also will contribute to “withdraw the units of the armed forces of destabilizing and dangerous actions.” She Ukraine would provoke President Putin into NATO’s defense capabilities. (RFE/RL, the Russian Federation from the Ukrainian- said Moscow must do more if it truly wants further aggression. What is most provoca- based on reporting by the Associated Press, Russian state border, ensure proper border peace in eastern Ukraine. “If Russia is truly tive to Putin is U.S. and European unwilling- Reuters and the BBC) regime at the territory of the Russian committed to Minsk and peace in Ukraine, it ness to take these steps, and the perception Federation adjacent to the Ukrainian- will stop fueling the fire with new weapons of weakness it fosters. If confirmed, today’s Germany demands adherence to truce Russian state border.” (Ministry of Foreign and support for separatists and withdraw all reported Russian re-invasion of Ukraine Affairs of Ukraine) ASTANA – German Foreign Minister Russian military personnel and equipment should lead to an immediate escalation of Frank-Walter Steinmeier says that the situ- U.S. to Russia: ‘Stop fueling the fire’ from Ukraine; and it will call on its proxies U.S. and E.U. sanctions. More importantly, we ation in eastern Ukraine is deteriorating to stop cease-fire violations, release hostag- must also provide our Ukrainian partners and that all sides, including Russia, must WASHINGTON – The United States has es, and close the international [Russian- with the military capabilities to defend their adhere to a ceasefire and steps toward called on Russia to “stop fueling the fire” in Ukrainian] border,” the State Department sovereign territory and resist Putin’s aggres- peace agreed in the Belarusian capital, sion. If we do not, Putin will continue trying eastern Ukraine with new weapons and spokesperson said. (RFE/RL) Minsk, on September 5. Mr. Steinmeier was to devour more and more of Ukraine for his other support for pro-Russian separatists speaking in the Kazakh capital on McCain on violations of ceasefire new Russian empire.” (Office of Sen. John Mc there. U.S. State Department spokeswoman November 10, a day after the European Cain) Jen Psaki said Washington condemned WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Union and the United States voiced deep “Russia’s increased militarization of the McCain (R-Ariz.) on November 7 released Poland preps for Russian ‘confrontation’ concern over reports of large convoys of Donbas region through the provision of the following statement following reports troops and military vehicles moving tanks and other heavy equipment to sepa- that Russia has violated its ceasefire agree- WARSAW – Polish President Bronislaw through territory controlled by pro-Russian ratists.” Her comments in Washington on ment and again supplied pro-Russian sepa- Komorowski has signed into law a new rebels. “Unfortunately, the situation is again November 10 came days after the ratists in Ukraine with military equipment national defense strategy that addresses an serious. I now think that we must call upon “intensifying policy of confrontation” by all those involved in this conflict, as well as Russia and threats to regional security the Russian side, to return again to the from the conflict in Ukraine. The 57-page terms of the Minsk protocol,” Mr. strategy document replaces a plan drawn Steinmeier told a news conference in up in 2007. The new plan involves defense, Astana. Some of the most intense shelling TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL Walter Honcharyk (973) 292-9800 x3040 political and economic structures on all lev- since the ceasefire occurred in the Donetsk or e-mail [email protected] els. It says Russia has become a negative province on November 9, fueling fears of an factor for regional security because of the escalation following November 2 votes – “rebuilding of its power status at the SERVICES PROFESSIONALS expense of its surroundings” and Moscow’s (Continued on page 13)

This calculation failed to anticipate Secessionist... Moscow’s and its proxies’ response. The U.S., German and other governments (Continued from page 3) deplore this breach of the armistice agree- were already airing those demands at full ment in their public statements, but have throttle, and Mr. Poroshenko’s move was not given up hopes to patch it up. The purely reactive. September 5 protocol is seen to be in tat- The “DPR-LPR elections” and ensuing ters, but remains the only existing political demands have practically nullified the basis for the armistice. Hence, Ukraine calls armistice agreement’s value in terms of for the resumption of the Geneva format of upholding Ukraine’s territorial integrity. negotiations to supersede the Russian- Russia had successfully ruled out that prin- dominated Minsk format. ciple from the text. Kyiv and its Western partners, however, felt that local elections The article above is reprinted from held under Ukrainian law in the “DPR-LPR” Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from would serve to confirm Ukraine’s jurisdic- its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, tion there, at least on paper. www.jamestown.org.

University is organizing a series of screenings Oles Sanin’s... of “The Guide” in five U.S. cities with the par- ticipation of the film director, Oles Sanin, him- (Continued from page 9) self: New York City, Philadelphia, Cambridge, But they’re overlooking at least two Mass., Chicago and Detroit. The unofficial U.S. things. First, artists always have creative premiere of the film will take place on license, especially when doing fiction, to Tuesday, December 2, at 7:30 p.m., at reimagine the world however they’d like. It Columbia University, 501 Schermerhorn Hall, is the presence of the word in the public the Morningside Campus. Mr. Sanin will pres- SERVICES sphere that confirms and legitimizes its ent and discuss his film with the viewers. FOR SALE existence. Secondly, many of them underes- “The Guide” is Ukraine’s official entry for timate the degree to which they’ve the Oscar consideration in the best foreign absorbed the Soviet-Russian vision in language category for 2014. LAND FOR SALE which a Ukrainian-speaking world is on GLEN SPEY, NY some fundamental level laughable. As a Ali Kinsella is a recent graduate of the 1 ACRE ON IVAN FRANKO ROAD playwright friend of mine sardonically interdisciplinary Slavic studies program at noted, “It’s really anti-Soviet to force Columbia University’s Harriman Institute. PLEASE CALL 917-992-6973 Ukrainians to speak Russian.” She takes a keen interest in literature and * * * film and is working on a book-length trans- The Ukrainian Film Club of Columbia lation of a contemporary Ukrainian novel. OPPORTUNITIES

notice the use of food shortages to pull Earn extra income! An “election”... people in to vote and the clear possibilities The Ukrainian Weekly is looking for voting many times. (Continued from page 7) for advertising sales agents. Most noticeably, as in the Crimea on For additional information contact Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, Beyond the fact that members of some March 16, they have no problem in declaring The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. of Europe’s most notorious neo-Nazi par- as exemplary elections in which the voters ties were approached to be “observers,” are surrounded by men with machine guns. what is more disturbing is that all of these Run your advertisement here, far-right parties can be reliably expected to The article above was published and dis- in The Ukrainian Weekly’s CLASSIFIEDS section. praise all Kremlin-backed elections. Like seminated by the Kharkiv Human Rights the Russian media, they choose not to Protection Group (http://khpg.org). No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 13 War in Ukraine takes a heavy toll on the Ukraine Little League Baseball Championships

