The Ukrainian Weekly, 2017

Part 2 of THE YEAR IN REVIEW pages 5-13

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXV No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 $2.00 FOR THE RECORD Biden’s last visit to Kyiv as vice-president Vice-President Biden’s is viewed as symbolic and cautionary farewell remarks in Kyiv by Mark Raczkiewycz KYIV – Joe Biden’s sixth and last visit Following are remarks by U.S. Vice-President Joe to Ukraine as America’s vice-president Biden at a joint press availability with Ukrainian on January 16 was more symbolic and President Petro Poroshenko in Kyiv on January 17. consultative in nature, Ukrainian The text was released by the White House, Office of the Vice-President. experts said just five days before a new president is inaugurated in Washington. Mr. President, I may have to call you once In his fifth visit since the Euro- every couple weeks just to hear your voice. Maidan Revolution, Mr. Biden, 74, came (Laughter.) This has been going on a long time. to show that America isn’t forgetting Good afternoon, everyone. It’s a great, pleasure about Kyiv and was a swan song gesture to be once more here in Kyiv to reaffirm the depth of support, commented political analyst of the partnership between our two peoples. This Volodymyr Fesenko of the Penta Center. is my sixth visit to Ukraine as vice-president and “It is a signal that we are remem- my fifth in the year since the Revolution of bered. He didn’t have to come to Kyiv. Dignity on the Maidan, which was an astounding It’s a sign of respect and attention thing to witness when so many Ukrainian patri- toward us,” Mr. Fesenko said. “Perhaps, ots stood up and demanded a future that this it’s a signal to the new [American] U.S. Embassy Kyiv country has been too long denied. administration to not forget about And I wanted to come here one more time on U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko Ukraine. I really hope that it’s a signal during their joint press availability in Kyiv on January 16. my last trip as vice-president to honor how much for the next president to visit us, not progress the people of Ukraine have achieved. only the vice-president.” “I don’t completely understand the tions against Russia will remain in This year marks the 25th year since Ukraine Barack Obama is the only sitting added value of this visit,” Alyona place as long as the Ukrainian territory gained its independence. And the United States president not to have visited post-Sovi- Hetmanchuk of the Institute of World of Crimea is occupied and Moscow has been there to support and help you at every et Ukraine during his tenure. Policy said of the outgoing vice-presi- doesn’t fulfill security commitments step of the way. Our partnership has spanned It’s doubtful that the incoming dent’s visit. “It’s nevertheless important regarding a truce accord that it prom- four different American presidents from across administration of the 45th president of as an investment in the future in view ised to uphold regarding the Donbas our political spectrum. It has deep roots in both the United States, Donald Trump, will of the political weight that Biden car- war that has killed more than 10,000 the Republican and Democratic parties. appoint such an authoritative figure as ries in American politics.” people and internally displaced over As you saw a few weeks ago when two of my Vice-President Biden as point man for Mr. Biden affirmed U.S. support for 1.7 million Ukrainians. good friends from “the other side” – former Senate Ukraine, which emerged from a two- colleagues John McCain and Lindsey Graham and Ukraine as long as Kyiv continues fight- “And I hope the next administration year economic recession last year and Amy Klobuchar, of my party – visited with ing corruption and bolstering demo- will also want to be a supporter and a Ukrainian troops on the front lines in the east. has been battered by three years of war cratic institutions to instill rule of law And that’s because Americans and Ukrainians with Russia. and improve governance. He said sanc- (Continued on page 22) are united by deep bonds – our shared values and our common hopes for the future. And the American people, including nearly 1 million proud Ukrainian Americans, understand that so much Bipartisan group of senators introduces depends on your success, not just for Ukrainians, but for Europe and for the United States. If you continue carrying your progress for- comprehensive Russia sanctions legislation ward, then not only will you continue to build a Senate Foreign Relations Committee interfere with and influence the presi- Senate to introduce legislation that more open, more democratic, more prosperous dential election in the United States, would impose new sanctions on Russia future that the Ukrainian people deserve, you will WASHINGTON – Sens. Ben Cardin and Russian military aggression in for its attack on our election and desta- keep the international community united behind (D-Md.), ranking member of the Senate Ukraine and Syria has violated interna- bilizing activities in democracies you in that effort. Foreign Relations Committee, and John tional commitments and shown a clear around the world. Now is the time to And I hope the next administration will also McCain (R-Ariz.), chairman of the disregard for sovereignty and humani- put partisanship aside and send a signal want to be a supporter and a partner in your con- Senate Armed Services Committee, led tarian norms. Our comprehensive sanc- that the United States will not stand for tinued progress. But as you know, no one else can a bipartisan group of senators on tions package being introduced today Russia’s aggressive actions.” do the hard work but the Ukrainian people. It’s January 10 to introduce comprehensive will send a clear message to Vladimir “As Russia continues its flagrant up to Ukrainian leaders and people to put the sanctions legislation on Russia for their Putin that he has gone too far, and that efforts to sabotage and subvert demo- needs of the country above narrow personal cyber intrusions, aggression, and desta- there will be consequences for his cratic norms and principles of freedom interest, to place the general good above point bilizing activities here in the United actions,” said Sen. Cardin. across the world, this is a significant scoring and local prejudices. And that goes for States and around the world. “Every American should be alarmed step that sends an unequivocal everyone – members of Ukraine’s government; The original co-sponsors of the by Russia’s brazen attack on our response to President [Vladimir] Putin: representatives of the Rada, who took an oath to Countering Russian Hostilities Act of democracy,” said Sen. McCain. “For eight The U.S. Congress remains united in our serve the Ukrainian people as a whole; judges 2017 are: Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), years, the United States has had no poli- absolute rejection of their rule over who undertake the responsibility to dispense jus- Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Jeanne cy to deter, respond to or retaliate Crimea, belligerent actions in Syria, and tice equally; members of the media and civil soci- Shaheen (D-N.H.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), against cyberattacks. As a nation, we will hold them accountable for their ety and ordinary citizens whose job it is to hold Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Sasse must demonstrate that if you attack our interference in our democratic system,” those in power responsible. (R-Neb.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Rob country, you will pay a price. That’s why said Sen. Menendez, author of the Portman (R-Ohio). I’m proud to join with my Republican (Continued on page 16) “Russia has worked to insidiously and Democratic colleagues in the (Continued on page 22) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

ANALYSIS

Elation over Trump melts away Delays cause disillusionment with EU in Crimea,” Mr. Poroshenko said at a meeting with Crimean Tatar leader Mustafa KYIV – President Petro Poroshenko has Dzhemilev and three other top officials. warned that Ukrainians may become disil- as Russia reacts to ‘hawkish’ Tillerson Armed Russians “have committed numer- lusioned with their pro-European path if the ous terrorist attacks affecting hundreds of by Tom Balmforth ation the interests of the United States. European Union further delays closer inte- thousands of innocent people forced to RFE/RL Because he is interested primarily in gration with Kyiv. The EU agreed to provide leave their home,” he said. “Russia must pay America’s interests, not Russia’s. Have no visa waivers for Ukrainians last month after illusions. That is why, when some people the price for its aggression,” Mr. Poroshenko MOSCOW – When U.S. secretary of state weeks of stalling, but the decision has not were wildly overjoyed that Trump won and said. Ukrainian authorities call the nearly nominee Rex Tillerson appeared before the gone into effect. “To delay further would be U.S. Senate for his confirmation hearing on not Hillary [Clinton], that was a question of three-year-old conflict in eastern Ukraine an flagrantly unfair as Ukraine has paid a high January 11, pundits and politicians in taste, but we have to remember that there “anti-terrorist operation,” and often refer to price,” Mr. Poroshenko told foreign ambas- Moscow were watching closely for signals of can be various lettering written on this lit- those fighting against government forces as sadors to Ukraine on January 16. “It would the new administration’s stance on Russia. tle cake, but essentially this will not be pro- “terrorists.” Neither Kyiv nor Russia, which also be dangerous because more unreason- Reactions ranged broadly from upbeat Russian politics. Perhaps there will be a lit- denies it has backed the separatists with able delays would undermine Ukrainians’ pragmatism to an “I told you so” warning tle less hysteria, perhaps a little more, per- troops or weapons despite mounting evi- faith in Europe. This is exactly what Russia that a Russia hawk could be entering haps slightly better relations between lead- dence, has formally declared war. Foreign wants,” he said, adding that Ukraine’s EU President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet. ers, perhaps a little worse.” Ministry spokeswoman Mariana Betsa told Association Agreement also should be rati- Over all, the comments painted a much more Leonid Slutsky, head of the Duma’s RFE/RL that the lawsuit was the result of fied. Delays have raised criticism that the sober take on a Trump presidency than the International Affairs Committee, told the three years of “titanic work” by Ukrainian bloc was reneging on pledges to help jubilation displayed by many in Russia after Interfax news agency that he thought Mr. authorities. It is the first lawsuit filed with Ukraine as it seeks to move away from his surprise victory in November. Tillerson’s testimony suggested Washington the ICJ by Kyiv, which has sent at least four Moscow’s orbit in the wake of a 2013 upris- On the Vesti FM state radio station, might be amenable to reaching a deal with lawsuits against Russia to the European ing that ousted a Kremlin-backed president. prominent pro-Kremlin journalist Vladimir Moscow over Crimea, the Ukrainian penin- Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. Solovyov chided those Russians who were sula seized by Russia in March 2014. After the change in power, Russia annexed Ukraine is aware that the ICJ may not con- expressing surprise at what many saw as a “If we look deeper, I was particularly inter- Ukraine’s Crimea region and is accused by sider the lawsuit for years, if ever, Ms. Betsa hawkish tone to Mr. Tillerson’s comments: ested by statements not only about sanc- Kyiv and NATO of fueling a pro-Russia sepa- said. “But we have hope,” she said, adding “For our dear listeners I will for the tions, cyberattacks and so on – they are to be ratist conflict in eastern Ukraine. “We are all that it is “inevitable” that Russia will bear 156th time, although it is fashionable to say expected – but the ones on the question of witnesses to efforts to build a new iron cur- responsibility “for crimes it has committed.” 150th, repeat that Tillerson is not Major Crimea. Tillerson, in particular, noted that the tain and it is today’s Russia that is building (Christopher Miller of RFE/RL) Vikhr [a Russian TV superhero], and Trump United States will only recognize the unifica- it,” Mr. Poroshenko said. (RFE/RL, with is not Colonel Isayev, Stierlitz [a fictional tion of Crimea with Russia in the event that reporting by Reuters) Obama extends sanctions on Russia Soviet superspy akin to James Bond]. They the current situation around the peninsula WASHINGTON – U.S. President Barack are both patriots of the U.S. One will, if con- Kyiv sues Moscow at U.N. court can be regulated in a way that satisfies Obama on January 13 extended all U.S. firmed, become the secretary of state. The Ukraine,” Mr. Slutsky was quoted as saying. KYIV – Ukraine has sued Russia at the sanctions on Russia over its annexation of second will, if a few days pass well, move “As we know Ukraine is a territory managed United Nations International Court of Justice Crimea and aggression in Ukraine by one from the status of president-elect to the externally and the remote control is located (ICJ) at The Hague, accusing Moscow of acts year through March 2018. The move status of president of the U.S. They in no in Washington. That is to say – could this be of “terrorism” and “discrimination” related way intend to carry out promises they appears designed to make it harder for U.S. the beginning of the process of presenting to its backing separatists in eastern Ukraine President-elect Donald Trump to roll back never made to Russia. For them, the priori- conditions for recognition instead of the cat- and its annexation of the Crimean peninsula. ty is the United States and their policies. the sanctions after Mr. Obama leaves office egorical ‘give back Crimea’?” The Foreign Affairs Ministry filed the lawsuit on January 20. Mr. Trump has said he wants “That is the reason why Tillerson is say- late on January 16 at the request of ing that Russia is not taking into consider- to improve relations with Russia and would (Continued on page 19) President Petro Poroshenko. It claims that take a second look at the sanctions, Russia has violated the U.N. Convention for although several of his chosen Cabinet the Suppression of the Financing of members said last week that they support Terrorism by supporting separatists fighting the sanctions. In extending the sanctions, Putin accuses Obama administration government forces in a war that has killed which were due to expire in March 2017, more than 9,750 people since April 2014. It Obama said the Russian government and also claims that Russia has oppressed other people and organizations targeted by of trying to undermine Trump Crimean Tatars, an ethnic minority whose the sanctions have “undermined democrat- homeland is Crimea. “For three years, Russia RFE/RL Trump – who was in Moscow for the final of ic processes and institutions in Ukraine” by the Miss Universe beauty contest – would has been committing the illegal annexation their “use of force in Ukraine” and thereby Russian President Vladimir Putin has hire prostitutes. of Crimea, illegal occupation of the east of “threaten its peace, security, stability, sover- accused U.S. President Barack Obama’s “He’s a grown-up, for a start, and second- our country in the territory of [the] Donetsk eignty, and territorial integrity.” Because of administration of trying to undermine ly a man who spent his whole life organizing and Luhansk regions, [and] implementing President-elect Donald Trump’s legitimacy beauty contests and meeting the most beau- the policy of elimination and discrimination (Continued on page 14) by spreading what Mr. Putin said were false tiful women in the world,” Mr. Putin said. allegations. “I can hardly imagine that he ran off to a A dossier shown earlier this month to hotel to meet our girls of ‘lowered social Messrs. Obama and Trump – part of which responsibility’,” he said, adding “although he krainian eekly FOUNDED 1933 was leaked and published – contained sala- they are, of course, the best in the world.” T U W cious and compromising, but uncorrobo- “I doubt Trump fell for that,” he said. rated, information compiled by a former Mr. Putin described the dossier as part of An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., British intelligence officer on links between a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. efforts by the Obama administration to Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. Russia and Mr. Trump, who rejected the “undermine the legitimacy of the presi- claims as “fake news.” dent-elect” despite an election victory he Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. (ISSN — 0273-9348) And on January 6, U.S. intelligence agen- described as “convincing” – though Mr. cies said they had concluded that Mr. Putin Trump received nearly 3 million fewer pop- The Weekly: UNA: ordered a hacking campaign that aimed to ular votes than Mrs. Clinton. Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 undermine U.S. democracy, help Mr. Trump, Mr. Putin claimed those he said are try- and discredit his opponent in the ing to undermine Mr. Trump “may go as far Postmaster, send address changes to: November 8 election, Hillary Clinton. as staging Maidan-type protests in The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz Speaking at a news conference on January Washington” to try to prevent him from tak- 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas 17, Mr. Putin dismissed the dossier alleging ing office, a reference to the demonstrations P.O. Box 280 Mr. Trump’s sexual activities at a Moscow that pushed a Moscow-friendly president Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] hotel in 2013 as “fake” and charged that those from power in Ukraine in 2014. The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com who ordered it are “worse than prostitutes.” Mr. Putin’s comments were the latest in a In his first public comments on the claims, series of remarks by Russian officials blunt- Mr. Putin suggested that Russian intelligence ly criticizing the Obama administration in The Ukrainian Weekly, January 22, 2017, No. 4, Vol. LXXXV agencies would have had no reason to spy on its final weeks, and blaming it for the severe Copyright © 2017 The Ukrainian Weekly Mr. Trump during his 2013 visit to Moscow, strains in relations between Moscow and when the episode allegedly took place in a Washington in recent years. His spokesman, Ritz-Carlton hotel suite in Moscow. Dmitry Peskov, pointedly said that there ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA “Does anyone think that our special ser- were no plans for any contacts between vices chase every American billionaire? Of Presidents Putin and Obama in the final Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 course not. It’s just completely ridiculous,” days before Mr. Trump’s inauguration on e-mail: [email protected] the Russian president said. January 20. Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 In raunchy comments mocking the alle- e-mail: [email protected] gations, Mr. Putin also questioned why Mr. (Continued on page 18) No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 3 COMMENTARY Sen. Menendez meets with New Jersey Ukrainians, If history is our teacher, addresses Russia’s growing aggression, interventionism the world may be headed for unrest UABA NEWARK, N.J. – Ukrainian American Bar international security structure to erode. by John R. Kasich Association representatives Victor Rud, But history, always eager to relive its past, chairman of the UABA Foreign Relations It is conventional wisdom that history foretells what happens when our interna- Committee, and Myroslaw Smorodsky, repeats itself. But the world should hope – tional alliances are taken for granted and UABA communications director; Ronya and pray – that this maxim is off base when left to decay, despite the rise of increasingly it comes to our global security. Security dangerous aggressors. Twice before, on the Lozynskyj and Tamara Olexy of the arrangements, like the North Atlantic eve of World War I and again in the dark Ukrainian Congress Committee of America; Treaty Organization (NATO), which days before World War II, we witnessed and Yuriy Symczyk, national secretary of the through 71 years since the end of World regional instability that quickly led to global Ukrainian National Association; met with War II have kept us safe from yet another conflict – leaving tens of millions dead and Sen. Robert Menendez on January 6. Sen. global conflict, are quickly showing signs of large swaths of the world in ruin. Menendez (D-N.J.) is the senior member of coming undone. And if history is indeed Fast forward to today, and we can see the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. repeating itself, we can’t say we haven’t some of the same erosive forces at work: a The meeting was coordinated by Mr. been warned and we must take steps now weakening NATO and growing conflict in Symczyk at the senator’s request. Its pur- to change our current course. regions such as Georgia, Crimea and east- pose was to discuss the Ukrainian American As governor of a state that is restoring ern Ukraine. Perennial tensions and bloody community’s deep concerns regarding the Senator Menendez/Facebook its fiscal well-being by keeping pace with conflict in the Middle East are joined by nomination of Rex Tillerson to be the next Sen. Robert Menendez the demands and rewards of a global econ- gathering storm clouds in North Korea and U.S. secretary of state and the potentially omy, I am increas- the South China Sea damaging impact his confirmation could All that Ukraine asked in return was to be ingly concerned – and overhanging it have on Ukraine’s struggle to maintain its given security assurances as to its sover- about the future of We must reassure the all, international ter- territorial integrity and independence. eignty and territorial integrity by the United international alli- Baltics and Ukraine rorism. Calls for dis- The UABA respectfully submitted to the States, Russia and the United Kingdom upon ances that has long engagement, isola- senator proposed areas of questioning dur- its accession to the Non-Proliferation Treaty ensured the United – who live in the tion and shuttered ing the confirmation process of Mr. as a non-nuclear weapon state. These secu- States and its part- very shadow of Rus- trade add to the Tillerson with background briefing materi- rity assurances were given on December 5, ner nations of a sta- sense that our world al for the senator’s consideration and 1994, and are commonly known as the ble world and the sia – that the United is coming undone. review in preparation for the hearings Budapest Memorandum. free flow of ideas States will be there Our nation is before the Senate Foreign Relations Based on the assurances from all the sig- and trade. These are for them if trouble safer when freedom, Committee on January 11. natories and with specific reliance on these not new concerns democracy and the [Editor’s note: At that hearing, Sen. declarations by each of the signatory states, for me, having arises. Russian in- rule of law are Menendez repeatedly challenged the nomi- Ukraine surrendered approximately 1600 served nine terms in timidation of our embraced around nee on his views about Russia and U.S. poli- nuclear warheads. Russia’s annexation of Congress, including the world. In places cy toward the country, including sanctions. Crimea and its military invasion into east- 18 years on the NATO allies or other like Ukraine, there is He also elicited a surprising response from ern Ukraine constitute overt and blatant House Armed free nations cannot a deep yearning for Mr. Tillerson, who said he had not yet dis- violations of these basic agreements and Services Committee. be tolerated. these values and we cussed Russia policy with President-elect evidence the Kremlin’s intentional defiance From those perspec- must encourage that Donald J. Trump.] of international rule of law. tives I have feared desire, not dismiss The briefing documents submitted by Sen. Menendez said he recognizes that if this unraveling for some time, but my con- it. The notion that it somehow makes us the UABA emphasized that The United the United States fails to take any addition- cerns are redoubled by recent threats to safer at home to sacrifice support for a free Nations Charter, the Helsinki Final Act and al more meaningful and effective action in our alliances, both here and abroad. Ukraine in exchange for a better relation- the various organic documents of the response to Russia’s annexation of Crimea Growing tensions across the world, fed ship with Russia – which continues to deny European Union, have had as their linchpin and its military invasion into eastern by intemperate voices at home, have its unacceptable interference in our presi- the principle of territorial integrity and Ukraine in violation of international rule of caused many in this country to second- dential election – is wrong and naïve. It’s security, and the inviolability of borders of law, it would corrode and undermine guess the international alliances and rela- inconsistent with our ideals and leads independent states have maintained peace America’s credibility in the international tionships that have served us so well across other allies to doubt our resolve. Vladimir and stability on the Eurasian continent for arena, destabilize Europe, and greatly fuel seven post-war decades. As a result, those Putin only respects strength, which is one decades. Russian international adventurism and alliances have lost credibility with growing reason why I support Sen. John McCain’s Moreover, 22 years ago, under pressure expansionism. numbers here who say they prefer that we call for tougher sanctions against Russia from the United States, Ukraine agreed to After the meeting, Sen. Menendez held a stay at home instead of supporting our and Putin’s inner circle. surrender and destroy its nuclear arsenal. press conference. allies overseas. In many of our allied Further encouraging this erosion, our nations, similar doubts are taking root. once-vigilant alliances have failed to deal Why is it essential that we support our with the most urgent issues facing them, allies? It’s more than a matter of protecting challenges such as the refugee crisis, secure Quotable notes our own borders and preserving our borders, cybersecurity and intelligence national identity, essential as those goals sharing in the face of terrorism. We need to “Fear and weakness are bad advisers. They play into Russia’s appetites, invite may be. It’s also about protecting the col- fix those weaknesses, but in ways that help even more aggression and greater human suffering. That’s why Ukraine has lective human values that have for so long our alliances evolve, not throwing away the always advocated a solution based on the national interests and the will of sustained the United States and what we underlying values that have held us togeth- Ukrainians who wish their country to be independent and prosperous, and their rightly call the Free World – values such as er and kept the peace for so many decades. choices free of aggressive dictate. freedom of speech, universal respect for all Rather than allowing history to replay “Let us be clear about red lines that no one in Ukraine would dare to cross – without distinction as to race, sex, language its sad lessons, now is the time for us to not now, nor in the future: No reversal in European and Euro-Atlantic integra- or religion, and a world open to free enter- rediscover the spirit of unity and social soli- tion of Ukraine. This would be a surrender of independence, sovereignty and the prise, travel and trade. These are the shared darity we need to restore the functioning of territorial integrity of Ukraine. ...No trade in the territory of Ukraine, be it values that we and our allied nations our own democracies. We must also find in Donbas or Crimea. These territories cannot be part of a trade-off for peace. They believe in; the same values others scorn and ourselves once again the courage to stand belong to Ukraine, and this is confirmed internationally – including by the U.N. deny to those they rule. up for our values internationally – the val- General Assembly Resolution on Crimea last month and by the Office of the Through seven stressful decades since ues on which our shared system of security Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court in November. Ukraine will never the end of World War II, these values and was built and that have become too easy abandon the Ukrainians who were trapped behind the Iron Curtain of Russia’s the moral standards they embrace have for us to take for granted. military invasion in Crimea and Donbas. No elections in Donbas with Russian been the foundation of an international History will again show that it takes cou- boots on Ukraine’s soil. Ukraine stands for local elections there, but only based security framework, including NATO, which rageous resolve to preserve the values- on Ukraine’s law and Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe stan- has helped us avoid global war and provid- based alliances that have kept us safe for dards. ed its partners widespread economic seven decades. Without a shared commit- “The Kremlin would definitely like to legalize its hybrid occupation and pup- opportunity with free trade. ment to freedom, how can we expect it to pet regimes in Donbas by Ukrainian hands. No one should fall into this trap. Unfortunately, that system and its funda- survive? That is why we must reassure the Compromises on Russia’s terms are the wrong policy. As one of the new U.S. mental values are under siege today as most Baltics and Ukraine – who live in the very administration’s heavyweights once said: ‘history teaches that weakness arous- participating countries have allowed our shadow of Russia – that the United States es evil.’ This has never led to sustainable peace nor saved lives. On the contrary, will be there for them if trouble arises. it has always fueled more aggression and human suffering.” John R. Kasich is governor of Ohio. The Russian intimidation of our NATO allies or op-ed above was originally published in other free nations cannot be tolerated. – Kostiantyn Yelisieiev, deputy head of Ukraine’s Presidential Administration, Time magazine and is reprinted here with writing in the Wall Street Journal on January 4. the author’s permission. (Continued on page 18) 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

