Inside: l Commentary about the intent of Akcja Wisla – page 8 l Scholar speaks on ‘Global (Dis)Order and Ukraine’ – page 9 l Community: Connecticut, New Jersey, Illinois – page 15

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXV No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 $2.00 Trump meets with Klimkin Yanukovych trial for treason starts and Chaly at White House as Interpol removes him from wanted list By Mark Raczkiewycz Maidan uprising in Ukraine during the win- ter of 2013-2014. KYIV – A day before the trial of Viktor Two days later, then-Russian Ambassador Yanukovych for treason started in Kyiv on to the United Nations Vitaliy Churkin pre- May 4, his lawyers announced that the dis- sented the letter at the U.N. Security Council graced former president of Ukraine is no in New York. After the ambassador’s death longer wanted by Interpol. on February 20, Mr. Putin’s spokesperson, The world’s largest international police Dmitry Peskov, stated that no letter “or any organization subsequently confirmed the similar document” was received to deploy information. troops to Ukraine. “Interpol has thus confirmed the fact Precisely on March 1, 2014, the Russian that criminal cases against Yanukovych are president asked the upper house of the politically motivated,” said Yuriy Kirasir, the Russian Parliament for permission to send exiled politician’s spokesman. soldiers to Ukraine “in connection with the The Prosecutor General’s Office of extraordinary situation in Ukraine” and the Ukraine said it will appeal the decision. purported “threat to the lives of Russian Now living in Russia at an undisclosed citizens.” location, the former head of state, whose The Russian legislature gave the approv- truncated administration is widely accused al, and that same month Russia illegally of large-scale embezzlement of up to $40 annexed the Ukrainian territory of Crimea. billion, is being tried for aiding Russia’s Audio recordings made public by the WASHINGTON – U.S. President Donald Trump received Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs hybrid war against Ukraine. Ukrainian Prosecutor General’s Office of Minister Pavlo Klimkin at the White House on Wednesday, May 10. The leaders dis- Prosecutors say he asked Russian Sergey Glazyev – a top Russian presidential cussed further efforts to support Ukraine. That meeting was preceded by talks between President Vladimir Putin to militarily inter- adviser and point man on Ukraine – in Minister Klimkin and U.S. Vice-President Michael Pence on the same day. The inter- vene in a letter dated March 1, 2014, after he locutors discussed in detail the situation in the Donbas. Mr. Klimkin expressed thanks abandoned office following the Euro- (Continued on page 9) for the unwavering position of the U.S. administration in support of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and in countering Russian aggression. Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United States Valeriy Chaly also participated in the meetings. After his talks with the U.S. leaders, the foreign affairs minister briefed President Petro Poroshenko on results of the meetings at the White House. Seen above (from left) are: Messrs. Chaly, Pence, Ceremony at Embassy of Ukraine marks Klimkin and Trump. [Editor’s note: The meeting with Mr. Klimkin took place the same day that Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov and Russian Ambassador 25th anniversary of U.S.-Ukraine relations Sergey Kislyak met at the White House with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and President Trump.] – Embassy of Ukraine in the U.S. Senators ask Trump to engage with Ukraine before meeting with Vladimir Putin WASHINGTON – A bipartisan group of you to engage with our traditional allies U.S. senators on May 8 sent a letter to and prioritize meeting with foreign leaders President Donald Trump encouraging him representing countries with whom we to prioritize meeting with President Petro share historical ties, democratic values, and Poroshenko of Ukraine before meeting mutual interests,” wrote the senators. with Russian President Vladimir Putin at “Meeting with democratically elected rep- the G-20 conference in July. resentatives from Ukraine would send a Identifying the importance of engaging strong signal that the United States contin- longstanding American allies as a priority ues to prioritize our relationship with long- for the foreign policy agenda of the new standing allies, and will continue our com- Embassy of Ukraine in the U.S. administration, the letter also recommends mitments to support Ukraine’s sovereignty Ambassador Valeriy Chaly presents the Ukrainian postage stamp marking the 25th anniversary of Ukraine-U.S. relations. Looking on are Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs increased support for institutions and and territorial integrity in the face of ongo- Minister Pavlo Klimkin and U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Bridget Brink. European governments that help preserve ing aggression.” the international order. The full text of the letter follows. by Yaro Bihun During that evening reception, he also The letter was sent by Sens. Rob Portman * * * presented his country’s Order of Princess (R-Ohio), Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), John Dear President Trump: WASHINGTON – While visiting the U.S. Olha to Melanne Verveer, the executive McCain (R-Ariz.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), James As your Administration continues to for- capital May 8-10 for meetings with repre- director of the Georgetown University’s Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Jeanne Shaheen mulate policies to promote American sentatives of the Munich Security Institute for Women, Peace and Security, (D-N.H.). national security and foreign policy inter- Conference, Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs and witnessed the presentation of the “As your Administration continues to ests, we are writing to strongly encourage Minister Pavlo Klimkin also participated in Embassy’s awards to five prominent indi- formulate policies to promote American you to engage our traditional allies and pri- the celebration of the 25th anniversary of viduals for their work in assisting Ukraine national security and foreign policy inter- U.S.-Ukraine diplomatic relations at the ests, we are writing to strongly encourage (Continued on page 3) Embassy of Ukraine on May 8. (Continued on page 10) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20

ANALYSIS

Russian fake news operation seeks Yanukovych being tried in absentia that the international police agency Interpol had ceased searching for Mr. Yanukovych, KYIV – Former Ukrainian President Viktor adding that the decision will be appealed. Mr. to generate Baltic opposition to NATO Yanukovych is being tried in absentia on high Yanukovych could be sentenced to 15 years treason charges in Kyiv. The trial began on waters of these three countries and their in prison if convicted, but he is protected by by Paul Goble May 4 at the Obolon District Court in the cap- Russian minorities. As Nezavisimaya Russia and would be unlikely to travel to Eurasia Daily Monitor ital, with two lawyers representing Mr. Gazeta put it, from Moscow’s perspective, Ukraine and serve the time. (RFE/RL, with Yanukovych. Mr. Yanukovych abandoned “it is no big secret that in Latvia and the reporting by RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service) Russian media outlets in Moscow and in office in late February 2014 and fled to the Baltic countries have stepped up their other Baltic countries, [the Western alli- Russia in the face of massive protests trig- Lutsenko speaks on Yanukovych trial efforts to generate opposition among ance] is viewed with a certain degree of gered by his decision to scrap plans for a Estonians, Latvians and Lithuanians to the hostility” and that NATO commanders take landmark deal with the European Union and OTTAWA – Ukraine’s Prosecutor General North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). that into account, especially because many improve trade ties with Moscow. Dozens of Yurii Lutsenko addressed the Ukrainian These media sources have been putting out in the West operate on the assumption that people were killed in attempts to clamp people on May 1 regarding the upcoming fake news stories suggesting that NATO Russia will use ethnic Russians and down on the protests. Mr. Yanukovych, who trial of Ukraine’s former President Viktor was recruiting Russian speakers, especially Russian-speakers, especially in Latvia, to remains in Russia, is accused of treason, vio- Yanukovych. Mr. Lutsenko stated, “On May in Latvia, to use “as guinea pigs” to test new “unleash ‘a Crimea scenario’ ” against these lating Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial 4, a trial, unprecedented for Ukraine will “physical, biological and other techniques.” three NATO countries (Nezavismaya integrity, and abetting Russian aggression. In begin. The Prosecutor General’s Office of The goal of such “experimentation” is pur- Gazeta, April 18). the wake of Mr. Yanukovych’s downfall, Ukraine, in the name of the Ukrainian state, portedly to prepare the Balts to help the At one level, such Russian “fake news” Russia seized control of the Crimean penin- will accuse a former president of state trea- Western alliance invade the Russian claims that NATO is performing psychologi- sula and fomented separatism across eastern son. This process is not only about the citi- Federation. cal experiments on and southern Ukraine. Kyiv and NATO say zen Yanukovych. It is also about his Kremlin The fabricated In examining Russian Russian speakers Moscow has given separatists who took over masters, who used a document signed by and entirely unsub- and is preparing to parts of the eastern Donbas region substan- Yanukovych in order to occupy Ukraine’s stantiated story had disinformation, it is invade Russia are so tial military support in a war that has killed Crimea; cover Ukraine’s Donbas in blood its origins on April always important hyperbolic as to be more than 9,900 people since April 2014. and to try to bring our state to its knees. 18, in Moscow’s easily dismissed. But Ukrainian authorities say a key piece of evi- This trial will be fundamentally different Nezavisimaya to go back to first there is an impor- dence against Mr. Yanukovych is a letter in from the political trials of the time of Gazeta. The article sources and see how tant reason that which they say he asked the Russian leader- Yanukovych, through which I had to pass. I quoted Russian Lt. Moscow and its ship to intervene. Russia’s ambassador to the am certain that during this process the Gen. Yuri Netkachev, they are exploited. agents in the Baltics United Nations at the time, the late Vitaly rights of the defendant, guaranteed by who had succeeded are making them: In Churkin, displayed the letter at a U.N. Ukrainian legislation, will be guaranteed.” Gen. Aleksandr Lebed in Transnistria in today’s increasingly “post-truth” world, all Security Council meeting on March 4, 2014, Mr. Lutsenko added, “Ukrainian prosecutors 1992 and commanded Russian forces in such claims become part of the narrative – two weeks before Moscow claimed to have in this trial will be representing not only the the Caucasus more recently. Lt. Gen. even of those who are critical of them. completed the procedure of making Crimea Ukrainian state. They will be speaking in the Netkachev told the Moscow paper that These stories muddy the waters of public part of Russia. A man officials say was a key name of the thousands of dead, tens of thou- “NATO might use some novel techniques discourse to such an extent that what would witness in the case, former Russian lawmak- sands of wounded, and millions displaced affecting the human psyche” during its have seemed outlandish only months or er Denis Voronenkov, was shot dead in broad from Ukraine’s Crimea and Donbas. This summer training exercise, Shield XVI, in the years ago now seems plausible to at least daylight in Kyiv on March 23. Ukrainian will not be a trial of revenge. We need jus- Baltic countries. He further alleged that the some people. Moscow would not be authorities called the slaying of Mr. tice and rule of law.” (Ukrainian Canadian alliance’s effort to identify and recruit involved in such propaganda efforts if it did Voronenkov, who had defected to Ukraine in Congress Daily Briefing) not believe that they would have at least October, the “public killing of a witness” in Russian-speakers, something he insisted Poroshenko, Merkel discuss Donbas war NATO has done elsewhere, is likely to be some success. the case. Ilya Ponomaryov, another former part of that exercise. And providing abso- However, there are three more immedi- Russian lawmaker who has left Russia, is KYIV – Ukrainian President Petro lutely no evidence, he concluded that “the ate lessons from this latest Kremlin- expected to testify as a witness. Mr. Poroshenko’s office says he and German use of such methods cannot be ruled out” orchestrated “fake news” campaign in the Ponomaryov was the only member of the Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed her in the current campaign (Nezavismaya Baltic countries. First, this effort is entirely State Duma, Russia’s lower house of meeting last week with Russian President Gazeta, April 18). But those quoted directed from and by Moscow. Not only did Parliament, to vote against the annexation of Vladimir Putin. Mr. Poroshenko’s office said remarks sparked a spate of articles in the a Moscow newspaper initiate this cam- Crimea in 2014. After a debate between the in a May 8 statement that a telephone call Baltic region that repeated this story in paign but a Russian general with experi- state prosecutor and defense lawyers at the between the two leaders earlier that day increasingly extravagant ways (Baltnews.lv, ence in “hot spots” was its primary source. court session on May 4, Judge Vladyslav also addressed Kyiv’s conflict with Russia- April 24; Leta.lv, April 25). Consequently, these ridiculous stories Devyatko ruled that Mr. Yanukovych should backed separatists and the death last Both the original Moscow article and should not be dismissed, as they some- be given the opportunity to take part in the month in eastern Ukraine of a monitor with especially its epigones in the Baltic coun- times are, as the products of the overheated trial by video-link. The judge then adjourned the Organization for Security and tries repeated the now standard Russian imagination of local activists. the proceedings until May 18. The Ukrainian line that NATO’s activities in Latvia and its Second, a single story is quickly multi- Prosecutor General’s Office said on May 3 (Continued on page 12) neighbors bear “a strikingly anti-Russian plied by various outlets so that it appears character.” Now, Russian media in Latvia that more is going on than in reality. All the has expanded this assertion to mean that “news” in this campaign can be traced back NATO is preparing to use Latvia as a base to the same source in Moscow, but the The Ukrainian Weekly FOUNDED 1933 for launching an attack on the Russian number of stories in newspapers, news Federation (Baltnews.lv, April 24). agencies and websites that repeat it make it An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., The Latvian Defense Ministry has point- appear that this is a massive issue. In exam- a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. ed out that such “fake news” stories about ining Russian disinformation, it is thus Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. NATO are being “spread with increasing always important to go back to first sources Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. frequency.” Moreover, it notes that stories and see how they are exploited. (ISSN — 0273-9348) in outlets directed specifically at Baltic And third – and this may be the most The Weekly: UNA: nationals and Russian-speakers there are important lesson – Moscow is clever enough Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 often far more outrageous than those that to use an indirect approach. Thus, a story emanate directly from Moscow. that surfaces in Moscow is inserted into a Postmaster, send address changes to: In support of that contention, the ministry Lithuanian website by hackers and then The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz pointed to a story that Russian hackers had picked up by Latvian and Estonian outlets. 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas illegally inserted on the BNS Lithuania news Not only does that have the effect of obscur- P.O. Box 280 service website. The fake article was titled ing the Russian origins of the story, but it Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] “The Echo of Syria in Latvia: U.S. Troops lends the patina of credibility to claims that Poisoned With Yperite.” BNS has asked the are completely without foundation. The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com Lithuanian government to help bring the Those who are working to counter perpetrators to justice (Leta.lv, April 13). Russian propaganda and disinformation The Ukrainian Weekly, May 14, 2017, No. 20, Vol. LXXXV Latvian officials have called on everyone in cannot forget any of these lessons, because Copyright © 2017 The Ukrainian Weekly Latvia to adopt “a critical approach” to all Moscow has shown itself sophisticated such “subversive information operations enough to use any gap in Western opposi- [now being conducted] in Latvia’s media tion to its messages to insert its own false environment” (Leta.lv, April 25). version of reality. ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA Undoubtedly, most Estonians, Latvians Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and Lithuanians, including Russian speak- The article above is reprinted from and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 e-mail: [email protected] ers, have already adopted such an attitude; Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from but Moscow clearly believes it can profit by its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 e-mail: [email protected] fishing in what it sees as the still-troubled www.jamestown.org. No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 3

NEWS ANALYSIS Moscow tries to prod, exploit European disunity by Pavel K. Baev cles” that stood in the way of returning Russia-EU relations Moreover, Moscow deployed all the big propaganda guns in to a partnership track (TASS, April 24). Ms. Mogherini her support, which has done more damage than good for Eurasia Daily Monitor responded with a terse point that it would be “absurd” to her cause (Carnegie.ru, April 28). The strong showing of Despite the serious escalation of tensions in Northeast speak of partnership in the situation of mutual sanctions the pro-EU Emmanuel Macron [who went on to win the Asia in recent weeks, Russian diplomacy has been priori- (Politcom.ru, April 27). The Kremlin seeks to present the second-round election against Le Pen, on May 7] is seen as tizing European intrigues. The biggest event in this context common EU position on opposing Russian aggression in a serious setback for European right-wing populism, into was the meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine as the product of an “aggressive anti-Russian which Moscow has invested so much political capital German Chancellor Angela Merkel on May 2 in Sochi. In minority” inside Europe – but the EU’s top diplomat (Republic.ru, April 24; Nezavisimaya Gazeta, April 28). advance of the meeting, in Berlin this visit was being down- refused to accede to such a narrative (Kommersant, April One traditional instrument of applying pressure, which played as part of the preparations for the G-20 summit in 25). Moscow now finds difficult to wield, is the export of natural Hamburg on July 7-8; in Moscow, however, it was seen as a The sanctions are set to be extended for another six gas to Europe. Sustained low oil and gas prices have made major step in re-energizing the Kremlin’s high-level net- months; to be lifted, Russia will first have to return to the Russian gas attractive for European customers; in fact, working in Europe (Deutsche Welle – Russian service, April rules and norms of agreeable international behavior Gazprom has managed to boost export volumes to Europe 28). (Newsru.com, April 28). But Moscow instead aims to prod and increased its share of the EU market in 2016 Mr. Putin has already greeted Italian President Sergio every weak link in European unity and is annoyed by (Kommersant, April 27). Nevertheless, it has to make every Mattarella in Moscow in April, held talks with German Montenegro. The latter Balkan country was long counted effort to present itself as a reliable supplier and erase Foreign Affairs Minister Sigmar Gabriel in March, and trav- as an asset for this policy of sowing discord – but has now numerous past stains on its business reputation (RBC, eled to Budapest for a meeting with Hungarian Prime completed the work on joining the North Atlantic Treaty April 27). The Russian gas giant even has to carefully man- Minister Viktor Orban in February. He did not, however, Organization (RBC, April 28). age its permanent conflict with Ukraine, currently doing meet with Federica Mogherini, the European Union’s high The main focus of Russia’s European maneuvering has nothing other than quietly indicating on its balance sheet representative for foreign affairs and security policy, when certainly been on the presidential elections in France, and the claim for an accumulated debt of $37 billion (Gazeta.ru, she came to Moscow on April 24. the outcome of the first round looked like a disappoint- April 27). Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei Lavrov played host to Ms. ment for the Kremlin. Mr. Putin placed a bet on Marine Le Mogherini and argued for overcoming the “artificial obsta- Pen and greeted her in the Kremlin in late March. (Continued on page 14)