by Basil P. Tarasko Ukrainian American said, “Christmas comes in September” when we host the BAYSIDE, N.Y. – Just a year ago, orphans annual lottery. Each child chooses donated from Donetsk No. 1 Internat (orphanage) souvenirs from caring people in the U.S. You and from the Lutuhene Internat (Luhansk should see those smiles – now even wider. Oblast) arrived in Kremenets, Ternopil These wonderful activities were all Oblast, Ukraine, to take part in the annual made possible by the contributions from Ukraine Little League Baseball kind organizations and individuals in the Championship for children from internats. United States. Our leading sponsor was the Their smiling faces showed that these California Association to Aid Ukraine almost forgotten children were happy to (CAUU), joined by the Self-Reliance (N.Y.) travel across the country to play their Federal Credit Union. Thank you so much favorite sport, baseball. for being there for the children. This year’s championship was held I learned that the children from the September 15-19 in Kremenets. The Rivne Lutuhene Internat made it out of the team dominated the local team Kremenets Luhansk Oblast during the deadly siege 11-1 to capture the seventh Ukraine Little there and were taken to Odesa. There, the League Championship title. During the children were split up. In effect, there is no games, nine home runs were hit – a record longer an internat in Lutuhene. A casualty. Players, coaches and umpires at the seventh annual Ukraine Little League Baseball – and the Rivne team led with six. I spoke to Valya, a phys-ed teacher and Championship in Kremenets, Ternopil Oblast, on September 15-19. During the four days, seven games were baseball coach of the Donetsk team. She held. The children participated in a pitch- told me that her children were evacuated that the tradition of hosting this champion- Ukrainian League of Philadelphia, Ukrainian ing competition; cultural trips including a from Donetsk and were moved to a nearby ship must continue. American Sports Club Tryzub, Ukrainian visit to the Pochaiv Monastery; an instruc- village. Then I learned that their internat To try to compensate for the lost teams, I Baltimore Festival, Ukrainian Homestead of tional baseball clinic was conducted; and was leveled to the ground. What a tragedy – invited an all-star team from Ivano Puste, a ODWU (Organization for the National our annual ever so popular lottery was all was lost for those children. Valya is cur- small village in the Ternopil Oblast. In addi- Rebirth of Ukraine), Ukrainian American held. We include a daily cultural program rently in Crimea with her parents and with- tion the Rivne Little League send its second Youth Association (UAYA) Ellenville, N.Y., and individual skill completions. As Roman out a job. Another casualty. team to compete for the title. Just before Pitch In For Baseball, Eastern Region Little Leskiw, a retired U.S. Marine and a Even with all this negative news, I feel the start of the games, I learned that the League Baseball and Hatsfield Sports con- orphans from Mizoch, Rivne Oblast, were tributed either funds or needed baseball forbidden to leave their village. A virus had equipment. Thank you for joining this spread into the internat and the children ongoing project for children in Ukraine. were placed on a 35-day quarantine. Special thanks also go to the kind indi- Another casualty. viduals in the U.S., thousands of miles away, I did not expect all this, yet 30 boys and who truly care. And the hope is that when three young ladies arrived for one purpose: those children become adults, they will to win the championship banner. The return this act of kindness to others. championship must go on. Thanks go to the Finally, I do welcome recommendations CAAU for being there once again as the lead of new schools or internaty in Ukraine who sponsor. may want to add a baseball and/or softball The format of the games had each team program for 2014 and into 2015. There is play single games each day with one team no cost involved. All the needed equipment playing a double header. In effect each team will be provided, and training of the new played the other team twice. The Kremenets coaches will be arranged. The only require- team won its first three games to reach the ment is a genuine desire by the director finals. Rivne defeated Ivano Puste to reach and his teachers. Please contact me, Basil P. the finals on September 19. Tarasko, district administrator for Ukraine In addition, the United Ukrainian American Little League, by e-mail at bt4ukraine@aol. Basil Tarasko (left), with directors of the Rivne team (center) and director of the Relief Committee, Ukrainian Congress com for more information or with your rec- Kremenets Internat (right). Committee of America (Philadelphia Branch), ommendation.

part declared that “Transcarpathia is a spe- Hungary, which has “consistently insisted will be more constructive to set up a com- Moscow using... cial, self-administered territory and a subject upon the idea of autonomy” if not indepen- mon humanitarian strategy and a common of international law not included in any pres- dence for Transcarpathia. But Russia has cultural discourse about Transcarpathia.” (Continued from page 2) ent territorial-administrative formation” – an obvious interest and needs to take more Hungary will take the lead in public; Russia to weaken them. Moscow helped the Rusyns that is, within Ukraine. The language of this steps, even if it continues to defer to and need “only send humanitarian impulses in the past and must do so again because “a appeal suggests that it was written not by rely on Budapest, the Segodnya article signaling the readiness of Russia to support humanitarian disaster for the Rusyn people Rusyns but rather by Russians, or at least argues (segodnia.ru, October 26). the protection of Rusyn culture and make it and all the residents of Transcarpathia has those under the influence of the Kremlin’s At present, and to lay the groundwork an object of serious research.” begun at the hands of the Galician Nazis massive anti-Ukrainian propaganda effort. for further action, Segodnya says, Moscow It appears increasingly likely that Russia and local collaborators,” the appeal argues The aforementioned Segodnya article, should be actively supporting Rusyn cul- will use Hungary as a cover to destabilize (rossiyanavsegda.ru, October 28). titled “The Rusyn Question. What Could the ture and language, providing humanitarian the situation in western Ukraine in the To support the Rusyns, the letter contin- Position of Russia Be?” lends additional assistance targeted at the Rusyns, promot- coming weeks, escaping blame or even ues, Moscow needs to conduct “a peacekeep- support to that interpretation. According to ing stories about them in Russian media attention until it may be too late, as was the ing operation for a short period” in it, “the Rusyn issue is acquiring particular and especially channels directed at foreign case in Crimea. Consequently, even hints Transcarpathia and “restore the pre-Soviet sharpness against the background of the countries, and bringing pressure to bear on like these need to be tracked with care. status of the Republic of Transcarpathian events taking place in Ukraine.” It is attract- Kyiv to create a Rusyn autonomy by raising Rus,” which was not within the borders of ing the attention of Western powers who this issue with Ukrainian officials and in The article above is reprinted from Ukraine. And Moscow must insist that Kyiv are interested in it for their own nefarious talks with the leaders of other countries. Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from recognize the results of the 1992 referen- reasons largely related to gas pipeline “In the Rusyn question,” the article insists, its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, dum in which 76.8 percent of those taking routes. And it is being pushed hard by “Russia must not compete with Hungary. It www.jamestown.org.