WINDOW ON EURASIA OPINION Lifting of sanctions could paradoxically spark An appeal to U.S. Ukrainians: upsurge of mass discontent in Russia Stop Tillerson’s confirmation by Paul Goble foreign policy arena, Russia doesn’t have Following are excerpts from the editorial untapped fossil fuel resources left in the any obvious successes except for Syria” and that appeared in the January 1-18 edition of world. According to Blooomberg, these deals Donald Trump’s election has led many unless there is a breakthrough on Ukraine, Ukrainian News, based in Edmonton, Alberta. Russians to conclude that Western sanc- the conflict there will continue to exacer- trillion in untapped oil and gas. Russia lacks tions against Russia will be eased or lifted bate feelings in Russia. That suggests the Of all of President-elect Donald Trump’s thecan technologybring in an to estimated develop these more on thanits own. $8.2 entirely in the coming months and that life Kremlin needs some domestic successes. actions preceding his inauguration, none is in Russia will “really become easier.” But After all, Russians are going to ask, Mr. more ominous for Ukraine than the deci- Exxon stock and a pension reportedly Moscow commentators warn that, para- Aleksandrov says, “why, if the level of con- sion to nominate Exxon Mobile CEO Rex • Tillerson himself owns $218 million in doxically, that could become “a catalyst” for frontation with the West has fallen, are we Tillerson as secretary of state. growing popular discontent within Russia. continuing to suffer failures in the econom- When you include Exxon’s corporate Orderworth $70of Friendship million. medal for his compa- The reason, Andrey Polunin of the ic area?” That will lead to a decline in the holdings in Russia, Tillerson’s personal ny’s• oilPutin work has in awardedthe country. Tillerson Russia’s Svobodnaya Pressa portal says in summing support for Mr. Putin, however much his stake in Exxon stock, and the extremely Just before the U.S. Senate adjourned on up their views is that “if an external enemy political technologists work to preserve it. cozy relations the tycoon enjoys with December 12, Exxon Mobil successfully in the form of the West disappears,” the “Of course, Vladimir Putin will win the Russia’s dictator Vladimir Putin, you end up lobbied against the implementation of the Kremlin won’t be able to blame it for all of presidential elections in 2018.” No strong with conflicts of interest that are not only STAND for Ukraine Act which would have the shortcomings in Russia as it has done candidates are going to emerge or be colossal, but of historically unprecedented enshrined President Barack Obama’s sanc- quite successfully up to now (svpressa.ru/ allowed to emerge. But there is another proportions. Just to name a few: tions against Russia for five years. This politic/article/163694/). question that should be asked: “In what gives Trump and Tillerson a free hand to If in 2017 Western sanctions are lifted, condition will he leave the country to his stake in a massive exploration partnership remove them as soon as they take power. Russian government experts say, the GDP successor” whenever that handover hap- with• Exxonthe Russian has a government’spotential $500 oil billion compa at- When Tillerson’s voice is added to that of Russia could rise by 0.6 to 0.8 percent, a pens? ny Rosneft in one of the many deals of National Security Adviser Michael T. small but significant increase that could be Unless something is done, economic Tillerson worked out with Putin. The Flynn, another pro-Russian sycophant, and improved further by rising oil prices. But stagnation will continue even if sanctions Obama administration blocked the deal Trump himself, Defense Secretary James N. Mr. Polunin says that no one should forget are lifted, “and this will take place on the when it imposed sanctions against Russia Mattis, the one Trump nominee who has a that “sanctions are far from the main cause background of a rapidly growing China and for its intervention in Ukraine. realistic view of the danger an aggressive of the slowing down of the Russian econo- small but stable growth in Germany and the - Russia poses for world peace, will find him- my.” United States.” Russians will notice this and lion acres of Russian land. This is five times self in a very lonely corner indeed. One need only remember, he says, that draw conclusions, Mr. Aleksandrov says. as •much Exxon territory owns drilling as it leases rights in on the 63.7 United mil But fortunately, the United States – the Russian economy began to head in the And that is all the more likely because States itself. unlike Canada – has a separation of power wrong direction already in 2013, before the Kremlin is currently pursuing deeply between the legislative and executive Crimea and the imposition of sanctions, unpopular policies like “the commercializa- a series of deals with Rosneft to explore the branches of government and all Cabinet “when the rate of GDP growth fell from 3.7 tion of healthcare and education” and doing Black• Between Sea, develop 2011 shaleand 2013, resources Exxon in signed west- nominees must meet with Senate approval. to 1.3 percent. Already then it was obvious nothing to combat “the growing stratifica- ern Siberia, and – most importantly – drill that there were serious structural prob- tion of society.” All this, he says, “will inten- for oil in the Arctic, one of the biggest (Continued on page 22) lems that Moscow was not addressing. sify dissatisfaction and thus it is impossible The upsurge in popular support for to exclude outbursts” as a result. Vladimir Putin in the wake of the Crimean Sergey Markov, the director of the LETTER TO THE EDITOR Anschluss and the West’s imposition of Moscow Institute for Political Research, says sanctions gave the Kremlin leader the that the majority of Western politicians con- bizarre attraction to Mr. Putin is based on opportunity to put off any serious reforms tinue to think that “the strengthening of No Faustian bargain? something more sinister than his bloated ego and to blame the West for all the difficulties anti-Russian sanctions will increase social and Mr. Putin’s flattery. Long before Mr. that the Russian people have been facing. tension in Russia.” They are wrong. In fact, Look at Trump’s agenda Putin’s disinformation machine threw its But if sanctions are lifted, Mr. Polunin sanctions have kept social tensions in check; weight behind Mr. Trump’s candidacy, there Dear Editor: says, “2017 could unexpectedly become a if sanctions are lifted, that will change. were many business deals or bailouts that year of heightened turbulence in domestic But the Kremlin has insured itself It was heartwarming to see the photo in could have made Mr. Trump beholden to Russian oligarchs. Since Mr. Trump refuses to policy, something that would weaken Mr. against the consequences of this by effec- The Weekly (January 8) where U.S. Sens. release his tax returns, we may never know Putin’s position in advance of the presiden- tively taking total control over all the chan- John McCain, Amy Klobuchar and Lindsey the full extent of his foreign entanglements. tial elections in 2018.” He spoke with three nels through which such popular anger Graham posed with Ukrainian troops. The An ABC News investigation found that Moscow commentators about this scenario. might be expressed. And that means, Mr. senators pledged there would be “no Mr. Trump has numerous ties to Russian Mikhail Aleksandrov, a military special- Markov says, that “we will see a plethora of Faustian bargain” between the U.S. and half-administered half-revolts that will interests both in the U.S. and abroad. The ist at the Moscow State Institute of Russia that might abandon Ukraine. break out” across the country but not luxury hotels Mr. Trump built in Miami’s International Relations, said that there are Unfortunately, these senators’ optimism become a serious challenge to the regime. “Little Moscow” cater heavily to ultra real risks that Mr. Putin will continue the runs diametrically counter to the agenda of These protests won’t have a clearly wealthy Russian émigrés. “The level of busi- “liberal-economic” policy he has been pur- the president-elect. expressed ideological platform, except per- Throughout his campaign, Donald ness amounts to hundreds of millions,” said suing rather than consider alternatives, Sergei Millian, who heads a U.S.-Russia haps for a nationalist one because “nation- Trump stated his fondness for Vladimir something he should do. After all, even business group that helped market Trump alist circles in Russia are represented least Putin. If Mr. Trump has any coherent for- Joseph Stalin in 1951 organized a discus- condos in Russia. It’s mind-boggling that in the political system and their representa- eign policy, it is guided by Henry Kissinger, sion of how the state should respond to many Ukrainian American voters were tives thus have nothing to lose.” Such pro- who espouses the pre-Reagan vision of slowing economic growth. unfazed by the Russian ties forged by tests would likely occur in the fall if sanc- détente wherein Russia is entitled to its Mr. Putin is comfortable with the liberal Trump’s top operatives Paul Manafort, tions are reduced in the next quarter. “sphere of influence” over Ukraine, Belarus economists, as they came with him from St. Carter Page and Roger Stone. And Mikhail Remizov, the president of and Georgia. After nominating Exxon- Petersburg, and they are telling him that Maybe it’s just too terrifying to imagine the Moscow Institute of National Strategy, Mobil’s former CEO Rex Tillerson as his Mr. Trump’s coming to power in the U.S. we might have a president who would do says that the chief task the Kremlin has this secretary of state, there is no doubt that Mr. “will promote the growth of political stabil- Moscow’s bidding – whether for reasons of year is to come up with a platform for the Trump intends to lift sanctions against ity in Russia.” Mr. Aleksandrov says that he vanity, economic self-dealing, class affinity upcoming elections – something that won’t Russia, and recognize Russia’s annexation is convinced of the reverse: any lessening of with oligarchs, or something even more be easy because the Putin regime hasn’t ful- of Crimea – giving Mr. Tillerson’s cronies confrontation with the West “will lead ominous. For all his bombast, Mr. Trump filled any of its main promises from the last free reign to make billions while drilling for has yet to prove that he is something other Russians to focus on domestic problems.” election in 2012. oil in Russia’s Arctic hinterlands. than a pushover for Mr. Putin. That is especially true because “in the The Kremlin leader could choose a Mr. Trump has yet to say a single word Ukrainian Americans across the political mobilization program, but he is unlikely to denouncing Putin’s aggression against spectrum protested President Obama’s Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on do that. In foreign affairs, such a change Ukraine. After President Barack Obama reluctance to provide military aid to ethnic and religious questions in Eurasia would require a real break with the West; expelled 35 Russian diplomats to punish Ukraine. We must be even more outspoken who has served in various capacities in the and in domestic affairs, it would perhaps Russia for tampering with the U.S. elec- in denouncing Mr. Trump’s policy of U.S. State Department, the Central undermine the regime’s top supporters. tions, Mr. Trump’s press secretary, Sean appeasement, which would be far more Intelligence Agency and the International Consequently, Mr. Remizov says, the regime Spicer, complained that this expulsion was devastating to Ukraine’s and America’s Broadcasting Bureau, as well as at the Voice is likely to continue its “inert” policies. “disproportionate” to Russia’s offenses. national interests. Our diaspora must now of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio In that case, the Moscow analyst says, How much more territory will Russia have go into overdrive to resist Mr. Trump’s incli- Liberty and the Carnegie Endowment for “Putin will be re-elected in 2018, but to seize, how many more Ukrainians will nation to weaken NATO and to abandon International Peace. The article above is against a background of processes of the have to be slaughtered by Mr. Putin’s thugs Ukraine to Mr. Putin’s military onslaught. reprinted with permission from his blog erosion of his political leadership.” before Mr. Spicer finds such sanctions to be called “Window on Eurasia” (http://windo- “proportionate”? Alexander Kuzma woneurasia2.blogspot.com/). (Continued on page 14) Many analysts suspect that Mr. Trump’s Glastonbury, Conn. No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 5

2016: THE YEAR IN REVIEW Our Ukrainian Churches at a time of war in Ukraine he year 2016 for Ukrainian Churches was a busy one, and complicated by the ongoing war being waged by TRussia. But there were notable accomplishments and attempts at healing spiritual disunity – not only between the Catholics and the Orthodox – but also between the meddling of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) via the Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Moscow Patriarchate (UOC- MP) and the divisions that have fractured the other Orthodox Churches in Ukraine: the Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kyiv Patriarchate (UOC-KP) and the Ukrainian Autocephalous Orthodox Church (UAOC). The ROC and its affiliated UOC-MP announced in January the establishment of a new staff in the synod department of external church affairs to blacken the reputation of the UOC- KP, to block the Ecumenical Patriarchate from recognizing the Kyiv Church as canonical and to destabilize religious conditions across Ukraine. This move was seen by many experts as part of the hybrid war that Russia is waging against Ukraine and the West. This was the latest attempt using religious groups in Ukraine in filing complaints with UCU the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe of The University Church of the Holy Wisdom of God on the campus of the Ukrainian Catholic University in Lviv was religious intolerance in Ukraine and giving Moscow a consecrated on September 11 by Patriarch Sviatoslav Shevchuk and Bishop Borys Gudziak. degree of deniability. Many of these “religious groups” are fronts for Russian Security Services (FSB) operations. political showpiece, while the pope demonstrated humility representatives of the Holy See to inform them about the Pope Francis, in his annual New Year’s meeting with in a genuine dialogue. The Joint Declaration – a socio-politi- ongoing invasion and hybrid war in Ukraine. A statement heads of diplomatic missions of foreign states and interna- cal document rather than theological – that was signed by was released by Patriarch Sviatoslav, noting, “the holy tional organizations accredited to the Holy See, met with Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill was prepared by father has heard us… Pope Francis made it clear that he Ambassador Tetiana Izhevska of Ukraine. In his address Metropolitan Hilarion (Alfeyev) of the ROC and Cardinal would act.” The meeting was also a re-affirmation of rela- on that day, January 11, the pope commented on the situa- Kurt Koch from the Pontifical Council for Promoting tions between Kyiv and the Vatican on the 70th anniversary tion in Ukraine, urging an end to the conflict in eastern Christian Unity. The Department of External Affairs of the of the Soviet liquidation of the Ukrainian Catholic Church. Ukraine, and encouraged increased support from the ROC had drafted certain aspects of the signed statement, The Catholic Bishops of Ukraine during their synod international community, individual countries and and Patriarch Sviatoslav, as a member of the Pontifical issued an appeal on March 6 to the government of Ukraine humanitarian organizations. Pope Francis assured the Council, was not invited to provide input. The Ukrainian to fulfill its duty before the people of Ukraine. The sacrific- ambassador that he would “never forsake Ukraine.” Patriarch was hopeful of the document as it did promote es of blood on the Maidan and on the battlefront should be Prior to the meeting between Pope Francis and the rights of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church (UGCC) enough of a motivator to oust corruption from the halls of Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church on as a subject of inter-Church relations between the Catholic power. The bishops also called on the people of Ukraine to February 12 in Havana, Patriarch Sviatoslav of the and Orthodox Churches. However, the document cited hold their elected officials accountable and to not lose Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church on February 5 issued a “ecclesial communities” rather than the UGCC. hope in the face of a desperate situation. statement urging the pope to use caution and not be used Commentary on the Russian-led invasion of Ukraine and In Canada, month-long field work during June in eastern for propaganda purposes by Moscow. The Ukrainian Crimea had soft language in the document and failed to and southeastern Saskatchewan documenting Ukrainian Catholic archbishop-major expressed hope that the meet- recognize the ROC’s role in support of the ongoing inva- churches and their contents was a treasure trove for Prof. ing would change the rhetoric on the part of the radicals sion. The actions of Pope Francis, the patriarch noted, was Natalie Kononenko’s “Sanctuary: the Spiritual Heritage within the ROC and that Pope Francis would serve as a disappointing, but he reminded the faithful that we must Documentation Project.” Since then, she has documented voice for the Ukrainian people. not lose faith in the hope of God’s promise. nearly 600 Ukrainian Canadian churches in digital format. The Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky Institute of The Weekly’s editorial of February 21 commented on The materials include audio and visual records and are Eastern Christian Studies also issued a statement on the meeting by pointing out that the ROC used it to housed at the University of Alberta in Edmonton library as February 5, regarding the upcoming meeting between enhance Patriarch Kirill’s image and supposed global part of the Peel’s Prairie Province collection. Founded in Pope Francis and the Russian patriarch. The institute saw influence prior to the Great and Holy Synod of the 2009, the Sanctuary Project is affiliated with the Research the meeting as a chance for the pope to advocate for Orthodox Church to be held in Crete in June. Paragraph 27 Program on Religion and Culture at the Canadian Institute Ukraine’s concerns amid the role of the Russian Orthodox of the declaration was also insulting to Ukrainians, as it of Ukrainian Studies at the University of Alberta. Church in the Kremlin’s actions against Ukraine. gave the “canonical” Moscow Patriarchate churches prece- Thousands of faithful gathered at the Metropolia Following the meeting between the pope and the dence over other Orthodox Churches in Ukraine. Center of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A. in Russian patriarch, Patriarch Sviatoslav gave an interview Commentaries on the meeting between Pope Francis South Bound Brook, N.J., on May 7-8 to commemorate that was published by the Communications Office of the and Patriarch Kirill were also provided by the Rev. Dr. those buried at St. Andrew Cemetery. Bishop Daniel (now Philadelphia Archeparchy of the Ukrainian Catholic Andriy Chirovsky and Bishop Borys Gudziak. archbishop-elect), president of the Consistory of the UOC- Church. Patriarch Sviatoslav observed that Pope Francis The Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church, led by Major U.S.A., celebrated divine liturgy on Saturday morning, and and the Russian Patriarch had “existed in two parallel Archbishop Sviatoslav, who was joined by members of the Metropolitan Antony led divine liturgy on Sunday morn- worlds” and that parallel lines, according to rules of mathe- Church’s Permanent Synod, met with Pope Francis in Rome ing. During the weekend, pilgrims toured the grounds, matics, do not intersect. The ROC saw the meeting as a on March 5. The delegation met with the pope and high prayed at gravesites, as well as at the monument honoring

On March 5, Pope Francis received in a private audience Major Archbishop Sviatoslav, patriarch of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church, and members of the uocofusa.org UGCC Permanent Synod. The pope was presented with a copy of the Ukrainian icon Metropolitan Antony, Archbishop Jeremiah and members of the Ukrainian American of Our Lady, the Door of Mercy. Joining the UGCC delegation were: Metropolitan Veterans following a blessing of the UAV monument on May 7-8 during the annual Archbishop Volodymyr Vijtyshyn, Bishop Yaroslav Pryriz, Bishop Ken Nowakiwski, St. Thomas Sunday Pilgrimage at the Metropolia Center of the Ukrainian Orthodox Bishop Borys Gudziak and Bishop Bohdan Dziourach. Church of the U.S.A. in South Bound Brook, N.J. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