President, and Ukraine’s President would be a critical sign Senators ask Trump... of support for peace in the region, as U.S. support for individuals within Putin’s inner circle, but major sectors of Ukraine now is imperative to its survival. Russia’s unrelent- Russia’s• Expanding economy. economic sanctions to include not only (Continued from page 1) ing hybrid warfare in Ukraine is destabilizing the interna- oritize meeting foreign leaders representing countries tional world order. The massive build-up of Russian troops UNIS asks community members with whom we share historical ties, democratic values and along Ukraine’s eastern border and recent escalating to write to President Trump mutual interests. attacks in the eastern regions of Luhansk and Donetsk are WASHINGTON – The Ukrainian National Information We were pleased to see Secretary of State Rex Tillerson continuously threatening Ukraine’s territorial integrity and Service on May 9 issued an Action Item urging Ukrainian attend the meeting of NATO foreign ministers in March sovereignty. The U.S. must take definitive action to help sta- after public reports indicated that he might not. We believe bilize the transnational, trans-Atlantic security framework, American community members to write letters to it is critical for the United States to maintain high level which clearly serves our national interests as Americans. President Donald Trump requesting that he invite engagement with our most important allies, and Secretary Without U.S. support and a commitment to peace, the crisis President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine to visit the U.S. Tillerson’s participation in this meeting and others like it in Ukraine is only likely to escalate,” they noted. UNIS suggested that community members’ letters signals our commitment to our friends and our adversaries The UCCA leaders argued that, “As the bastion of democ- express pride in having watched “the people of Ukraine ded- alike. racy in the Free World, the United States must take the lead icate themselves to democratic values during the Revolution Many of our allies in Europe are anxiously awaiting poli- in promoting international norms and consolidating geo- of Dignity several years ago” and cite “the onslaught of cy direction from your Administration about our commit- political stability,” and they urged Mr. Trump “to affirm the Russian aggression” being waged upon Ukraine in the form ments to NATO and other institutions that preserve the United States’ commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and of cyberattacks, outright invasion of sovereign territory, and international order that has served as the framework for territorial integrity.” an unrelenting disinformation campaign. international stability and security since the end of the They cited four security concerns that should be high- “The United States, as a strategic partner of Ukraine, Second World War. Specifically, along with our most stal- lighted by the U.S.: ought to acknowledge Ukraine’s recent sacrifices by invit- wart allies in Europe, we remain concerned about Russia’s ing President Petro Poroshenko to Washington, D.C., before continued military aggression in eastern Ukraine and Crimea and eastern Ukraine) and its continued use of your eventual meeting with Vladimir Putin. Such an ongoing occupation of Crimea. Because of Russia’s destabi- hybrid• Condemning warfare, and Russia’scalling for invasion the immediate of Ukraine cessation (both of acknowledgment would send strong signals to the lizing influence, approximately 10,000 people have been Russian hostility towards Ukraine; Ukrainian people about the values of partnership with killed, over 20,000 wounded, and nearly 2 million internal- - democratic nations such as ours,” UNIS noted in a sample ly displaced since 2014. This kind of instability can have porting a 21st century “Marshall Plan” aimed at stabilizing letter it is disseminating to community members. far-reaching consequences for our allies and our interests and• strengtheningBolstering U.S. trans-Atlantic financial support and regional for Ukraine security by sup and Letters to Mr. Trump should be addressed as follows: in the region. providing necessary military support for Ukraine; The President, The White House, Washington, DC 20500. In this vein, we strongly encourage you to meet with They may also be submitted online at http://www.white- senior leaders from Ukraine, including President Petro and military) to eastern Ukraine to monitor the situation house.gov/contact/submit-questions-and-comments. Poroshenko, in advance of any official meetings with senior on •the Supporting ground and a U.N. deter peacekeeping provocations mission that may (both lead civilian to fur- For further information readers may contact the UNIS Russian officials including Russian President Vladimir ther Russian intervention; and, office at 202-547-0018 or [email protected]. Putin. Meeting with democratically elected representatives from Ukraine would send a strong signal that the United States continues to prioritize our relationship with long- standing allies, and will continue our commitments to sup- port Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the COMMENTARY: “Europe not Moscow” face of ongoing aggression. by Brian Whitmore count on European complacency. Source: Office of Sen. Rob Portman RFE/RL Elites could be corrupted with lucrative sweetheart deals. The Kremlin’s black cash could fatten the ledgers In Budapest, thousands march and chant, “Europe not of Western banks and create a ready-made lobby for UCCA urges Trump to meet Moscow!” with Poroshenko before meeting In France, a pro-European centrist is poised to handi- Moscow. Gangsters could advance the Kremlin’s inter- with Russian president ly defeat a pro-Moscow nationalist in the May 7 presi- ests without leaving fingerprints. dential election runoff. But the war in Ukraine and Moscow’s meddling in WASHINGTON – The Ukrainian Congress Committee of In Finland, a new center has been established to com- Western elections have woken up an increasing number America, in a letter to President Donald Trump dated May bat Russian disinformation and hybrid threats. of people to Russia’s nonkinetic war on Europe. 9, urged the U.S. president to meet with President Petro In Sweden and Finland, the issue of joining NATO is Not long ago, talk of a Russian threat to Europe was Poroshenko of Ukraine – and to do so before the Mr. Trump being taken more seriously than ever before. confined to the Baltic states and Poland. Today, it is being meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In Spain, prosecutors are aggressively pursuing cases heard everywhere. “The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA), against Kremlin-connected organized crime groups. The backlash hasn’t reached critical mass just yet. But the representative organization of over 1 million Americans Across Europe, the backlash against Moscow’s efforts it is gaining momentum. of Ukrainian descent, respectfully requests that you invite the to subvert and undermine the EU with disinformation, President of Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko, to meet with you in corruption and organized crime is gathering steam. The commentary above is from Brian Whitmore’s May Washington, D.C., prior to your meeting with President The Kremlin’s efforts to undermine Europe’s institu- 2 edition of “The Morning Vertical” on RFE/RL (http:// Vladimir Putin,” wrote Andrew J. Futey, UCCA president, tions and unity has been going on for years. But until www.rferl.org/a/the-morning-vertical-may-2-2017/ and Michael Sawkiw Jr., UCCA executive vice-president. recently, the operation was stealthy and Moscow could 28463487.html). “A meeting in Washington, D.C., between you, Mr. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20 In massive spending bill, Congress backs several measures targeting Russia

by Mike Eckel cesses, and counter Russian influence and President Barack Obama’s administration. meddled in the election campaign in sup- aggression,” according to the legislation. Privately, U.S. officials brushed off the port of Mr. Trump. RFE/RL The money will go to “support democra- threats of retaliation by Moscow, saying the The Senate Intelligence Committee, WASHINGTON – Congress has authorized cy programs in the Russian Federation, movements of U.S. diplomats in Russia had which originally drafted the measures, is a new $100 million effort to counter “Russian including to promote Internet freedom, and already been severely curtailed for some one of several House and Senate panels influence and aggression” and to support civil shall also be made available to support the time. investigating those Russia efforts. society organizations in Europe and Eurasia. democracy and rule of law strategy” under The intelligence measure also calls for U.S. lawmakers on May 4 also backed a State Department policies. the creation of a new interagency commit- Copyright 2017, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted measure imposing new restrictions and The legislation also directs the money be tee to counter what it calls Russian efforts to with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ oversight on Russian diplomats in the made available to so-called Eastern manipulate foreign opinion. That is a reflec- Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see United States – a measure that Moscow had Partnership countries – a European Union tion of the growing bipartisan consensus https://www.rferl.org/a/us-spending-bill- angrily warned Washington against. program with the ex-Soviet states of that emerged in the wake of the U.S. presi- government-running-senate-trump/2846 Both efforts were included in the $1.1 Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, dential election, when the intelligence com- 8643.html). trillion budget to fund the federal govern- Moldova, and Ukraine. munity concluded that Moscow actively ment for 2017 that was given final backing The funds will help “advance the imple- by the Senate. The budget was signed into mentation of Association Agreements and law by President Donald Trump on May 5. trade agreements with the European Union, The $100 million fund is the product of and to reduce their vulnerability to external U.S. to provide $560 M to Ukraine several proposals that have circulated in economic and political pressure from the UNIAN time, the budget law does not provide for the House and Senate in recent months as Russian Federation.” loan guarantees to Ukraine to increase lawmakers looked to push back against Also tacked onto the budget legislation KYIV – On Thursday, May 4, the U.S. defense capabilities, which totaled $275 Russia’s perceived interference in Europe passed by the Senate was an intelligence Congress passed the defense spending million last year. and elsewhere. authorization measure that tightens over- bill for fiscal 2017, which provides for Along with the confirmed support for A growing number of Democrats and sight of Russian diplomats in the United the allocation of $560 million in aid to boosting the country’s defenses, Republicans have pointed to the spread of States. Kyiv, of which $350 million will be used Washington noted the need to speed up fake news, foreign funding of political par- The section requires the State to strengthen the country’s defenses. reforms on the protection of intellectual ties, outright propaganda and other covert Department, the FBI and the Director of The next day, the Consolidated property rights. The annual Special 301 activities as indications of an aggressive National Intelligence to set up a procedure Appropriations Act for 2017 was signed Report by the U.S. Trade Representative, Russian effort to meddle in or subvert gov- that would essentially obligate Russian dip- by President Donald Trump. analyzing the state of intellectual proper- ty protection in the countries that are ernments seen as hostile to Moscow. lomats to give the FBI advance warning “Ukraine welcomes signature by the U.S. president, Mr. Donald Trump, of … trading partners of the United States, has Election campaigns in France and about travels beyond the Embassy and the Consolidated Appropriations Act retained Ukraine on the list of priority Germany have been shadowed by suspi- Consulates’ immediate geographic territory. 2017 under which not less than USD monitoring targets. cions of Russian involvement, as was last Last year, when word first emerged that 560 mln. shall be made available for According to Ukraine’s Economy year’s presidential election in the United U.S. lawmakers were contemplating such assistance for Ukraine,” Ukraine’s Minister Stepan Kubiv, Ukraine has States. restrictions, Russia’s Foreign Affairs Embassy in the United States wrote on recently made great efforts toward tack- The $100 million allocation, called the Ministry complained loudly and threatened Facebook. ling Internet piracy in the field of copy- Countering Russian Influence Fund, is retaliation against U.S. diplomats in Russia. The diplomats noted that, of the $350 right and related rights. Work continues aimed specifically at Europe, earmarked for The Foreign Affairs Ministry’s spokes- million, the minimum military support on the legalization of software and “civil society groups involved in rule of law, woman, Maria Zakharova, charged at the for Ukraine before October 1 of this year addressing issues related to the collective media, cyber and other programs that time that the legislation was part of a will amount to $238 million. At the same management of property rights. strengthen democratic institutions and pro- “witch hunt” against Russia by outgoing Ukrainians to commemorate three major historical events

by Christina Kotlar A cultural evening of solidarity and com- memoration is being planned to honor NEW YORK – An initiative meeting of members of the UPA who sacrificed their Ukrainian national community organiza- lives for a cause they believed in – a sover- tions, along with the Society of Veterans of eign, independent Ukrainian state – and to the Ukrainian Insurgent Army Inc., the remember the victims of Akcja Wisla, the Organization for the Defense of 150,000 Ukrainians forced out of their Lemkivschyna (OOL) and Former Members homes seven decades ago. Andrij Stasiw of Ukrainian Insurgent Army-UPA, took was elected chair of the concert committee. place on March 4 at the Ukrainian Congress More information will be posted on social Committee of America headquarters on the media, in newspapers and on local commu- Lower East Side of New York City. nity event calendars. Named the Ukrainian National Committee An academic conference will host round- to Commemorate the 75th Anniversary of table discussions about the significance of UPA, 70th Anniversary of Akcja Wisla and the UPA and Akcja Wisla, focusing on how 70th Anniversary of UPA’s Great Raid, the they are judged by historians, with a specif- newly formed group created a planning com- ic focus on comparing the events of the past mittee that will organize major events to Representatives of national Ukrainian organizations at their meeting on March 4 dur- with present-day events, especially the mark those historic anniversaries. ing which they discussed commemorations of three historical events – the 75th anni- impact of hostile governments. Dr. Walter Zenia Kowalczyn Brozyna and Bohdan versary of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), the 70th anniversary of Akcja Wisla Zaryckyj, executive director of Center for and the 70th anniversary of the UPA’s Great Raid to the West. Kowalyk, presidents of the Society of U.S.-Ukrainian Relations, will chair the aca- Veterans of the UPA, and Marie Duplak, hon- The planning committee includes Ms. honorary committee comprises: demic conference. orary president of the Organization for the Brozyna, chair; Mr. Kowalyk, Ms. Duplak, Metropolitan Stefan Soroka (Ukrainian As 2017 is a commemorative year for all Defense of Lemkivschyna (OOL), organized Mark Howansky, Petro Potichnyj and Catholic Church in the U.S.), Metropolitan these historical events, the Ukrainian the inaugural meeting of the Ukrainian Dmytro Wozniak, vice-chairs; Lesia Harhaj, Antony (Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the National Committee is appealing to all local National Committee with a focus on two secretary; Roma Lisovich, treasurer; as well U.S.A.), Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United Ukrainian communities to plan their own events set for Saturday, October 14, the Day as press secretaries Lida Slysh and Mykola States Valeriy Chaly, Andriy Futey events. For more information about the of the Holy Protectress, which is historically Haliw (Ukrainian language) and Christina (Ukrainian Congress Committee of October 14 scholarly and cultural events, identified as the date when the UPA was offi- Kotlar (English language). America) and Ihor Gawdiak (Ukrainian readers may contact Ms. Brozyna at UPA. cially created as Ukraine’s military arm. The Ukrainian National Committee’s American Coordinating Council). [email protected].