McCain on weapons for Ukraine [government], examination of our strategy Moscow mental health facility. The hearing NEWSBRIEFS in the Middle East, our assets with regard was initially scheduled for October 27, but NEW YORK – The Daily Beast’s Eli Lake to [Russian President Vladimir] Putin in the was postponed until November 11 because (Continued from page 12) reported on November 6: “In an interview region, China’s continued encroachment in she was not brought to the courtroom from on November 5, Sen. John McCain, the the South China Sea.” (The Daily Beast) the hospital. Court officials said the hearing denounced by Kyiv and the West but incoming chairman of the Senate Armed was being held behind closed doors “respected” by Russia – in which leaders of Services Committee, said he has already Moscow court hears Savchenko’s complaint because it involves private information two self-proclaimed “people’s republics” discussed a new national-security agenda about Lt. Savchenko’s health, court officials were elected. Ukrainian military spokes- with fellow Republicans Bob Corker and MOSCOW – A Moscow court has started said. Lt. Savchenko says she was captured man Andriy Lysenko said the conflict had Richard Burr, the likely incoming chairmen a hearing into a complaint filed by Nadiya by pro-Russian separatists in eastern intensified in the past week and that Kyiv of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Savchenko, the Ukrainian air force pilot Ukraine on June 18 and “illegally trans- believes Russia could stir up tension to pro- and Senate Select Committee on who is being held in Russia on charges of ferred” to Russian custody in July. vide a pretext to “send in so-called Russian Intelligence. “Burr and Corker and I will be complicity in the deaths of two Russian Investigators have said she was detained in peacekeeping units.” (RFE/RL, with report- working closely together on everything,” journalists in eastern Ukraine. 1st Lt. Russia. The Ukrainian pilot won a seat in ing by the Associated Press, Reuters and Sen. McCain said, according to The Daily Savchenko lodged a protest against a psy- the Verkhovna Rada last month. (RFE/RL, Deutsche Presse-Agentur) Beast. “For example, arms for Ukraine’s chological examination conducted at a with reporting by TASS and UNIAN) 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46