2016: THE YEAR IN REVIEW

Ukrainian American veterans, and celebrated fellowship at the St. Sophia Theological Seminary, which hosted a pic- nic and an ice cream social. The Ukrainian Cultural Center hosted various vendors who showcased Ukrainian books, religious items, music, and other goods and services. A religious procession to mark the 1,028th anniversary of the baptism of Kyivan Rus’ into Christianity was orga- nized by the UOC-MP. The nearly 9,000 people had marched – from Pochaiv Monastery, near Ternopil, in the west, and from Svitohirsk Monastery in the east, near Sloviansk – into Kyiv on July 27 under tight security and gathered at St. Volodymyr Hill. The event was promoted by Patriarch Kirill of the ROC, while Patriarch Filaret of the UOC-KP said the procession aimed “to use a church guise to incite unrest, to destabilize Ukrainian society and to set one Church against another.” The participants who came from the east of Ukraine UOC of the U.S.A. were greeted on the outskirts of Broyspil near Kyiv on July Participants of the 21st Regular Sobor of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A. that was held on October 25 by 150 Ukrainian veterans of the war in the east and 19-22 at the Metropolia Center of the UOC-U.S.A. some nationalists who called the marchers, some of whom wore the St. George ribbon of Russia, “agents of the Church. An attention-grabbing presentation by Bill the Ukrainian Catholic Church. Moscow.” Archbishop Yevstratiy of the UOC-KP explained Marianes outlined goals and areas that the UOC-U.S.A. The Ukrainian Catholic University concluded its fund- to Espresso TV that he saw the procession as a propagan- intends to focus on its work, including administration, cler- raising events for 2016 in the U.S.A. that were held under da display to show broad support for the Russian World gy, communications, education, family and youth, healthy the theme “A New Generation for a New Ukraine.” The (Russkiy Mir) view, using the Russian Orthodox Church as parishes, outreach and evangelism, stewardship and tech- Ukrainian Catholic Educational Foundation hosted events an agent of Kremlin policy. nology. Among the delegates and clergy were Metropolitan in New York (November 6), Chicago (October 30), The Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU) announced its Yurij of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Canada, Philadelphia (October 29), Los Angeles (October 23) and plans for the construction of the Metropolitan Andrey Archbishop Jeremiah of South America, and Archbishop- Boston (October 28). In the spring, fund-raiser events Sheptytsky Center and the Metropoltian Andrey Library, elect Daniel, president of the Consistory of the UOC-U.S.A. were held in West Orange, N.J., on May 15 and in Paris on located on the campus grounds in Lviv. The library is and ruling eparch of the Western Eparchy of the UOC-U.S.A. May 20. Since 2010, UCU’s Comprehensive Campaign – based on the learning commons principle that has been Sobor participants were greeted via a letter from Patriarch through U.S., Ukrainian, Canadian and European benfec- implemented in the West, whereby the library functions Bartholomew of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Metropolitan as more than simply a book repository, but is a place of Antony compared the new Strategic Plan to a “renovation” the work of UCU, a new generation through education, free learning and exchange of ideas. It was designed by that will renew the UOC-U.S.A. torsresearch – has and raised social $65.5 work, million. and the It wasnurturing noted ofthat a spiritualthrough German architect Stefan Behnisch, whose designs can be The election of new officers to the Metropolitan Council, life, the new leaders of Ukraine will come from places like seen at the Alston Campus at Harvard University. Mr. the Audit Commission and the Ecclesiastical Court were UCU, where they can cultivate a moral compass. Major Behnisch was assisted by Yulian Chaplynskyi, the city announced. The “Great Benefactor” award was presented speakers during the fund-raisers included Dr. Boris architect of Lviv, who adapted the design to conform to to Stephen Sivulich, Helen Greenleaf, Michael Heretz, Gayle Lushniak, former Finance Minister of Ukraine Natalie building codes in Ukraine. American architect of Woloschak, the Rev. Taras Chubenko and Olga Coffey. The Jaresko and Bishop Gudziak, president of UCU. Ukrainian descent Ivan Bereznicki, who is UCU’s main award is presented only at the Sobor meetings. Following Patriarch Filaret of the UOC-KP visited the Home Office architectural advisor, was also enlisted in the building divine liturgy, led by Archbishop Jeremiah, break-out ses- of the Ukrainian National Association on November 7. project. The library received major funding from the sions were held for the various goals set forth in the During the visit to the UNA’s two publications – Svoboda Temerty Family Foundation. The library is scheduled to Strategic Plan to enable each participant to get directly and The Ukrainian Weekly – the patriarch was inter- open in the fall of 2017. involved in the Church’s renewal for the future. viewed by Roma Hadzewycz, editor-in-chief of both news- Adjacent to the library is the University Church of the Metropolitan Stefan Soroka of the Ukrainian Catholic papers, and Lev Khmelkovsky of Svoboda about the role of Holy Wisdom of God, which was consecrated by Patriarch Church led a moleben prayer and memorial service in the UOC-KP in Ukraine. The UOC-MP, he noted, is not on Sviatoslav in concelebration with bishops of the Ukrainian memory of Bishop Soter Ortynsky, the first Ukrainian the side of the Ukrainian state and would settle for Catholic Church’s Synod on September 11 in Lviv. The Catholic bishop in the United States. The services were enslavement instead of a just peace where a person has church contains two other churches on a lower tier – the held on October 30 at Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the complete freedom. In Patriarch Filaret’s opinion, had Church of St. Clement, Pope of Rome, and the Church of Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia, where the bish- there been one united Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the Lord’s Grave – both representing various stages of op’s remains are interred within a crypt. The year 2016 Ukraine, Vladimir Putin would not have dared to attack Christianity from its early formation. The Church of the marked the 150th anniversary of Ortynsky’s birth in Ukraine. Mr. Putin, he added, has the support from the Lord’s Grave is a place for private prayer. The bells of the 1866, and the 125th anniversary of his priestly ordination, UOC-MP and other Russian-infiltrated forces in Ukraine. church – named in honor of St. Pope John Paul II, Patriarch as well as the centennial of his death in 1916. The Rev. Dr. The UOC-MP’s popularity in Ukraine can be attributed to Josyf Slipyj and Cardinal Myroslav Ivan Lubachivsky – Ivan Kacsczak, who recently authored a book about the the propaganda campaign by Moscow that paints the Kyiv were blessed prior to the consecration of the new church. life of Ortynsky, gave the homily during the service. Patriarchate as schismatic, uncanonical and unworthy. The church also will have designated areas for its pastoral Prior to the events in Philadelphia, the Rev. Kaszczak The UOC-KP appealed to Ecumenical Patriarch center for discussions, meetings and interactions – with spoke at the Ukrainian-American Citizens Club in Bartholomew to recognize the autocephaly of the Kyiv hopes of attracting visitors from the city of Lviv. Patriarch Watervliet, N.Y., on October 28. His presentation had Patriarchate, Patriarch Filaret told the editors. The patri- Sviatoslav called the church the university’s most impor- focused on brotherhoods and the early formation of the arch also noted that he does seek open relations with the tant “classroom” from which great wisdom can be Ukrainian Catholic Church in the United States. The event clergy of the UOC-MP, as many of them have become attained. As part of the celebrations, an evening featured was sponsored by the UACC, the St. Nicholas Brotherhood priests of the UOC-KP, adding that it is easier to unite with art discussions, as well as a theatrical performances by (commonly called the “bratsvo”) and St. Nicholas Ukrainian friends than with former enemies. Relations between the national artists of Ukraine. Catholic Church in Watervliet. The Rev. Kaszczak is author UOC-KP and the UOC-U.S.A. have also improved, with the The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A. (UOC- of several books about the establishment and development hierarchs of the UOC-U.S.A. appealing to Patriarch U.S.A.) launched its Strategic Plan during its 21st regular of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in the U.S., and had edited Bartholomew to work with the UOC-KP. The UOC-U.S.A. Sobor on October 19-22 in South Bound Brook, N.J., at the a new edition of Bohdan P. Procko’s book “Ukrainian continues to do good work in Ukraine, and the patriarch Metropolia Center of the Church. Metropolitan Antony out- Catholics in America: A History,” with new material about said that his meeting that day with the Consistory of the lined the Strategic Plan and underscored its importance for the how brotherhoods were instrumental in the growth of UOC-U.S.A. was further proof of those good relations.

Nadiya Krawchuk Lev Khmelkovsky The Boston Friends of the Ukrainian Catholic University Committee during an infor- Patriarch Filaret of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kyiv Patriarchate blesses the mative presentation on October 28 in Boston by Bishop Borys Gudziak about devel- Home Office of the Ukrainian National Association on November 7 during a pastoral opments at UCU. From left: Maria F. Saxe, Tamara Nary, Tania Vitvitsky, Bishop visit to the United States parishes of the UOC-KP. The patriarch gave an interview to Gudziak, Christine Slywotzky and Alicia Szendiuch. Svoboda and The Ukrainian Weekly, which are published by the UNA. No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 7

2016: THE YEAR IN REVIEW Our Ukrainian diaspora: unity around the globe nity was the key word for 2016 in our Ukrainian diaspora. On February 20, Ukraine’s Day of UCommemoration of the Heroes of the Heavenly Brigade, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress spoke for Ukrainians worldwide when it said: “Today, the Ukrainian Canadian community joins our brothers and sisters in Ukraine and around the world in commemorating the memory and heroism of all those who paid the ultimate price in the battle for a free and democratic Ukraine. From November 2013 to February 2014 the citizens of Ukraine took to the streets to protest against the corrupt, authoritarian regime of former President Viktor Yanukovych. On the Maidan in Kyiv (Independence Square), and on city squares throughout the country, the people of Ukraine claimed their unalien- able right to liberty and justice. Their demand of their gov- ernment was simple – to be treated with Dignity. The brave demonstrators were met with state-ordered vio- lence and in February 2014, the regime opened fire against its own people. UWC “Over 100 people – the Heavenly Hundred [Heavenly Participants of the annual general meeting of the Ukrainian World Congress held in Kyiv on August 25-27. Brigade] – gave their lives so that the people of Ukraine can live in dignity with a government that respects their Ukrainians got together to sing a rousing “Mnohaya Lita” century atrocities,” the UCCA stated. The UCC noted, human rights. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. The and posted video of this greeting on Facebook. Vira “Today the Ukrainian Canadian community stands in soli- victory of Ukraine’s Revolution of Dignity will forever Savchenko shared news of these public celebrations on darity with the Crimean Tatar People who mark the anni- stand as an example to us all of courage, determination her Facebook page. versary of the mass deportation from their ancestral and unity. …Today, as we honor the Heavenly Hundred, To be sure, there were also numerous public expres- homeland by the totalitarian regime of Joseph Stalin. The we also pay tribute to the thousands of Ukrainians who sions of support from diaspora Ukrainians for other citi- entire Crimean Tatar people, the indigenous people of have fallen or been wounded as a result of Russia’s inva- zens of Ukraine held as Vladimir Putin’s hostages. Among Crimea, were exiled to the Soviet east in 1944. Hundreds sion and the tens of thousands that are today risking their them were filmmaker Oleh Sentsov and Oleksander of thousands of men, women and children were forcibly lives fighting to protect Ukraine’s independence and sov- Kolchenko, who were tried as “terrorists” and back in and violently deported – almost half lost their lives during ereignty.” August 2015 were sentenced to 20 and 10 years, respec- the first year of exile – for no crime other than their lan- Next, when Nadiya Savchenko on March 3 declared a tively. In addition, according to the Kharkiv Human Rights guage, culture and traditions. They were not allowed to hunger strike – her seventh such hunger strike since she Protection Group, many Crimean Tatars were being held return to Crimea for almost 50 years.” was taken into Russian custody in July 2014 – after the in Russian-occupied Crimea and were falsely accused of As the 25th anniversary of the re-establishment of judge in the Russian court where she was being tried being involved in a terrorist group. And then there were Ukraine’s independence was celebrated, community lead- denied her the opportunity to deliver a final statement, POWs captured by Russia and its “separatist” collabora- ers in the United States, Canada and Australia, and the our diaspora communities sprang into action. March 9, the tors. leader of the Ukrainian World Congress, Eugene Czolij, day her trial was to resume, was proclaimed a Global Day Ukrainian diaspora organizations, led by the Ukrainian shared their thoughts on the significant milestone with of Support for Nadiya Savchenko. Demonstrations in sup- World Congress, combined efforts to call on the interna- The Weekly in its issues dated August 21 and 28. port of Ms. Savchenko were held not just in her beloved tional community to secure the release of all Ukrainian Mr. Czolij wrote: “The 20-million strong Ukrainian dias- Ukraine, but also in Russia, Canada, the United States, political prisoners illegally detained by Russian authori- pora led by the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) joins the Sweden, Poland, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, ties. They also urged Ukrainians around the globe to take people of Ukraine in marking the 25th anniversary of the Slovenia, England, Egypt, Malta, Greece, Bulgaria, Belgium, up the cause by contacting their elected officials. Acting in Independence of Ukraine as proclaimed on 24 August Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, Hungary, Israel, Hong Kong, support of an October 5 appeal by the Parliament of 1991 – a day that saw the fulfillment of the dreams of so China, Malaysia, Georgia, Australia, Cyprus, Uruguay, Ukraine, the UWC urged the international community, many who had dedicated their lives to this goal and a day Argentina, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, the Czech Republic, including human rights organizations, to assist with that offered hope and promise to future Ukrainian genera- Slovakia, Austria, Norway, Romania, and, no doubt, other efforts to secure the release of all Ukrainian citizens held tions. Over the course of 25 years we have watched the countries – a true worldwide movement. by Russian authorities. Similar appeals and statements rebirth of a nation that not only removed the shackles of There was also a worldwide campaign to send birthday were issued by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC), oppression, but shattered them into pieces, ensuring that greetings to the imprisoned Ms. Savchenko as she marked Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) and they can never again be used to deny our people their her 35th birthday on May 11. It was the second year she Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organizations. freedom, their aspirations or fundamental human rights. celebrated her birthday behind bars, and the second time There were worldwide expressions of solidarity on The UWC – with its member organizations and global net- Ukrainians around the world sent her birthday cards with Ukraine’s official Day of Remembrance of the Victims of work today spanning 50 countries – has stood with the simple, non-political messages (otherwise, her lawyers the Crimean Tatar Genocide, marked on May 18. The people of Ukraine at every stage of this often tumultuous advised, the mail would be confiscated by Russian author- UCCA and the UCC joined the UWC and the government of journey. There was no greater unifying moment for the ities and would not react her). Ms. Savchenko’s birthday Ukraine in remembering the forcible deportation of over Ukrainian diaspora than the proclamation of Ukrainian was the focus of gatherings in various cities. In Kyiv, lan- 230,000 Crimean Tatars from their Crimean homeland to independence, which resulted in the fall of the Soviet terns were set aloft in order to, as Vira Savchenko said, the Soviet east and the deaths of over 100,000 of them Union.” light her sister’s way home. In Riga, the capital of Latvia, during this genocidal act of ethnic cleansing perpetrated Referring to the “harsh realities of the events that have 35 blue and yellow balloons, with birthday messages writ- by the regime of Joseph Stalin in 1944. “This Sürgün, or transpired in Ukraine since November 2013, including the ten on them, were released into the air. In Paris, a group of ‘violent expulsion,’ remains hidden in the annals of 20th Revolution of Dignity, the illegal occupation of Crimea by

KUPO Delegates at the worldwide Conference of Ukrainian Plast Organizations convened in Kyiv on August 22-26. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

2016: THE YEAR IN REVIEW the Russian Federation and its ongoing armed invasion of eastern Ukrainian territories,” Mr. Czolij stated: “The UWC, with the support of Ukrainians worldwide and in coopera- tion with the governing authorities and civil society of Ukraine, has worked determinedly to keep the interna- tional community – including national governments, the United Nations, European Union, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, NATO and human rights monitoring organizations – engaged, informed and active in the defense of Ukraine’s freedom and territorial integrity.” On the occasion of Ukraine’s Independence Day, several international Ukrainian organizations held meetings and conferences in Kyiv. The Ukrainian World Congress con- vened its annual general meeting in Ukraine’s capital on August 25-27, with 184 delegates and guests from 26 countries present, while the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations held its annual meeting on August 21-23, with 18 delegates and nine official guests representing WFUWO member organizations, as well as representatives of women’s organizations of Ukraine in attendance. UCS Sofiya Fedyna The UWC meeting was addressed by, among others, The personalized stamp marking the 25th anniversary Mark Howansky, president of the U.S.-based of Ukraine’s independence that was released in Organization for the Defense of Lemkivshchyna, rings the Verkhovna Rada Chairman Andriy Parubiy, Minister of Australia by the Ukrainian Collectibles Society. The peace bell to honor victims of Akcja “Wisła” on July 22 in Culture Yevhen Nyschuk, Acting Minister of Health of design is by Tamara Jakovlev. Zdynia, Poland, where the 34th Lemko Vatra was held. Ukraine Dr. Ulana Suprun, and National Deputies Refat Chubarov, Valeriy Patskan and Ivan Krulko. UWC National Council of Women of Ukraine (NCWU), honored Roman Waschuk, a member of Plast; the president of the President Czolij delivered an address highlighting the the president of the WFUWO, Orysia Sushko, the presi- Ukrainian World Congress, Mr. Czolij; and Cardinal and main aspects of the work done and the key priorities for dents of WFUWO member organizations, its main repre- Major Archbishop emeritus Lubomyr Husar, a fellow Plast the Ukrainian diaspora led by the UWC, which were sentatives to the U.N., representatives of women’s organi- scout. Delegates voted on a new World Plast Executive, re- focused on assisting Ukraine in the defense of its indepen- zations in Ukraine and the administrator of the WFUWO electing Ms. Kuzmowycz of the United States as CEO. dence and territorial integrity. Over the course of three with the NCWU Order of Peace and Love. Volodymyr Bazarko (U.S.) was elected to chair the World days, reports on UWC activities from the past year and Also in Kyiv at the time of Ukrainian Independence Day Plast Supervisory Board. future plans were discussed during five roundtables: celebrations was the Conference of Ukrainian Plast In Australia, the Ukrainian Collectibles Society com- “Coordinating Support for Ukraine,” “UWC Humanitarian Organizations (known by its Ukrainian-based acronym as memorated the 25th anniversary of Ukraine’s indepen- Initiatives in Aid of Ukraine,” “Promoting a Positive Image KUPO), the body uniting Plast groups worldwide, which dence by releasing an Australian personalized stamp, a of Ukraine,” “Celebrating the UWC’s 50th Anniversary” convened on August 22-26. More than 100 delegates and first day cover and a postcard. Designed by Adelaide and “Supporting the Economic Development of Ukraine.” guests arrived from Australia, Argentina, Canada, graphic designer Tamara Jakovlev, the image depicts a Taking advantage of their stay in Ukraine in August, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom, the United States young girl and boy holding hands while dancing, high- leaders of the UCCA and the UWC had a packed schedule and Ukraine, which boasted the largest delegation. lighting the joyous spirit of Ukrainian traditions. On the of meetings with members of the Verkhovna Rada, Discussions at the 19th conference of the international back of the first day cover, the wording of the 1991 Act of Cabinet ministers and the new U.S. envoy to Ukraine, body focused on a plan of action for the next three-year Declaration of Independence of Ukraine is reproduced. Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch. The newly elected presi- term of the World Plast Executive. Among the topics cov- Later in the year, on November 1, the Ukrainian World dent of the UCCA, Andriy Futey, and his predecessor, ered: changes to the by-laws of KUPO, the next Congress president met with Ukraine’s President Petro Tamara Olexy, joined the UWC delegation at a signing cer- International Plast Jamboree scheduled for 2017 in Poroshenko in Kyiv to discuss joint efforts dedicated pri- emony with Ukraine’s Prime Minister Volodymyr Germany, and the development of Plast in more countries marily to furthering the ratification by the Netherlands of Groysman of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the where Ukrainians now reside. the European Union-Ukraine Association Agreement; the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Ukrainian World On the eve of the KUPO gathering, Plast leaders imperativeness of pressuring the Russian Federation to Congress. UWC delegates also participated in a special appeared at a news briefing at the Ukraine Crisis Media comply with the Minsk agreements and renewing eco- evening celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day orga- Center. Marta Kuzmowycz, chief executive officer of the nomic sanctions against the Russian Federation until it nized by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for World Plast Executive, underscored that the organization fully complies with them; the deployment by the Economic Development and Trade Stepan Kubiv. is adapting to new circumstances in the countries where it Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe of a The WFUWO, which encompasses 30 national organi- is active, while staying true to its ideals and its primary police mission in eastern Ukraine to enhance compliance zations in 20 countries, reported on its multifaceted work, purpose of educating future leaders in a Ukrainian spirit. of the Russian Federation with the Minsk agreements; the including support for the people of Ukraine during this Stanislav Andriychuk of Plast in Ukraine reported that implementation of a visa-free regime for Ukrainian citi- time of war, that comprises financial aid; support for the there are currently some 7,000 members in Ukraine. The zens traveling to EU member states taking into account troops; aid to families, children and women; and assis- national leadership of the organization, which was reborn the fulfillment by Ukraine of all criteria; international sup- tance to survivors of war. Also notable were reports on the in Ukraine 25 years ago, hopes to reach a membership port for the U.N. General Assembly resolution on the federation’s work with United Nations bodies, both in that would encompass 10 percent of the youth of Ukraine human rights violations in Crimea, as initiated by Ukraine; New York and in Geneva; and a presentation on “The Role by the year 2035. the importance of a Tomos of Autocephaly for the of Women in Contemporary Ukraine.” Greetings to KUPO delegates were offered by special Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kyiv Patriarchate; and UWC Dr. Lyudmila Porokhniak Hanovska, president of the guests, among them Canada’s Ambassador to Ukraine support for the economic development of Ukraine. The UWC delegation also included Vice-President and Chair of the UWC Committee in Support of the Economic Development of Ukraine Olena Koszarny and Director of the UWC Mission to Ukraine Serhiy Kasyanchuk. In sup- port of the UWC initiative, the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America penned a letter to Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands to urge ratification of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement. Soon thereafter, on November 19, the UWC called for worldwide support of the campaign “Condemn Russia’s Crimes in Ukraine and Syria.” The UWC stated: “Emboldened by some wavering on the part of the inter- national community regarding sanctions against the Russian Federation in response to its illegal occupation of Crimea and hybrid war on the territory of Eastern Ukraine, the Russian Federation continues to escalate its military involvement in the war in Ukraine and Syria in an effort to continue bolstering its imperialist ambitions. It is critical for the international community to understand the parallels between the Russian Federation’s military actions in Ukraine and Syria, including the indiscriminate targeting of innocent civilians, humanitarian aid convoys and hospitals. The UWC calls upon its network of commu-