Explore the archives of The Ukrainian Weekly and Svoboda online: www.ukrweekly.com • www.svoboda-news.com Our online archives Self Reliance New York Federal Credit Union Anonymous donor are made possible by our Selfreliance Ukrainian American Federal Credit Union Shevchenko Scientific Society U.S.A. SUMA (Yonkers) Federal Credit Union Bahriany Foundation generous sponsors: Heritage Foundation of 1st Security Federal Savings Bank and others No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 5

THE UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FORUM

Connecticut UNA District Young UNA’ers holds spring meeting

Brooke Kelli Aiello, daughter of Kara Jack Hunter Mamay, son of Adriana and NEW HAVEN, Conn. – The Connecticut UNA District’s spring meeting was held on and William Aiello of South Plainfield, Jonathon Mamay of Middlesex, N.J., is a Saturday, April 22, at St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church in New Haven. The meet- N.J., is a new member of UNA Branch new member of UNA Branch 37. He was ing was attended by UNA National Secretary Yuriy Symczyk and UNA Adviser Gloria 37. She was enrolled by her grandparents enrolled by his grandparents Oles and Horbaty. The meeting was held after the presentation by Dr. Petrusia G. Kotlar on Halina and Michael Kaskiw. Olya Kuzyszyn. “Wellness and Nutrition as a Means to Healthy Longevity” that was hosted at the same venue by the UNA and open to the public. – Myron Kolinsky Do you have a young UNA’er, or potential young UNA’er in your family? THE UNA: 123 YEARS OF SERVICE TO OUR COMMUNITY Call the UNA Home Office, 973-292-9800, to find out how to enroll. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20

WINDOW ON EURASIA The Ukrainian Weekly Russia’s dirty fingerprints Vladimir Putin’s Victory Parade More proof of Russia’s direct involvement in the war in eastern Ukraine sur- faced in a special report released by Reuters on May 11. Headlined “Ex-rebel lead- an Orwellian exercise, says journalist ers detail role played by Putin aide in east Ukraine,” the story was published by The by Paul Goble In short, Mr. Khots says, this parade is “a New York Times, among others. (You can read the full text here: http://www. parade of hybrid murderers and occupiers reuters.com/article/us-ukraine-crisis-russia-surkov-insight-idUSKBN1870TJ.) “‘The Victory Parade’ in Putin’s Russia is who hide themselves under the mask of The story – a must read – begins with these words: unique in its absurdity, one in which an ‘liberators’ and ‘anti-fascists.’ ” (The com- “A top aide to Vladimir Putin decides how the pro-Moscow administration of imperial army presents itself as ‘defenders mentator doesn’t say this, but for half of eastern Ukraine is run and who gets what jobs there, three former rebel leaders of the motherland,’ occupiers as liberators, Europe, Stalin’s victory in 1945 was much said, challenging Kremlin denials that it calls the shots in the region. Their com- and invaders as anti-fascists,” Aleksandr the same: it brought them not freedom but ments to Reuters shed light on the role played by the secretive Vladislav Surkov, Khots says. It is thus “a hybrid parade of a half century of enslavement.) who has long been at the Russian president’s side. The Kremlin says his official role ‘heroes’ of a hybrid war,” of “totalitarianism No one should be deceived by references is to advise Putin on Ukraine, where the rebels are fighting government forces.” under the mask of anti-fascism.” to 1945 and “the immortal regiments,” he Reuters goes on to cite information given by three men that details how Mr. The Russian opposition journalist points continues. The only meaning of this parade Surkov “controls the situation on the ground via handpicked proxies who give him out that “a military parade by definition is a for those who organized it and the only regular situation reports, used aides to arrange elections there, and has worked to symbolic event connected with the present meaning they want others to take away build power structures that are responsive to Moscow’s wishes.” even if it is devoted to past victories, from it is that Moscow again has “a strong It was Mr. Surkov, these men say, who played a key role in the appointment of because the army with its ‘patriotism’ and instrument for its imperial policies of occu- Aleksandr Zakharchenko, a local, as the leader of the so-called Donetsk People’s militarism is always (especially in Russia) pation.” Republic to replace two self-described volunteers from Russia, Aleksandr Borodai an instrument of present-day policy” (kasp- “It is no accident,” Mr. Khots says, that and Igor Strelkov. The idea was to show that the “uprising” in Donetsk was a arov.ru/material.php?id=5911710F5A1D8). among the portraits of “the immortal regi- “grassroots phenomenon,” Reuters explains. Thus, the two “volunteers” from The military parade in Moscow on May 9 ment” are people like Aleksandr Russia stepped down on orders from Moscow. – Victory Day, which commemorates the Zakharchenko, Motorola and Givi, people The Reuters story – prepared by a team of reporters – explains that Alexei USSR’s victory over Nazi Germany in the who weren’t even born when the victory Alexandrov and two other men who wished to remain unidentified decided to “Great Patriotic War” – featured not the supposedly being celebrated occurred but speak out because they feel their uprising was “hijacked” by Moscow and the lead- weapons that Soviet forces used against the who have been conducting a war for ers selected by Moscow do not have the Donbas region’s best interests at heart. Germans in World War II but those they Moscow against Ukraine in recent years. Mr. Surkov, they say, was involved in selecting personnel for DPR posts, creating have used against Ukraine and other coun- According to the Russian journalist, the an administrative structure and formulating a media strategy. Furthermore, after tries in recent times. And among those May 9 event is best understood as “the Mr. Zakharchenko was put in place, there was an “election” to confirm him as DPR marching and being celebrated were those parade of an occupation army, a demon- leader. The Zakharchenko campaign, according to Mr. Alexandrov, was run by who invaded and occupied Ukrainian cities. stration of the powers of the Russian Russians who worked for Mr. Surkov. That election, held in November 2014, was regime, an instrument of militarization and deemed illegitimate by Ukraine, the United States and the European Union. Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on stupefaction of ‘the popular masses’ – Regardless, Moscow said that now Ukraine could negotiate directly with the “gov- ethnic and religious questions in Eurasia under the cheap camouflage of past ‘histor- ernments” of the DPR and the Luhansk People’s Republic (LPR), which held elec- who has served in various capacities in the ical victories.’ ” tions at the same time. U.S. State Department, the Central “For a long time already,” he concludes, Which brings us to today. Reuters reports that five sources, “including one close Intelligence Agency and the International we have been living in a country of total to the presidential administration and another who worked with Surkov in the Broadcasting Bureau, as well as at the Voice imitations, from ‘elections’ to ‘democracy,’ Kremlin,” said Mr. Surkov had regularly met with the “separatist” leaders, both in of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio ‘constitutionality,’ ‘division of powers,’ ‘an the Donbas and in Russia. And, they add, his involvement continues today, three Liberty and the Carnegie Endowment for independent court system’ and ‘a parlia- years after the start of conflict – now a full-blown war – in Ukraine’s east. International Peace. The article above is ment.’ ” Thus, no one should be surprised Meanwhile, as the war grinds on, Russia’s dirty fingerprints are becoming more reprinted with permission from his blog that a Victory Parade under President Putin and more evident in the Donbas. called “Window on Eurasia” (http://windo- would be “such a cheap imitation of its ini- woneurasia2.blogspot.com/). tial meaning, false and cynical.”

OPINION May Turning the pages back... Last year, on May 14, 2016, Jamala (Susana Jamaladinova), a View from Washington: No to Ukraine’s 14 Crimean Tatar and Ukraine’s entry in the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest hosted in Stockholm, won with her performance of 2016 “1944” about the Soviet deportation of the Tatars from Crimea, old guard, yes to new faces in power which began on May 18, 1944. by Taras Kuzio changed much over the last two decades Moscow protested, alleging that Ukraine’s entry should be and are largely not believed. disqualified for the political nature of the song, and announced that it planned to boycott Washington policymakers and experts Mr. Poroshenko is obviously viewed as the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest that would be hosted by Ukraine. can’t remember a time in the last quarter of an oligarch who does not have the political However, Russia’s 2017 entry – Yuliya Samoylova – was banned from entry to Ukraine a century when so many Ukrainians have will to fight corruption. A Washington for three years after she violated Ukrainian law by performing in Russian-occupied Crimea. visited Washington. One jokingly wondered expert told me: “It is very sad for the Ukrainian law requires that visitors to Crimea enter the region through points under con- aloud whether Ukraine should move its Ukrainian people that Poroshenko has trol of the Ukrainian government. Following the ruling by Kyiv, Moscow withdrew from the Parliament to Washington, as some national become the second revolutionary leader competition on April 13. International observers noted that Russia’s choice of performer deputies spend more time there than in Kyiv. who has failed to implement the popular was seen as a provocation because Moscow knew she would be rejected by Kyiv. The financial cost of these visits to demands of the Maidan.” The Weekly’s editorial noted, “Ukraine and Europe have been shown the effectiveness Ukrainian taxpayers and party political As to the Opposition Bloc, I have no com- of a revitalized cultural diplomacy strategy against Russian moves.” Kateryna Smagliy of finances is very high, but do these visits ment. President Viktor Yanukovych and the the Atlantic Council underscored that the Ukrainian diaspora of the U.S. and Canada can produce any tangible results? The answer Party of Regions spent the most of any polit- assist in the coordination of cultural policies, to share experience and to support efforts to this question is that, in most cases, they ical force on Washington consultants, and for Ukraine. The editorial expressed hope that the 2016 win by Jamala “would spur do not. There are three factors to consider. yet they abjectly failed to improve their neg- increased efforts by the international community to work with all of Ukraine and the The first is that U.S. policymakers and ative image. This was difficult prior to 2014 Crimean Tatars to counter Russian aggression and disinformation, to remind Russia that experts are surprised that the old guard are and since then has become impossible. these people and lands are not forgotten.” still dominating Ukrainian politics. Three of With regard to Batkivshchyna, one Ukraine’s previous Eurovision Song Contest winner was Ruslana Lyzychko in 2004 with the political forces that regularly travel to Washington political consultant told me: her song “Wild Dances.” This year, O. Torvald will represent Ukraine with the song “Time.” Washington – the Petro Poroshenko bloc, “Tymoshenko has courted the last four U.S. The competition final is scheduled for May 13 at the International Exhibition Center in the Opposition bloc and Yulia presidential administrations, but has not Kyiv, with the broadcast carried by the National Television Company of Ukraine (NTU). Tymoshenko/Batkivshchyna – are viewed changed how Washington views her. She Forty-two countries have entries in this year’s competition that is being held under the as old-guard politicians who emerged in continues to be seen as an opportunist, a slogan “Celebrate Diversity.” the 1990s. Their messages and rhetoric political chameleon whose views and alli- Countries that have advanced to the 2017 final include Australia, Belgium, Cyprus, conveyed to U.S. authorities have not ances change with the wind.” Nobody in France, Germany, Greece, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Italy, Washington knows what she really and Moldova, Poland and Portugal. Ukraine automatically qualifies as the previous year’s win- truly stands for. Taras Kuzio, Ph.D., is a senior fellow at the ner. This year’s lead candidate to win, based on voting and betting odds, is Italy’s Another Washington political consultant Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies, Francesco Gabbani and the song “Occidentali’s Karma.” Ukraine is in 26th place to win, said: “Knowledgeable regional experts in University of Alberta, and author of the newly according to oddsmakers. Washington voice serious concern about published book “Putin’s War Against Ukraine. Source: “Jamala’s Eurovision win confounds Moscow,” The Ukrainian Weekly, May 22, 2016. Revolution, Nationalism, and Crime.” (Continued on page 13) No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

influence can be extended by the Ukrainian Looking back to the past diaspora, as has been the case in Canada. But it needs U.S. assistance in modern arms to find one’s way today and possibly at some point U.S. boots on Dear Editor: the ground. This could establish a new path in history. But the Ukrainian diaspora com- In his column of April 9, Andrew munity must keep on working hard. The Sorokowski raises an interesting question: alternative, to do nothing, would pull If we got lost on our historical march, could Ukraine back into its traditional position of When the world is your cloister we go back in history to a point where we being dominated by Russia. “You wanna be monk?” That, at least, is Nothing stops these critics, “always right went wrong and restart again on a different I commend Dr. Sorokowski for raising how one of my high-school friends related and always wronged,” from engaging with track? Of course we cannot do it physically, issues related to historical events. It is the words of a brother he had met while society. What, then, of monasticism? Is but a mental walk can be very instructive timely to have a serious re-thinking of both visiting an Italian monastery with his par- withdrawal no longer a tenable option? for finding the correct or better path. the past and the present. Looking back in history, one can often ents one summer vacation. To us 1960s Monasticism, however, is not simply readily see events that went wrong and Wsevolod Isajiw middle-class Baby Boomers, the idea was withdrawal. To be sure, there is the eremet- learn from this what to do and what not to Toronto preposterously funny. Monks were comical ical (hermit) tradition, and renowned do in the future. Dr. Sorokowski focuses on little men in robes and sandals, with weird monks have lived in seclusion (anchorites), the years 1917-1919. I want to look at the haircuts. What could be more unpalatable some taking to the forest (dendrites) or years 1919-1921, when the Treaty of to an American teenager than a life of pov- even living atop columns (stylites). But Versailles was signed. The issue is that A public thank you erty, chastity and obedience? there is also the cenobitic tradition of com- Ukraine had to fight its oppressors without Inculcated with the Freudian theory of a munity life. Moreover, since medieval times it being recognized as an independent to Orest Deychakiwsky “sex drive” that it was unhealthy to repress many monastic orders and congregations country by the Treaty of Versailles. The Dear Editor: and nearly impossible to sublimate, we have been active in the world. Nicholas treaty recognized the sovereignty declared could not imagine giving up – at least – Chubaty thus formulated the early Kievan by Czechs and Slovaks, Hungarians, I’d like to express a sincere public thank marriage. Moreover, we were being educat- monks’ attitude to society: “The monks did Romanians, Estonians, Finns, Latvians, you to Orest Deychakiwsky, who just ed in a post-Enlightenment spirit critical of not close themselves off from the world, Lithuanians, Belarusians and Poles, but not retired from the U.S. Helsinki Commission. institutional religion in general and monas- but on the contrary, sought to draw the Ukrainians. The rationale given was that For many years I, along with many others, ticism in particular. True, in Spanish class world to a life lived according to the princi- Ukrainians were not yet ready for their was on Mr. Deychakiwsky’s e-mail list to we read Chilean novelist Eduardo Barrios’ ples of the Gospel of Christ, obligatory for independence. receive invaluable information published in “El Hermano Asno,” a sensitive depiction of everyone, from the poor beggar to the The task of preparing Ukraine for inde- leading publications about matters regard- Franciscan life. And later – as the transves- Grand Prince of Kiev” (Chubaty, “Istoriia pendence was given to Poland, which ing Ukraine. The e-mails came from him tite “Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence” khrystianstva na Rusy-Ukrainy,” Vol. 1, New instead undertook an intensive program of several times a week, containing articles roared around San Francisco on their York, 1965, p. 728). Polonization. Among many other things, it from numerous publications, including The motorcycle – I discovered Francis Poulenc’s Meanwhile in the West, as women’s his- began to settle Polish farmers in the New York Times, The Washington Post and shattering account of monastic martyrdom torians have happily noted, powerful Galician countryside. This was one of the The Wall Street Journal, and there were in his 1957 opera “The Dialogues of the abbesses controlled networks of monaster- main factors for the creation of the UPA. also reports from the Ukrainian embassy, Carmelites.” Meanwhile, we found the ies wielding considerable political as well The two Ukrainian representatives to the the Organization for Security and rumor that one of our most popular and as economic influence. Today, sisters con- Versailles Conference, Vasyl Paneiko and Cooperation in Europe, the Atlantic attractive schoolmates had entered a con- duct vital humanitarian work in some of Stepan Vytvytsky, worked hard to convince Council, the U.S. Department of State, and vent utterly puzzling. the world’s most dangerous and impover- the delegates that Ukraine deserves its many others. Today, the socio-cultural climate has ished areas, particularly in Africa and the independence, but to no avail. The course I found it invaluable to have regular changed. The swinging single lifestyle of the Middle East. Monks, too, can taste adven- of Ukrainian history could have been differ- access to this information to keep abreast sexual revolution has proved something of a ture: witness the life of Roman Catholic ent if its representatives were better quali- of events concerning Ukraine during this fraud. Marriage, of course, remains an Christian Brother Isidore Wasylenchuk fied to win in these discussions. critical period in Ukraine’s history. I know option, but it is not for everyone. Many are (1925-2017), a Saskatchewan homestead- A more recent event that could have full well how much work tracking this kind happy to remain not only single, but chaste er and schoolteacher who taught in St. made a difference is the 2010 election of of information takes, and what dedication (see Kate Bryan, “I’m a 32-year-old Virgin Vincent in the Caribbean, visited Ireland the president of Ukraine. There was only 3 is required to select, format, and send out and Living the Feminist Dream,” The and Wales, worked in rural development in percent difference between the votes that this information so faithfully. Washington Post, September 8, 2016). Nigeria, travelled several times to Hong Viktor Yanukovych and Yulia Tymoshenko I also appreciated Mr. Deychakiwsky’s Popular culture treats nuns with a mix Kong to select students for an English lan- received, and I have no doubt that had the occasional comments about relevant of gentle mockery and admiration. A guage program, stopped in Japan, the two patriotic parties united, dropped their issues, directing readers to particularly recently formed Mexican order of “active Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore, and personal ambitions and hatreds, and inten- valuable points. His depth of knowledge as contemplative” Discalced Carmelite nuns taught English in Ukraine. sified their campaign, the course of history well as his dedication to the subject that’s has found a foothold in Denver. And now In the United States, the Sisters of St. Basil would have been different. so near and dear to our hearts are admira- we learn that Miss Mexico has decided to have been active since 1911, the men’s Order Dr. Sorokowski has done well by draw- ble. I’m certain that all will miss this amaz- join the Poor Clare Missionaries of the of St. Basil the Great since 1921, the Sisters ing our attention to the fact that things do ing service that Mr. Deychakiwsky has pro- Blessed Sacrament. In this new atmo- Servants of Mary Immaculate since 1935, not have to be only one way. But we have to vided over the years. sphere, monasticism begins to look normal. and the Byzantine-rite Redemptorists since study history to understand what went And I’m sure I speak for everyone in So do monastics. 1946, along with other male and female wrong in the past and make sure that we thanking Mr. Deychakiwsky and wishing In the 1980s, my dissertation research orders (Bohdan P. Procko, “Ukrainian do not repeat the same mistakes. him all the very best in his retirement. We brought me into contact with friendly, help- Catholics in America: A History,” 2nd rev. ed., Today Ukraine is again at a fork in the all look for continued work on behalf of ful Basilians at their monastery in Rome and 2016, pp. 46, 98-99, 104-105, 122, 124). road. It is being violently attacked from the Ukraine and the Ukrainian community, I’m hospitable Sisters Servants of Mary Today, the Ukrainian Greco-Catholic Church outside. Dr. Sorokowski points out that it Immaculate just across town. In the fall of as a whole has five male and 10 female reli- naturally chooses to go with the West. But Thank you! 1988, as Poland was quietly but firmly push- gious orders and congregations. The the situation is not simple, as Ukraine’s sure. Xай щастить! (Good luck!)Luba Cehelska ing the Communists out of power and Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A. lists influence in the West is not very strong. Its Cleveland Ukraine was inching towards independence, several monastic communities on its website. I encountered supportive Polish Cistercians Monastics have operated orphanages as at the Mogila Abbey in Krakow and watched well as schools at all levels. The Basilian FOR THE RECORD music videos of Lviv’s “Ne zhurys’” with the Sisters’ Manor College in Jenkintown, Pa., Basilians in Warsaw. Received with kind for example, is moving towards awarding hospitality at the Basilian convent at Osijek, four-year bachelors’ degrees. Individual Croatia (then Yugoslavia) in October 1989, I monks and nuns have conducted important UCC on Victory in Europe Day met two young sisters from the catacomb scholarly research – free of academic pres- Greek-Catholic Church of Ukraine, who had sures for political conformity and the tastes The Ukrainian Canadian Congress on We pause today to honor and remember had the maturity to reject Western-style of tenure committees. May 8 issued the following release. the brave men and women who served hedonism in favor of something more sub- If you are single and content with a life Canada in this colossal struggle. More than stantial. A decade later I found myself at of endless self-satisfaction (not really end- Today marks the 72nd anniversary of 45,000 gave their lives and over 55,000 Univ near Lviv, with adult lay students eager less, of course – just pointless), then you Victory in Europe Day (V-E Day). On May 8, were wounded in the struggle to defeat tyr- to participate in the rigorous spiritual life of are obviously not suited for monasticism. 1945, Nazi Germany surrendered uncondi- anny. More than 1 million Canadians served the Studites. But if you expect something more from life, tionally to the Western Allies and the Soviet in uniform during World War II – among As I noted in a recent column, some if you crave spiritual excellence and are Union. World War II in Europe, which had them some 40,000 of Ukrainian origin. Americans, dismayed by the direction our open to risk, if you desire to help the less begun in 1939 with the Nazi-Soviet invasion At places such as Juno Beach, the society is taking, are inspired by the exam- fortunate – then a monastic vocation may and dismemberment of Poland, was ended. Scheldt, Caen, Sicily, Ortona and countless ple of the medieval monasteries that pre- be for you. After more than five years of the most bru- other fields of battle, Canadians fought with served Western civilization during the Dark tal war ever inflicted upon humanity, the Ages. But their proposal to create an insu- Andrew Sorokowski can be reached at guns of Europe fell silent on May 8. (Continued on page 14) lated counter-culture has been questioned. [email protected]. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20