COMMUNITY CHRONICLE UCCA New York adopts defense battalion in Ukraine UCCA NEW YORK – Ivanka Zajac, president of the United Ukrainian American Organizations of New York – a branch of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA), has been working tirelessly since July to support a group of Ukrainians united in the fight for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and freedom. The 25th Territorial Defense Battalion Kyivska Rus’ comprises over 450 individuals who have valiantly volun- teered their lives to protect their country. They are in dire need of food, clothing and proper equipment. Mrs. Zajac first learned about this group when she befriended Ivan Rodichenko in New York City. Mr. Rodichenko was an active participant of the Maidan in Kyiv and has immersed himself in helping the 25th Battalion. He is responsible for securing food and resources for 40 men, per rotation. During the summer, Ms. Zajac and her daughter Romanka created a fund online, providing a simple way to donate money. With the donations, Ms. Zajac has been pur- chasing medical supplies, clothing and food to send to the Ivanka Zajac (foreground) and volunteers help to pack supplies for the defense battalion in Ukraine that has been men. She has also been providing Mr. Rodichenko with the adopted by the New York branch of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America. means to buy lifesaving equipment and other necessary items that cannot be physically mailed. Ms. Zajac and Mr. taught me to always love, honor and respect our country. If Rodichenko are in constant contact with each other, work- we don’t, who will?” ing together despite being thousands of miles apart. As winter approaches, the men will need warm clothing The community has been buttressing Ms. Zajac’s efforts. – jackets, thermal shirts and pants, socks, boots and ther- Children attending the Ukrainian American Youth moses for hot tea. The New York branch of the UCCA has Association summer camp painted drawings to buoy the sol- adopted the 25th Territorial Defense Battalion Kyivska Rus’ diers’ spirits. With Irene Saviano’s facilitation, students from and will continue raising the money required to replenish St. George Academy in New York helped pack provisions. supplies. Ms. Zajac’s daughter Marianka, together with other volun- Ms. Zajac’s goal, besides keeping each volunteer protect- teers, dedicated her time to collecting and packing items. ed and properly equipped, is for every UCCA branch to sup- Ms. Zajac has sent 14 boxes filled with food, medical port its own battalion. supplies, military sleeping bags, military gloves, drawings, To help the 25th Battalion, readers can make a donation religious photos and hand-made rosaries. Mr. Rodichenko online at https://www.crowdrise.com/Helpthe25th frequently posts photos on the “Help the 25th Territorial Battalion-Kyiv/fundraiser/romankazajac, or send a check Defense Battalion Kyiv” Facebook page, expressing the or money order made out to “NYC Branch-25th Battalion men’s gratitude for all. Kyiv” to: UCCA-NYC Branch, 203 Second Ave., Third Floor, Ms. Zajac has been deeply involved in aiding these men New York, NY 10003 for many reasons. She says: “I can’t be there to physically Direct deposits into the 25th Territorial Defense Volunteers of the 25th Territorial Defense Battalion fight, but I can fund-raise. My parents, Ukrainian school Battalion bank account can be made at Self Reliance (N.Y.) pose with a journalist. teachers and Ukrainian Youth Association counselors, Federal Credit Union at 108 Second Ave., New York. School of Ukrainian Studies in New York City opens 65th school year by Daria Kozak-Tymets the 65th year of the Ukrainian Studies of and School Administrator Natalia Duma lary, improving Ukrainian reading and writ- the Selfreliance Association. The service welcomed students and their parents. ing, and creating more interest in learning NEW YORK – On Saturday, September was followed by an opening ceremony at St. In his remarks, Mr. Makar stressed the about traditional culture and faith,” said 13, a celebration of the divine liturgy at St. George Academy, where, following the tra- importance of education, learning about Vice-Principal for Academic Affairs George Ukrainian Catholic Church opened ditional “first bell,” Principal Ivan Makar Ukraine at this particular juncture in its his- Chrystyna Vasylkiv-Pikhmanets. She tory, and said that “knowledge is the best explained that after observing classes, weapon against the enemy.” reviewing teachers’ lesson plans and re- From their first years in the United working teaching materials, a new curricu- States, immigrants from Ukraine organized lum and methodology have been created communities, trying on the one hand, to and put in place. To help English-speaking adapt to local conditions, and on the other, students, a new “Ukrainian language for to preserve their ethnic and national identi- beginners” class is now being taught by ty. The tireless and dedicated work of these Chrystia Gorski-Makar. early Ukrainian Americans created a favor- This year, the School of Ukrainian able environment for their cultural and Studies in New York City has approximately national development. 200 students from kindergarten to 12th After World War II, the new wave of grade. Branch 83 of the Ukrainian National 5th Annual Children’s Christmas immigrants, many from the intelligentsia, Women’s League of America runs the actively focused their energy on Ukrainian “Svitlychka,” or pre-K program, for children Party and Tree Trimming education in the diaspora. Thus, the first age 3 to 5. Here, children learn Ukrainian Ukrainian school was established in New songs, dance, games and meet their first Sunday, December 7, 2014, 2 - 4 p.m. York City. The school’s mission was not friends. only to give children a certain amount of * Christmas tree decorating and kolyada for children 4-12 years old The administration for the 2014-2015 knowledge about Ukraine and to slow school year includes Principal Makar and * Christmas cupcake decorating assimilation, but also, to bring up valuable Vice-Principal (Academic Affairs) Vasylkiv- * Photo booth photos and productive members of the communi- Pikhmanets, Vice-Principal (Administrative * Other treats and surprises, including a ra e ty. This situation rings true today. Affairs) Natalia Danysh and the school * Plenty of good cheer and fellowship for parents and other adults, In 2011, with the appointment of administrator, Mrs. Duma. including cider, mulled wine, and snacks. Principal Makar, the school turned over a Lower school teachers are: Natalia Guga new leaf. Over the last several years, the (kindergarten), Ulana Hanuszczak (Grade To purchase tickets go to our website www.ukrainianinstitute.org administration and faculty has been active- 1), Olya Kit-Wowk (Grade 2), Natalia ly working to take a more communicative Yezerska (Grade 3), Bozhena Pobutska Ukrainian Institute of America approach to learning. (Grade 4), Victoria Slobodian (Grade 5), 2 East 79th Street and Fi h Ave., New York, NY 10075 “We are now focusing on developing communication skills, increasing vocabu- (Continued on page 15) No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 15 Vovkulaky fraternity of Plast holds grand assembly by Walter Luciw TORONTO – On September 27, 45 members of the North American Ukrainian scouting fraternity Vovkulaky gathered at the Plastova Sich campground near Grafton, Ontario, for their yearly grand assembly. On the program was a review of the past year’s activity of the fraternity and a celebration of 57 years of past accomplishments, as well as yearly elections of new lead- ership of the junior and senior wings of the Vovkulaky fra- ternity, and planning of further Plast and community activ- ities for the next year. The program began with singing of the fraternity anthems and a prayer for departed Vovkulaky members, as well as a remembrance of the heroes of the Maidan dem- onstrations in Kyiv. Present at the assembly was one such activist of Vovkulaky, senior scout George Sajewych from Washington, badly injured during brutal police crackdowns against the demonstrators in Kyiv, who is now recuperating in the U.S. Shortly, he will be returning to Ukraine to rejoin his brigade on the Ukrainian eastern front, fighting the Russian inva- sion in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Mr. Sajewych pre- sented a detailed (and emotional) account of his participa- tion in the “Revolution of Dignity” in the winter of 2014 Ihor Popadynec during the concluding bonfire late at night. The Vovkulaky fraternity of Plast at their meeting near Grafton, Ontario. The Vovkulaky also had a review of the annual leader- ship reports and feedback from local Vovkulaky groups in axe-throwing competition. This became most enjoyable Mykyta as oboznyi, Ruslan Tracz (North America) and Europe, Ukraine and North America. These confirmed yet when the target had pictures of certain leaders of the Mykola Muzala (Ukraine and Europe) as deputy leaders, again that the No. 1 activity of Vovkulaky members was, Russian invasion of Ukraine. and Lukash Monczak as treasurer. and will continue to be, working with Plast youth leaders, The assembly elected Yury Monczak as “oboznyi” (lead- The assembly continued well into the night with the organizing summer and winter camps, and providing er), Lubomyr Domashewsky (North America) and “Vovkulacha Vatra” (campfire), where all official ceremo- counselors and leaders for the advanced scouting skills Vyacheslav Stebnycky (Ukraine and Europe) as deputy nies were held. The assembly was concluded with Mr. camps “Zolota Bulava” and “Lisova Shkola.” leaders, and Taras Silecky as treasurer for the senior Sajewych’s recollection of the “Maidan” revolution, the The recreational event at this year’s assembly was an branch of Vovkulaky. The junior branch elected Oles singing of “Nich Vzhe Ide” and a prayer for peace. Pershi Stezhi discuss new directions at Soyuzivka by Adriana Helbig Munich have been very active in the running of Plast scout The questions on the minds of the seniors, however, camps, as well as the famed “Stezhky Kultury” that the were not about their legacy, but about the future of Plast KERHONKSON, N.Y. – Members of the Pershi Stezhi, one group organized for Ukrainian American youths to tour and, more specifically, the future of Pershi Stezhi. A reflec- of Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization’s oldest and larg- various destinations in Europe and Ukraine. tive group with a critical and realistic outlook, their ques- est sororities, gathered at the Soyuzivka Heritage Center In the last 25 years, Pershi Stezhi’s efforts have also tions focused on how to attract and retain young people in for their conference on October 18-19. More than 30 mem- focused on “Tabir Ptashat” camp for children age 4-6. This the organization. bers came from New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, year, the two weeklong camps at Soyuzivka attracted 81 Well-known within Plast for being quite demanding of Pennsylvania, Illinois, Virginia, Maryland and Canada for a children who have not yet entered Plast for activities with themselves in all aspects of their lives, what brings these weekend of camaraderie and work. their parents and grandparents in the Shawangunk women together is a sense of individualism, a commitment Pershi Stezhi, established on September 25, 1947, in Mountains. to hard work and. above all, friendship. They share a strong love for each other, for their heritage and for Plast. But the question of who will lead the group into the future hangs heavily: The last of the young adult members of Pershi Stezhi went over to the seniors’ division last year. Many young women have joined Pershi Stezhi in Ukraine in recent years, and they have been very active in Rivne and Lviv. Should Pershi Stezhi transfer leadership of the sorority to Ukraine, or is there a group of adventurous young women in the U.S. and Canada who wish to revive the sorority? They would work autonomously, though with the help and financial support of the seniors, who repre- sent a who’s who of Ukrainian American society over the last 70 years. This question of transmission, tradition and future direction is one that every Ukrainian American organiza- tion faces though, unlike Plast, organizations like churches and community groups have benefited from a significant influx of members from the Fourth Wave of immigration from Ukraine. The fate of the Pershi Stezhi sorority is up to the young people reading this article. All interested young women are invited to take a closer look at Pershi Stezhi, see how it can help them reach your goals individually, socially, in Plast and in the broader community. The seniors are here to help the younger generation and they are looking to them Andrey Hankevych to point in new directions and the new “first paths” for Pershi Stezhi sorority members at their meeting at Soyuzivka. which the Pershi Stezhi sorority has always been known.