Daria Kish nity organizations to support the media campaign Participants of the third conference of Ukrainian Journalists of North America, held on May 20-22 at the launched by the Public Diplomacy Division of the Ministry Soyuzivka Heritage Center in Kerhonkson, N.Y. of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine titled ‘Condemn Russia’s No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 9

2016: THE YEAR IN REVIEW

Crimes in Ukraine and Syria’ designed to reinforce the message that Russian aggression endangers peace and Canada: marking 125 years stability in the world.” In other diaspora news, the professional organization Ukrainian Journalists of North America (UJNA) held its of Ukrainian settlement third conference at the Soyuzivka Heritage Center in hile 2017 marks the 150th anniversary of Kerhonkson, N.Y., on May 20-22. The event brought Canadian Confederation, 2016 was the year together a group of journalists from the United States and WUkrainians in Canada celebrated the 125th anni- Canada who represented various news media outlets, versary of their immigration to the country – and print, broadcast and online, as well as the Washington- Saskatchewan kicked the year off on January 5 when the based Voice of America, the Washington correspondent of province’s premier, Brad Wall, officially proclaimed 2016 the TV channel Ukrayina and free-lance writers. Elected to as the Year of Saskatchewan Ukrainians, who comprise 13 lead the UJNA for the next two years was Jurij R. Klufas of percent of the provincial population. Toronto. Two months later, on March 10, Manitoba followed suit The conference’s keynote speaker was to be Ukraine’s with its own proclamation, which recognized the contribu- ambassador to the United States, Valeriy Chaly, but he sent tion Ukrainian Manitobans have made to the province, “ini- word that he would be unable to attend and forwarded a tially through agriculture, forestry, railways and mining message to the UJNA in which he underscored that “jour- and, presently, in most professional fields of the work- nalism is a key factor in the development of democracy.” place,” and in the creation and promotion of multicultural- He cited the ongoing information war by the Kremlin ism across Canada. Then-Premier Greg Selinger designated The first vice-chairman of Ukraine’s Parliament, Andriy against Ukraine, and underscored that it is journalists 2016 the Year of Manitoba’s Ukrainian Canadian Cultural Parubiy, visited Ottawa in February, meeting with “who are the main defenders of our freedom on the infor- Heritage through the proclamation, which also noted the Canadian officials, including the prime minister. At that mation front, a firm foundation of the Ukrainian struggle provincial capital, Winnipeg, as “the first major urban cen- meeting (from left) are Ukraine’s Ambassador to Canada Andriy Shevchenko, Verkhovna Rada First Vice- in this hybrid war.” The ambassador concluded: “I expect ter of Ukrainian Canadians, where many of the earliest reli- Chairman Andriy Parubiy, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that we, Ukrainian diplomats, together with you, journal- gious cultural institutions were founded, including the and Member of the Parliament Borys Wrzesnewskyj. ists, will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder as we Canada-wide coordinating body known as the Ukrainian bring the truth to the world until Ukraine’s final victory Canadian Congress, established 75 years ago,” and as “the at the celebrations of the 125th anniversary of Ukrainian over aggression, evil and falsehood.” first city outside of Ukraine to dedicate a statue honoring immigration to Canada during Ukrainian Day at the A presentation on the topic “Looking Ahead to the 25th the bard and freedom fighter of Ukraine, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village located outside of Anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence” by Ukraine’s built on the grounds of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly Edmonton. Ambassador to Canada Andriy Shevchenko opened the by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress [UCC].” National celebrations for the 125th culminated in the fall conference proceedings. He began his remarks by observ- 2016 also marked the 55th anniversary of the – back in Saskatchewan – where the XXV Triennial Congress ing that many Ukrainians in Ukraine once had a faulty Ukrainian education program in Manitoba, which was of Ukrainian Canadians was held in the capital, Regina. image of the Ukrainian diaspora but now understand that taught in the early decades until it was disallowed in 1916 But not everyone was celebrating with Canada’s it comprises hard-working people who were brought up and later reinstated in 1961, according to the proclama- Ukrainian community. to understand that they should help Ukraine in any way tion, which highlighted three Ukrainian Manitoban institu- possible. Yesterday’s simple packages of goods (known as tions established at the University of Manitoba: St. Canada’s relations with Russia “banderoli”) for one’s family in Ukraine have now evolved Andrew’s College in 1946, Ukrainian Studies in the At a January 26 news conference in Moscow, Russian into serious support for Ukraine’s armed forces fighting in Department of German and Slavic Studies in 1949, and the Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the previ- the country’s east. Mr. Shevchenko noted that the greatest Center for Ukrainian Canadian Studies in 1981. ous Conservative Canadian government of “blindly follow- challenges for Ukraine today are corruption and the war in The 125th anniversary celebrations continued through ing the demands of rabid representatives of the Ukrainian the country’s east, as well as Russia’s ongoing hybrid war the year, with the July 21 launch of an exhibit – “Journey to diaspora in Canada.” The following day, and four days against Ukraine and the West. Therefore it is most impor- Canada: Ukrainian Immigration Experiences 1891-1900” before his visit to Ukraine, Canada’s Foreign Affairs tant to fight disinformation and to continue to inform gov- – at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Minister Stéphane Dion said the Liberal government would ernments about the truth. Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Ukrainian Canadian community “not tolerate from any Russian minister any insults against The 34th Lemko Vatra took place in Zdynia, Poland, on also unveiled a plaque as a tribute to the five waves of the community” and “deeply disagree[s] with the invasion July 22-24. At the same time, the Presidium of the World Ukrainian immigrants who came to Canada over the past and interference of the Russian government in Ukraine.” Federation of Ukrainian Lemko Associations held its meet- 125 years, and which acknowledged their contribution to Mr. Dion echoed that position in March, when he ing, led by President Sofiya Fedyna. In attendance were building Canada and championing such Canadian values released a statement marking the second anniversary of Lemko leaders from Poland (Stefan Klapyk, Emil Hojsak), as multiculturalism. “Ukrainian Canadians have enriched “Russia’s invasion and illegal annexation of Ukraine’s Serbia (Bogdan Vilavski, Joachim Hrubenya, Velemyr Canada through their industriousness, rich cultural heri- Crimean peninsula.” He said that, “Russian occupation and Paplatsko), Croatia (Zvonko Kostelnik), Slovakia (Petro tage, strong religious beliefs and dedication to their com- aggression has led to human rights violations, including Sokol, Ivan Laba), Ukraine (Stefan Krynytsky, Stefan munity and ancestral homeland,” reads an inscription on unlawful seizure of property, harassment and restrictions Majkovich, Mykola Vovk, Ihor Duda) and Canada (Andriy the plaque. on freedom of speech and assembly. Self-proclaimed Rotko), as well as the president of the Organization for the Less than a month later, Alberta declared 2016-2017 as ‘authorities’ use force and intimidation to foster a climate Defense of Lemkivshchyna in the United States, Mark the Year of the Ukrainian Canadian. “Today, more than of intolerance, where residents who express views con- Howansky, who shared his reflections on visiting 345,000 Albertans are of Ukrainian descent and our prov- trary to those of Russia face discrimination and persecu- Lemkivshchyna and his reactions to those events in The ince continues to welcome newcomers from Ukraine in tion.” Mr. Dion accused Russia of “displaying a blatant dis- Weekly’s September 4 issue. He noted that the next con- this 25th year of Ukraine’s independence,” said Alberta’s regard for international law, including the European gress of Lemko associations will be held in Zymna Voda Minister of Economic Development and Trade Deron Convention on Human Rights,” and said its actions “contin- (near Lviv), Ukraine, in late August 2017. Bilous, a Ukrainian Canadian, while speaking on August 7 ue to undermine peace and security in the region.”

Government of Saskatchewan Saskatchewan Ukrainians present Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall with an embroi- dered Ukrainian shirt in recognition of the province’s proclamation of 2016 as the Adam Scotti/Prime Minister’s Office Year of Saskatchewan Ukrainians. Pictured in the rotunda of Saskatchewan’s Mykola Nyzhnykovskyi, the 11-year-old boy who lost his legs and an arm in Legislative Building on January 5 are (from left): Orest Gawdyda and Mary Ann Volodarsk, near the ceasefire line in eastern Ukraine, presents Prime Minster Justin Trischuk, vice-president and president, respectively, of the Ukrainian Canadian Trudeau his coloring “Tree of Life” on November 9 on Parliament Hill. From left are: Congress, Saskatchewan Provincial Council; Premier Wall (holding the shirt); Gerald MP Borys Wrzesnewskyj, Prime Minister Trudeau, CUF Director of Humanitarian Luciuk, chair of the Saskatchewan-Ukraine Relations Advisory Committee; and Ken Initiatives Krystina Waler, Mykola’s mother, Alla Nyzhnykovska, Mykola, Ukraine’s Krawetz, member of the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly and legislative secretary Ambassador to Canada Andriy Shevchenko and Canada-Ukraine Foundation to the prremier for Saskatchewan-Ukraine relations. President Victor Hetmanczuk. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

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Canadian parliamentarians also heard about systemat- ic violations of human rights by terrorists in the occupied territories of eastern Ukraine and on the situation in Crimea from Andriy Parubiy, the first vice-chairman of the Verkhovna Rada during his late February visit to Ottawa. Mr. Parubiy also met with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan to discuss Ukraine’s need for military equipment, joint training and continued training missions. Mr. Parubiy (who in April became chairman of the Rada) also participated in an event on Canada’s Parliament Hill to commemorate the Maidan activists – the Heavenly Brigade – who were killed by forces loyal to Ukraine’s then-President Viktor Yanukovych in February 2014. Mr. Parubiy also said he would help establish a friendship group involving Ukrainian and Canadian parliamentarians. Russia’s imprisonment of Ukrainian national deputy and former military pilot Nadiya Savchenko captured global attention, including that of both the Canadian gov- ernment and the UCC. On March 8, Minister Dion released a statement in which he expressed concern about Ms. Savchenko’s health, noting that she had refused food and water after CUF the Russian court adjourned proceedings and denied her Three members of the Canada-Ukraine Foundation’s Medical Mission team were recognized with awards present- ed by President Peter Poroshenko of Ukraine on February 24. Leaders and volunteers of the team are seen above the right to make closing remarks. “Canada has repeatedly (from left): head anesthetist Dr. Paul Slavchenko; honorees Dr. Carolyn Levis, Dr. Oleh Antonyshyn and Krystina underlined that Ms. Savchenko’s transfer to Russia was Waler; and Victor Hetmanczuk, president of Canada Ukraine Foundation. illegal, the charges brought against her politically motivat- ed and her treatment during her detention a matter of be strong in how” that message is delivered to Russia, leaving Mykola a triple amputee with severe injuries to his grave concern,” said Mr. Dion, who noted that the court which “only understands the language of strength,” Ms. face, teeth, eyes and other parts of his body. process had been “marked by irregularities from the Savchenko said in an exclusive interview with the Dr. Oleh Antonyshyn, a plastic surgeon at Toronto’s start.” He called for Ms. Savchenko’s immediate release. Canadian Broadcasting Corp. (CBC). She said she expects Sunnybrook Hospital, led a team of 22 volunteer Canadian On the eve of Freedom for Nadiya Savchenko Global that incoming President Donald Trump, who seeks to medical professionals who treated Mykola’s facial injuries Day of Support, March 9, the day her trial was scheduled establish a better relationship between the U.S. and at a hospital in Kyiv as part of a medical mission to to resume, the UCC also issued a statement denouncing Russia, “will very soon find out that that you cannot have a Ukraine organized by the Canada-Ukraine Foundation. the “illegal” court proceedings and “fabricated charges” warm relationship with a country that has no principles The CUF also arranged for Mykola’s further treatment in against 35-year-old Ms. Savchenko, which show “the [and] that doesn’t respect other democratic rights.” Canada at Montreal’s Shriners Hospital, which has provid- Russian regime’s utter, cynical contempt for international As for her own future, Ms. Savchenko told interviewer ed ongoing assessment and treatment of Mykola’s pros- law, due process and human rights.” The UCC also praised Terry Milewski that she is ready to serve her country “in thetic needs. Ms. Savchenko, who was serving in Ukraine’s armed forc- any capacity, either as soldier, politician or president, as In February, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko es in eastern Ukraine when she was taken hostage in June long as people want,” but that she is “not interested in the presented Dr. Antonyshyn with the Order of Merit, and 2014 by pro-Russian forces on Ukrainian soil, for respond- presidency for the sake of power.” Her involvement in poli- two other members of the CUF medical mission team – ing to her imprisonment and prosecution “with bravery, tics, she said, is “a way to change politics in itself,” and plastic surgeon Dr. Carolyn Levis of Hamilton, Ontario, and dignity and heroism.” added that she was “disappointed in the politics we have Krystina Waler, director of humanitarian initiatives from “Her resistance to injustice is the embodiment of the right now and politics as usual we’ve had for the last 25 Toronto – were awarded the Order of Princess Olga in a determination of the people of Ukraine to defend their years that has led us to nowhere.” ceremony in Kyiv. All three were recognized for outstand- country against Russia’s brutal invasion,” said the UCC Another – much younger – victim of the hostilities in ing achievements in service to Ukraine. statement, which called on Canada and the international Ukraine also visited Parliament Hill. Prolific Ukrainian Canadian journalist Victor Malarek community to exert pressure on the Russian Federation to Mykola Nyzhnykovskyi, an 11-year-old boy who lost his profiled the CUF’s medical mission to Ukraine, along with ensure the immediate safe return to Ukraine of Ms. legs and an arm in Volodarsk, near the ceasefire line in Mykola’s plight, on CTV’s investigative-news program, Savchenko and all other Ukrainians illegally imprisoned eastern Ukraine, traveled from Montreal’s Shriners “W5,” in January. by Russia. Children’s Hospital to meet with Prime Minister Trudeau Crimea on the agenda Ms. Savchenko was eventually released, in May, as part while spending the afternoon of November 9 on of a prisoner swap with Russia, and visited Canada in Parliament Hill as a guest of Toronto Liberal Member of Crimea was also on the agenda in Canada in 2016. early December, meeting with Mr. Dion and International Parliament Borys Wrzesnewskyj. On May 18, Crimean Tatar leader Mustafa Dzhemilev Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland, a Ukrainian Canadian. On August 24, 2015, Mykola and his brother Danyo met with Prime Minister Trudeau and Foreign Affairs Ms. Savchenko warned Canadian leaders of the global were playing with two other friends in a field near their Minister Dion, who told him that Canada will never accept threat posed by Russia. home and saw an object that piqued their curiosity. Russia’s military invasion and illegal occupation of Canada should be “relentless in supporting human Mykola picked up what he thought was a toy, but it was a Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, and that Canada rights and political rights in Russia and in Ukraine” and “to grenade that detonated, immediately killing Danyo and stands shoulder to shoulder with the indigenous Crimean Tatar people. Meanwhile, Mr. Dzhemilev, who sits in Ukraine’s Parliament, told CBC News that “if Western countries decide to re-establish relationships with Russia and become friends again, it is a disaster for the entire Crimean Tatar people.” Later in the year, in November, Crimean democracy advocate Hennadii Afanasiev met with parliamentarians and attended a working dinner in his honor with mem- bers and associate members of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs and International Development Committee. He shared details of his kidnapping, torture by Russia’s Federal Security Service and imprisonment in Russia, after a Russian court convicted him of terrorism and sentenced him in December 2014 to seven years in a maximum security prison. Freed in June 2016, Mr. Afanasiev, who was born in 1990 and holds a law degree from Tavrida National V.I. Vernadsky University in Kyiv, now serves as a special representative of Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is responsible for helping to free 42 Ukrainians illegally imprisoned in Russia, including filmmaker Oleh Sentsov and Ukrainian activist Oleksandr Kolchenko, who have also been convicted on trumped-up charges of terrorism. In September, Edmonton Conservative MP Kerry Diotte introduced a private member’s bill in the House of Adam Scotti/Prime Minister’s Office Commons to establish a Crimean Tatar Deportation Canada’s International Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland and Ukraine’s First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of (known as the Sürgünlik) Memorial Day and recognize the Economic Development and Trade Stepan Kubiv sign the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA). Prime mass removal of more than 230,000 Crimean Tatars from Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada, and President Petro Poroshenko and Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman of their ancestral homeland by Soviet leader Joseph Stalin’s Ukraine witness the signing, which took place in Kyiv on July 11. No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 11

2016: THE YEAR IN REVIEW regime in 1944 as an act of genocide. The bill, which received support from the UCC, was defeated at second reading in December. Bilateral trade opportunities But it wasn’t all bad, or sad, news from Ukraine. Bilateral trade opportunities were a top issue for Canada’s government and business communities. On June 20, a Canada-Ukraine Business Forum, which was presented by the federal department of Global Affairs Canada and Ukraine’s Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, in partnership with the Canada-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (CUCC) and the Ottawa-based national think-tank, the Conference Board of Canada, was held in Toronto. The forum focused on four key sectors: information and communications technologies (ICT), agri- culture and food, infrastructure and logistics, and energy efficiency and renewables within the framework of the Canada-Ukraine Trade and Investment Support project (CUTIS), a five-year initiative sponsored by the Canadian government to increase trade and investment between the countries that is being implemented by the CUCC and the Conference Board. Prime Minister Trudeau was the headline speaker at the one-day event, where he announced that he would Norbert K. Iwan make his first official visit to Ukraine in July, and meet Members of the newly elected board of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, including re-elected President Paul with President Poroshenko, Prime Minister Volodymyr Grod, at the 25th Triennial Congress of Ukrainian Canadians, which was held on September 29-October 2 in Regina, Saskatchewan. Groysman and Verkhovna Rada Chairman Parubiy, after attending the NATO Summit of Heads of State and an Prime Minister Yatsenyuk’s visit to Canada that a bilat- would invade,” Ms. Freeland told the Toronto Star in 2015. Government in Warsaw. While in Ukraine, Mr. Trudeau eral trade deal had been reached following five years of She said her maternal grandparents’ experience had a would also witness the signing of the much-anticipated negotiations. A year later in Kyiv, Prime Minister Trudeau “very big effect” on her, and that “they were also commit- Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA). told reporters that CUFTA “will improve market access ted to the idea, like most in the [Ukrainian] diaspora, that Canada would continue to defend Ukrainian sovereign- and create more predictable conditions for trade.” The Ukraine would one day be independent and that the com- ty “in response to Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea, as milestone agreement, he said, will “bolster” the Canadian munity had a responsibility to the country they had been well as its support to insurgents in eastern Ukraine,” and and Ukrainian economies, “spur innovation” and “contrib- forced to flee… to keep that flame alive.” Canada stands “firmly” beside Ukraine in its efforts to ute to a stable, secure, prosperous economic future for the During her visit to Ukraine in July, Ms. Freeland noticed “strengthen democracy, respect the rule of law, and people of Ukraine.” a change in the country where she once lived and studied, encourage economic growth,” the prime minister told the Once CUFTA is in force, Ukraine will drop tariffs on 86 at the University of Kyiv as an exchange student from business forum. “We will continue to contribute assistance percent of Canadian imports, with the rest to be phased Harvard, and where she began her journalistic career as a and expertise whenever possible, because we understand out or subject to tariff reductions over the next seven stringer for the Financial Times, The Washington Post and that a strong democracy is at the heart of economic pros- years. Ukrainian tariffs will be eliminated on all Canadian The Economist in the late 1980s. perity,” he said. “Ultimately, we want to help create stabili- industrial products – from automobiles and medical-test- “Ukraine is more united and more determined than at ty in Ukraine so that the middle class can grow and thrive.” ing equipment, to industrial machinery, chemicals and any time I’ve seen it,” said Ms. Freeland, who first traveled That goal took a step closer on July 11 when plastics. Meanwhile, Canada will eliminate tariffs on to the country in 1980. “There has been a big transforma- International Trade Minister Freeland and Ukrainian First almost all (99.9 percent) Ukrainian imports. Ukrainian tion over the past three years – a uniting of Ukrainian soci- Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economic products to have duty-free access to Canada include all ety. The Ukrainian people are taking responsibility for Development and Trade Stepan Kubiv signed CUFTA in industrial products, fish and seafood, sunflower oil, sugar themselves and their country.” Kyiv in the presence of Messrs. Trudeau, Poroshenko and and sweets, baked goods, vodka, clothing, ceramics, iron She said the 2014 popular uprising on Kyiv’s Maidan Groysman. and steel, and minerals. “was called the Revolution of Dignity for a reason, because The trade agreement represents an “endorsement” of Ms. Freeland, the 48-year-old Alberta-born daughter of it was about people taking charge of their own lives. And the Ukrainian economy and “is about Canada strengthen- two lawyers who speaks Ukrainian fluently, said that “as a you can really see that and people are aware of that.” ing and deepening its historically close friendship with very proud Ukrainian Canadian,” affixing her signature to During his visit to Ukraine, Prime Minister Trudeau, Ukraine, and of supporting Ukraine at a crucial moment” the trade pact had “particular emotional resonance” and who was also accompanied by Mr. Wrzesnewskyj (chair of in its history, Ms. Freeland told The Weekly in a telephone was a “great moment” for her – and her family. the Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group) and interview from Lviv. “We really understand, as do the The minister’s late mother, Halyna Chomiak Freeland, a delegation of community leaders from the UCC led by Ukrainians, that a very important front on which Ukraine was born in a displaced persons camp in Germany when President Paul Grod, visited the Babyn Yar Monument, the is fighting today is the economic front.” her Ukrainian Catholic parents – Mykhailo Chomiak and Park of Eternal Glory and the Holodomor Monument and Mr. Trudeau’s prime ministerial predecessor, Stephen Alexandra (Loban) Chomiak – fled their home in western Holodomor Commemoration Museum. The prime minis- Harper, had announced in July 2015, during then-Ukraini- Ukraine before World War II when “they knew the Soviets ter also visited the Maidan, where he laid flowers honor- ing the Heavenly Brigade, and the International Peacekeeping and Security Center in Yavoriv in the Lviv region, where he met with Canadian Armed Forces per- sonnel who are providing training to Ukrainian forces as part of Operation UNIFIER. During his visit, Mr. Trudeau announced that Canada

humanitarian assistance to support the humanitarian needswould provideof the conflict-affected $13 million (about population $9.7 million in easternU.S.) in Ukraine; deploy additional Canadian monitors to the Special Monitoring Mission in eastern Ukraine of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe; and deploy additional Canadian police to Ukraine, focusing on training and institutional development. Following his meeting with the Canadian prime minis- ter, President Poroshenko stated, “Canada is not just a spe- cial partner, but also a true friend that will not leave Ukraine in a difficult situation.” In November, Minister Freeland tabled legislation in the House of Commons to implement CUFTA, which is expect- ed to soon receive the parliamentary green light in both Canada and Ukraine. Mr. Wrzesnewskyj told The Weekly that Ukrainian busi- nesses operating in Canada under CUFTA would be able to take advantage of the North American Free Trade