SEVENTY YEARS AGO Akcja Wisla’s intent: “To solve the Ukrainian problem in Poland once and for all”

by Askold S. Lozynskyj evict any Ukrainians remaining on their European Union, the Organization for of the once Ukrainian church, and now a territory, without regard for their loyalty to Security and Cooperation in Europe and Carmelite Polish political monument, tow- After the establishment of new borders the state or party affiliation, and organized the United Nations. At the end of March ering over the supplicant heads of the between the USSR and its new satellite, the control teams to verify the success of the 2007, a separate letter was remitted to grieving Ukrainians in the cathedral. Polish Peoples’ Republic, as a consequence operation. By the end of 1947, in place of Poland’s right-wing prime minister, On May 15, 2007, I sent a letter to Pope of World War II, only 700,000 Ukrainians the evicted Ukrainians, some 14,000 people Jaroslaw Kaczynski, requesting a meeting, Benedict XVI regarding both the anti-Ukrai- remained on the territory of Poland. of Polish nationality were settled. but the prime minister declined. nian inscriptions and the breached concor- Between the two world wars on the territo- This operation was carried out with dat. Copies of the letter went to Polish ry of the Second Polish Republic the extreme violence. The Polish police even 27-29, 2007, included a trip to the village of Cardinal Jozef Glemp, Ukrainian Patriarch Ukrainian population was over 5 million. enlisted Polish farmers to kill Ukrainian Pawlokoma,The observances some 40in Przemyślkilometers on fromApril Lubomyr Husar, and Ukrainian With the establishment of new borders, a women and children. Any arrested Metropolitan John Martyniak of Poland. Soviet-Polish joint action of “voluntary Ukrainians were judged immediately and the Polish army (the non-communist Patriarch Lubomyr concurred with my resettlement” was initiated. Soon the summarily executed. ArmijaPrzemyśl, Krajowa) where at attacked dawn on and March killed 3, 1945, 366 assessment. There was no response from facade of the action’s “voluntary” nature On August 29, 1949, by decree, Poland Ukrainians. The killings were intended to the holy father. was dropped in favor of “forcible repatria- confiscated all Ukrainian property that was send a message: “Now this will be Polish The Convention on the Prevention and tion.” Yet in January 1947, when the joint left behind. territory.” Today Pawlokoma is an ethnical- Punishment of the Crime of Genocide was action seemingly had been completed, the I participated in the commemoration of ly homogeneous village – Polish. adopted and proposed for signature, ratifi- Polish government realized that more than the 50th anniversary of Operation Vistula The program also included a conference cation or accession by United Nations 150,000 indigenous Ukrainians remained (Akcja Wisla in Polish) in Warsaw in 1997. of Polish and Ukrainian scholars. One repre- General Assembly resolution on December in Poland. The commemorative program included a sentative of the Polish Institute of National 9, 1948. This date was after Operation And so in January 1947, the General Staff meeting between representatives of the Remembrance tried to link Operation Vistula had been pretty much effectuated, of the Polish Army began to prepare a plan Ukrainian community in Poland and world- Vistula to the Volyn events of 1943 in but still before the decree confiscating for the relocation of the rest of the Ukrainian assets. It has no reverse effect; however, it population, this time within Polish borders. does apply in part to Operation Vistula and, On March 27, 1947 a concrete resettlement Despite much pleading from the Ukrainian more importantly, defines what constitutes action plan was submitted by Brig. Gen. genocide. It is my considered opinion that Stefan Mossor at a meeting of the State community and promises from Polish authorities, each and all of the above mentioned events Security Commission. The next day a the wrongs of Operation Vistula have not been constitute separate acts of attempted geno- Ukrainian Insurgent Army ambush killed a cide from forceful repatriation to brutal Polish general, Karol Swierczewski. Not redressed, except perhaps for the return eviction and resettlement within Poland, coincidentally, only a dozen hours later at a of a deteriorated Ukrainian National Home killings, internments, etc. special meeting of the Political Bureau it was The convention defines genocide as: decided to expedite the operation intended in Przemyśl (Peremyshl). “any of the following acts committed to relocate all Ukrainian and mixed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a Ukrainian families to northwestern Poland, national, ethnic, racial or religious group, as making certain that settlements would not wide, and then Polish President Aleksander Ukraine in which many Poles were killed. such: be concentrated and no closer than 100 kilo- Kwasniewski. The meeting was formal and On Sunday morning, participants cele- “(a) Killing members of the group; meters from the border. The governments of courteous, but ended without any repre- brated the liturgy at the Cathedral of St. “(b) Causing serious bodily or mental the USSR and Czechoslovakia consented to sentations or commitments from the Polish John the Baptist and went in procession to harm to members of the group; this eviction plan. side. For me, the commemoration was sig- the military cemetery in Pikulice, the site of “(c) Deliberately inflicting on the group On April 16, 1947, the civil security min- nificant not so much because of the meet- the interment of the remains of some 2,000 conditions of life calculated to bring about its ister, Brig. Gen. Stanislaw Radkiewicz, and ing with Poland’s president, but rather soldiers of the Ukrainian Galician Army physical destruction in whole or in part;” … minister of national defense, Marshall because it gave me the opportunity to con- (prisoners of war and internees in a Polish Intent is one of the main constituent ele- Michal Rola-Zymierski, issued a top secret verse with Ukrainian university students in camp who died as a consequence of an epi- ments of a crime. Of the world’s various organizational plan for a special operation Poland, in particular a Ukrainian student demic of dysentery and typhus in 1920- genocides of the 20th century, intent was titled “Wschod” that was later renamed who at that time was studying in Warsaw, 1921) and 47 UPA members (who perished almost never clearly defined in any docu- “Vistula.” The goal of the operation was but had come from the resettlement area in in battle with the Poles or were executed by mentation. There is no document from articulated very clearly in the document the northwest. She pointed out to me that the Poles back in 1946). The UPA members Joseph Stalin specifically directing the star- itself: “To solve the Ukrainian problem in for most of her brief life she had covered up had initially been interred in the villages of vation of the Ukrainian population in 1932- Poland once and for all.” The mechanism for – and continued to do so – her Ukrainian Lyshni and Birchi, but their bodies were 1933. Neither is there a document from achieving this goal was also clearly spelled background, even in relations with her fel- exhumed and re-interred in 2000 in Adolf Hitler to effect a final solution against out: “Conduct evacuation from the southern low students, as being Ukrainian was not Pikulice’s military cemetery. in Jews in the 1940s. The manifestation of and eastern border region of all the people conducive to studies, career or friendship. Incidentally, in December 2003 by order intent is so much clearer in relation to of Ukrainian descent... and settle them in the In April of 2000 as president of the of the director of the State Administration Operation Vistula. The Poles issued a docu- northwestern territories of Poland with the Ukrainian World Congress, I had personal of the Subcarpathian Province, informa- ment, albeit of a top secret nature, express- highest possible degree of scattering...” meetings with President Kwasniewski and tional plaques had been removed from ing their goal to “solve the Ukrainian prob- On April 28, 1947, at 4 a.m., six divisions representatives of the Polish government their graves because their inscriptions had lem in Poland once and for all.” of the Polish Army surrounded the villages and the Parliament, which I considered indicated that these soldiers fought against As for the element of killing, causing of southeastern Poland inhabited by quite fruitful at that time. The president Poland and this insulted the honor and serious bodily or mental disorder, deliber- Ukrainians, in particular the Lemkos. expressed particular sympathy for the national feeling of the Poles. These inscrip- ate creation of conditions of life calculated Simultaneously, Soviet internal security Ukrainian national minority and its perse- tions had been agreed upon between the to bring about total or partial physical units and Czechoslovak border guards cution. There were assurances that, albeit Association of Ukrainians in Poland and the destruction, the data supplied by the Poles blocked the eastern and southern borders of in a symbolic way, some redress would be Polish Public Council on Memory, Struggle themselves on July 31, 1947, are over- Poland. Thus commenced the eviction of the forthcoming, perhaps the return of reli- and Martyrdom. whelming: more than 140,000 were evicted remaining 150,000 Ukrainians from their gious and cultural property with specific The 60th anniversary program conclud- from their homes, etc. ancestral lands and their resettlement in the assurances on the Ukrainian National ed with a requiem held at the Cathedral of As for “causing serious bodily injury,” provinces of northern and western Poland. St. John the Baptist. It should be noted that there is ample witness testimony: “We The operation lasted over four months, real estate formerly belonging to the this Ukrainian Catholic cathedral is located were being shipped to Jaworzno. There in fact almost to September 1947. By July UkrainianHome in Przemyśl(Peremyshl) Catholic Church. Also anddiscussed some at the foot of the former Ukrainian church were 75 people in the transport. After the 31, 1947, according to Polish data, 140,575 was the proposal of granting pensions to that had been designated for Greek- identification some of us were separated, persons were relocated, 3,800 persons surviving victims of the camp in Jaworzno. Catholics in accordance with a concordat and the others were told to go to the baths. were imprisoned in the concentration The year 2007 marked the 60th anniver- between Poland and the Vatican in 1925. There we fainted as they poured cold and camp of Jaworzno (formerly Auschwitz), sary of Operation Vistula. In December Since 1946 that church, now renamed the hot water in turns. And what beating we 655 people were killed and 1,466 members 2006 the Ukrainian World Congress issued Church of St. Teresa, has belonged to the got as we left the baths. Unspeakable! Older of the Ukrainian resistance movement were an appeal for global commemoration that Polish Carmelite order. The Carmelites have people among us fell after the first blows arrested. included demands upon Poland similar to refused to return the church to the with thick sticks. We were also beaten on To deal with the remaining population, those which had been discussed with Ukrainians. A few days earlier I had visited the way to the barracks. “ on August 1, 1947, the State Safety President Kwasniewski in 2000. The that church and was overwhelmed by Despite much pleading from the Commission ordered the commanders of demands generated great interest in images of plaques on the walls, instead of Ukrainian community and promises from Krakow and Lublin province to uproot and Poland and Ukraine. Memoranda with icons, with inscriptions memorializing Polish authorities, the wrongs of Operation these demands were transmitted to the those Poles who were “killed by bands of Vistula have not been redressed, except Askold S. Lozynskyj is an attorney based new president, the prime minister and the the UPA.” Throughout my time at the perhaps for the return of a deteriorated in New York City. He is a former president of chairman of the Polish Parliament. Copies Ukrainian cathedral and as I addressed the the Ukrainian World Congress. were sent to the Council of Europe, the participants, I could not get over the image (Continued on page 13) No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 9

Former director of CIUS speaks on “Global (Dis)Order and Ukraine”