Matviyishyn (Ukrainian), Valentyna school librarian. Substitute teachers Church’s priests and the generous financial School of Ukrainian... Hlushak (history), Nastya Antoniv (litera- include Yaryna Hlum and Oksana Boyko. assistance of the Selfreliance Association ture), Serhiy Shokalo (geography) and The School of Ukrainian Studies in New have also been vital. (Continued from page 14) Mykhajlo Barabash (culture). York City begins its 65th year thanks to the Classes take place on Saturdays, from 9 Anna Tupytsia (Grade 6) and Halyna Sisters Yulia Bronyska and Vera Yulyk efforts and support of hundreds of former a.m. to 1 p.m., at 215 E. Sixth Street, New Halychanivska (Grade 7). Upper school teach religion; Elya Romanyshyn is the cho- teachers, administrators and parents. The York, NY 10003. For more information, see teachers (Grades 8-12) are: Olya ral director; and Zoriana Vynar is the moral and spiritual guidance of St. George www.ukrainianschoolnyc.org. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46 No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 17

volunteers from Chechnya was soon dis- poses a particular threat to Moscow, which makes Russia’s activities to intercept them Two battalions... patched to Ukraine to punish Mr. Munaev. would like to get rid of him. The result of much harder than catching those few The head of Mr. Kadyrov’s personal guards, Moscow’s efforts, however, is that more Chechens who dare to return home from (Continued from page 2) Abuzaida Vismuradov (a.k.a. Patriot), pub- people within the Chechen diaspora trust Syria. A new wave of militarized Chechens consequently resulted in an increase in the lished several videos of Chechen volunteers him and are prepared to join him and fight is forming near Russia; and as the conflict number of Chechen volunteers coming determined to take revenge on Mr. Munaev. for Ukraine’s freedom – even those who did in Ukraine continues, more and more from European countries. Eventually, the “Apti, Timur, Vakha arrived here and not know him as a Chechen war combatant. Chechens will likely relocate to Ukraine and Chechen commander was able to form a brought a Chechen volunteer battalion with Thus, after Syria, the Chechens are ready take up the Ukrainian cause and receive second Chechen volunteer battalion in them,” Mr. Vismuradov said. “They will look to establish themselves as a military force vital military training, not to mention bat- Ukraine named after Sheikh Mansur. Mr. for Isa Munaev and people like him. I want on the Ukrainian front as well. The possibil- tlefield experience there. Munaev appointed one of his close associ- to say that his interview will not go unpun- ity to damage Russia there will motivate ates, Muslim Cheberloevsky, who actively ished” (vestikavkaza.ru, October 30). the Chechens even more than the opportu- The article above is reprinted from participated in both Russian-Chechen wars, Increasingly, it appears that an intra- nity to fight for the caliphate back in Syria. Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from as commander of the second battalion Chechen conflict is taking place within the By going to Ukraine, Chechens move closer its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, (golosichkerii.com, October 25). conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Mr. to their homeland in the Caucasus, which www.jamestown.org. Thus, as of today, there are two battal- Munaev has sought to avoid such a turn and ions of volunteers made up of Chechen res- has warned that the Russians want to give idents from Western Europe. The Chechens the impression that an intra-Chechen con- are on the frontline, living in tents and flict was taking place prior to Moscow’s fighting under the flags of Ichkeria and involvement in Chechnya and that the Ukraine against the Russia-backed separat- Kremlin had managed to end the infighting ist forces that have challenged the authori- between Chechens (golosichkerii.com, ties in Kyiv (YouTube, November 4). October 31). Mr. Munaev warned that his Mr. Munaev’s activism has raised con- men will treat all those who are fighting cerns in Ramzan Kadryov’s Chechnya. In under the Russian flag as part of the Russian response to his statements about defending military regardless of their ethnicity. Ukraine, some Chechens in Chechnya start- The fact that an entire special operation ed saying that people who challenge Russia was launched to discredit Mr. Munaev (day- must face retribution. A group of Chechen mohk.net, October 25) indicates that he