UCC Agreement (NAFTA) that includes Canada, the U.S. and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, International Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland and Member of Parliament Borys Mexico. “A company located in a place like southern Wrzesnewskyj with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress delegation in Kyiv. The Canadian prime minister visited Ontario would have access to the U.S. market,” Mr. Ukraine on July 10-12. Wrzesnewskyj said. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

2016: THE YEAR IN REVIEW

Institute – a world-class facility that promotes healthy liv- ing – and the Ukrainian Canadian minister said she would like it to be used as a model to develop a similar center in Ukraine. She raised the idea with Ukraine’s acting Minister of Health Dr. Ulana Suprun, a Detroit-born radiologist, whose husband, Marko, is a native Winnipegger. Minister Mihychuk also wants to memorialize the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike, which marks its centennial two years from now. The massive labor disruption, which last- ed six weeks, involved more than 30,000 people, shut down Canada’s then third-largest city and culminated on June 21, 1919, a day known as Bloody Saturday, which is chronicled in Ukrainian Manitoban director Danny Schur’s stage musical, “Strike!” The musical features two principal characters of Ukrainian origin and which is being adapted for film with shooting schedule to begin in the summer of 2017 in Winnipeg. Ms. Mihychuk said she plans to work with members of the UCC and Manitoba’s labor movement to create a bronze monument in the form of an overturned streetcar, an iconic image from the 1919 strike. “We want it to be a structure where people can see how the labor movement changed history, not only in Winnipeg but in the world, and how Ukrainians made a positive change for workers,” she said. Internment camp in the news The Ukrainian Canadian Civil Liberties Association has Office of MP Borys Wrzesnewskyj tried to have detainees at an internment camp in Quebec Over 20 Liberal Members of Parliament donned traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirts to celebrate international properly remembered. Vyshyvanka Day on May 19. Seen above are Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Liberal ministers and MPs, Ukraine’s In early 2016, the UCCLA appealed to the Canadian Ambassador to Canada Andriy Shevchenko, and interns from the Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Program. government to recover the camp cemetery at Spirit Lake, known today as La Ferme, which has fallen into disrepair. But such an entrée won’t be that straightforward, banning child labor, Canadian Employment, Workforce Between January 13, 1915, and January 28, 1917, when according to the president of the Canada-Ukraine Development and Labor Minister Mary Ann Mihychuk Spirit Lake was functioning as an internment camp for so- Chamber of Commerce (CUCC). “If a Ukrainian company told The Weekly in an interview following a November called “enemy aliens” under the War Measures Act of makes a product in Ukraine and brings it to Canada, it visit to Ukraine to strengthen collaboration between 1914, the camp had a maximum population of 1,312 won’t be able to send it on to the U.S. because it’s not a Canada and Ukraine on workplace safety in the context of internees, including entire families – some 60 of them. Canadian product,” said Zenon Potoczny. “But if a CUFTA. Many of those interned were parishioners of St. Michael Ukrainian company brings part of a product to Canada Ms. Mihychuk, a Ukrainian Canadian who also serves as the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church in Montreal; and adds something to it in Canada, it can export the prod- the Liberal MP for the north Winnipeg federal riding of most of them were men. uct to the U.S. under NAFTA,” which Mr. Trump talked Kildonan-St. Paul in the House of Commons, also met with UCCLA chairman Roman Zakaluzny called on Canadian about scrapping during last year’s American presidential representatives of the International Labor Organization – Heritage Minister Mélanie Joly, who represents a Quebec campaign and which Mr. Trudeau said his government the only tripartite United Nations agency that brings riding in the House of Commons, “to investigate how a would be open to renegotiating. together governments, employers and workers to develop cemetery, set up by the federal government, came to be CUFTA is also seen as providing Canadian businesses and set labor standards and policies – to create a training sold to the Province of Quebec, and then re-sold to a pri- with a cost-effective gateway into the lucrative European plan involving Ukraine, Canada and the ILO with the goal vate landowner, and whether this internee cemetery, one market, to which Canada will soon have access once a of improving the safety surrounding working conditions of the very few of its kind in Canada, should be designated trade agreement with the European Union, signed in late in Ukraine’s extractive sector. The three-party, workplace- a national historic site.” He said that, at a minimum, “this October, is ratified. The Canada-EU Comprehensive safety strategy is also supported by CUFTA’s labor chapter sacred space should be re-consecrated and restored, Economic and Trade Agreement is massive, and will give that requires both countries’ labor laws and practices to allowing for internee descendants to hallow the memory Canada access to a market of more than 500 million peo- adhere to ILO principles and rights, including the preven- of those who died at Spirit Lake – people held behind ple in 28 countries, with a combined GDP of more than tion of occupational injuries and illnesses, and offer com- Canadian barbed wire not because of any wrong they had pensation in such cases. done, but only because of who they were and where they A geoscientist for 20 years before entering politics in had come from.” million$14.9 trillion (U.S.) (U.S.). in 2015, By comparison, of which most CUFTA was addresses Canadian a her home province of Manitoba in 1995, Ms. Mihychuk The museum at Spirit Lake broke an attendance record exportsmarket towhere Ukraine. bilateral trade amounted to nearly $207 said that according to Ukrainian government statistics, 26 in 2016. Last summer, over 4,000 visitors came to the The benefit for Canada, in Mr. Wrzesnewskyj’s view, is percent of Ukrainian workers faced hazardous conditions Internment Interpretative Center, which opened in 2011 that small and medium-sized Canadian businesses can set on the job in 2015 – and “in particular, the extractive min- and chronicles the history of Spirit Lake – the second larg- up a plant or facility in Ukraine and operate it at a much eral industry was the most hazardous industrial sector.” est internment site in Canada – and early 20th century lower cost than in an EU-member country, such as France. She also visited the site of the former Chornobyl nucle- Ukrainian immigration to Quebec. A Canadian business can use Ukraine as its home base in About 30 miles from there, the Quebec municipality of Europe, and tap into the broader continental market La Morandière permanently erected the Ukrainian blue- through the free-trade agreements Canada and Ukraine helpar power contain plant and where safely Canada store radioactivehas contributed materials $3.6 millionresult- and-yellow national flag next to the flags of the municipal- have both signed with the EU. ing($2.7 from million the catastrophic U.S.) toward accident a replacement in 1986. sarcophagus to ity, Quebec and Canada in front of city hall in recognition Mr. Wrzesnewskyj also expects CUFTA to provide a Ms. Mihychuk expressed hope that Ukraine will soon be of the direct contribution early 20th-century Ukrainian boost to both Ukraine’s and Canada’s strengths in the agri- energy-independent and not have to rely on natural gas immigrants made to this northern region of Quebec. La cultural and food-processing sectors. “For centuries, imports originating from Russia. Ukrainians need “cheap Morandière is the result of a 1983 amalgamation of two Ukraine was a breadbasket country that had a capacity to and reliable fuel,” she said, and “coal is under their feet,” communities – Lac Castagnier (originally called produce vast amounts of food, and now has tremendous despite the serious risks this energy source poses to both Sheptytsky Colony) and La Morandière – both located 357 potential to return to that position,” he explained. “Canada workers and the environment. miles north of Montreal. has that potential too, since in many ways it is looked But the Minister added that, as abundant as coal is in Holodomor awareness upon as an incubator for new products and new ideas in Ukraine, it could only be a temporary supply for Ukraine’s the food-processing industry.” energy needs, particularly in light of the Paris climate- Meanwhile, Holodomor history went on the road in The CUCC’s Mr. Potoczny believes CUFTA could also change accord that came into force on November 4. Both 2016 via a classroom in a 40-foot customized RV that vis- help Ukraine tackle corruption, since the pact devotes an Canada and Ukraine have ratified the global agreement ited six Ontario high schools and three Ukrainian Saturday entire chapter to transparency, and a section outlining that seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions generated schools in March and April, reaching more than 650 stu- measures to combat bribery and corruption in trade and in large part by coal – and Canada could help Ukraine dents with up to four lessons a day. investments by criminalizing such activity. Those provi- move toward a greener economy and “embrace the princi- The Holodomor Mobile Classroom is the centerpiece of sions, along with another made-in-Canada chapter on ples of climate change,” she said. “Canadian companies are the Holodomor National Awareness Tour, a project of the labor that gives workers the rights to join unions and col- looking for opportunities to do some drilling in Ukraine to Canada-Ukraine Foundation, developed in partnership lective bargaining, and sets out employment standards, look for natural gas, which is much cleaner than coal. with the Holodomor Research and Education Consortium such as minimum wages and overtime pay, could also Ukraine could then be economically self-sufficient – and (HREC), the Ukrainian Canadian Research and serve as a model for Ukraine domestically, he added. green.” Documentation Center and the Ukrainian Canadian CUFTA’s labor provisions mark the first time Canada Closer to home, Ms. Mihychuk said she was exploring Congress, and which received funding from the Canadian, has incorporated a “progressive” and comprehensive the possibility of helping Ukraine’s health system through Ontario and Manitoba governments. chapter in a free-trade agreement that also addresses an initiative under way in her home riding. Winnipeg’s On November 29, the UCC, in partnership with the such issues as eliminating all forms of forced labor and Seven Oaks General Hospital is home to the Wellness Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group and the No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 13

2016: THE YEAR IN REVIEW

Lidia M. Wasylyn Three legislators of Ukrainian heritage who have done much for Alberta’s Ukrainian community were honored at the Ukrainian Youth Unity Complex in Edmonton on May 25. During the presentation of gifts (from left) are: Peter Dackiw and Gene Legendary Crimean Tatar leader Mustafa Dzhemilev held several informative briefings Zwozdesky (former member and speaker of the Alberta Legislative Assembly), Ivan on Parliament Hill on May 18. He is seen above with executive members of the Canada- Fedyna and Ed Stelmach (former Premier of Alberta), Ivanna Szewczuk and Janice Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group and members of the diplomatic corps. Sarich (member of the Alberta Legislative Assembly).

Embassy of Ukraine in Canada, held a solemn commemo- and elected officials; and increase youth engagement and along with special guests, gathered in Toronto for a strate- ration in Parliament to mark the 83rd anniversary of the re-establish the UCC parliamentary internship program. gic planning session. The session focused on developing Holodomor in Ukraine in which millions of people died He noted that over 40 of the some 250 delegates at the the resolutions set out by the umbrella organization’s from starvation under Stalin. Nadia Zelem, daughter of 2016 congress represented Ukrainian Canadian youth recent triennial congress, as well as other key priorities. Holodomor survivor Halyna Zelem, lit a candle at the cere- organizations, almost twice as many as at the previous The board determined three strategic pillars for the mony attended by dozens of MPs and senators. Canada congress in 2013. upcoming three-year term of the UCC: developing the became the first country to officially recognize the At the 75th anniversary banquet on October 1, Ukrainian Canadian community; celebrating and advanc- Holodomor as genocide in 2008. Shevchenko Medals – the highest honor bestowed by the ing the Ukrainian Canadian identity; and supporting The mood on Parliament Hill was lighter on May 19 UCC – were presented to 13 people, including writer, Ukraine. when over 20 Liberal MPs, including Prime Minister translator and cultural activist Orysia Paszczak Tracz, Over the summer, the UCC participated in public con- Trudeau, donned traditional Ukrainian embroidered whose “The Things We Do” column appeared regularly in sultations concerning Canada’s new defense policy and shirts and sang “Vziav By Ya Banduru,” to celebrate inter- The Weekly. She died on November 10 in Winnipeg after submitted a position paper, which addressed several key national Vyshyvanka Day. suffering a stroke. points, including a call for Canada to help deter further Unbeknownst to the MPs, their performance of the Minister Dion also attended the congress and Russian attacks against Ukraine or other states in the Ukrainian song was recorded and became a major news region and play a lead monitoring role at the Ukraine- item in Ukraine, gathering 70,000 views via Mr. Russia border in any future peacekeeping mission; help Wrzesnewskyj’s Facebook page. Nationalannounced Police that Canadaof Ukraine would through provide training up to $8.1and millionequip- Ukraine strengthen its security forces against foreign Two members of Mr. Trudeau’s Cabinet, Veterans ment.(about “We$6.1 will million stand U.S.) shoulder in new tofunding shoulder to support to support the aggression; increase the number of the current 200 Affairs Minister Kent Hehr and Minister of Small Business Ukraine in its quest for a secure, stable and prosperous Canadian military personnel training Ukrainian forces and Tourism Bardish Chagger, also became the first country that could serve as a model in the region and under Operation UNIFIER and extend the mission from Canadian MPs to answer questions during Question become in itself the best rebuke to [Russian President 2017 until at least 2020; and conclude negotiations on the Period while wearing colorful Ukrainian embroidery. Vladimir] Putin’s attempts to determine its future,” he told Canada-Ukraine Defense Cooperation Agreement to delegates. improve interoperability and deepen cooperation and UCC’s 75th anniversary In October, the UCC’s Ukraine Appeal initiative shipped investment between Canada’s and Ukraine’s military. In 2016, the UCC turned 75 years old, and to mark that 10 ambulances to Ukraine as part of a project that began In September, the UCC also called on G-20 leaders, who milestone, Mr. Grod and Andriy Shevchenko, Ukraine’s in 2015 to address the humanitarian crisis that has left were to meet in Hangzhou, China, to suspend Russia’s par- ambassador to Canada, went on a cross-Canada tour, visit- over 9,500 people killed and more than 20,000 injured or ticipation in that world body and bolster sanctions against ing Ukrainian communities from Ontario to Alberta before wounded as a result of the ongoing conflict with Russian- the country to pressure Mr. Putin to end Russian hostili- the UCC held its triennial (and 25th) congress in Regina in backed rebels. ties against Ukraine and its occupation of Crimea, as well the early fall, when Mr. Grod was re-elected as national On November 1, the UCC launched a national fund-rais- as the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. president. ing campaign to raise money for local programs and proj- In Edmonton in May, the Ukrainian Youth Unity Council Mr. Grod said that among the UCC’s priorities over the ects, along with national educational and charitable initia- honored three Ukrainian Albertan legislators, including next three years would be to increase support for tives, such as ensuring that the Holodomor is included in former premier Ed Stelmach, former Alberta Member of Ukraine’s reforms process and strengthen Ukraine’s abili- school curricula across Canada and supporting the com- the Legislative Assembly and Speaker Gene Zwozdesky ty to defend itself against Russia’s war of aggression; build pletion of a memorial to victims of Communism in Ottawa. (who successfully introduced the Ukrainian Famine and on the UCC’s relationship with the Canadian government Then, on December 3-4, the UCC Board of Directors, Genocide [Holodomor] Memorial Day Act, which passed with unanimous support in 2008), and former MLA Janice Sarich, who represented the provincial riding of Edmonton-Decore, where the Ukrainian Youth Unity Complex is located.

was raised to support an initiative to name a central path- wayIn atother the sitenews, of $1.5the Firstmillion World (about War $1.1 Battle million of Hill U.S.) in honor of Ukrainian Canadian Filip Konowal, the only sol- dier of Eastern European origin to receive the prestigious British Victoria Cross. The Battle of Hill 70 memorial will be officially unveiled near Lens, France, on April 8, 2017. A pysanka coin And finally, to crown the 125th anniversary of Ukrainian settlement in Canada, the Royal Canadian Mint

the beloved pysanka in early 2016. An image of Queen Elizabethreleased a $20II (not silver in coincolor) in theappears shape andon the in the verso. colors The of Hutsul pysanka coin (the world’s first-ever in the shape of