CIUS alternative, or what capacities societies have egalitarian than its neighbors.” to bring about positive change. For the remainder of his lecture, Dr. EDMONTON, Alberta – Bohdan For people who uphold liberal-democrat- Krawchenko focused on Ukraine. He had Krawchenko, former director of the ic values, pluralism and the idea of a socially moved there just before independence, and Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies, oriented economy, the year 2016 was an everything at that time, he reminisced, was recently delivered three lectures in Canada annus horribilis, Dr. Krawchenko stated, in flux. Twenty-five years on, opposition to on “The Global (Dis)Order and Ukraine.” pointing to recent developments in such the progress made by the people of Ukraine He spoke first at the J.B. Rudnyckyj places as Syria, Poland, Hungary, Turkey and “will not vanish like dew when the sun Distinguished Lecture in Winnipeg on the Philippines, as well as the ties between comes up,” Dr. Krawchenko said, referenc- March 8, then delivered the annual Vladimir Putin’s Russia and radical move- ing the Ukrainian national anthem. It will Shevchenko Lecture in Edmonton on March ments of the Right and the Left elsewhere. take effort to overcome these “enemies,” 10 (sponsored by CIUS and the Ukrainian The speaker then elaborated on the rise and he proceeded to provide suggestions as Canadian Professional and Business of populism, observing that often its mani- to “where that effort could be made.” Association of Edmonton) and, finally, CIUS’s festations of frustration are played upon by Good institutions, Dr. Krawchenko Wolodymyr Dylynsky Memorial Lecture in right-wing populist political charlatans, underlined, originate in “the material con- Toronto on March 13 (co-sponsored by St. who are, to quote the Nobel Foundation’s ditions of life, the totality of which is Vladimir Institute). This story is based on Dr. chair Carl Henrik Heldin, “winning votes by embraced by the term civil society.” He Krawchenko’s talk in Edmonton, although it denying knowledge and scientific truths.” pointed to Ukraine’s IT industry as an inter- CIUS / Oleksandr Pankieiev is much in line with his presentations on the Dr. Krawchenko described this as a terrible esting example of how rights are exercised, two other occasions. statement to be uttered in the 21st century. recalling that in Bishkek he watched a BBC Dr. Bohdan Krawchenko The lecture began with what the speaker He also examined wealth inequality in report about NGOs in Ukraine using drones up, drawing on its historic resilience. Dr. noted was a much-needed “hard, cold look the world, including in the United States to spot undeclared assets in their fight Krawchenko expressed the hope that “they at what is happening in the world,” and Russia, as well as economic trends in against corruption. It was a remarkable keep the drones flying.” although it eventually ended on a more places such as China, where the middle case of innovation, Dr. Krawchenko said. The speaker also discussed education – hopeful note concerning positive develop- class has been growing. He praised the robust nature of the IT where, he said, further reforms were highly ments in Ukraine. Comparing policies in several countries, industry in Ukraine, which is driven by youth overdue – and the subject of small and Dr. Krawchenko prefaced his presentation he concluded that in the United States, “and – the generation of the Maidan – and whose medium business, which in his opinion by stating that he has recently been writing not only there, a new industrial policy is growth is very sustainable. Apart from meet- required incentives to stimulate growth. He about the implications of the global economic needed,” one that “focuses on the most pro- ing domestic needs, Ukrainian IT is export- also touched on the war in the Donbas, say- “new normal” for the region where he has ductive patterns of investment, advancing driven and globally competitive; it is a signif- ing that the occupied territories would be been working in the past dozen years – sectors that promise to be strong competi- icant contributor to the economy, helping recovered, but that “economic reconstruc- Central Asia and Afghanistan. He argued that tors internationally while helping to devel- with the balance of payments and employing tion, and more to the point, reinventing the the world is not experiencing a technical op the industrial infrastructure – highways, a growing number of people. He added that economy, is going to be a formidable task.” downturn in a normal cycle of long-term ports, sewage systems, regional growth – the IT sector was also the most dynamic During the Shevchenko Lecture, Dr. recession, but something more serious which and particularly government investment in driver of Ukraine’s education reforms. Krawchenko fittingly drew on the poetry of most likely would represent the “new nor- developing a skilled workforce to support Agriculture was the next topic. Today, Dr. Ukraine’s bard (for whom the lecture is mal” for decades ahead. The term these endeavors.” Discussing Ukraine in Krawchenko said, Ukraine is a major player named) to illustrate a point about social “dis(order)” that he selected for this lecture these terms, Dr. Krawchenko referred to the in global food security. About 800 million responsibility. March 10 this year, he told implies that order is being contested, and this Gini coefficient to indicate that, by this people around the world suffer from chron- the Edmonton audience, falls on the 155th can be seen in many places. There is no measure, Ukraine was “more egalitarian ic hunger, and global food production has to anniversary of Taras Shevchenko’s death. answer yet as to what might emerge as an than Sweden by a wisp and much more be increased by 60 percent by 2020. He then drew attention to the “remarkably Ukraine, he observed, contains one-third of interesting dissident” Ukrainian artist Alla the world’s black soil and is one of the Horska, who in the mid-1960s collaborated regions least vulnerable to climate change. on the production of a stained-glass win- Faced by a blockade of its exports to Russia, dow that was installed in the main building Ukraine went global and succeeded, Dr. entryway of Taras Shevchenko University Krawchenko noted, with agricultural in Kyiv. “It depicted a militant Shevchenko,” exports to 190 countries. Dr. Krawchenko said, “with a fist raised in In other words, sustainable economic defiance.” Framing Shevchenko’s portrait and social development is strongly correlat- are lines of his poetry: “And I will give voice ed with the level of strength of civil society. to the common people who are not heard. The experience of the Revolution of Dignity, In their defense I will place the word.” he pointed out, resulted in a large number The “word” in this context, Dr. of Ukrainians, in particular young people, Krawchenko explained, should be under- embracing a new identity based on civic stood as “logos,” or reason. He considered engagement, volunteerism and creativity. The audience during the 2017 Shevchenko Lecture in Edmonton, Alberta. When the state failed, civil society stepped (Continued on page 17)

been fabricated to justify Russian military Oschad and Ukrgazbank banks and petition by his lawyers from Joseph Hage Yanukovych trial... action,” he said, as cited by Reuters. “We are stemmed from “corrupt schemes” that Aaronson LLP. talking about a former leader [Mr. involved the use of offshore vehicles to buy “The Ukrainian National Central Bureau (Continued from page 1) Yanukovych] who abandoned his office, his Ukrainian foreign currency bonds, local of Interpol said that the move was tempo- August 2016 show him giving instructions to capital and his country, whose corrupt gover- investment bank Dragon Capital said in a rary, since there is not a single completed pro-Kremlin activists in southern and east- nance brought his country to the brink of eco- note to investors. “As far as we understand, criminal investigation and, thus, not a sin- ern Ukraine. In the recordings, Mr. Glazyev nomic ruin, who suppressed protests against the lion’s share of the confiscated money gle court ruling in Ukraine against repeatedly tells them in late February and his government, leading to over 80 deaths.” consists of foreign cash, but a small portion Yanukovych,” the UNIAN news agency early March 2014 to publicly ask for Mr. Yanukovych, 66, has rejected all the is still held in F/X-denominated bonds, reported. Mr. Yanukovych was later rein- Russian military intervention after they charges against him. On May 4 during the which are supposed to be written off upon stated on the wanted list. seize government buildings. preliminary hearing, he was granted the confiscation pursuant to the budget law.” European Union asset freezes and travel “The recordings vividly illustrate opportunity to take part in the trial via Interpol has also removed from its data- bans against the ex-president and his associ- Moscow’s covert support for the still video link from Russia. The trial was base all information about the former pres- ates are currently effective until March 2018. unarmed anti-government protests in adjourned to May 18. ident’s son, Oleksandr Yanukovych, “who Russia helped Viktor Yanukovych flee Ukraine several weeks before the actual The chief military prosecutor, Ruslan had not been placed on the wanted list, yet Ukraine in late February 2014 after around war started,” according to an article pub- Kravchenko, said he will seek a maximum the Ukrainian Prosecutor General’s Office 100 protesters were shot dead in downtown lished by the European Council on Foreign life sentence for the ex-president and native had filed requests to Interpol,” the family Kyiv. Relations. “Specifically, the tapes reveal the of Yenakieve in the Russian occupied part spokesperson said. Yet, in testimony he gave to Ukrainian Russian state’s involvement in the coordi- of Donetsk Oblast. Also removed from the international law authorities via video link last November, nation and financing of separatist meetings, “Since the suspect and accused V. enforcement agency’s wanted list were for- the former president couldn’t say how he demonstrations, pickets and similar actions Yanukovych during the pre-trial investigation mer Economy Minister Eduard Stavitsky eventually ended up in Russia on February in Crimea, as well as in various regional didn’t admit guilt, the prosecuting side will and former National Security and Defense 23, 2014, a route that went from his subur- capitals in Ukraine’s eastern and southern seek the maximum punishment,” he said in a Council Secretary Andrii Kliuev. ban estate via Kharkiv-Donetsk-Crimea. parts immediately after the victory of the statement published on the Prosecutor Interpol has also refused to issue an He also couldn’t recall where he was and Maidan revolution in early 2014.” General’s Office website on May 4. order to arrest Oleksandr Onyshchenko, a with whom he spoke on February 18-20, At the U.N., British Ambassador Mark About $1.5 billion in assets stolen by Mr. fugitive ex-lawmaker who is wanted for 2014, when the vast majority of the protest- Lyall Grant rejected the Kremlin’s allega- Yanukovych and his inner circle were allegedly embezzling $120 million. ers in Kyiv were killed. When he did tions of threats against ethnic Russians in recovered and transferred to the state bud- Initially, Interpol placed Viktor acknowledge speaking to a subordinate or Ukraine, following the Russian ambassa- get, Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko said Yanukovych on its wanted list on January foreign government official, he often couldn’t dor’s disclosure of Mr. Yanukovych’s letter. on his Facebook page on April 28. 12, 2015. The ex-president was removed remember the substance of the conversa- “It is clear that these claims have simply The money was frozen in state-owned from the list on July 21, 2015, based on a tions, The Ukrainian Weekly reported. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20

“And we have to fight it together,” he Ceremony... stressed. “Because at the end of the day it will be our victory, it will be a victory for (Continued from page 1) our freedom. But it will be our common and positively developing its relations with victory, and also a U.S. victory, because it’s the United States. Also on the agenda was about our common understanding how the first-day-of-issue signing ceremony of decent people would live decently in this the Ukrainian postage stamp marking the world of freedom.” 25th anniversary of U.S.-Ukraine relations. “We will definitely celebrate, but not In his opening remarks before introducing today. It’s important,” he said, “to fight for Foreign Affairs Minister Klimkin, Ukraine’s the future.” Ambassador to the U.S. Valeriy Chaly The Ukrainian foreign affairs minister expressed his country’s appreciation for the noted that earlier that day, he laid a wreath political and economic support Ukraine has at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at been receiving from the United States and Arlington National Cemetery. the Ukrainian American community. In her brief remarks, Deputy Assistant “I appreciate that today we have the Secretary Brink noted that this is her 21st year working in diplomacy. Why? Because bipartisan support of Congress, the support of the “American commitment to freedom,” of the State Department, Pentagon, White Yaro Bihun she said, no matter whether the U.S. gov- House,” he said, pointing out the presence Upon receiving Ukraine’s Order of Embassy of Ukraine in the U.S. ernment is controlled by the Democratic or at the event of Deputy Assistant Secretary Princess Olha, Melanne Verveer expresses her gratitude to those who have worked in A sheet of the stamp issued by UkrPoshta the Republican party. of State Bridget Brink, who heads the The Trump administration’s policy and Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs. helping improve the political and economic to celebrate the 25th anniversary of situation in Ukraine. Ukraine-U.S. diplomatic relations. commitment to Ukraine “is very clear,” she Minister Klimkin recalled how he joined stressed. “And it is a commitment to sup- the Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Ministry 24 the United States.” Ukraine gave up its nuclear weapons in porting Ukraine’s territorial integrity, its years ago and visited the newly established It has been a history of “ups and downs” return for security assurances, and how internationally recognized borders.” U.S. Embassy in Kyiv. “It was a very good in politics, Minister Klimkin added. “But it’s Ukraine’s relations with Russia have gone “It’s a commitment to supporting the feeling of developing cooperation and always about values and coming together downhill since then – especially in the past partners who are trying to find peace in friendship,” he said. “And if you ask the as friends, as allies.” few years with Russia’s annexation of eastern Ukraine, supporting the Minsk average Ukrainian in Kyiv today about who He recalled the 1994 Budapest Crimea and the continuing conflict in east- agreement, and also maintaining sanctions is Ukraine’s best friend, the answer will be Memorandum, in accordance with which ern Ukraine. on Russia until those agreements are fully implemented,” Ms. Brink said. She noted that Ukraine’s reform efforts are a big part of this commitment. “It’s our judgment that that will guarantee Ukraine’s future.” Foreign Affairs Minister Klimkin returned to the center of attention once again, this time to present – on behalf of President Pedro Poroshenko – the Order of Princess Olha (II Degree) to Ms. Verveer “for significant personal contributions for the strengthening of international authori- ty of the Ukrainian state,” its scholars and historical and present day achievements. He pointed out that Ms. Verveer is a “renowned advocate of gender issues” and how women can achieve power, and is a member of Ukraine’s international adviso- ry council. She is also the first U.S. ambas- sador for global women’s issues, named to that post by President Barack Obama. Accepting the award, Ms. Verveer expressed surprise at receiving it, noting that it could well have gone to many of the other persons standing in the Embassy’s reception hall for their work. As a granddaughter of Ukrainian immi- grants, with their values imbued in her, she recalled the privilege of accompanying President Bill Clinton to Ukraine. “It was one of those moments I shall for- ever cherish: that this granddaughter of immigrants, who had to come to this coun- try because of economic needs, could go back with the president of the United States two generations later,” she noted. “Has always been a great gift for me to do whatever I can for the Ukrainian people, and particularly for women in Ukraine, who, I feel, still have not gotten the justifi- able recognition that they deserve.” There were more awards to be present- ed that evening as Ambassador Chaly rec- ognized five prominent Washington activ- ists for their work in assisting Ukraine and positively developing its relations with the United States:

policy advisor to the U.S. Helsinki Commission;• Orest Deychakiwsky, recently retired

Ukrainian National Information Service; • Michael Sawkiw Jr., director of the former U.S. ambassadors to Ukraine; and • Steven Pifer and William Taylor, two Voice of America Ukrainian TV channel. •The Myroslava evening Gongadze,concluded directorwith the of first- the day-of-issue signing ceremony of the post- age stamp honoring the 25th anniversary of U.S.-Ukraine relations by the managing director of the U.S. Postal Service, Franca Davis, and the general director of UkrPoshta, Ihor Smilyansky. No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 11 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20