Patriarch... (Continued from page 1) After the liturgy, a representative of the apostolic nuncio to the United States read a bull from the pope regarding the confirma- tion of the election of the newly ordained hierarch and handed it over to Bishop Danylo. Afterwards, the newly consecrated bishop addressed the audience. Patriarch Sviatoslav had arrived on November 2 in the U.S. for the consecration and enthronement of the new bishop. At Department of Information of the UGCC Cleveland Airport, he was welcomed with The newly enthroned Bishop Bohdan Danylo. bread and salt by Bishop Bura; Bishop-Elect Bohdan Danylo; his brother, the Rev. Vsevolod parish of St. Michael in Hartford, he was Shevchuk, who ministers to the Ukrainian appointed vice-rector of the Seminary of St. community in Akron, Ohio; the Rev. Bohdan Basil the Great in Stamford. He continued Barytskyi, parochial vicar of the cathedral his studies at St. Vladimir Theological church in Parma; Archdeacon Geoffrey Seminary in Crestwood, N.Y., and then at Smolylo, who serves at the cathedral of the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Parma; as well as religious and lay represen- Aquinas in Rome, where in 2005 he tatives of the Ukrainian community in Parma. obtained his Licentiate in Theology. The next day, in the Cathedral of St. Since 2005 the Rev. Danylo had been the Josaphat in Parma, Patriarch Sviatoslav, in rector of the Seminary of St. Basil the Great concelebration with Bishops Chomnycky in Stamford. The new bishop speaks English, and Bura, as well as numerous other hier- Ukrainian, Polish, Russian and Italian. archs, presided over the Rite of Episcopal Sources: Department of Information of Nomination of the Rev. Danylo. the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church, Afterwards, the primate of the UGCC led Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of St. Josaphat. Vespers, which were attended by the bish- ops who came to Parma from all over the United States and Canada, as well as many priests, deacons, religious and laypersons. On November 9, on the occasion of the celebration of the cathedral and eparchial feast day, the newly ordained ordinary of the Eparchy of St. Josaphat presided over his first Sunday divine liturgy since his enthronement. Bishop Danylo was joined by Bishop Bura, until recently the eparchy’s apostolic administrator. After the liturgy, a festive dinner with an artistic program took place in the chancery’s banquet hall, during which representatives of the clergy and the laity welcomed Bishop Danylo as their newly enthroned eparch and thanked Bishop Bura for the many years of his fatherly work for the eparchy. The appointment of the new bishop for the Eparchy of St. Josaphat in Parma was announced by Pope Francis on August 7. The Rev. Danylo was born on May 22, 1971, in Gizycko, Poland; he grew up in Pzremyszl (Peremyshl in Ukrainian). After studying philosophy in Lublin, he moved to the United States, where he received theo- logical education at the Catholic University of America in Washington and was ordained a priest for the Eparchy of Stamford on October 1, 1996. After a year of service as curate in the 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46 INTERVIEW: Baley speaks about upcoming Shevchenko bicentennial concert Following is an interview with composer, conductor and musicologist Virko Baley con- ducted by composer Leonid Hrabovsky.

The bicentennial of Shevchenko’s birth is a momentous occasion for Ukrainians specifically and for lovers of Shevchenko’s poetry internationally. We now know that the Shevchenko Scientific Society in the U.S.A. asked you to put together an appropriate concert to celebrate this occasion in New York at Merkin Concert Hall at Lincoln Center. Can you tell us how you came up with the concept for this event? The process was interesting. From a musical standpoint, the concert had to involve the settings of the poet’s words to music. But, in the case of Shevchenko, the situation is more complicated. When one Performers at the December 7 concert celebrating the bicentennial of Taras Shevchenko: (from left) Oksana Dyka, soprano; reads Shevchenko’s various writings (such Solomiya Ivakhiv, violin; and Angelina Gadeliya, piano. as diaries and stories), one finds many November of 1860, in St. Petersburg, encouraged to participate wholeheartedly selecting the music? comments on music. He was musically lit- Shevchenko shared a platform with in the considerable cultural life of the city, erate, and there is some evidence that he A couple of things. All the music not set Dostoyevsky and two other Russian poets, which was very busy becoming more and could perform on the piano. He attended to Shevchenko’s poetry would have to be more of a European-style capital. As for concerts and opera performances regularly. in support of a charitable cause. A diarist selected from the music that he knew of or how he conversed with Ira Aldridge, or He thought very highly of Mozart and who was there, Elena Shtakenschneider, heard and loved, both vocal and instrumen- other foreigners, it was with help of friends Beethoven and felt much affinity for Chopin commented that Dostoyevsky received tal. In other words, music written prior to who knew that particular language. This is and Mendelssohn, who were also high on polite applause, but Shevchenko a deafen- the year of his death. The three great oper- true everywhere. his list. He was familiar with various virtuo- ing ovation, which she called an “uncon- atic arias by Bellini (from “Norma”), Mozart sos of his time such as Paganini, Servais trolled uproar.” What made you decide to invite (from “Marriage of Figaro”) and Rossini and Vieuxtemps. Thus, one can say that my approach was Oksana Dyka? (from “William Tell”) that open the concert His writings mention dozens of musical to pull together all these strands to create a we know he knew. After considering a number of possibili- names. He was particularly fond of opera program that would reflect Shevchenko’s Second, I wanted a new piece, written by ties, the board of NTSh [the Ukrainian- and singers, being by all contemporary musical interests. a contemporary composer in Ukraine, for based acronym for the Shevchenko accounts a very gifted amateur singer. His the concert. I knew that Alexander Two questions come to my mind that Scientific Society] decided that a concert taste in music was very catholic: he loved Shchetynsky had written a chamber opera may need clarification. What linguistic that featured an internationally renowned Haydn’s great oratorio “The Creation” (a on an event in Shevchenko’s life when in skills did Shevchenko possess in order singer, and one associated with the venera- very complex work to understand), the exile, titled “Interrupted Letter,” that is to to become that familiar with European ble Metropolitan Opera, should be consid- operas of Bellini (especially “Norma”), vari- be performed in Vienna the following sea- culture, and how did he become that ered first. Oksana Dyka had just appeared ous operas by Donizetti, two operas by son. I asked him to compose a violin and versed in it? to great acclaim as Yaroslavna in Borodin’s Meyerbeer (“The Prophet” and “The piano piece based on that opera for this “Prince Igor,” and this spring is returning to Huguenots”), “William Tell” by Rossini, As for languages, besides Ukrainian and concert. He agreed, and the result is “An the Met to take over the role of Aida from Glinka’s “Life of a Tsar” and many more. He Russian, he knew Polish – there is consider- Episode in the Life of the Poet,” a fantasy that other remarkable Ukrainian soprano, had a long and important personal and able evidence for that. He also probably based on the opera “Interrupted Letter” for Liudmyla Monastyrska. She has also been artistic friendship with Hulak-Artemovsky, knew some phrases in French, the lingua violin and piano. booked for 2016 and 2017 to do other lead the composer of “Kozaks Beyond the franca of its day and probably some in But, the bulk of the concert is Oksana roles at the Met. Danube.” Shevchenko was also very much Italian, since his main mentor was Karl Dyka performing songs written on Dyka is a bona fide international operat- interested in theater. Briullow, the first internationally acknowl- Shevchenko’s words by composers such as ic star in the making – no question about it. When the great American Negro actor edged “Russian” painter, famous during his Lysenko, Stetsenko, Stevopyi, Mussorgsky I found out that Ms. Dyka was fortunately Ira Aldridge came to St. Petersburg in 1858 lifetime for the painting The Last Day of (the famous “Hopak”), Rachmaninoff, available and interested in participating in to appear in Shakespeare’s “Othello,” he Pompeii. But remember, Karl Briullow was Silvestrov, Skoryk, Ihor Shamo and others, our very specific, demanding type of con- became Shevchenko’s close friend. born in Italy and came to Russia with his ending with Halia’s aria from “Nazar cert, one that reflected Shevchenko’s Shevchenko felt that Negroes in America father – a sculptor named Briullo whose Stodolia” by Dankevych. known musical interests. After some dis- shared the fate of the Ukrainian serfs in the last name was Russified to Briullow – and Solomiya Ivakhiv and Angelina Gadeliya cussions, she agreed. Russian Empire. Putting all his interests spent many years back in Italy during his will perform Beethoven’s Allegro Vivace together (historical, literary, visual, theatri- life. Thus, he was actually a man of both Interspersed between her three vocal from Sonata in G Major, Op. 30, which is cal, musical philosophical), we clearly see worlds. St. Petersburg had, as any center of sections, there will be music for violin and stylistically a “Hopak,” a genre that Shevchenko to be a genuine intellectual. a quickly developing empire would, a large, piano by two composers we know Beethoven became acquainted with during Finally, he was an extremely effective multi-lingual foreign population. The stu- Shevchenko loved, Beethoven and Henri his friendship with Count Andrey speaker, a dramatic performer of words. In dents of the academy were very much Vieuxtemps, performed by violinist Rozumovsky, the son of the last hetman, Solomiya Ivakhiv and pianist Angelina Kyrylo Rozumovsky, who was the tsar’s Gadeliya, who is also accompanying Ms. diplomatic representative to the Hapsburg Dyka. In addition, Troppe Note Publishing court in Vienna. Beethoven dedicated his commissioned the Kyiv composer three great string quartets to him, always Alexander Shchetynsky to write a new referred as the “Rozumovsky Quartets.” piece in honor of Shevchenko and his The program has already aroused con- bicentennial. siderable interest among many people. I What can you tell us about the other urge the readers of The Ukrainian Weekly performers at the concert? to attend an event that will most certainly broaden your appreciation of our genius Well, they are certainly two of the best Shevchenko and in the process hear some young instrumentalists from the Ukrainian fabulous performances and beautiful community working in United States. Both music. Solomiya and Angelina are wonderful, pro- * * * fessional musicians, soloists and artists, The concert will take place on Sunday, both well-known to the New York audience. December 7, at 7 p.m. at Merkin Hall, fol- Shchetynsky is an established composer in lowed by an opportunity to meet the artists Europe and is starting to have performanc- at the post-concert gala reception at the es and recognition in America. As a matter Ukrainian Institute of America (UIA). The of fact, MATI [Music at the Institute] is pre- concert is sponsored and organized by the senting on April 25, 2015, a concert called Shevchenko Scientific Society (NTSh). The “Shchetynsky and the New Ukrainians,” UIA is co-sponsoring the event with NTSh, which will introduce to New York new voic- and the Ukrainian Academy of Arts and es from Ukraine. Sciences in the U.S. (UVAN) is a supporting What guided you and Oksana Dyka in partner. No. 46 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 19