U.S.). Only 4,000 coins were produced. an Asegg) for sold who out came in a upday with at a theprice idea of $114.95for the design, (about per$87- haps it originated from the late Ms. Tracz, who wrote about the coin in a front-page story in The Weekly’s February 14 issue. In 2014, she had written to the mint Royal Canada Mint The $20 fine silver pysanka coin released by the Royal Canadian Mint to mark the 125th anniversary of Ukrainian settlement in Canada. Tracz got that – and 10 or 20 times more. and suggested the pysanka-design for a $1 or $2 coin. Ms. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

interests in Russia. ed Chrystia Freeland on her appointment Lifting of sanctions... That cannot be excluded. But neither NEWSBRIEFS that day as Canada’s minister of foreign should this: if the current sanctions regime affairs. Ms. Freeland previously served as (Continued from page 4) (Continued from page 2) is not working as intended, that does not Canada’s minister of international trade. Neither Mr. Polunin nor any of the com- mean that sanctions for Mr. Putin’s crimes the threat to Ukraine, Mr. Obama said, “On behalf of the Ukrainian Canadian com- mentators he spoke with acknowledge the in Ukraine are not appropriate. What is Russia’s actions “pose an unusual and munity, I congratulate Minister Freeland on possibility that their arguments are direct- clearly needed is more carefully targeted extraordinary threat to the national securi- her appointment as minister of foreign ed in the first instance to the West and are sanctions so that those who suffer most ty and foreign policy of the United States.” affairs. We have every confidence that intended to encourage the lifting of sanc- from them are not the Russian people but The European Union has parallel sanctions Minister Freeland will continue to serve tions with the possibly false prediction that Mr. Putin personally and his comrades in on Russia that are due to expire in July. Italy Canada capably, honorably and skillfully on lifting sanctions will promote the West’s arms. and other EU members have said they the world stage,” stated UCC National would push to end the sanctions, especially President Paul Grod. “During this time of if Mr. Trump carries out a softening of U.S. global instability, it is crucial that Canada policy towards Russia. (RFE/RL) remain a world leader in countering Russian aggression in Ukraine, and Russian Polish leaders welcome U.S. troops threats to Euro-Atlantic stability. Canada TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL WALTER HONCHARYK (973) 292-9800 x3040 WARSAW – Polish leaders welcomed U.S. has displayed leadership in NATO’s deter- or e-mail [email protected] troops to their country on January 14, with rence efforts in Eastern Europe by deploy- Prime Minister Beata Szydlo saying it was a ing troops to Latvia; providing training to “great day” that would help ensure the Ukrainian soldiers through Operation SERVICES PROFESSIONALS region’s security. About 3,500 American sol- UNIFIER, and leading efforts to impose diers have been deployed as part of NATO costs on Russia for its aggression.” The UCC troop rotations in Eastern Europe aimed at said of Ms. Freeland, who was born in reassuring regional allies following Russian Peace River, Alberta: “A proud Ukrainian moves against Ukraine. “This is an impor- Canadian, Minister Freeland has been tant day for Poland, for Europe, for our com- active in our community since childhood.” mon defense,” Ms. Szydlo said on January 14 Ihor Michalchyshyn, chief executive officer at a ceremony in the western town of Zagan. of the UCC, noted: “Throughout her public Polish Defense Minister Antoni Macierewicz service, Minister Freeland has consistently said the troops would help ensure “free- demonstrated a commitment to assisting dom, independence, and peace in Europe the people and government of Ukraine as and the whole world.” Speaking at the Zagan they bravely battle against Russia’s inva- ceremony, U.S. Ambassador to Poland Paul sion and implement a comprehensive Jones said, “This is America’s most capable reform program. The UCC looks forward to SERVICES fighting force – a combat-ready, highly working with Minister Freeland on con- trained U.S. armored brigade with our most tinuing to strengthen ties and relations advanced equipment and weaponry.” He between Canada and Ukraine.” The UCC added. “This force embodies America’s iron- also expressed its gratitude to the outgoing clad commitment to honor our NATO treaty minister of foreign affairs, Stéphane Dion, obligation to defend our NATO allies. And, for his service to Canada, unwavering sup- as threats grow, U.S. military deployments port of Ukraine and his readiness to work also grow.” Russia has been highly critical of with the Ukrainian Canadian community. the troop deployment, which comes in reac- (UCC) tions to Russia’s illegal annexation of Questions re Savchenko’s prisoners lists HELP WANTED Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014 and its backing of separatists in the country’s east. KYIV – National Deputy Nadiya “These actions threaten our interests, our Savchenko released the lists of Ukrainian C AREGIVER security,” President Vladimir Putin’s spokes- prisoners (129 captives and 494 missing) for 95 year old woman man, Dmitry Peskov, said on January 12. who are being held in the occupied in Wilmington, DE. “Especially as it concerns a third party Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. She also Please call 856-904-4161 building up its military presence near our released the lists of those whom represen- or email [email protected] borders.” (RFE/RL, based on reporting by tatives of the “Donetsk People’s Republic” AFP, AP and CNN) (DPR) and “Luhansk People’s Republic” (LPR) want to get swapped instead (525 Biden praises Pence’s knowledge of Russia 42 year old Ukrainian woman persons from the “DPR” and 283 persons seeking a live-in position as WASHINGTON – U.S. Vice-President Joe from the “LPR”). The names were received a caregiver for the elderly. Biden has praised the man who will replace from unofficial sources, the national deputy him, saying Vice-President-elect Mike emphasized. Experts pointed out mistakes Conscientious housekeeper, in the list, while the Security Service of very competent with excellent Pence knows more about Russia than his running mate, Donald Trump. In interviews Ukraine condemned the publication of pris- recommendations and extensive with White House reporters on January 12, oners’ personal data, saying that the lists experience with older people. Mr. Biden said he had been impressed with differ from the ones that the official center Please call 609-216-0239 Mr. Pence and thinks his views of Russia for liberation of captives is using. Following and its president, Vladimir Putin, are well the claims, Ms. Savchenko corrected the informed. “I never know what [Trump] lists. Some of the persons listed in the OPPORTUNITIES means” when he talks about Russia, Mr. above documents have no link to the con- Biden said. “But I do think that Mike is sig- flict in the Donbas and instead are on trial nificantly more informed about Russian in the cases of the Euro-Maidan killings, the EARN EXTRA INCOME! conduct, potential intentions, and Putin’s May 2, 2014, clashes in Odesa that left 48 The Ukrainian Weekly is looking behavior than... the president-elect is, dead, as well as in terrorist acts in Kharkiv. for advertising sales agents. based on what the president-elect says.” (Ukraine Crisis Media Center) For additional information contact Vice-President Biden has been the Obama More in U.S. see Russia as a threat Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, administration’s top envoy on many occa- The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. sions and has played a particularly critical WASHINGTON – The number of role in developing relations with Ukraine Americans who see Russia as a threat has GOT ENGAGED? and Iraq. He visited to Ukraine on January increased since before the presidential Order your korovai! Run your advertisement here, 16 in what was his last foreign trip before campaign, a new poll finds. The Reuters/ Call Lisa at in The Ukrainian Weekly’s leaving office. The vice-president said he Ipsos opinion survey conducted on January 307-250-4633 & visit “likes” Mr. Pence and had been sending him www.nazdorovya.com 9-12 found that 82 percent view Russia as a CLASSIFIEDS section. memos with his advice on how to handle threat to the United States. A March 2015 Shipping throughout USA relationships with Iraqi and Ukrainian version of the same poll found that 76 per- leaders. He said he had also identified for cent of responders saw Russia as a threat at Mr. Pence “the things that could explode the time. The poll also found that 82 per- Ukrainian Sport Museum and Hall of Fame most easily” in the world in coming years. cent of Republicans and 84 percent of is looking for mature high school seniors, college He noted that the incoming vice-president Democrats identify Moscow as a threat to students or senior citizens to work at the Museum had been receptive to his advice. (RFE/RL, the U.S. North Korea was viewed as the in Whippany, NJ on Saturdays and Sundays. based on reporting by AP and Reuters) most dangerous country to the U.S., with 86 percent of responders labeling it as a Hours are from 12:00 to 6:00 pm. UCC congratulates Freeland Please send resume to [email protected] threat. The Reuters/Ipsos poll surveyed a or call 973 919-1322 OTTAWA – The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) on January 10 congratulat- (Continued on page 15) No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 15

NEWSBRIEFS Ukraine urged to reverse ban on Dozhd NEW YORK – Ukrainian authorities (Continued from page 14) should “immediately” cancel an order ban- pool of 1,169 American adults, including ning a prominent independent Russian 475 Republicans and 490 Democrats. The television station from broadcasting in the margin of error was 3 percent for the entire country, the New York-based Committee to survey and 5 percent for Republicans and Protect Journalists (CPJ) says. The National It is with deep sorrow that we inform Democrats. (The Hill) Radio and TV Council (NRTC) on January 12 ordered Ukrainian broadcasters to stop family and friends that UCC urges joining #UnitedUkraine airing reports by Dozhd (Rain) within about a month, the Moscow-based channel Dr. Yaroslaw Stawnychy OTTAWA – The Ukrainian Canadian said. “This ham-handed censorship will Congress (UCC) is joining the Ukrainian deprive Russian-speaking Ukrainian view- passed away peacefully at home on December 24, 2016 World Congress call to unite Ukrainians ers of a counterpoint to Russian state-con- after a short but di cult illness. around the world and join the international trolled media,” CPJ Europe and Central Asia #UnitedUkraine campaign. This effort coin- Program Coordinator Nina Ognianova said Born February 13, 1941, in Stryj, Ukraine cides with the lead-up to the anniversary of in January 13 statement. Dozhd cited an dentist, professor, active member of Plast “Chervona Kalyna”, the historic Unification Act of January 22, official from the channel’s Ukrainian part- a generous donor to many community projects, 1919, which united Ukrainian territories ner, Volya, as saying the reason for the ban an active member and generous benefactor to into a sole, sovereign state. This third was that Dozhd had violated a prohibition The Ukrainian Museum. “United Ukraine” initiative welcomes the on advertising. The Interfax news agency, participation of any individual who sup- however, cited a council member as saying The parastas was held on Wednesday, December 28, 2016, at ports Ukraine, aspires to its unity and the Dozhd had failed to recognize Ukraine’s St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Passaic, New Jersey. end of the military aggression of the sovereignty and territorial integrity when it The burial was held at Holy Spirit Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery Russian Federation against Ukraine. In aired an image showing the boundary with in Campbell Hall, NY 2016, over 15,000 participants in 68 coun- Crimea as the state border, suggesting that tries and 117 Ukrainian cities, towns and Crimea is part of Russia. Russia seized con- His memory will remain in our hearts forever, in sadness he left: villages took part. Instructions on how to trol of Crimea in 2014, although Kyiv con- wife Olya join the international action may be found siders the Black Sea peninsula still part of on the UCC’s website at http://www.ucc. Ukraine. Only a handful of countries in the son Michael with wife Laura and son Jack ca/2017/01/14/ucc-calls-to-join-unit- world recognize Crimea as part of Russia. brother Walter Artymyshyn with wife Lidia Prokop, with edukraine/. (UCC) (RFE/RL) son Maksym and daughter Lilia with husband Jack Tucker sister-in-law Orysia with husband William Fisher and son Darian brother-in-law Ihor Paluch with wife Olha and daughter Anastasia and the Stawnychy and Zwonok families in U.S.A., Canada and Ukraine May he rest in peace! With deep sorrow we announce that Those wishing to honor his memory are invited to make donations to John Chopyk the Ukrainian Museum, NY 87, of Easthampton MA, passed away on Wednesday January 11, 2017 at his home, which he designed and built himself. He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends, who are thankful that he was able to spend the holidays with them. Born on March 21, 1929 in a small town Ishkiv in Ukraine, he came to the United States from Germany in summer of 1949, to a little place called Philadelphia, PA, which he called home in his early life. For 31 years he lived in Palmer, before moving to Easthampton in 1983. John was predeceased by his first wife Irene Tarasenko Chopyk, with whom he was happily married for 42 years. He is survived by his present wife Halyna Koval, and his two step- sons Roman and Oleh Koval and three grand children of Easthampton. He is On the 10th Anniversary also survived by his own two sons, John Eugene Chopyk and Dr. Michael G. of the passing of our dear Chopyk of New Jersey, as well as four grand children. Husband, Father & Grandfather, Following the establishment of Displaced Persons Camp in the American we remember him with great Love! occupation zone in Germany in 1945, John attended school there and graduated from the Ukrainian Secondary School in Dillingen, Germany in 1947. He also completed two semesters of Law at the Ukrainian Free University in Munich, Dr. NICHOLAS G. BOHATIUK Germany, before coming to the USA in 1949. John served 3 years in the US Army, January 2, 1926 – January 22, 2007 including one year with Army Intelligence & Reconnaissance Unit in Korea, with a rank of Sergeant First Class. During that time he was also a certified interpreter Professor Emeritus of Economics for Ukrainian, Polish, German, Russian and English languages. John holds a BA Degree in Engineering and Management from Western Born in Ternopil, Ukraine, he was the son of Rev. Dr. Theodore and Olha New England College, which he obtained in 1959 taking night classes, Bohatiuk. For 35 years, he was professor of economics at LeMoyne so he could work and support his family during the day. Following his College in Syracuse, NY and visiting professor at the University of graduation, John was employed as Chief Engineer by the United Service Virginia, the Lviv Management Institute in Lviv, Ukraine, the Ukrainian Equipment Company in Palmer. From 1967 until he retired in 1994, John was Catholic University in Rome, Italy, and the Ukrainian Free University employed as Plant Engineer by the National Felt Company in Easthampton. in Munich, Germany. He was a licensed Power Plant Engineer in charge of 5 manufacturing plants located in Easthampton, Northampton and Holyoke, MA. From 1996 until Prof. Bohatiuk was on the executive board and vice-chairman of the 2003, John was a Transitional Bilingual Teacher at South Middle School in Council of Academic Advisors at the Harvard Ukrainian Research Westfield, MA. In order to help his students even more, John completed the Institute (HURI). He was national vice-president of the Shevchenko required educational courses at Elms College, Fitchburg State & Westfield Scienti c Society, and editor-in-chief of the ‘Ukrainian Quarterly’. For State College, and became a certified Educator of the Commonwealth of 10 years, he was a radio commentator for the ‘Voice of America’. He Massachusetts. For his outstanding 7 years in teaching the youth, City of also organized many economic conferences and was a researcher on Westfield proclaimed May 10, 2003 as John Chopyk Day. the economy of Ukraine. John was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Dr. Bohatiuk was a scholar, educator, author, multi-linguist and multi- Ludlow, MA. He was also a member of the Ukrainian-American Veterans Post instrumentalist, as well as a lover of books and all things Ukrainian. #31, Boston, MA. Funeral Service was held on Saturday, January 14, 2017, He brought his special touch of humor and warmth to everything he with the Divine Liturgy at 10 am. in Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic was involved in. Church, 45 Newbury St., Ludlow, MA. Burial will take place in the spring in St. Thomas Cemetery, Palmer, MA. May His Memory Be Eternal! Memorial Donations may be made for the health, well-being and growth Vichna Yomu Pamiat! to Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 45 Newbury St. Ludlow MA, 01056. His wife Motria, Sons, Grandchildren & Family May his memory be eternal. We miss you very much Tato! 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

NEWS AND VIEWS Advocacy of Ukrainian American issues begins in earnest in new 115th Congress

UNIS accords; the illegal annexation of Crimea sanctions by the United States, Ukraine and hearing processes as they affect Ukraine and human rights abuses in Crimea and the European Union.” and Russia and its acts of aggression WASHINGTON – The Ukrainian National eastern Ukraine; as well as continued eco- Questions regarding Russian aggression, against Ukraine. Information Service (UNIS), the Washington nomic assistance to Ukraine. Advocacy of the illegal annexation of Crimea, human In relation to the new Trump adminis- public affairs office of the Ukrainian these and other Russia-related issues will rights abuses in Crimea and eastern tration and the 115th Congress, the Congress Committee of America (UCCA), hit be important during the new 115th Ukraine, formational/propaganda warfare, Ukrainian National Information Service is the ground running in the halls of Congress Congress and new Trump Administration. and NATO were highlighted in the docu- planning three Ukrainian Days events in in the New Year. On January 3, all members Present at various receptions were Sen. ment. 2017. Each advocacy event will feature a of the U.S. House of Representatives and a Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) Sen. Ted Cruz Each member of the Senate Foreign significant milestone or achievement in our third of the U.S. Senate were sworn in to the (R-Texas) and, Rep. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Relations Committee received a copy of the promotion of Ukrainian American issues. 115th Congress by their respective leaders. whom the UNIS director engaged in discus- UCCA’s statement with a request that it be The first Ukrainian Day will be held on The traditional first day of a new congres- sions regarding Ukraine-related concerns. made part of the official record of the con- March 8-9, 2017, during the period common- sional session provides a unique opportuni- The conversations with members of the firmation hearing. Similar statements were ly known as “Shevchenko Days,” which will ty to visit with congressional offices as many House of Representatives and the Senate being prepared for other Trump adminis- include a ceremony at the Taras Shevchenko of them have Open Houses for their constit- were a timely introduction to the UCCA’s tration nominees, including Gen. James monument in Washington. The March advo- uents, policy-makers and guests. position on incoming Trump administra- Mattis for secretary of defense and Rep. cacy event will be a prime opportunity to UNIS Director Michael Sawkiw Jr. attend- tion nominees. In anticipation of the Senate Mike Pompeo for director of the Central promote the concerns of the Ukrainian ed several swearing-in ceremonies and Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) con- Intelligence Agency. American community to the new leadership subsequent receptions including those of: firmation hearing for Rex Tillerson as sec- The Central and East European Coalition in Congress, as well as to establish relations Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio), co-chair of the retary of state and Gov. Nikki Haley as per- (CEEC) also addressed many issues of con- with the Trump administration. Senate Ukraine Caucus; Sen. Marco Rubio manent U.S. representative to the United cern in Ukraine and the Central European The second Ukrainian Day will be held in (R-Fla.); Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.); Sen. Nations, the UCCA prepared a statement region in a list of questions to the Senate June 2017 and will commemorate the 20th Tim Scott (R-S.C.); newly elected Sen. regarding future relations with Ukraine. Foreign Relations Committee. In part, the anniversary of the formation of the Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.); newly The statement reads in part: “Mr. CEEC asked: “How do you propose address- Congressional Ukrainian Caucus. The cau- elected Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.); Rep. Tillerson, distinguished in his business ing Russia’s perceived ‘spheres of influence’ cus was formed in 1977, on the behest of Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.); Rep. Adam Kinzinger career, has pledged to ‘focus on strengthen- or national interests versus another coun- and with the cooperation of the Ukrainian (R-Ill.), and newly elected Rep. Brian ing our alliances, pursuing shared national try’s territorial integrity and national inter- National Information Service as a means to Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), brother of former interests and enhancing the strength, secu- ests? What options would you employ to organize legislators who share a common Congressional Ukrainian Caucus co-chair rity and sovereignty of the United States.’ achieve Russia’s withdrawal from lands it goal in enhancing the bilateral relationship Mike Fitzpatrick. While we are in full support of a U.S. foreign unlawfully controls, such as Crimea, east- between Ukraine and the United States. In While at the receptions, Mr. Sawkiw policy with such a focus, we remain unfa- ern Ukraine, Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and its 20 years, the Congressional Ukrainian highlighted the community’s concerns miliar with Mr. Tillerson’s geopolitical view Transnistria?” Caucus has met with dozens of Ukrainian regarding assistance to Ukraine; continued of the world, as well as the details of his The Syrian community also presented its government officials and non-governmen- sanctions against Russia for its lack of previous business partnerships with the issues to the Senate panel. implementation of the Minsk peace Russian oil giant Rosneft, currently under UNIS will monitor and report on the (Continued on page 18)

ing with the IMF to implement the tough remain in place until Russia fully – I empha- good governance. As I said at the beginning, Vice-President... reforms that will make Ukraine’s economy size fully – implements its commitments this year our nations celebrate 25 years of sustainable. Continue cleaning up the bank- under the Minsk agreement; and that the diplomatic relations. Over that time prog- (Continued from page 1) ing system. Press forward with energy Crimea-related sanctions against Russia ress has come in fits and starts. Sometimes As I said last year when I had the great reforms that are eliminating Ukraine’s must remain in place until Russia returns we move forward, sometimes backwards. honor to address the Rada, “Each of you has dependence on Russian gas. Work to priva- full control to the people of Ukraine. But the Ukrainian people are like the an obligation to answer the call of history tize state-owned enterprises transparently. Although I know how you find this diffi- American people, they never give up. And and finally build a united, democratic Create a business environment with cult to keep faith with the Minsk process one of the things that gives me the most Ukrainian nation that can stand the test of responsible, legal and regulatory systems when the Russians refuse to meet their hope for the future is the incredible energy time.” that make Ukraine a destination for invest- security commitments, it remains the only and passion of Ukraine’s young people. I’ve You’re well under way to do that, Mr. ment. None of this will be easy. None of viable framework for resolving the conflict met with them on each of my previous vis- President. So I wanted to thank you, Petro, what you’ve done so far has been easy, but in the Donbas, restoring Ukrainian gover- its here. And I have no doubt that they will not only for your leadership but for your you’ve done it. And we know it’s going to be nance in the east and returning control of inspire, demand and ultimately succeed in friendship. I shared the same sentiment hard to continue to finish the job. the international border to Ukraine. It’s attaining the Ukraine that has been sought earlier this morning when I met Prime You’re fighting both against the cancer of Ukraine’s best hope to move forward as a for for so long. Minister [Volodymyr] Groysman earlier corruption, which continues to eat away at united country. On a personal note, Mr. President, I want today. As a nation you’ve made a lot of very Ukraine’s democracy within, and the unre- But let me be perfectly clear, the political to say what a privilege it has been to sup- difficult decisions. And many more difficult lenting aggression of the Kremlin. agreement cannot be implemented until port and stand with Ukraine over these political choices remain ahead. But there is Russia’s continued attempts to under- Russian violence stops. Only after Russia past 25 years – first as a senator and of late no denying the progress that Ukraine has mine your success, your security, your sover- and its proxies in the east fulfill their obli- as vice-president. made since the Maidan. Together with a eignty and your territorial integrity are man- gation to end the fighting and let the I’ve been inspired by your people, their dynamic generation of Ukrainians commit- ifold. False propaganda attacks. Attempts to Donbas again enjoy peace and security can courage, their resilience, brave Ukrainians ted to reform, you’ve begun to overhaul destabilize your economy. Ukraine, like Ukraine be expected to fulfill its political who never gave up hope for a future of some- your government, your economy, your every country in Europe, has a right to deter- commitments. thing better, who get up and go to work every entire political system. mine its own path. Yet Russia seeks to deny It’s no secret that Russia does not want day for a democratic and united Ukraine. In the year since my last visit, you con- that choice. And the international commu- you to succeed, Mr. President. It’s not just And if you can continue to make prog- tinue to meet the reform requirements in nity must continue to stand as one against about Ukraine. It’s about the future we have ress, Mr. President, if you keep doing the the IMF [International Monetary Fund] Russian aggression and coercion. long sought of a Europe whole, free and at hard work and making the difficult choices assistance package. You’ve strengthened There are over 1.7 million internally dis- peace – whole, free and at peace – some- to put Ukraine first, I promise you the the country’s banking sector. You protected placed people. Oppression of Crimean thing that is in the vital national interest of American people will stand with you. This Ukrainian depositors by nationalizing Tatars continues. More than 9,600 both the United States and all Europeans. next year is going to be a very, very telling PrivatBank. You implemented a ground- Ukrainians have been killed in the fighting Your self-determination, your freedom year – a very telling year. breaking new electronic-asset-declaration in the east and more than 22,000 wounded from coercion, your success as a liberal There is a line that John Kennedy used in system to fight corruption, which will help in the conflict. And fully one-fifth of those democracy are all essential in realizing this deciding to go to the moon. He said, ensure that officials cannot leverage their victims have been civilians. objective. America is doing it because we can no lon- political positions for personal gain. So I strongly urge the people of Ukraine: ger – we’re no longer willing to postpone. I Your national anti-corruption bureau Keep demonstrating your commitment to believe the Ukrainian people are no longer and the special anti-corruption prosecutor assistanceThat’s why, to fortifyin addition your toeconomic the $3 billion resil- the rule of law; keep fighting corruption; willing to postpone a free, open, democratic are providing and proving their impact in loan guarantees and the $750 million in insist on transparency; investigate and and prosperous Ukraine. So seize it. when they have the resources. And it’s million in security assistance. We’ve trained prosecute government officials who siphon I’m looking forward to seeing what our imperative that you continue to strengthen ience,your national the United guard, States conventional has provided military $600 off public funds for their own enrichment. nations can build together, Mr. President, all of your anti-corruption institutions to forces, as well as special forces; helped you Russia over the last decade or so has used over the next 25 years and beyond, because root out those who would return Ukraine increase your readiness and make your another foreign policy weapon. It uses cor- as my grandfather would say, with the to rule by cronyism and kleptocracy. force interoperable with NATO; provided ruption as a tool of coercion to keep grace of the God, and the good will of the Thanks to the vital steps you’ve taken, armor, radars, night-vision devices, medical Ukraine vulnerable and dependent. So pur- neighbors, which we can’t count on very your economy is now growing again. But equipment – all of which has saved lives sue those reforms to root out corruption. much in this neighborhood, we can get this there remains much work to be done to and bolstered your defenses. It’s not just about good governance. It’s done. But it all depends on the willingness ensure Ukraine finally realizes its potential Together with our EU and G-7 partners, about self-preservation. It’s about your of your people to continue to insist on what as a vibrant, modern economy. Keep work- we’ve made it clear that sanctions should very national security. It’s not just about they deserve because they deserve it. No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 17 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4 Launch of “No Free Man” held in Toronto by Olya Grod Organized by McGill-Queen’s University Eastern Europeans during the period 1914- Press, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress – 1920. TORONTO – A book launch was held in Toronto Branch, and the Shevchenko The evening commenced with a wel- Toronto on November 17, 2016, to introduce Scientific Society, the launch was the first in come from Shevchenko Scientific Society the newly published book by Prof. Bohdan eastern Canada. Attendees had the oppor- President Dr. Daria Darewych. Dr. Marta Kordan, “No Free Man: Canada, the Great tunity to hear about many aspects of the Dyczok introduced the author. War, and the Enemy Alien Experience.” internment of Ukrainians and other Dr. Kordan began his presentation with an explanation of his approach to the sub- ject of internment and, in general, civil rights. This was followed by readings from several sections of the book that demon- strated the desperate and unjust situation of the internees held in 24 camps accross Canada. Following the presentation, Dr. Kordan responded to many questions from the audience. UCC Toronto Vice-President Marijka Stadnyk thanked the author for his very lively and informative presentation, and extended gratitude to the attendees for supporting this important book. Dr. Bohdan Kordan The book has been published with the help of a grant from the Canada Federation - for the Humanities and the Social Sciences tacting the UCC Toronto Branch at 416- Council of Canada, as well as a grant from 323-4772sive detailed or footnotes) [email protected], for $39.95 by con the the First World War Internment Shevchenko Society at [email protected] Recognition Fund (www.internmentcana- or the Ukrainian National Federation of da.ca). Funding has also been received from Toronto Branch Library at library@unfcan- the Canadian Foundation for Ukrainian ada.ca or 416-925-2770. Studies, the University of Saskatchewan Upcoming presentations of this book Publications Fund and the St. Thomas will be held in January through March in Dr. Bohdan Kordan signs a copy of his new book for an attendee, as Marijka Moore College Publications Fund. Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta, Winnipeg, Stadnyk, vice-president of the Toronto branch of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, “No Free Man” is available in hard cover Manitoba; Victoria, British Columbia; looks on. (284 pages of text with 96 pages of exten- Ottawa; and Montreal.