2016 U.S. presidential elections..” He added, Rasmussen said of the meeting: “Ahead of lawmaker whose plan to resolve the three- NEWSBRIEFS “Russia is the most dangerous U.S. adver- the NATO leaders’ mini-summit on May 25, year-old conflict in Ukraine reportedly sary in the world today. For more than a we discussed the role NATO can play in wound up on the desk of then-U.S. National (Continued from page 2) decade, Russian President Vladimir Putin fighting terrorism and I set out some Security Adviser Michael Flynn, has been Cooperation (OSCE). The call follows Ms. has used the power of the Russian state to thoughts on how the alliance could be stripped of his citizenship by presidential Merkel’s May 2 meeting with Mr. Putin in undermine American interests in Europe, more active in training forces in Iraq to decree, the State Migration Service said. The Russia’s Black Sea port of Sochi for talks the Middle East and now in the heart of our build local capacity in the fight against migration service said in a statement on May that focused on the conflicts in Ukraine and democratic system here in the U.S. ...Putin Daesh. We also talked about Russia, where 5 that President Petro Poroshenko had ter- Syria. Germany has been a key broker has acted to undermine neighboring states it is clear the United States continues to minated Mr. Artemenko’s Ukrainian citizen- between Kyiv and Moscow over the conflict and to gain effective control over their take a firm stance towards Moscow’s ship over the lawmaker’s voluntary accep- in eastern Ukraine, which has killed at least futures so that they may not seek closer ties aggression in Ukraine, and its ongoing tance of foreign citizenship. Mr. Artemenko 9,940 since April 2014, according to the to either the European Union or NATO.” Mr. efforts to destabilize Western institutions – had previously acknowledged that he holds United Nations. Ms. Merkel has been a Burns noted that “Sanctions have not been including NATO. I asked for Washington to Canadian citizenship. Mr. Artemenko’s staunch supporter of the EU’s sanctions sufficiently robust to cause the Russian gov- step up its support for Ukraine through the “peace plan,” which calls for holding a targeting Russia over its backing of the sep- ernment to withdraw its military forces delivery of lethal weapons to act as a deter- national referendum on leasing Crimea to aratists and seizure of Ukraine’s Crimean from Crimea and eastern Ukraine. But, the rent and the granting of a Major Non NATO Russia for a period of 30 to 50 years, made Peninsula in March 2014. Ms. Merkel sanctions have isolated Russia internation- Ally (MNNA) status for Ukraine to under- headlines in February when he was quoted “informed the Ukrainian president about ally and have been a unifying factor in galva- line Washington’s commitment to the U.S.- in a New York Times report as saying he had the results of her negotiations in Russia on nizing Western opposition to Putin and in Ukraine security partnership.” (Ukrainian given the document to associates of May 2,” Mr. Poroshenko’s office said in its ensuring non-recognition of Russia’s land Canadian Congess Daily Briefing) President Donald Trump who then passed it statement. It added that the two leaders grab in Ukraine. The fact that Putin and his to someone who put it on Mr. Flynn’s desk. Poroshenko congratulates Macron stressed the importance of fulfilling the government have worked so hard to have The news caused a scandal in Kyiv, and Mr. Minsk accords aimed at ending the violence the sanctions lifted is an indication that they OTTAWA – Ukraine’s President Petro Artemenko was ejected from the Radical in the region, as well as the April 23 death are a cause of great concern for Moscow. Poroshenko congratulated Emmanuel Party as a result. Ukrainian investigators of an OSCE monitor in a land-mine explo- The Russian government continues to Macron on his election as president of later opened a treason case over his actions. sion in eastern Ukraine. There was no attempt to divide the European Union on France on May 7, the presidential press ser- Russia says it will never return Crimea to immediate statement from Merkel’s office this issue.” The ambassador underscored: vice reported. In a written message to Mr. Ukraine, making the idea of leasing it to about the call. The Ukrainian statement “The U.S. must now mount a renewed strat- Macron, Mr. Poroshenko stated: “The choice Moscow improbable even if it could gain said Mr. Poroshenko warned that any dis- egy to combat this dangerous Russian cam- of the French people is a vivid evidence of support in Ukraine, where many people plays of weaponry in “occupied territories” paign. The first step is for the administra- victory of the program of a progressive would oppose voluntarily granting Russia – a reference to Crimea and separatist-held tion to maintain and possibly increase sanc- Europe of freedom over an alternative any form of control over the peninsula. Mr. areas of eastern Ukraine – as part of May 9 tions on Russia. A second step is for Europe of nationalism. ...Your position in the Artemenko’s plan never made it to Mr. Flynn, Victory Day celebrations would be “unac- Congress and the Administration to agree to course of the election campaign gives confi- who was forced out in February after it was ceptable.” Russia was gearing up for its provide lethal defensive arms to Ukraine so dence that with your victory Ukraine has revealed that he misled Vice-President Mike nationwide celebration of Victory Day, that it can defend its people and its borders. gained a reliable ally in the Normandy for- Pence about his contacts with Russia’s commemorating the defeat of Nazi A third step is to make permanent the mat and in its efforts to restore sovereignty ambassador to the United States during the Germany in World War II. (RFE/RL) recent stationing of NATO military forces on and territorial integrity.” (Ukrainian election campaign. Mr. Flynn is currently the territory of Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Canadian Congress Daily Briefing) under formal investigation by the Pentagon Former envoy testifies on sanctions Lithuania. Finally, the Trump administration over apparently undisclosed Russian pay- OTTAWA – Testifying on April 27 before should also continue the policy of President Ukraine bans film star Steven Seagal ments. Mr. Artemenko did not immediately [Barack] Obama to rebuild the strength and respond to RFE/RL’s request for comment. the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, KYIV – Ukraine has banned U.S. action armored capacity of U.S. military forces in But when RFE/RL communicated with him Housing and Urban Affairs during a hearing film star Steven Seagal from entering the Europe as a deterrent to Putin’s truculent via Facebook Messenger on May 2, the law- on “Countering Russia: Further Assessing country, labeling him a national security behavior.” (Ukrainian Canadian Congress maker did not respond directly to questions Options for Sanctions,” former U.S. threat. The Ukraine National News (UNN) Ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns stat- Daily Briefing) about what were then rumors of his loss of agency on May 5 quoted the Security Service citizenship. “Fake news destroyed careers ed: “The United States should maintain Rasmussen for providing lethal weapons of Ukraine (SBU) as saying Mr. Seagal would sanctions on Russia due to its continued and unfortunately kills people!!!! Still waiting be banned for five years. The actor, who official confirmation or denial from presi- aggression in Ukraine. The Congress and OTTAWA – Former NATO Secretary received Russian citizenship in November of the Trump administration should now also General Anders Fogh Rasmussen (2009- dent administration on my deputy request. last year, has publicly supported Moscow’s So will see what next...” Mr. Artemenko consider additional sanctions over the 2014) met with U.S. Secretary of Defense illegal annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean pen- Russian government’s interference in the James Mattis in Copenhagen on May 9. Mr. wrote, adding that he was in Washington. He insula and participated in a concert there in did not explain what the “deputy request” August 2014. The United States and the was. “I have a couple of very important European Union have imposed sanctions on meetings with U.S. and Canada officials and Russia in retaliation for its actions in Ukrainean [sic] diaspora,” he claimed. Asked Ukraine. Mr. Seagal, 65, grew up in California if he was still pushing his “peace plan” for but claims Russian and Mongolian ancestry. Ukraine and trying to meet with Trump TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL Walter Honcharyk (973) 292-9800 x3040 Reports have said he holds a black belt in administration officials, he wrote, “Exactly.” or e-mail [email protected] aikido and is a friend of Russian President Mr. Artemenko did not say whether he Vladimir Putin, who also is a fan of the mar- would return to Ukraine. (Christopher Miller tial arts. Other celebrities have been banned of RFE/RL) SERVICES PROFESSIONALS from Ukraine after taking Russian citizen- ship and expressing support for Russia’s Celebration of diversity at Eurovision annexation of Crimea, including French film KYIV – One could forgive the casual star Gerard Depardieu. (RFE/RL, based on observer for thinking revolution had reporting by DPA, UNN, Interfax, returned to the Ukrainian capital, what Apostrophe.ua and The Guardian) with the boisterous tent city that sprang up Deputy stripped of Ukraine citizenship this week on the Khreshchatyk. Fear not – KYIV – Andriy Artemenko, a Ukrainian (Continued on page 13)

МАРІЯ ДРИЧ FOR SALE Ліцензований Продавець Страхування Життя МАRІA DRICH НА ПРОДАЖ ПОМЕШКАННЯ Licensed Life Insurance Agent THE UKRAINIAN MUSEUM’S „Українське Село“, Ukrainian National Assn., Inc. BOARD OF TRUSTEES Cedar Grove Lane, Somerset, NJ 2200 Route 10, Parsippany, NJ 07054 іs notifying its members that the Світла, велика квартира в дуже Tel.: 973-292-9800 ext. 3011 доброму стані • 2 спальні, кухня, e-mail: [email protected] ANNUAL MEETING вітальна і їдальня, ґанок • Українська of громада, 55 років + (1 в сім’ї) • Недалеко поїзду до NYC, N.Brunswick, THE UKRAINIAN MUSEUM OPPORTUNITIES укр. церков • $65,000 • Меланія will be held on 201-245-2777 • [email protected] Sunday, June 4, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. Earn extra income! at e Ukrainian Museum The Ukrainian Weekly is looking 222 East 6th Street, New York, NY 10003 Run your advertisement here, for advertising sales agents. (between 2nd and 3rd Avenues) in The Ukrainian Weekly’s For additional information contact Phone: (212) 228-0110; e-mail: [email protected] CLASSIFIEDS section. Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, www.ukrainianmuseum.org The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 13

The visible changes for the song contest, military over his defiance of a conscription country of two Russian journalists who NEWSBRIEFS they suggest, might reflect a cynical and order to avoid participating in what he were going to Kyiv to cover the Eurovision superficial approach by the government to regarded as Ukraine’s “fratricidal war” Song Contest. Two reporters from the (Continued from page 12) crucial reforms – especially relating to against Russia-backed separatists. But, she newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda, both it’s the Eurovision village. As Kyiv prepared diversity, inclusion and human rights – added, “the lack of enthusiasm and genuine accredited to work at the contest, were to host more than 20,000 visitors expected since the Euro-Maidan swept new leaders commitment to meaningful human rights detained at the border and eventually to arrive for the annual Eurovision Song into power. Others point to scandals involv- reforms is palpable.” Ukraine earned the turned away and barred from entering Contest, the city was in overdrive to conceal ing corruption and Russia, afflictions that right to host this year’s contest by winning Ukraine for three years, according to border the scars of its past and put on its best face Ukraine has been unable to shake since Eurovision 2016 with a song by Crimean service spokesman Oleh Slobodyan. “The in an attempt to show the West that independence, as evidence that it has not Tatar singer Jamala that was inspired by state border service notes that having Ukraine has overcome political upheaval, shifted as far west as it might claim. “The the Soviet authorities’ deportation of her accreditation for Eurovision does not give endured a bloody war, and become more [Eurovision] slogan sounds hollow in a relatives to Central Asia in 1944. Her win you the right to cross the border,” Mr. European in recent years. The Eurovision country where LGBT people still do not prompted calls by some Russian officials, Slobodyan wrote on Facebook on May 7. village, with its beer garden, giant screens enjoy equal protection under law and in who said the song was political and thus The newspaper confirmed to the TASS and high-tech stage, now stands where employment, journalists and rights activ- violated contest rules, to boycott this year’s news agency that the reporters were blood was spilled during the Euromaidan ists are harassed and attacked for a differ- event in protest. This year, Ukraine went a denied entry to Ukraine. In April, Ukraine uprising that ousted Ukraine’s Kremlin- ent point of view, and people with disabili- less political route in choosing the rock banned Russia’s entrant to the contest, sing- friendly president, Viktor Yanukovych, ties are virtually invisible in public life,” band O.Torvald to represent the country er Yulia Samoilova, because she violated three years ago. It officially opened on May Tanya Cooper, a Kyiv-based Ukraine with its song “Time.” Oleksiy Ryabchin, a Ukrainian law by performing in Crimea in 4, as rehearsals for the May 9-13 song con- researcher for Human Rights Watch reform-minded Fatherland lawmaker, said 2015. Russia illegally annexed the test got under way at the main venue (HRW), told RFE/RL. “It seems that the he hopes the band – and a successful job on Ukrainian peninsula in 2014. Russia across the Dnipro River. On nearby authorities put on the show for public and the part of Kyiv hosting the event – will slammed Kyiv’s ban and rejected a compro- Independence Square, the hub of the 2013- international partners by taking a step for- help convince visiting Europeans who mise under which Ms. Samoilova would be 2014 protests, a canvas screen reading ward just to take two steps back later.” Ms. might still see the country as existing in an allowed to compete via satellite link. The “Freedom is our religion” in English and Cooper acknowledged that there has been “Iron Curtain” zone that “Ukraine is a country later pulled out of the contest alto- Ukrainian covered the Trade Union some improvement in Ukraine’s human European country.” (Christopher Miller of gether. Ukraine fears Russian-orchestrated Building that was gutted by fire during that rights situation in recent years, including RFE/RL; to read the full story go to https:// provocations during Eurovision, Mariana unrest. And everywhere you look in the better protection of public LGBT events, www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-eurovision-diver- Betsa, head of communications for the city, there is the slogan for this year’s event: some investigations into the Euro-Maidan- sity-critics-complain/28472671.html) Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Ministry, said. The “Celebrate Diversity.” But some Ukrainians related violence against protesters, and the semifinals were on May 9 and May 11, Two Russian reporters denied entry are questioning whether Kyiv is merely acquittal of Ruslan Kotsaba, a journalist while the final was scheduled for May 13. papering over more deep-seated problems. and blogger convicted of obstructing the KYIV – Ukraine has blocked entry to the (RFE/RL, with reporting by TASS and AFP)

plete waste of money. U.S. political consul- defended by the regional Polish media, the View from Washington... tants and lobbyists will promise foreign cli- Akcja Wisla’s... local Polish authorities and the Polish ents everything to obtain contracts, but this Ministry of Culture. (Continued from page 6) (Continued from page 8) will never translate into changing the image Ukrainians mostly forgive the Poles for Tymoshenko’s past energy deals with of Ukrainian politicians who are members Operation Vistula because it is their Moscow and view her populist rhetoric of the old guard. U.S. consultants do not What is the climate of Polish-Ukrainian Christian duty. However, at the same time, with extreme caution. Her stunt at this have magical powers to change birthdays to relationsUkrainian in National Poland Hometoday? in It Przemyśl. is not getting Ukrainians, in particular Lemko Ukrainians, year’s National Prayer Breakfast (where she make their clients younger or erase their better. must never forget the victims or their cornered President Donald Trump and not very sympathetic past baggage. As recently as June 26, 2016, a dozen ancestral homeland. They should continue received assurances from him that So, do any visitors from Ukraine impress Polish young men, dressed in black T-shirts to demand the return of their spiritual and Washington won’t lift Russia sanctions) was Washington? with the inscription “Bandera out” and a cultural remnants, churches and communi- frowned upon by the expert community Yes, these include younger politicians red stop sign over a photo of Stepan ty centers, as well as compensation for and is a perfect example of her penchant for untainted by baggage from the past who Bandera, attacked a procession from St. forced labor, injury and loss of property, grandstanding.” were elected in 2014, leaders of civil soci- their homesteads, forests and so on. A second factor causing dismay in ety NGOs and well-known journalists. The Lemko region is tragic, in particular, Washington is that old-guard politicians Mr. Politicians and oligarchs from the 1990s – Polish,”John Cathedral multiple in attackersPrzemyśl broketo the throughPikulice because even after the spring of nations, Poroshenko, Ms. Tymoshenko and Yuriy no matter how much money they throw at thecemetery. police andWith tried cries to of stop “Przemyśl the procession. always the demise of the Soviet Union and its satel- Boyko lead in popularity in a hypothetical Washington political consultants and lob- The police were not responding, and one lites, Lemkivshchyna today is not within Ukrainian presidential election. In view of byists – will never be able to alter their attacker tore a Ukrainian embroidered Ukraine but in Poland, and Poles will never the very active civil society and indepen- images. shirt worn by a member of the procession love her. Lemkos do not lay claim to the dent media in Ukraine, Washington policy- One of the previously cited Washington organizing committee. Then the police sovereignty or borders of Poland, but must makers and experts are surprised at the political consultants expressed his belief tried to separate the attackers from the at every opportunity remind Poles that lack of new faces that have emerged since that if a representative of the old guard procession. Order was finally restored with Lemkivshchyna is their land – their tragic the Euro-Maidan Revolution and are ready were to be elected president in 2019, “it the arrival of a heavily armed police unit. homeland. to win power in upcoming parliamentary would lead to more tumult in Ukraine and On December 10, 2016, a march of Operation Vistula was an attempt at and presidential elections. will further the country’s climate of crony Polish right-wing organizations, which took genocide “to finally solve the Ukrainian A third factor is that members of capitalism, which is dangerous at a time place under the patronage of Mayor Robert problem in Poland.” May the guilty be pun- Ukraine’s old guard have always invested when Ukraine-fatigue is growing in Choma, passed by the Ukrainian National ished by the highest Judge. The Ukrainian the most in Washington political consul- Washington.” Unlike in the West, where the Lemko people have survived and will contin- tants, lobbyists and think tanks, even old guard leaves politics after it has failed, Ukrainians.” ue to do so, forgiving but never forgetting. though this has never led to concrete chang- in Ukraine they continue to hang around. HomeMost in recently, Przemyśl shoutingin the village “death of to On this 70th anniversary of Operation es in their images. Mr. Yanukovych/Party of In the next Ukrainian presidential elec- Hruszowicach on April 26 of this year, Vistula, let us recall and continue to study Regions (http://thehill.com/blogs/pundits- tions “the U.S. will quietly voice support for Polish hooligans destroyed a memorial to the events. Let us pay respects to the vic- blog/the-administration/330243-beyond- the candidate who couples seriously tack- the Ukrainian Insurgent Army. This act was tims. manafort-both-parties-deal-with-pro-rus- ling corruption and crony capitalism with sia), Mr. Poroshenko (http://www.pravda. pro-Western foreign policy pragmatism.” com.ua/articles/2017/02/7/7134691/), Mr. Poroshenko, Ms. Tymoshenko and Dmytro Firtash (http://www.pravda.com. other politicians and oligarchs from the With deep sorrow we announce that ua/articles/2017/01/30/7133852/) and 1990s are not the candidates Washington Viktor Pinchuk (http://www.pravda.com. would like to see in power. There is great ua/articles/2016/09/29/7122153/) have hope that new leaders who emerged from Nadia Cehelsky spent the most money on hiring Democrats the Euro-Maidan Revolution and civil soci- passed away on February 10, 2017. and Republicans alike. ety will win the elections. Arseniy Yatsenyuk campaigned in 2010 Ukraine’s Europeanization is reliant upon She is survived by: as a “new face” in Ukrainian politics, but his the victory of new faces. If Ukraine contin- her husband George; sisters Christine and Marta; ues to be ruled by the old guard, it will U.S. lobbyists would find it impossible to daughters Irene, Anya, Bohdanna and Stephanie; son promote him as a “new face” today (http:// remain in a twilight zone with one foot in www.pravda.com.ua/articles/2016/12/8/ post-Soviet Eurasia and one foot in Europe. in law Chris; grandchildren, Stefan and wife Irene, Zachary, Dominic, 7129201/). Ms. Tymoshenko also has hired Washington policymakers and experts, Adrian, Olena and great grandson Terence. political consultants and lobbyists (http:// therefore, have three bits of advice for Nadia was predeceased by her sister Irene and her grandson Mark. www.pravda.com.ua/rus/articles/2016/ Ukrainian politicians. Firstly, do not visit us 10/27/7124994/), but her image will be so often. Secondly, we thank you for invest- Memorial contributions may be made in Nadia’s memory to Ukrainian further damaged by the forthcoming new ing in our economy, but we should warn Women’s League of America Branch 91, to the Alzheimer’s Association trial of Pavlo Lazarenko, against whom the you that political consultants and lobbyists Delaware Valley, 399 Market Street, Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106, U.S. Department of Justice has assembled will not change our view of Ukraine’s old or to St Josaphat’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in Bethlehem PA. leading U.S. experts. guard. Thirdly, say no to Poroshenko, All of these huge resources spent in Tymoshenko and Boyko, and yes to the Вічна Їй пам’ять! Washington have been and remain a com- new generation of Ukrainian politicians. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20