November 17 Film screenings, “Blockade and Reflections” and short November 22 Holodomor commemorative event, with film screening of Cambridge, MA films by Sergei Loznitsa, Harvard University, San Francisco “Genocide Revealed” by Yurij Luhovy, with commentary 617-495-3549 by Dr. Oleh Weres, Main Public Library, 650-281-6927 or http:/sfpl.org/index/php?pg=1016157801 November 17 Symposium, with Anna Artunyan and Alexander Motyl, Cambridge, MA “Vladimir Putin and Ukraine. What is on His Mind? What November 22 Candlelight vigil for victims of the Holodomor, Northern is in His Mind?,” Harvard University, 617-495-3549 San Francisco California branch of the Ukrainian American Coordinating Council, Union Square, November 18 Roundtable discussion with Denisa Hejlova, Anastasiia www.facebook.com/events/550941105037623 New York Grynko and Milan Heijl, “Media, Business and Politics in Eastern Europe: Public Relations Development and its November 22 Concert with Vopli Vidopliasova, Master Theater, Power,” Columbia University, 212-854-4623 or Brooklyn, NY www.mastertheater.com or 718-339-0003 http://harriman.columbia.edu November 22 Sister City Friendship Dinner and celebration in support of November 18-19 Ukrainian Days advocacy event, Ukrainian National Sebastopol, CA Chyhyryn, Cherkasy, Ukraine, Sebastopol World Friends, Washington Information Service, Ukrainian Congress Committee of Enmanji Temple Memorial Hall, 707-823-9343 or America, Capitol Hill, 202-54-0018 or [email protected] [email protected]

November 20 Poetry night with Olena Jennings, Vasyl Makhno, November 22-23 Christmas Bazaar, Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine of New York Alexander Motyl, Maria Rewakowicz and Al Rosenblatt, Washington the Holy Family, 202-526-3737 or The Ukrainian Museum, www.ukrainianmuseum.org www.ucns-holyfamily.org

November 20 Film screening, “Holodomor,” with discussion by MP James November 23 Parish feast day, St. Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Ottawa Bezan and Prof. Roman Serbyn, Ukrainian Students’ Club San Francisco Orthodox Church, 415-225-2582 or of Ottawa, University of Ottawa, www.stmichaeluocsf.org www.facebook.com/suskOttawa November 23 Ukrainian Christmas Bazaar, Ukrainian Women’s November 20 Presentation by Radoslaw Sikorski, “A Future for Ukraine: Ottawa Association, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Cambridge, MA Lessons From Poland,” Harvard University, 617-495-3549 Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, 613-830-1472

November 22 Requiem service for victims of the Holodomor, St. Patrick November 23 Lecture by Tamara Skrypka, “Lesia Ukrainka: Fate and New York Cathedral, www.ucca.org or 212-228-6840 New York Inheritance,” and book presentation, “The Drahomanov- Kosach Family Tree: Structure and Culture,” Ukrainian November 22 Requiem service for victims of the Holodomor, Academy of Arts and Science, 212-222-1866 Ottawa Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, 613-728-0856 or www.ukrainianorthodox.info 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 November 22 Christmas bazaar, St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors Kenmore, NY Church, 716-873-5011 and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014 No. 46