they clearly uphold their own interests.” published on January 15, Mr. Trump said: made clear that the Trump administration Putin accuses... Mr. Lavrov said that Russia expects to “They have sanctions on Russia – let’s see if is welcome to attend Syria peace talks engage in a dialogue with the United States we can make some good deals with Russia. scheduled for January 23 in Kazakhstan’s (Continued from page 2) on issues related to strategic stability, For one thing, I think nuclear weapons capital, Astana. Ties improved during Mr. Obama’s first- including nuclear weapons, after Mr. should be way down and reduced very sub- Trump transition team members and term “reset” of Russia relations, but they Trump takes office. stantially, that’s part of it.” Russian officials had made conflicting have sunk to lows unseen since the Cold He said that specific topics of discussion Mr. Lavrov also took aim at U.S. intelli- remarks about whether the United States War amid rancor over Moscow’s seizure of could include hypersonic weapons, the gence agencies, saying that they have tried was invited. Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula in 2014, its Mr. Lavrov said one of the main aims of backing of separatists in eastern Ukraine, the talks is to “consolidate” a Syrian cease- its involvement in the Syrian conflict and Vladimir Putin claimed those he said are fire mandated by a deal backed by Russia other issues. trying to undermine Donald Trump “may and Turkey and announced on December Mr. Putin expressed hope that Russia 29, 2016. and the United States could eventually get go as far as staging Maidan-type protests in The United States has largely been their troubled relations back to normal. Washington” to try to prevent him from excluded from the recent Russian-Turkish Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei diplomacy on Syria, where Moscow has Lavrov also lashed out at the Obama taking office. backed President Bashar al-Assad’s govern- administration and expressed hope for bet- ment throughout a six-year-old civil war ter ties under Mr. Trump, who takes office missile shield the United States is building to prove Mr. Trump had compromising that has killed more than 300,000 people, on January 20 and has said he wants to in Europe, space weapons and nuclear test- links to Russia but “have drawn a blank and driven many more form their homes and improve relations with Moscow. ing, adding that Russia is ready to meet should be fired, because they’ve done stoked a refugee crisis in Europe. In wide-ranging remarks at an annual with the Trump administration for discus- worthless work.” news conference on January 17, Mr. Lavrov sions on these topics after he takes office. He described the former British spy who With reporting by Reuters, AP, AFP, and described the foreign policies of the outgoing Mr. Lavrov said that Moscow did not wrote the dossier on Mr. Trump’s alleged TASS. U.S. administration and its allies as “messian- interpret recent remarks by Mr. Trump as links to Russia, including the account of the Copyright 2017, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted ic” attempts to force “post-Christian” an offer to scrap sanctions imposed by the alleged episode with prostitutes, as a char- with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ Western values on the rest of the world. United States over Russia’s actions in latan. Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, He said Moscow hopes Mr. Trump’s team Ukraine and elsewhere in exchange for a Mr. Lavrov said he hopes Russia and the Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see will consist of pragmatists “who will not nuclear arms reduction deal. United States can cooperate more effective- http://www.rferl.org/a/putin-accuses- engage in moralizing and will try to under- In an interview with The Times of ly on Syria under Mr. Trump than they have obama-administration-undermining- stand the interests of their partners just as London and the German magazine Bild during the Obama administration and trump/28239343.html).

munity in Washington for 40 years. Advocacy... UNIS activities during those four decades include If history... (Continued from page 16) annually commemorating Ukrainian Independence Day in (Continued from page 3) Congress (January 22 and August 24); raising human tal entities and has advocated earmarking economic rights abuses in the former Soviet Union; promoting Instead of listening to the siren song of false prophets, we assistance to Ukraine; establishing permanent normal awareness of the Ukrainian Famine-Genocide; champion- must relearn to work together with respect for opposing trade relations (PNTR) with Ukraine; establishing the ing and supporting the independence of Ukraine; interact- points of views in a search for the common ground and a Holodomor Memorial; as well as, maintaining a strong ing with the government of Ukraine and its diplomatic recommitment to shared values that will help us together dialogue with various U.S. administrations on the need corps; advocating elimination of the Jackson-Vanik reaffirm our common humanity. We must strengthen our alli- to engage Ukraine on a wide array of issues. The success amendment for Ukraine; and encouraging a strong bilat- ances with renewed vigor and purpose by rededicating our- of the caucus is predicated on the Ukrainian American eral relationship between Ukraine and the United States, selves to the values on which those bonds of trust are built. community’s interaction with its representatives in especially following the Orange Revolution and the It will not be easy in a time of austerity and anger to push Congress. Revolution of Dignity. against a rising tide of opposition, but as men and women of con- The third Ukrainian Day for 2017 is planned for Each of the three Ukrainian Days will feature briefing science we must stand together and have the moral courage to September and will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the sessions with prominent guest speakers, interaction look into the heart of darkness and do what is best for mankind. establishment of the Ukrainian National Information with congressional offices, and evening receptions to The relentless repetition of history teaches us this: if we Service. Formed in 1997 at the time of the Carter admin- commemorate the various anniversaries. Details about find the courage and unity to defend our values, we will suc- istration, UNIS has been the voice of the Ukrainian com- the advocacy events will be forthcoming. ceed. And succeed we must. No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 19

CONCERT NOTES Mariana Sadovska returns to New York with “The Night Is Just Beginning”

by Ihor Slabicky NEW YORK – After a much-too-long absence from the New York scene, Mariana Sadovska returned in mid- December with the premiere of her latest work “The Night Is Just Beginning.” The Ukrainian Museum and the Yara Arts Group presented the work on December 16 and 17, 2016, at The Ukrainian Museum. The work was directed by Virlana Tkach, the award- winning artistic director of Yara Arts Group. The evening featured Ms. Sadovska on vocals, piano, harmonium and recorded synths, and Julian Kytasty on bandura and vocals. The piece featured the multimedia projections by Waldemart Klyuzko of his and Evgeniy Maloletka’s photos and imagery. In effect, Kr. Klyuzko was the unannounced third artist. Utilizing two huge old windows re-purposed from an East Village apartment, he made them serve as the windows of a village home and as projection screens. These, in turn, presented a duality for the audience as windows to look out of, or to look in through. This brilliant design and his carefully choreographed imagery provided the supervisual component to the pieces performed by Ms. Sadovska and Mr. Kytasty. Providing a backdrop for the event was the wall-encom- passing “Chem Trails – Houston/Bowery, NYC” by Maya Hayuk, one of the works that was part of the ongoing “CIM” exhibit at The Ukrainian Museum. Its colors and patterns, suggestive of colorful embroidery, and the two windows, Pavlo Terekhov reminiscent of those seen in villages, declared this was The “babuni” (elderly women) and Mariana Sadovska perform “The Night Is Just Beginning” at The Ukrainian about Ukraine – all of Ukraine. Museum on December 17, 2016. The evening opened with “Love” by Ms. Sadovska and its lilting vocal theme, her voice floating and ever-changing in For “Road to Volnovakha,” the calming improvisational home. The music by Ms. Sadovska and Mr. Kytasty contrast to her almost hypnotic piano playing. She began to themes by Mr. Kytasty reflected the projected imagery of expressed the chaos of forced evacuation. With sing the verses of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (“Love is patient, Waldemart Klyuzko - the journey to the village, the leaves “Rozkladannia” (Decomposition) she examined how names love is kind...”) and was joined by Mr. Kytasty, who added on the trees flashing by, the wide open fields, people walk- of the cities of Luhansk and Donetsk can be manipulated melodic ripples with his bandura. ing, the vastness of the region. “Dream” was a musical col- and decomposed, how emphasizing different parts of Ms. Sadovska introduced “Archangels,” a koliada from lage of material from the villages of Yehorivka, Zlatoustivka, words and phrases gives them different meanings and Zlatoustivka, Donetsk, with the dialogue uttered when she Kalynivka, Dmytrivka, Khlibodarivka, and the town of emotions. The piece ended with a peaceful soliloquy on was in the village, asking, “Tell us, please, what do you sing Volnovakha. In her travels, Ms. Sadovska is partly an eth- piano that led to “Moya Pozytsiya,” a raging outburst or a at Christmas, what koliady?” The response from the elderly nographer, collecting these traditional and ritual songs of statement of deep patriotism, depending on one’s point of ladies, or “babuni,” was this unusual and unique one, in eastern Ukraine. This evening, she was also one of the view. Ms. Sadovska again demonstrated the extent of her which the Archangel Gabriel, sounding his horn, summons babuni, singing the songs to us and for us. With these snip- training and voice control by transforming her voice into all the peoples; the Lord divides them, and then “the good pets, she aroused a passionate desire to hear more of the the intensity expressed by the speaker. will sing, the sinners will weep and cry, and curse their rich Ukrainian vocal traditions of this region. Here, as The opening of “Magdalyno” (Magdalene) by Mr. Zhadan mothers and fathers.” Harsher punishment for one’s mis- throughout the evening, Ms. Sadovska demonstrated her had Mr. Kytasty continue the calming themes he explored deeds cannot be imagined. vocal range, technique and control, when, before the audi- earlier. Ms. Sadovska’s voice was as delicate as a songbird’s, “Fear” (Strakh) featured Ms. Sadovska’s processed voice ence’s eyes, she transformed her voice to that of the elderly slowly advancing to the anxious emotion felt by the woman played over her anxiety-raising piano riffs, and Mr. Kytasty women, her voice indistinguishable from theirs. in the song on Christmas Eve, then returning to a dream- on bandura adding to the increasingly discomforting and “Zvidky Ty, Chorna Valko (Where Are You Coming like waltz. ominous tone of the work. That was the exactly appropri- From)” by Mr. Zhadan featured Ms. Sadovska on harmoni- The evening ended with a recording of the humorous vil- ate prelude for “Vizmy Lyshe Naivazhlyvishe (Take Only um. As the poem grew in fervor, her rhythm became more lage song “Ne Shukayte Ameryky.” In it, a woman looking for What Is Most Important)” by Serhiy Zhadan with forebod- intense, contrasted by the delicate accompaniment by Mr. a better life begins a journey to America, has numerous trou- ing music by Ms. Sadovska. The immediacy faced by some- Kytasty. Swiftly switching with each verse, her voice bles along the way, returns home, finds that a young woman one who must pack and flee as a refugee was shattered changed, becoming more and more what can only be is now firmly ensconced with her husband, and advises the when she sang the almost lullaby-like “Rosty Miy described as enraged and emotional. listeners to be happy and to stay home with their men. Orishenku,” a traditional wedding song from that region. In That was followed by two poems by Lyubov Yakimchuk. The audience at this sold-out event responded with it, the bride plants a nut tree in her father’s garden, urging In “Shram” (Scar), the poetess explores the dichotomy that numerous acclaims of “Brava! Bravo!” amidst a standing it to grow and take root, as she herself is leaving. The feel- the Ukrainian word “marsh” (go, get out!) when reversed, ovation. The evening, a cavalcade of unfettered emotions – ing was one of hope, that there will be growth and life even forms “shram” (scar), which is what one ends up with, joy, rage, wonderment at what life brings – left more than as you are forced to leave. whether physical or emotional, when forced from one’s one person teary-eyed.

are either with us or against us.’ Ever since this Trump Vyacheslav Nikonov, head of the parliamentary Elation over Trump... story began I said this is what would happen. That’s how Committee on Education, described the statements from it’s ended up,” Mr. Venediktov said. Messrs. Trump and Tillerson as moderate in comments to (Continued from page 2) On January 12, President Vladimir Putin’s spokesman the TASS news agency. “In general, if we compare them to Aleksei Puskhov, a prominent Russian lawmaker, wrote Dmitry Peskov said the Kremlin had “noted” Mr. Tillerson’s what could have been said, these statements look entirely on Twitter: “At the hearings, Tillerson voiced the position stance on Crimea, but rejects it. “We are not in agreement moderate.” He said that Mr. Tillerson “was careful through- of the American political mainstream. Which again proves with that formulation and will explain our position,” the out, meeting the primary goal of getting confirmed by the the artificial nature of the hysteria around Trump.” president’s spokesman said in comments carried by Senate as secretary of state.” He continued, saying that Mr. ​Aleksei Venediktov, editor-in-chief of Ekho Moskvy Interfax. Tillerson had nonetheless “taken the maximum pro-Rus- radio, read out Mr. Tillerson’s comments that, in 2014, fol- Mr. Peskov declined to comment on Mr. Tillerson’s asser- sian stance on the questions.” lowing Russia’s annexation of Crimea, he would have sup- tion that Russia invaded eastern Ukraine and that it was nec- However, Mr. Nikonov rejected Mr. Tillerson’s proposed plied weapons and U.S. intelligence to Ukraine to defend essary to supply Kyiv with weapons. “I would leave this condition for the recognition of Ukrainian Crimea as against an incursion in the east of the country. Mr. without a reaction. We will explain to Secretary of State Russian territory. “Russia has absolutely no need for any- Venediktov asked: “Who is this man? This is a man who Tillerson all the relevant questions when they arise,” he said. one to recognize Crimea. This is a part of Russia and no bears the [Russian] Order of Friendship received from Igor The pro-Kremlin Vzgylad news and commentary web- part of Russia requires recognition.” Ivanovich Sechin and Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin.” site contrasted Mr. Tillerson’s hearings in the Senate with “Some people say the Republicans are going to be prag- Mr. Trump’s press conference the same day, the first since Copyright 2017, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted with the permis- matists. But I would say their pragmatism is in their strict- his election, noting the former’s “hawkish” tone. “The sion of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut ness. We have just heard that from Tillerson and we will speech by Tillerson, who was named the most pro-Russia Ave. NW, Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see http:// hear that from Trump. That is to say, ‘Guys, the rules are of the possible candidates for secretary of state, sounded www.rferl.org/a/russia-reaction-rex-tillersonmus-secretary- that we are a great power, we are a superpower and you considerably harsher [than Trump’s].” state/28229476.html). 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4 International conference to examine “Ukrainian Statehood 1917-1921: Institutions and Individuals” NEW YORK – On February 24-25, the The successes and failures of these initia- Ukrainian Autocephalous Orthodox Church, States, Canada and Ukraine, including: Ukrainian Studies Program at the Harriman tives provided models that were both emu- the Union for the Liberation of Ukraine, the Andrew Fedynsky, Olena Haleta, Tamara Institute of Columbia University will convene lated and adjusted in subsequent years and National Library, the Ukrainian State Hundorova, Oleh Ilnytzkyj, Valentyna a conference titled “Ukrainian Statehood that continue to inform Ukrainian nation- Academy of Arts and the Kyiv Conservatory. Kharkhun, Myroslava Mudrak, Victor 1917-1921: Institutions and Individuals” building efforts today. The conference will A characteristic shared by many of the Ostapchuk, Marko Stech, Melanie Turgeon, that will commemorate the 100th anniversa- examine the lasting impact of these individ- aforementioned individuals is that they Maxim Tarnawsky, Mark von Hagen and ry of the Ukrainian Revolution and the cre- uals and institutions on Ukrainian culture were involved in several fields and institu- Zenon Wasyliw. ation of the modern Ukrainian state. and scholarship. tions at once: the academic, literary and The first day of the conference will con- The conference will focus both on the The two-day conference will feature pan- political activities intersect in one variety of clude with a reception at 6-8 p.m., while the important institutions that were founded els focusing on political, academic and reli- individual, while the religious, political and second day will close with a concert at 7:30 under the Ukrainian Central Rada/Ukrainian gious institutions, literature, visual art and musical in another. The conference at p.m. focusing on priest, composer and UNR National Republic, the Ukrainian State of music, as well as on memoirs and archives Columbia University will allow theses par- government minister Kyrylo Stetsenko and Hetman Pavlo Skoropadsky and the Ukrainian of this period. Among the people and orga- ticularities to be analyzed from different the genre of the Ukrainian art song, which National Republic under the Directory, and nizations that will be examined at the con- angles. Another important aspect underly- he developed at that time and which has on the individuals that formed them. ference on “Ukrainian Statehood 1917- ing both institutions and individuals of this recently been rehabilitated. The concert These state institutions proved to be 1921” are: Volodymyr Vynnychenko, period – emigration – will also be touched will take place at the Ukrainian Institute of essential in organizing and giving structure Heorhii Narbut, Ahatanhel Krymsky, Kyrylo upon in multiple panels. America (co-organizer of the conference) to Ukrainian political, educational, cultural Stetsenko, Serhii Iefremov, Yuri Mezhenko, Participating in the international confer- and religious developments at that time. Pavlo Khrystiuk, Mykhail Semenko, the ence will be scholars from the United (Continued on page 21)

e Ukrainian Engineers’ Society of America Philadelphia Chapter Maryna Chuma Adriana Dale cordially invites you to attend the traditional Banquet and Ball with Presentation of Debutantes Saturday, February 4, 2017

Grand Ballroom Hyatt Regency Hotel at the Bellevue 200 South Broad Street Ustyna Danylovych Philadelphia, PA 19102 Kathryn Halarewicz

Cocktails at 6 pm Presentation of Debutantes and Banquet at 7 pm Ball at 9 pm Music by the Hrim Orchestra Attire Black Tie For additional information or to make reservations please call Dr. Peter Hewka at 610-277-1284, or e-mail to [email protected] Christine Heren Sophia Holowaty

Irena Kondrat Katya Kopach Lilia Kuchta Julia Kurylec Ariadna Louer

Anastasia Maystrych Caroline Nowak Natalia Nysch Julianna Petrenko Oksana Zharovsky No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 21