Eastern Europe. opening for Russia, and Mr. Putin will meet UCC on Victory... Caught between the totalitarian and Moscow tries... genocidal empires of Hitler and Stalin, Sochi the day after his meeting with Ms. (Continued from page 7) (Continued from page 3) Ukrainians fought with valor and bravery Merkelwith President (Nezavisimaya Recep Gazeta, Tayyip April Erdoğan 29). in valor to liberate Europe from Nazi tyranny. against both occupiers. Victory over Nazi While Gazprom anxiously monitors the Moscow may see Libya as another They earned with their courage and sacri- Germany brought neither peace, nor free- trickle of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from opening, and Ms. Mogherini tried to dis- fice the eternal gratitude of all free peoples. dom nor deliverance to Ukraine. The the United States to the European market, suade Mr. Lavrov from engaging in a spoil- “Today, we pay tribute to the soldiers Ukrainian people were forced to struggle Mr. Putin is closely following the tentative er game in this conflict; but the EU’s failure who served Canada with such determina- for more than four decades after the end of cultivation of ties between U.S. President to manage that North African crisis is all tion and courage,” stated Capt. (ret’d) World War II for their liberation. We Donald Trump and European leaders too obvious for Russian trouble-stirrers Andre Sochaniwsky, CD, president of the remember and honor their sacrifices and (Russiancouncil.ru, April 19). His own (Carnegie.ru, April 13). Ukrainian War Veterans Association of their bravery. meeting with Mr. Trump was provisionally The fiasco of the Kremlin’s inability to Canada. “We shall remember forever their Today, the people of Ukraine are forced scheduled for the margins of the G-20 forge a workable connection with the new heroism and their service to our country to fight in defense of that freedom. Putin’s summit in Hamburg, but now he hopes for U.S. administration, and the apparent inca- and to the cause of liberty.” Russia seeks once again to subjugate a date in late May (Kommersant, April 26). pability to claim a role in resolving the While on the Western front, Canada and Ukraine to Moscow’s tyranny. Ukraine’s Too much toxic evidence of Russian inter- North Korean crisis have reawakened the Western allies liberated Europe from sons and daughters again bravely take up ference in U.S. elections has accumulated Moscow to the fact that Europe remains Nazi despotism, on the Eastern front Stalin’s arms to defend their country. With God’s to expect a miraculous breakthrough to a the single most important direction in its Soviet Union brought more oppression, help, they will be victorious. beautiful friendship (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, policy. The smoldering war in eastern death and cruelty to the captive nations of April 28). Ukraine is a natural focus for Russia’s Mr. Putin is perhaps more interested in efforts in this theater. But before taking Lest we forget. Вічная пам’ять. Ms. Merkel’s difficulties in developing rap- another proactive step in this war zone, port with Mr. Trump, in which he likely the Kremlin needs to make sure that the wants to find signs of erosion of U.S. lead- Europeans are preoccupied with other ership (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, April 25). matters and too divided to undertake a Russian propaganda relentlessly amplifies coherent response. Mr. Macron is an every strain in trans-Atlantic relations, and untested quality in this regard, and domestic public opinion is presently, for Moscow has reasons to assume that his the first time, more negative toward the EU support base is s hallow and amorphous. than to the U.S. (Levada.ru, April 10). Ms. Merkel is certainly a formidable leader, At the same time, Moscow is trying to but Libya shows the limits of German lead- tap into a particular Russian angst about ership. And fatigue with Ukraine is deep- the Middle East. The U.S. missile strike on ening in many EU member states. the Syrian Shayrat airbase on April 7 left As domestic discontent becomes a Russia momentarily stunned and isolated worry, Mr. Putin may decide to score in its support for the regime of Bashar al- another “victory.” His conflict of choice Assad; but there has been no follow-up yet needs to be within easy reach – and out- by Washington, and the Russian-Syrian side the attention span of the over- offensive on rebels in Idlib province has stressed and under-staffed Trump admin- resumed (Gazeta.ru, April 23). istration. Turkey’s growing irritation with U.S. support for the Kurdish forces (YPG), The article above is reprinted from meanwhile, as well as the skeptical atti- Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from tude within the EU regarding the April 16 its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, constitutional referendum creates an www.jamestown.org. No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 15

COMMUNITY CHRONICLE New revelations prompt activists in Connecticut to protest Manafort

by Romanna Romaniv When Manafort was contacted by the Hartford Courant for his comments on the NEW BRITAIN, Conn. – A group of protest, he was quoted as saying: “When Ukrainian American activists and allies people say that I was involved in a pro- gathered on Sunday, April 2, at the entrance Putin administration, number one, they to Central Connecticut State University to don’t understand that Yanukovych and protest the activities of Connecticut native Putin were enemies for most of the four Paul Manafort Jr., former campaign manag- years of his term. Number two, the main er for Donald J. Trump and strategic adviser accomplishment of Yanukovych was to set to disgraced Ukrainian President Viktor the stage for Ukraine to be in Europe, which Yanukovych. is pro-American and pro-Western, not pro- Organized by the newly formed group Russian.” Ukrainian-Americans for Compassion, “Manafort’s rebuttal is totally mislead- Truth and Transparency (UACTT), the pro- ing,” said Eugene Babij, a protester from test focused on new revelations by the Manchester, Conn. “Calling Putin and Associated Press published on March 22 Yanukovych enemies? In his first year as which reported that beginning in 2005 Mr. president, Yanukovych in 2010 agreed to Manafort had received tens of millions of extend the Russian naval base lease in dollars from Russian oligarch Oleg Sevastopol from 2017 to 2042. Putin must Deripaska, a close ally of Vladimir Putin, to have loved his ‘enemy’ for that. And then in develop a strategic plan for promoting 2013 Yanukovych betrayed his promise to Russian national interests and penetrating join the European Union, which was the the American political process. catalyst for the anti-government demon- Protesters nears the entrance to Central Connecticut State University protest the In these newly revealed communications activities of Paul Manafort Jr. strations at the Maidan. I guess Putin must with Mr. Deripaska, Mr. Manafort promised have pulled his ‘enemy’ puppet’s string to exert Russian influence “at the highest independent prosecutor for potential acts of Protesters also urged President Trump really hard. And then here was the levels of power, including the White House, treason and tax evasion for millions of dol- to denounce Vladimir Putin for his war of Deripaska connection, where Manafort Congress and the State Department.” Mr. lars in earnings from a hostile foreign power. aggression against Ukraine. They also worked through him to promote Putin’s Manafort also helped the Russians to devel- “My issue with Manafort is that he has a demanded that Mr. Trump denounce Mr. policies in the U.S. Whatever Manafort’s op an ambitious political strategy to under- long history of supporting unsavory Putin for the Russian government’s brutal direct role in all of this, it certainly had mine anti-Russian opposition in former regimes,” said Bohdan Pokora of violations of human rights, including the nothing to do with pro-Western interests.” Soviet republics, including Ukraine. These Glastonbury, Conn. Holding a sign that read imprisonment of Ukrainian and Crimean The protest drew support from beyond revelations countered Mr. Manafort’s “Putin & Manafort – no conscience, no mor- Tatar activists, as well as Russian pro- the Ukrainian community as well. Sunny claims that he had never knowingly pro- als, no class,” Mr. Pokora told the Hartford democracy activists, and for the murders of Torres and Bruce Baldwin, members of the moted Russian interests. Courant that he believes Mr. Manafort is Boris Nemtsov, Anna Politkovskaya and group Democracy Awakens, drove down “Manafort wanted to fill his pockets with guilty of treason. other journalists, whistleblowers and from Harwinton, Conn., when they heard of the Russians’ money against the Ukrainian “It’s bad enough that Manafort served opposition leaders. the protest. Holding a sign that read “Judas, people,” said Valerie Menditto of Berlin, Viktor Yanukovych at a time when the “Donald Trump has stated repeatedly that Benedict Arnold, Paul Manafort,” Ms. Torres Conn., a Ukrainian American who grew up Ukrainian president sought to crush the he is a great admirer of Putin,” said Roma said she wanted to show her disdain for a in Mr. Manafort’s hometown of New Britain. pro-democracy movement in Ukraine,” said Romaniv, a member of UACTT and a senior man who betrayed America’s national Mr. Manafort was forced to resign as Mr. Alex Kuzma of Glastonbury. “Manafort’s cli- at the University of Connecticut. “The presi- interests. Trump’s campaign chair last August after ent ordered the brutal murder of more than dent ignores the fact that Putin is responsi- Lew Rakowsky drove all the way from the Republican convention, when it was 100 demonstrators on the streets of Kyiv ble for the deaths of over 10,000 Ukrainians Rhode Island. As one of UACTT’s founding revealed that he received nearly $13 mil- before fleeing the country to Russia in 2014. in a war of aggression that he launched in members, he told a reporter from the New lion from pro-Russian oligarchs. But now we’re learning that Manafort’s 2014. The American people deserve to know Britain Herald that his parents fled Ukraine The protesters demanded that the U.S. agenda went much deeper – to undermine how much Manafort and other Russian sym- and knew firsthand what a country without Justice Department bring Mr. Manafort to democracy and support Putin’s policies in pathizers continue to exert influence on the democracy could be. “The Trump adminis- justice for his blatant violations of the the United States and other countries.” president and his Cabinet.” tration does not believe in truth,” said Mr. Foreign Agents Registration Act requiring The protesters assembled at the cross- The protest received extensive coverage Rakowsky. “When we lose track of what’s lobbyists to register and report their servic- roads of Connecticut Route 175 and Taras in the local Connecticut media, including a true, we lose trust, and when we lose trust es on behalf of foreign powers. Violations of Shevchenko Highway (Route 9) in front of a front-page photo and story in the Local we lose the ability to have rule of law. this act can carry penalties of up to five sign directing drivers to Paul Manafort Section of the Hartford Courant, the New Ultimately, we lose our democracy.” years in prison. They also demanded that Drive, named after Mr. Manafort’s father, a Britain Herald, WTIC Radio and Fox-61 For more information on UACTT, readers Mr. Manafort be fully investigated by an former mayor of New Britain. Evening News. may contact [email protected]. Seminarians plant new maple tree Rep. Roskam meets with Ukrainian community to mark 31st anniversary of Chornobyl disaster

UOC-U.S.A. SOUTH BOUND BROOK, N.J. – The student body of St. Sophia Theological Seminary BLOOMINGDALE, Ill. – On Tuesday, April 18, Congressman Peter J. Roskam (R-Ill.) participated in the planting and dedication of a new maple tree on April 26 as the met with members of Ukrainian organizations at a roundtable held at St. Andrew worldwide community marked the 31st anniversary of Chornobyl nuclear disaster that Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral – Kyivan Patriarchate in Bloomingdale, Ill. Rep. Roskam occurred on April 26, 1986. Archbishop Daniel, assisted by the Very Rev. Stephen reported that he had written a letter to U.S. Secretary Rex W. Tillerson following the Hutnick and Deacon Ivan Tchopko, led a memorial service at the planting site, call- latter’s visit to Moscow. In that letter, the congressman underscored the continued ing to remembrance the countless victims of Chornobyl. Metropolitan Antony stated need to support Ukraine. Seen above is Rep. Roskam with the participants of the com- that this tree was the 90th tree planted on the grounds of the Metropolia Center of the munity roundtablе meeting. Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A. that is dedicated to the tragedy of Chornobyl. – Maria Korkatsch-Groszko 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20 No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 17