PREVIEW OF EVENTS

Saturday, November 22 Admission is free. Donations go toward the ish children will present an informal bilingual 222 E. Sixth St., between Second and Third Church Building Fund. For more information entertainment program. Complimentary avenues; phone number, 212-228-0110; web- NEW YORK: The Shevchenko Scientific contact Donna Maksymowich-Waskiewicz at refreshments will be served. For those attend- site, www.ukrainianmuseum.org. Society invites all to a book launch “Shliakh u 954-434-4635 or [email protected] ing the Sunday divine liturgy at 10:45 a.m., a Bezsmertia. Do 30-Richchia Vidkhodu u Wednesday, December 31 light lunch will be provided after the liturgy. If Vichnist Blazhennishoho Patriyarkha Yosyfa NEW YORK: At 7 p.m., join us for “Hutsuls on you would like to attend the luncheon, please PERTH AMBOY, N.J.: A New Year’s Eve dance Slipoho (1892-1984). Materialy pro Smert ta the Barricades: Songs, Music and Rituals from contact Teresa Szpyhulsky, 908-289-0127; (zabava) will be held by Assumption Ukrainian Pokhoron” (Lviv: Artos, 2014). The program the Carpathians and the Maidan,” a Yara Arts Patricia Shatynski, 908-322-7350; or email the Catholic Church, 380 Meredith St., Perth will feature an introduction by Prof. Leonid Group concert featuring the Koliadnyky, an parish at [email protected] by Amboy, N.J., beginning at 8 p.m. Music will be Rudnytzky, talks by Iryna Ivankovych (execu- ensemble of winter-song singers from November 30. Additional information and by Oberehy. Tickets are $80 per person; chil- tive director of the St. Sophia Society in the Kryvorivnia (a Ukrainian village in the Hutsul directions to the parish may be found on the dren (age 5-12), $40. (Tickets purchased after U.S.) and Father Marko Yaroslav Semehen region of the Carpathian Mountains) and Yara parish website www.byzcath.org/ December 25 will be $90). A TV will be raffled (president of the St. Sophia Society in Italy) artists. Hear traditional winter songs from the ImmaculateConception. off as a door prize. Menu will include: main and a screening of the film “Shliakh u Koliada rituals celebrating the winter solstice course – stuffed salmon, French-style pork, Saturday-Sunday, December 13-14 Bezsmertia.” The presentation will take place and scenes from contemporary Ukraine. roasted chicken, chicken with barbeque sauce, at the society’s building, 63 Fourth Avenue Tickets for the 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. shows will be NEW YORK: Create your own traditional chicken loaf, meatloaf, stuffed cabbage, pyrohy, (between Ninth and 10th streets) at 5 p.m. For available for advance purchase online on Ukrainian Christmas tree ornaments such as roasted potatoes, cheese blintzes, puffs with additional information, call 212-254-5130. November 15. Seating is limited. Admission is spiders, cradles, stars, mobiles and garlands meat, mushroom gravy, borshch; European Friday, December 5 $25; $20 for members, seniors, students. The using beads, walnut shells, colored ribbons salads – salad olivier, cold feet (studynets), Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 E. Sixth and paper. Sign up for this great activity for the “shuba,” carrot salad with raisins, cold cuts, NEW YORK: The 1964 film “The Dream” St., between Second and Third avenues; entire family (children ages 7 and up) on pickled cucumbers and tomatoes; desserts – (“Son”) will be screened at 7 p.m. This phone number, 212-228-0110; website, Saturday, 2-4 p.m., or Sunday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or cakes, fresh fruit and champagne. For tickets Ukrainian-language production (no subtitles) is www.ukrainianmuseum.org. 2-4 p.m. Fee: adults, $15; students over 12 and call 732-826-0767 or 202-368-2408. All seats director Volodymyr Denysenko’s interpretation seniors, $10; children age 7-12, $5; members – reserved; no tickets will be sold at the door. Saturday-Sunday, December 6-7 of Taras Shevchenko’s satirical poem written in 10 percent discount. Pre-registration is For information see www.assumption 1844 exposing Russian tsarism as a ruthless NEW YORK: Do not miss the Christmas required. The Ukrainian Museum is located at catholicchurch.net. and authoritarian regime, which led to Bazaar and its unique gifts at 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Shevchenko’s arrest and 10-year exile. An intro- This annual sale organized by The Ukrainian duction will be given by Dr. Vitaly A. Chernetsky, Museum’s “Wednesday Volunteers” is a great University of Kansas, with Q&A after the screen- opportunity to purchase folk art items, orna- PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES ing. Admission (includes reception and gallery ments, Christmas cards, books, artwork, con- Preview of Events is a listing of community events open to the public. It is a service provided at access) is $15; $10 for members and seniors; $5 temporary crafts and jewelry, home-baked minimal cost ($20 per listing) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the Ukrainian community. for students. Tickets may be purchased online goods and much more. Come early for the best To have an event listed in Preview of Events please send information, in English, written in or at the door. The Ukrainian Museum is located selections, or check the online gift shop at Preview format, i.e., in a brief paragraph that includes the date, place, type of event, sponsor, at 222 E. Sixth St., between Second and Third www.ukrainianmuseum.org. Admission is admission, full names of persons and/or organizations involved, and a phone number and/or avenues; phone number, 212-228-0110; web- free. The Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 e-mail address to be published for readers who may require additional information. Items site, www.ukrainianmuseum.org. E. Sixth St., between Second and Third ave- must be no more than 100 words long. Saturday, December 6 nues; phone number, 212-228-0110; website, www.ukrainianmuseum.org. Preview items must be received no later than one week before the desired date of publi- MIAMI: The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin cation (i.e., they must be received by 9 am Monday morning). Please include payment for each Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church Choir invites Sunday, December 7 time the item is to appear and indicate date(s) of issue(s) in which the item is to be published. you to its sixth annual Christmas choral pro- HILLSIDE, N.J.: You, your family and friends Also, senders are asked to include the phone number of a person who may be contacted by gram featuring traditional Ukrainian are invited to visit with St. Nicholas at 12:30 The Weekly during daytime hours, as well as their complete mailing address. Christmas/holiday songs of the season. The p.m. in the church hall of Immaculate Information should be sent to [email protected]. When e-mailing, please do not send concert is at 7 p.m. at the Assumption of the Conception Ukrainian Catholic Church, located items as attachments – simply type the text into the body of the e-mail message. Preview items Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic at the intersection of Liberty Avenue and Bloy and payments may be mailed to: Preview of Events, The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Church. 38 NW 57th Ave. (at Flagler Street). Street in Hillside (Union County), NJ. The par- Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054.