COMMUNITY CHRONICLE UAV Post 17 members gather for Christmas celebration by Michael P. Hrycak lies this Christmas. The Christmas party is an annual event WHIPPANY, N. J. – Ukrainian American open to UAV members, as well as all veter- Veterans Post 17 celebrated Christmas at ans and their families. Membership in the the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of UAV (see www.uavets.org for application) is New Jersey in Whippany on December 18. open to all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces The festivities were organized and pre- of Ukrainian heritage, through blood or mar- sided over by Post Commander Walter riage, including those still serving on active Kovbasniuk, who recognized several prom- duty (dues are waived for active-duty and inent guests, among them Dr. Olexander 100 percent U.S. military disabled), either Ilchyk, who is starting a two-year residency through a post or as a member at large. in the United States studying battlefield To register any U.S. Armed Forces veter- medicine to provide care to Ukrainian army ans of Ukrainian descent (UAV members casualties conducting anti-terrorist opera- and non-members alike), readers may con- tions (ATO) in eastern Ukraine,. tact: UAV National Registry, P.O. Box 172, Mr. Kovbasniuk presented a commemo- Holmdel, NJ 07733-0172; telephone, 732- rative Ukrainian American Veterans coin to 888-0494; e-mail, or uav.registration@veri- Roma Hadzewycz, editor-in-chief of The zon.net. The registry’s Volume I (1998 Ukrainian Weekly and Svoboda, for her -2004), dedicated to World War II veterans, continuing support of the organization’s Ukrainian American Veterans Post 17 members and guests at the post’s Christmas was published in 2004; Volume II, dedicat- efforts. celebration. ed to Korean and Vietnam veterans, is in The Ukrainian American Veterans (UAV) the process of being published; Volume III organization was represented by, among Kovbasniuk, Post 17 (Whippany). of Ilovaysk on August 19, 2014, as member is being compiled. There is no fee to regis- others, Michael Hrycak and Andrew Mr. Hrycak shared some memories of a of the Donbas Battalion), emphasizing that ter. Families are invited to register their Hadzewycz, commander and vice-com- Christmas he shared with fellow soldiers in all veterans are lucky to be with their fami- loved ones. mander, respectively, of the UAV New Jersey Iraq 10 years ago, which included a fellow Department, as well as Ihor Rudko, com- United States Military Academy classmate mander of the UAV Connecticut (class of 1981) of Mark “Franko” Paslawsky The entire conference, including the Department and Post Commander Walter (who was killed in action during the battle International... reception and the concert, is free and open to the public. No registration is necessary (Continued from page 20) to attend the conference panels, but regis- and will feature Monica Whicher (soprano), tration is necessary to attend the concert. Andrea Ludwig (mezzo-soprano) and Readers should register for the concert at Hillside parishioners bring gift Albert Krywolt (piano). http://ukrainianinstitute.org/event/ukrai- The conference begins at on 1:30 p.m. on nian-art-song-concert/. For more informa- Friday, February 24. The venue is Room tion, they are advised to contact Mark of Ukrainian and English carols 151, International Affairs Building, 420 W. Andryczyk at 212-854-4697 or at 118th St. [email protected].

e Taras Shevchenko School of Ukrainian Studies in cooperation with e Washington Group

requests the pleasure of your company at our

HILLSIDE, N.J. – On Wednesday, December 28, 2016, children and parishioners of Immaculate Conception Ukrainian Catholic Church in Hillside, N.J., caroled in Ukrainian Washington DC Zabava and English for the retired Sisters of Mercy and clergy of McAuley Hall Center at Mount St. Mary Academy in Watchung, N.J. The children distributed home-baked cookies to be held on and religious calendars to the attendees. One of the retirees in the audience mentioned that she is Ukrainian and joined the children and parishioners in singing numerous Ukrainian carols. Afterwards, the parish caroling group traveled throughout Union, Saturday, February 18, 2017 Somerset, Middlesex and Morris Counties to share the gift of koliady with parishioners at their homes. (Additional photos can be found on the parish website www.byzcath.org/ at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel ImmaculateConception.) – Joe Shatynski 2660 Woodley Road, NW Washington, DC (Metro accessible)

Music by HRIM

For more information and to purchase tickets visit: www.ukrainianschooldc.org email: [email protected] 22 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

Mr. Trump’s administration will match the American administration.” Kyiv. “A move by Washington to appease Biden’s... priority that he had for Ukraine, she said Speaking to Reuters, Andy Hunder, head Moscow would be another crack in the the phrase speaks of “confusion” in the out- of the American Chamber of Commerce in splintering international nuclear nonprolif- (Continued from page 1) going regime. Ukraine, said that Ukraine “will be waking eration regime.” partner in your continued progress,” Mr. There is confusion not only “in Ukraine up to a new reality” on January 20 when Mr. Poroshenko is confident his new Biden said. “But, as you know, no one else but in the entire American establishment,” Mr. Trump is sworn in. American counterpart will maintain “very can do the hard work but the Ukrainian Ms. Kurnyshova said. “There is a concern in Kyiv about how strong bilateral support” for the nation of people. It’s up to Ukrainian leaders and “Expectations for the incoming adminis- the new relationship will develop. It will 42 million, according to an interview he people to put the needs of the country tration of Trump are very mixed,” she said. require building new bridges to the influ- gave to Bloomberg at the World Economic above narrow personal interest, to place “These conclusions stem from the presi- encers, the gatekeepers and decision-mak- Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January the general good above point scoring and dential election campaign and from the ers,” the British national of Ukrainian 17. local prejudices.” ambiguous statements that Trump has descent said. Even though Mr. Trump, 70, has showed Speaking to President Petro Poroshenko made. Thus, I think that Biden is uncertain Weeks before the inauguration, the open admiration for Russian President during their joint news conference, the U.S. about the state of American politics, espe- Ukrainian government hired BGR Group, a Vladimir Putin, the Ukrainian president vice-president said that “Russia’s continued cially in the Democratic party.” predominantly Republican firm run by for- said that “U.S. President-elect Donald attempts to undermine your success, your Part of the trepidation stems from Mr. mer Republican National Committee chair- Trump has unique opportunities for using security, your sovereignty and your territo- Trump’s policy toward Russia vis-à-vis man Haley Barbour, to lobby politicians and all his influence to support Ukraine in its rial integrity are manifold.” Ukraine and America’s own interests not arrange meetings between U.S. and Ukrainian struggle for freedom and democracy.” He continued: “It’s no secret that Russia being clearly outlined. officials, reported The Hill, a top U.S. political Indeed, Mr. Trump has enlisted at least does not want you to succeed, Mr. Mr. Biden may have advised Mr. publication based in Washington. three officials who are hawkish on Russia, President. It’s not just about Ukraine. It’s Poroshenko and Prime Minister Volodymyr The one-year contract with the firm is and Mr. Poroshenko confirmed that he will about the future we have long sought of a Groysman, with whom he also met this visit Washington soon after January 20. Europe whole, free and at peace – whole, week, on how to deal with the incoming month, and comes as Mr. Trump has sug- “Immediately after the inauguration, we free, and at peace – something that is in the administration. gestedworth ahe total is willing of $600,000, to recognize or $50,000 Russia’s per agreed the date of my visit to Washington, vital national interest of both the United “There is an unusual situation in the U.S. annexation of Crimea and ease sanctions in D.C., and the agenda of our negotiation States and all Europeans.” when the new administration will meticu- exchange for Moscow reducing its nuclear would be quite big,” Mr. Poroshenko told Mr. Biden betrayed bewilderment within lously inspect everything that the Obama arsenal. Bloomberg, without providing the exact the outgoing administration towards the administration has done,” said political ana- “The U.S. administration’s tolerance of date. end of the news conference, according to lyst Oleksandr Kochetkov. “Therefore, Russia’s violation of Ukrainian territorial Mr. Biden was certain of another thing. Yuliya Kurnyshova, a lawmaker and expert Biden came to inspect what was done in integrity would have larger implications for “This next year is going to be a very, very at the Institute of Socio-Economic Research. terms of what was agreed between the U.S. the future of humanity,” said Andreas telling year – a very telling year,” the outgo- Referring to Mr. Biden’s response that and Ukraine. And how the Ukrainian gov- Umland, senior research fellow at the ing vice-president said as he ended his “hope springs eternal” regarding whether ernment should behave toward the new Institute of Euro-Atlantic Cooperation in statement in Kyiv.

Baltic states, Ukraine and Georgia with - Bipartisan... Sens. McCain and Graham, it became clear sanctions on transactions with the Russian retary of state detailing media outlets con- that this is not about one party, one elec- defense• The orbill intelligence would also imposesectors, mandatory including trolled• The and bill funded mandates by thea report Russian by thegovern sec- (Continued from page 1) tion, or even one country. It’s about defend- the FSB and GRU. ment as well as their advertisers with STAND for Ukraine Act, legislation that was ing democracies. This bipartisan sanctions headquarters in the United States. incorporated into the Countering Russian bill sends a message to the Kremlin that Homeland Security conduct a series of pub- Hostilities Act. “This comprehensive, bipar- Russian aggression will not go unchecked.” lic •Theservice bill campaigns mandates tothat educate the Secretary the public of Engagement Center and the U.S. Agency for tisan legislation creates a broad policy “Russia is no friend – by Putin’s choice, on threats to cybersecurity and urging bet- International• The State Development Department, (USAID) Global are framework that combines new ways to not ours. His Soviet-style aggressions ter online practices to ensure better protec- mandated to provide support for program- proactively support our allies, bolster dem- toward the people of the United States, tion of online information. ming to: improve democratic governance, ocratic institutions across Europe, and also NATO and our other allies cannot be transparency, accountability, rule of law, expand and strengthen aggressive sanc- rewarded. This bipartisan effort works to Administration executive orders with and combat corruption, including by tions across Russian individuals and enti- upend Putin’s calculus and defend America respect• The billto sanctionswould codify on theRussia four Obamafor its strengthening democratic civil society and ties. At a pivotal time in world affairs in the from Russian cyberattacks and political actions in Ukraine. political parties, and independent and non- face of Russian aggression, the Countering meddling,” said Sen. Sasse. partisan think tanks; support the efforts of Russian Hostilities Act makes clear that the “Russia struck at the heart of American independent media outlets and public United States will not tolerate dictatorial democracy with its cyberattacks last year,” Russia’s• The abilitybill would to developmandate its sanctions petroleum on broadcasters to broadcast, distribute and actions, annexation or interventionism.” said Sen. Durbin. “While Moscow has been andinvestments natural gas of resources. $20 million or more in share information in all regions; support “When it comes to Russia’s efforts to targeting us for a very long time, this most objective, Russian-language, independent undermine democracy in our backyard and recent attack was a dramatic escalation sanctions on U.S. and third party invest- media, investigative journalism, and civil throughout the world, enough is enough. that cannot be ignored or go unanswered. ment• The in Russian bill would privatization impose mandatory of state- society watchdog groups working to com- These bipartisan sanctions will be hard-hit- The Obama administration issued signifi- owned assets and sales of sovereign debt. bat corruption; support programs to coun- ting and go well-beyond what exists today. cant new sanctions on the Russian ter “fake news.” And, hopefully, these sanctions will deter Federation – that sent a signal to the asset freezes on those responsible for the other would-be bad actors from interfering Kremlin that must now be amplified by commission• The bill ofwould serious impose human visa rights bans abus and- the treasury establish a high-level task with the democratic process in the future. Congress. There is bipartisan support for es in any territory occupied or controlled force• The within bill mandates the department’s that the secretary Financial of Focusing on the financial services and ener- strong additional sanctions against Russia, by Russia. Crimes and Enforcement Network that gy sectors – and targeting Putin and his and I will support that effort every step of would focus on: tracing, mapping and pros- inner circle – is the best way to get Russia’s the way. The American people should be territorial changes effected by force alone. ecuting illicit financial flows linked to the attention,” said Sen. Graham. absolutely outraged that some members of It would• The alsobill wouldprohibit not any recognize action or Russia’s extend Russian Federation if such flows interact “The Russian government, directed by Congress continue to waffle and downplay any assistance that recognizes or implies with the United States financial system; and President Putin, launched a brazen attack this – but make no mistake: this was an any recognition of the de jure or de facto working with liaison officers in key U.S. on our elections that demands an aggres- attack on America, and it will not go unan- sovereignty of Russia over Crimea, its air- embassies, especially in Europe, to work sive response,” said Sen. Shaheen. “The swered.” space, or its territorial waters or the inde- with local authorities to uncover and pros- facts are clear, and it’s time to act. America “Russia must be held accountable for its pendence of South Ossetia or Abkhazia in ecute the networks responsible for the illic- must stand united in sending a strong mes- illegal annexation of Crimea, ongoing Georgia. it Russian financial flows. sage to the Kremlin that this attack on the aggression inside Ukraine, extensive disin- foundation of our democracy will not go formation and propaganda campaigns unpunished. I’m very proud to say that this against the United States and its allies,” said century of historical Republican positions. legislation is bipartisan and pulls no punch- Sen. Portman. “This bipartisan legislation An appeal... It is most especially a rejection of that icon es. President-elect Trump should face the sends an important message that the of American conservatism, Ronald Reagan, (Continued from page 4) facts and lend his support to our effort.” United States Senate takes its obligation to who effectively brought down the “Evil “Vladimir Putin is not an ally of America, act on behalf of American national security This is where a concerted effort could still Empire” by escalating the arms race to such and he only understands strength, not interests seriously, and is prepared to take prevent Tillerson from assuming his duties. a degree that the Soviet Union collapsed weakness in the form of unilateral conces- proactive steps to ensure that we live up to Who knows, if Tillerson’s appointment is under the economic pressure. sions. These two facts are important to our commitments to our allies and uphold blocked, maybe Trump will, after all, nomi- While we, as Canadians of Ukrainian ori- remember as a new president takes office,” longstanding American values and ideals.” nate Mitt Romney, whose position regard- gin, can only watch from the sidelines, the said Sen. Rubio. “I will continue working Among the provisions of the Countering ing Russia is 180 degrees opposite to Ukrainian American community can orga- with our bipartisan coalition to pressure Russian Hostilities Act of 2017 are these: Tillerson’s. During his 2012 Presidential nize an effective campaign to convince U.S. Putin and his corrupt regime until Russia campaign Romney criticized Obama for senators of the imperative need to block changes its behavior.” bans and asset freezes those who under- being too soft on Russia, famously pro- Tillerson’s nomination. We are therefore “Russia used cyberattacks and propa- mine• The the bill cybersecurity would impose of public mandatory or private visa claiming that Russia was America’s No. 1 appealing to the Ukrainian American com- ganda to try and undermine our democra- infrastructure and democratic institutions; “geopolitical threat.” munity to launch such a campaign. It is not cy. We are not alone. Russia has a pattern of it would impose mandatory sanctions on ...not only does Tillerson have colossal only us, but Ukrainians worldwide, that are waging cyberattacks and military invasions those who materially assist, sponsor, or conflicts of interests related to his holdings relying on Ukrainian Americans to try to stop against democracies across the world,” said provide financial, material, or technological in a hostile foreign power, Trump’s pro- his nomination because it would mean disas- Sen. Klobuchar. “On a recent trip to the support for such activities. Russia policy is a total rejection of nearly a ter for all of us – and especially for Ukraine. No. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 23

January 24 Discussion, “Has Putin Won the Post-Cold War? A February 3 First Friday dinner at Soyuzivka, 845-626-5641 or New York Conversation with Columbia University Timothy Frye,” Kerhonkson, NY www.soyuzivka.com Princeton Club of New York, [email protected] or 212-596-1200 February 3 Art exhibit, “Sedimented,” featuring Chicago-based Through March 23 artists Stephen Eichorn, Gunjan Kumar, Judith Mullen January 26 Fire prevention and safety discussion with the Chicago and Toby Zallman, Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, Whippany, NJ Whippany Fire Department, Carpe Diem Club, Ukrainian www.uima-chicago.org or 773-227-5522 American Cultural Center of New Jersey, [email protected] or 973-590-8026 February 4 Presentation of debutantes banquet and ball, with Philadelphia music by Hrim, Ukrainian Engineers’ Society of America, January 27 Film screening, “Freedom or Death” by Damian Kolodiy, Hyatt Regency Hotel, [email protected] Chicago Ukrainian National Museum, 312-421-8020 or www.ukrainiannationalmuseum.org February 4 Performance, Ensemble Extasis, “Let’s Tango,” New York Ukrainian and Argentinean tangos, Ukrainian Institute January 27-29 Ukraine booth at The New York Times Travel Show, of America, 212-288-8660 New York U.S.-Ukraine Foundation, Jacob K. Javits Center, [email protected] or 202-524-6551 February 4 Presentation of debutantes Chervona Kalyna, Rochester, NY Radisson Riverside Hotel, 800-967-9033 January 28 Malanka, with music by Hrim and Zvook, Zolotiy Promin New Britain, CT Ukrainian Dance Ensemble, St. George Hall, February 7 Presentation by Chris Miller, “The Struggle to Save the 860-378-0293 or [email protected] Washington Soviet Economy: Mikhail Gorbachev and the Collapse of the USSR,” Heritage Foundation, www.heritage.org January 28 Anychka fund-raiser concert for Ukrainian wounded soldiers, North Port, FL St. Andrew Religious and Cultural Center, 941-475-1587 February 10 Film screening, “Music of Survival: The Story of the New York Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus,” Ukrainian Institute of January 28 Weekend traditional folk art courses in embroidery, America, www.musicofsurvival.com or Through June 3 bead-stringing, pysanka writing, Easter traditions www.ukrainianinstitute.org New York baking workshop, tapestry weaving, The Ukrainian Museum, 212-228-0110 or www.ukrainianmuseum.org February 11 Presentation of debutantes “Chervona Kalyna,” Plast Pearl River, NY Ukrainian Scouting Organization, Hilton Pearl River January 29 Film screening, “Women of the Maidan” by Olha Hotel, www.kalynadeb.org or 845-735-9000 New York Onyshko, The Ukrainian Museum, www.ukrainianmuseum.org or 212-228-0110 February 12 Film screening, “Music of Survival: The Story of the Philadelphia Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus,” Ukrainian Education and January 30 Seminar with Viktoriya Sereda, “(Re)mapping Spaces of Cultural Center, www.musicofsurvival.com or Cambridge, MA Historical Memory in Ukraine After the Euromaidan,” www.ueccphila.org Harvard University, 617-495-4053 or www.huri.harvard.edu

January 31 Film screening, “Aquarium in the Sea. The Story of the New Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events New York York Group of Poets” by Oleksandr Fraze-Frazenko, advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions Columbia University, 212-854-4697 from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors or [email protected] and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. 24 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2017 No. 4

PREVIEW OF EVENTS

INTRODUCING Sunday, January 29 Tuesday, January 31 NEW YORK: At 2 p.m. at The Ukrainian NEW YORK: The Ukrainian Studies First Fridays at Soyuzivka Museum, meet director/producer Olha Program at the Harriman Institute of Onyshko who will present her new docu- Columbia University invites you to attend a mentary film “Women of Maidan” (2016), screening of “An Aquarium in the Sea: The First Fridays of the Month: February 3, March 3 and April 7, 2017 a deeply moving film that bears witness to Story of the New York Group of Poets.” The how ordinary women became the sustain- film tells the story of the New York Group of ing heart of the fight against the corrupt Poets, pioneers of Ukrainian modernism. Friday, February 3, 2017 regime to win a better future for their chil- Features many readings by the authors, the dren. Learn about the women who coura- film is replete with humor and with incred- geously filled the streets, energized the ible stories from these poets’ lives. The 6 -9 p.m. nation and sustained the protesters for film’s director, Oleksandr Fraze-Frazenko, over two months during the “Revolution of will be present at the event. This event will Dignity.” Admission (includes gallery take place at 7 p.m. in the Harriman Atrium DINNER MENU (12th Floor, International Affairs Building, Experience 420 W. 118th St.) and is co-organized by earlyaccess to and view light the reception) current exhibitions! is $15; $10 The for the Ukrainian Film Club at Columbia traditional • Ukrainian borscht Ukrainianmembers, seniors;Museum $5 is for located students. at 222Arrive E. University. The event is free and open to the Ukrainian hospitality • Cucumber and tomato Sixth St.; telephone, 212-228-0110; wesite, public. For additional information call 212- medley ‘salatka’ www.ukrainianmuseum.org. 854-4697. and a delicious meal • Appetizer portion of potato varenyky with caramelized PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES onions and sour cream Preview of Events is a listing of Ukrainian community events open to the public. It is a • Free range breaded chicken cutlet with green beans and Ukrainian community. service provided at minimal cost ($20 per listing) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the garlic mashed potatoes To have an event listed in Preview of Events please send information, in English, written in Preview format, i.e., in a brief paragraph that includes the date, place, type of event, • Dessert: traditional Ukrainian $22/person sponsor, admission, full names of persons and/or organizations involved, and a phone hazelnut torte number and/or e-mail address to be published for readers who may require additional with tax and gratuities included • Includes complimentary information. Items must be no more than 100 words long. Seating is limited. glass of Ukrainian wine or Preview items must be received no later than one week before the desired date of Please call (845) 626-5641 beer publication (i.e., they must be received by 9 am Monday morning). Please include pay- to make your reservations ment for each time the item is to appear and indicate date(s) of issue(s) in which the item is to be published. Also, senders are asked to include the phone number of a per- son who may be contacted by The Weekly during daytime hours, as well as their com- 216 Foordmore Road, plete mailing address. Kerhonkson NY 12446 Information should be sent to [email protected]. When e-mailing, please do (845) 626-5641 not send items as attachments – simply type the text into the body of the e-mail mes- sage. Preview items and payments may be mailed to: Preview of Events, The Ukrainian www.Soyuzivka.com Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054.