Former director... (Continued from page 9) Ukrainian Days advocacy event to be held June 14 in Washington Shevchenko’s words to be a powerful state- Health Ulana Suprun will be in Washington ment of the social responsibility of intellec- U.S.-Ukraine working group’s summit to follow on June 15 for meetings with U.S. government officials. tuals and universities. Dr. Krawchenko The speaker and the minister have been invited to participate in the Ukrainian Days added that the stained glass windows were In view of the three-year old war being UNIS congressional reception. destroyed by the Communist authorities, waged in eastern Ukraine by joint Russian- and in 1970 Horska was murdered under The next day, Thursday, June 15, the WASHINGTON – The Ukrainian National separatist forces, the goal of Ukrainian suspicious circumstances. fifth “US-UA Working Group Yearly Information Service (UNIS), the Days is to encourage members of Congress Dr. Krawchenko concluded his lecture Washington public-affairs bureau of the to appropriate military assistance to Summit” will also take place in Washington. on a positive note. There are challenges Ukrainian Congress Committee of America Ukraine to fend off the terrorists and pre- The full-day conference organized by the ahead, he said, but citizens acting together (UCCA), will sponsor its second Ukrainian serve Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sover- Center for U.S.-Ukrainian Relations through strengthened civil society are a Days advocacy event on Wednesday, June eignty and independence; to continue the (CUSUR), will assess Ukraine’s perfor- reason for genuine optimism. Yes, Ukraine 14, 2017. The endeavor in June 2017 is sanctions regime against the Russian mance in six areas of nation building: has weak government institutions, but it especially significant, as it will commemo- Federation for its illegal annexation of the Robust Democratic Politics; Developed also has a strong civil society and this gives rate the 20th anniversary of the founding Crimean peninsula and non-implementa- Market Economics; Ever Greater General hope for the future. He stressed the impor- of the Congressional Ukrainian Caucus in tion of the Minsk peace accords; and, to Security; Ever Greater Energy Security; tance of education for strengthening gov- the U.S. House of Representatives. advocate for an official non-recognition Viable Social Cohesion; and Established ernment institutions – which, in turn, could Commencing work in 1997 under the policy for the annexation of Crimea. National Identity. The conference will also help spur economic growth. co-chairmanship of Rep. Sander Levin The Ukrainian Days event will feature a highlight two discussions of “Why a Free, “Faced with general global disorder, Ukraine (D-Mich.) and former Rep. Jon Fox (R-Pa.), special congressional reception to cele- Stable and Prosperous Ukraine Still is moving in the right direction,” Dr. the caucus has been instrumental in its brate the many achievements of the Matters” from the U.S. government perspec- Krawchenko declared. “Choosing Europe is a advocacy of more robust U.S.-Ukraine rela- Congressional Ukrainian Caucus during the tive, as well as from the U.S. NGO perspec- civilizational option, not only an economic tions; has interacted with their counter- past two decades. The “Friend of UNIS” tive. The event is co-sponsored by the UCCA one,” he continued. Ukraine is “an inspiration to parts in the Ukrainian Parliament; met and award will also be presented to individuals and all of CUSUR’s institutional partners. the rest of the post-Soviet world,” and consti- organized meetings for visiting Ukrainian who have contributed to the betterment of Further information about the events of tutes a “stark alternative to the authoritarian- delegations; and, became a conduit for the U.S.-Ukraine relations. At the same time, June 14-15 will be forthcoming on the UNIS ism and narrow nationalism of Putin’s Russia.” Ukrainian community to express its con- the speaker of Ukraine’s Parliament, Facebook page and the UCCA website at The speaker, formerly residing in cerns. Andriy Parubiy, and Acting Minister of www.ucca.org. Canada and now living in the Kyrgyz Republic, ended with a Canadian reference. “I don’t know whether you saw the [October 29] 2016 cover of The Economist,” he asked. It was headlined “Liberty Moves North: Canada’s Example to the World.” Dr. Krawchenko, who is director general and dean of graduate studies at the University of Central Asia, said he has shown it to many people in Bishkek. “Canada is a fundamen- tally decent society,” he said, and in listing Canada’s positive attributes, he noted that The Economist mentioned above all Canada’s policy of multiculturalism. Dr. Krawchenko closed by expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to return to Canada on its 150th birthday, “to be among Ukrainian Canadians who made a singular contribution in pushing for multicultural- ism and helping make this country a place of sanity in this time of the overbearing denigration of the other.” Dr. Bohdan Krawchenko’s lecture in Edmonton can be heard in full by visiting https://www.ualberta.ca/cius/news-and- events/seminars/2017/the-fifty-first- annual-shevchenko-lecture. A video of his Toronto presentation can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3- cAOPH9Kmo&feature=youtu.be 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20 Ukraine Freedom March set for May 20 in Washington by Matthew Dubas resent the people of Ukraine. Miracle Theater (located at 535 Eighth St. age the message #UkraineMatters Now. As stated by Mr. Skibicki: “We demand SE; telephone, 202-400-3210; website, Organizers call on readers to: 1) share PARSIPPANY, N.J. – A “Ukraine Freedom that the Russian-backed terrorists immedi- www.themiracletheatre.com). More infor- the event via social media (Facebook, March” is set to take place on May 20 in ately vacate the Donbas region and that mation about the film appears below. Twitter, etc); 2) organize sister marches in Washington. The march, officially known as Crimea be returned to Ukraine. If these During the film screening, a panel dis- your own city; 3) become Facebook page “Once in a Generation: Ukraine Freedom demands are not met, we insist on the cussion and Q&A will be held. Mr. Harris, event hosts to each invite 500 users to the March,” is organized by Ukrainian American government to stick to its promise producer Mr. Borisow and producer/writer event; 4) donate to Kristen Skibicki, American activists, led by Ed Skibicki, a made in the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, Paul Wolansky are expected to address [email protected], to offset costs of Ukrainian American of Lemko origin. which is to provide the full and immediate questions moderated by Mr. Skibicki. the demonstration (donations are accepted The march – with a full police escort – is defense of Ukraine by providing modern Tickets for the film screening may be pur- via Paypal, please differentiate ticket pur- scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. at the defensive weapons in order to help the chased for $15 (+$1.75 processing fee) via chases and donations); and 5) contact con- Washington Monument and conclude at the Ukrainian people restore the territorial http://breakingpointmovieoncapitolhill. gressperson and senators, and invite them Holodomor Memorial, near Union Station, integrity of Ukraine. We are NOT calling for ticketleap.com/. to the march or to the film screening. where a vigil is to be held, concluding at American troops to be deployed to Ukraine.” A package deal being offered for $30 Similar marches and demonstrations are approximately 5:30 p.m. From the Holodomor Memorial, march- includes a commemorative T-shirt and film being organized in three other U.S. cities, Among the invited guest speakers are ers will proceed to the Victims of screening ticket. The T-shirts are also avail- including San Diego, Naples, Fla., and analyst Paul Goble, Peter Borisow, presi- Communism Memorial, where they will be able for purchase individually for $20. Phoenix. Readers who cannot come to dent of the Hollywood Trident Foundation; joined by members of the Baltic Conference Those who already purchased tickets will Washington and would like to organize a other noted Ukraine advocates are expect- (which is being held in Washington on May be offered a discounted price on the T-shirt, sister march on the same day in their own ed and, at the time of writing, were still 19-20, hosted by the Joint Baltic American $15. city can get more information by visiting being confirmed, among them Ukraine’s Committee). Marchers are encouraged to bring flags the website https://us.eventbu.com/city/ Ambassador to the U.S. Valeriy Chaly. Clergy From there, marchers will break off for from all countries, especially Ukraine and oiagukrainianfreedommarch/2106154. For from the Ukrainian Orthodox and dinner before a film screening of “Breaking Crimean Tatar flags. Please be advised that those living near San Diego, Mira Ukrainian Catholic Churches, as well as Point: The War for Democracy in Ukraine” placards should have a message that sup- Shtefanyak is organizing that march and leaders of the Jewish and Muslim faiths in by three-time Academy Award-winning ports Ukraine, rather than denigrate any she can be reached via e-mail at Mirkav@ Ukraine have been invited to properly rep- director Mark Jonathan Harris at The other people. As a guide, organizers encour- yahoo.com. Film screening and Q&A to supplement Washington march PARSIPPANY, N.J. – The film “Breaking Joining the Q&A session will be Mr. of ordinary people who risked their lives to cess or failure of Ukraine’s stubborn resis- Point: The War for Democracy in Ukraine,” Harris, Peter Borisow, president of the create a more democratic, equitable and tance to Vladimir Putin’s annexation and by three-time Academy Award-winning Hollywood Trident Foundation and the independent country. The principal charac- invasion will determine the future of director Mark Jonathan Harris, is set for a film’s co-producer, as well as the film’s co- ters are a children’s theater director, a doc- Europe and the trans-Atlantic alliance. screening and Q&A session beginning at 8 producer/writer Paul Wolansky. The event tor, a rabbi, a TV journalist, an investigative ‘Breaking Point’ comes at a crucial cross- p.m. (doors open at 7:30 p.m.) on May 20 will be moderated by Ed Skibicki, a lead reporter, and a lawyer turned medic and roads as Russia is counting on ‘Ukraine at The Miracle Theater as part of the organizer of the Ukraine Freedom March. her soldier husband. When Russia annexed fatigue’ and Europe’s commercial class’s Ukraine Freedom March in Washington The film is an intimate look at the war Crimea and invaded eastern Ukraine, the desire to return to ‘business as usual’ and earlier that day. and revolution in Ukraine through the eyes film’s subjects went to war to defend and to brush aside the 10,000 Ukrainian remake their country. deaths, not counting the thousands of This intense and ongoing military con- Russian soldiers lying in clandestine flict has so far killed 10,000 people and graves. The film rightly emphasizes the has displaced 1.9 million refugees, and the sad fact that the Ukrainian people have film is the dramatic and inspiring portrait fought this battle on their own and on our of people willing to give up their private, behalf. Unsaid is how little NATO and the normal lives to unite in a collective effort U.S. have contributed. ‘Breaking Point’s’ to bring rule of law and democracy to their directors let the stunning images of country. Maidan, the siege of Donetsk airport, the Other members of the film team include Illovaisk massacre, the gruesome wreck- Oles Sanin (renowned director/producer age of MH17, and the touching testimonies from Ukraine), Maxim Asadchiy (producer, of Ukrainian volunteers and their families owner of Pronto Film in Ukraine) and tell the story.” Jason Rosenfeld (editor). The film was named Best Documentary Mr. Harris​ stated: “If I were to choose Feature at the Et Cultura Film Festival 2016 one image that captures the essence of and the San Luis Obispo International Film ‘Breaking Point,’ it would be Eva Yanchenko Festival 2017, and won the audience award illuminated by the fires on the Maidan, for Best Feature Documentary at the Kyiv’s Independence Square, embracing an Annapolis Film Festival 2017. It was an anonymous figure in the midst of the Official Selection at the American February battles. A lawyer turned medic Documentary Film Festival 2017, the Santa during the tumultuous events in Ukraine, Barbara International Film Festival 2017, who then joined her husband in the war the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival against Russia in the east, Eva Yanchenko 2016 and the International Academic embodies the courage and commitment of Forum (IAFOR) Documentary Film Award thousands of ordinary people fighting for 2016. democracy in Ukraine.” Readers may purchase tickets for the Sergei Loiko, Moscow correspondent film screening online for $15 (+$1.75 pro- for the Los Angeles Times, says in the film, cessing fee) at http://breakingpointmov- “The war is the armed continuation of the ieoncapitolhill.itcketleap.com/. The Maidan revolution… the spirit of the Miracle Theater is located at 535 Eighth St. Maidan at war.” Mr. Loiko came to Kyiv on SE, Washington, DC 20003; telephone, assignment, planning to stay for only a few 202-400-3210; website, www.themriacle- days, and was so impressed by what he theatre.com. Seating is limited to 350 per- witnessed that he ended up devoting two sons. years of his life to covering the revolution For more information, readers may visit and the war. the film’s website, www.breakingpointfilm. In his assessment of the film, Paul com. Mr. Harris may be contacted via the Roderick Gregory, who is professor of eco- website or at: 749 Basin Dr., Topanga, CA nomics at the University of Houston and a 90290; telephone, 310-455-3814; e-mail, regular contributor to Forbes magazine, [email protected]. The film has rep- stated: “’Breaking Point’ captures the spir- resentation in Ukraine via Pronto Film, it of Maidan and of Ukraine itself – a story which can be contacted at Naberezhno- that few in the West pay attention to, Khreshachatytska St. 10A, Kyiv, Ukraine much less comprehend. Perhaps through 04070; telephone, 380-44-490-2231; this film, we can understand why the suc- e-mail, [email protected]. No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 19

May 15 Singing workshop with Jurij Fedynskyj, “Songs of May 23 Lecture with Wasyl Sydorenko, “Ukrainian Tango,” New York Kryachkivka Village – Generation U,” Ukrainian Village Ottawa Shevchenko Scientific Society, St. John the Baptist Voices, Playwrights Rehearsal Studios, White Box Room, Ukrainian Catholic Shrine, 613-723-1673 [email protected] May 25 Book launch, “The Linnet” by Chris McNaught and “Here and May 17 Presentation by Jurij Fedynskyj, “Kobzaring the New Ottawa There” by Walter Kish, Ukrainian National Federation – New York World,” Ukrainian Institute of America, Ottawa-Gatineau, Remax Core Realty, 613-794-5135 www.ukrainianinstitute.org or 212-288-8660 May 25 Art exhibit, “The Stick Up! Chicago,” by Oscar Arriola, May 18 Presentation by Iryna Ivankovych, “New Facets of Chicago Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, www.uima-chicago.org Whippany, NJ Patriarch Josyf Slipyj and His Legacy: Commemorating the 125th Anniversary of the Confessor of Faith,” Carpe May 26 Album release party by Ukrainia, “Shadow Era,” House Diem Club, Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Ottawa of Targ, www.ukrainia.org Jersey, [email protected] or 973-590-8026 May 26 Dance, “Evening in the Carpathians,” with music by May 19 Museum Day and Ukrainian Embroidery Day celebration, Toronto Zapovid, Help Us Help the Children, Trident Banquet Hall, Chicago “Paint Me a Night at the Museum,” Ukrainian National 416-604-4611 Museum, www.ukrainiannationalmusuem.org May 26 Film screening, “Mustafa (2016),” Ukrainian Institute of May 19 Accordion-fest sing-along, Ukrainian American Cultural New York America, www.ukrainianinstitute.org or 212-288-8660 Whippany, NJ Center of New Jersey, [email protected] May 26-28 Ukrainian Nationals Memorial Weekend Soccer Tournament, May 19-21 St. George Ukrainian Festival, Seventh Street (between Horsham, PA Ukrainian American Sports Center Tryzub, www.tryzub.org New York Second and Third avenues), St. George Ukrainian Catholic Church, www.facebook.com/stgeorgeukrainianfestivalnyc May 27 Golf tournament, Ukrainian Golf Association of Canada, Uxbridge, ON Wyndance Golf Course, 905-649-8545 or May 20 Ukrainian Freedom March, Washington Monument www.wyndance.clublink.ca Washington to the Holodomor Memorial, [email protected] or [email protected] May 27-28 XXI Annual Great Lakes Cup Soccer Tournament, SC Plano, IL Connection, Polish National Alliance Youth Camp, May 20-21 Slavutych sports events (soccer, volleyball, badminton, [email protected] or 708-473-5701 Halton Hills, ON table tennis and chess), Slavutych Soccer Club, Croatia Social and Cultural Center, 416-839-4179 May 27 through Art exhibit, “Viewpoints: Ilona Sochynsky,” Windham June 14 Fine Arts Gallery, www.windamfinearts.com or May 21 Concert with violinist Oleh Krysa, The Washington Group Windham, NY 518-734-6850 Alexandria, VA Cultural Fund, The Lyceum, [email protected]

May 21 50th anniversary luncheon, featuring keynote speaker Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events Cleveland Myroslava Gongadze, Ukrainian National Women’s League advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions of America – Branch 12, St. Andrew Ukrainian Catholic from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors Church Hall, 440-237-2598 or [email protected] and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017 No. 20

CALLING ON ALL SENIORS AND FRIENDS! PREVIEW OF EVENTS Sunday, May 21 Showtimes are Thursdays, Fridays and ALEXANDRIA, Va.: The Washington Group Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. JOIN US FOR A SPECIAL WEEK Cultural Fund Sunday Music Series con- at La MaMa Theatre, 66 E. Fourth St. Tickets cludes the 2017-2018 Sunday Music Series are $25; $20 for seniors and students, To AT SOYUZIVKA with a recital by acclaimed and legendary purchase tickets go to www.lamama.org/ violinist Oleh Krysa, in a program featuring tychyna/ or call 212-352-3101. BRING works by Brahms, Prokofiev, Skoryk and Sunday, June 18 FRIENDS Ravel. The Ukrainian American violinist INTERESTING Oleh Krysa was long esteemed in the former HORSHAM, Pa.: The popular Father’s Day USSR as a distinguished soloist, chamber Ukrainian Fest will commence at 1 p.m., at musician and teacher. A prominent student “Tryzubivka” (Tryzub Ukrainian American WE WELCOME of David Oistrakh, he won major prizes in Sport Center), located at County Line and numerous international competitions. The Lower State roads. A 2 p.m. stage show NEW GUESTS! concert will be held at 3 p.m. at The Lyceum, will feature the Voloshky School of IT’S FUN 201 S. Washington St., Alexandria, VA Ukrainian Dance; accordionist Walt 22314. A reception to meet the artist will Syzonenko; singers Dianna Savchyn, follow the performance. Suggested dona- Sophia Pitula and Maksim Shcherbatyuk; tion: $30; free for students; unreserved seat- ing. For more information contact twgcul- at the outdoor dance pavilion to the tunes AFFORDABLE [email protected]. andof the pianist accordionist Petro Pіtula. will follow. A lively There “zabava” will be plentiful Ukrainian homemade foods Friday, June 9-Sunday, June 25 and baked goods, picnic fare and cool MAKE NEW YORK: Yara Arts Group’s new theater refreshments for all tastes and ages. Enjoy RESERVATIONS piece “1917/2017: Tychyna, Zhadan & the the U.S. Adult Soccer Association’s Region Sunday, June 11– Friday, June 16 Dogs” is based on 12 poems by Pavlo One U.S. Open Cup and U.S. Amateur Cup EARLY! Tychyna performed in English; Serhiy (U.S. national championship quarterfinals) Registration beginning Sunday, June 11, Zhadan and his Kharkiv rock band, the Dogs, games, men’s, women’s, and men’s over-30 at 4:00 pm at SOYUZIVKA perform live in Ukrainian. The show is and under-23 divisions throughout the directed by Virlana Tkacz, with Bob Holman, afternoon. There is free admission and All inclusive 5 nights – meals: breakfast-lunch-dinner from Monday Marina Celander, Sean Eden, Rob Feldman, parking. For information call 267-664- through Friday (brunch). Special Banquet Thursday. Chris Ignacio and Maria Pleskevich; and 3857 or e-mail [email protected], or music by Julian Kytasty and the Dogs. visit www.tryzub.org. Entertainment and guest speakers. (Taxes/gratuities included) All inclusive per person rate based on double occupancy - $480 PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES All inclusive per person rate based on single occupancy - $585 Preview of Events is a listing of Ukrainian community events open to the public. It is a ser- BANQUET ONLY, Thursday, June 15, 2017 - $50 pp. vice provided at minimal cost ($20 per listing) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the Ukrainian community. Items must be no more than 100 words long. For more information call Oksana Trytjak, Tel: 973 292-9800 ext. 3071 Preview items must be received no later than one week before the desired date of publication. Please include payment for each time the item is to appear and indicate Remember to bring your embroidered nery date(s) of issue(s) in which the item is to be published. (vyshyvanky) for the banquet. Information should be sent to [email protected]. When e-mailing, please do not If possible bring items for the auction! send items as attachments – simply type the text into the body of the e-mail message. Preview items and payments may be mailed to: Preview of Events, The Ukrainian Weekly, SOYUZIVKA TEL: 845 626-5641 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054.