INSIDE: l Testimony at U.S. ambassador-designate’s hearing – page 4 l The story behind Agnieszka Holland’s “Mr. Jones” – page 5 l Orthodox Church of Ukraine in Crimea faces threat – page 6 The Ukrainian Weekly Published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal non-profit association

Vol. LXXXVIII No. 32 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 $2.00 Verkhovna Rada replaces 490 raions Senate Foreign Relations Committee holds with 136 new districts nationwide hearing on ambassador-designate to Ukraine Ukrainian National Information Service WASHINGTON – On August 5, several months after President Donald Trump nominated him as the next U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, Lt. Gen. (ret.) Keith Dayton appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) for his nomi- nation hearing. The hearing was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic and included a panel of nominees, among them the ambas- sador-designate for Belarus. Members of the SFRC engaged with the prospective nominees via computer screens. Opening statements were followed by a question- and-answer period. Presidential Office SFRC Chairman Sen. Jim Risch (R-Idaho) At the Verkhovna Rada, which voted to change the raion zoning in Ukraine, decreas- opened the hearing and thanked the panel Screenshot of Lt. Gen. (ret.) Keith Dayton ing the number of such districts from 490 to 136. for their patience in the nomination pro- testifying on August 5 before the Senate cess. Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), rank- Foreign Relations Committee. This massive change comes only three by Roman Tymotsko ing member of the Senate Foreign Relations months before local elections, when depu- Committee, began with an opening state- Dignity and the Russian invasion of eastern KYIV – On July 17 a big step in decentral- ties and heads of raion councils will be cho- ment about U.S. relations: “On this commit- Ukraine and illegal occupation and annexa- ization was taken by the Ukrainian sen. tee, you have stalwart champions of tion of the Crimean peninsula. Parliament: for the first time since the “The previous raions of Ukraine were Ukraine.” In his opening remarks, Lt. Gen. Dayton Soviet era, the borders and centers of formed during Soviet times, in the first half In reference to the Russian invasion of related his experience and knowledge of administrative units across the country of the last century, and do not meet modern Ukraine, Sen. Menendez also mentioned Ukraine-related matters, as “Ukraine has were changed. Those units are called standards on several criteria,” Prime that Ukrainian forces are “constantly chal- been a part of my life for 40 years.” The “raions,” and only a few weeks ago, Ukraine Minister Denys Shmyhal noted on June 12. lenged” holding back the Russian military. nominee offered his opinion on the need to had 490 of them incorporated into 24 For the last century, many things have “It is important to speak in one voice on “counter Russian malign influence” and oblasts and the Autonomous Republic of changed in the raions: the population, the advance “our shared goal of Ukraine joining Crimea. Now those oblasts and Crimea economic situation, the ratio between rural Ukraine.” The senator was referring to the robust bipartisan support that Ukraine has the Euro-Atlantic community as a full and have only 136 raions (districts) encom- and urban communities. However, raion free member.” passing different territories, populations received since its independence in 1991, and administrative centers. (Continued on page 14) but most recently since the Revolution of (Continued on page 12)

NEWS ANALYSIS: How quiet on the eastern front?

by Bohdan Nahaylo There has been considerable discussion December. But, as on previous occasions, Ukrainian Parliament fixed October 25 as on whether the crafty political veteran will the ceasefire was not implemented. the date for local elections only on the ter- KYIV – There have been several notable make a difference, or, if in view of his The lack of progress in following up on ritory under the control of Kyiv. developments recently connected with the advanced age, will simply serve as a sym- the agreements reached in Paris meant The Verkhovna Rada thereby affirmed long-standing efforts to find a peaceful res- bolic figurehead maintaining the high level that the next Normandy Four summit, that, under the present conditions, demo- olution to the Russian war in Ukraine’s of Ukraine’s representation in the TCG. which was supposed to have been held in cratic elections in accordance with eastern Donbas. While Mr. Kravchuk’s appointment by the spring, did not happen. Firing and Ukrainian law and international norms are Although it is still early to predict their President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to this shelling continued, resulting in more casu- not possible in the self-proclaimed “peo- impact, the cumulative initial effect has position is certainly intriguing, it should alties, suffering and destruction. ple’s republics” of Donetsk and Luhansk. been to provide new impetus to a problem- not overshadow other related develop- From the outset, Russia has officially This setback appears to have caused atic process that often appears stalled or ments affecting the context, especially the maintained the pretense that it is not a some disarray in Moscow. And mixed sig- even moribund. And on this occasion, Kyiv critical agreement on a general ceasefire party to the conflict in the Donbas and is nals have been emerging from it. has publicly assumed the initiative and and its implementation. merely a moderator in the TCG. It insists Surprisingly, on July 21 a TCG meeting thrown the ball back in Moscow’s court. More than 13,000 people have been that Ukraine deal directly with its proxies held by video conferencing, produced what The changing of the guard at the end of killed since fighting broke out in 2014, in the occupied areas around Donetsk and the Presidential Office of Ukraine called a July in the Ukrainian delegation to the despite the peace accords signed in Minsk Luhansk. Both under President Petro “breakthrough.” The representatives of the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), consisting late 2014 and 2015 on which the TCG Poroshenko and his successor, Mr. OSCE, Ukraine and Russia, with the latter of the Organization for Security and bases itself. Zelenskyy, Kyiv has refused to do so. unofficially including representatives of the Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Russia and The need for a general ceasefire as a pre- Russia has also pressured Ukraine to breakaway Donetsk and Luhansk “people’s Ukraine and based in Minsk – with former requisite for other peace-building measures recognize a special status for the occupied republics” under its wing, agreed on a “full, President Leonid Kravchuk, age 86, replac- was acknowledged and agreed to by the lead- areas and agree to local elections being comprehensive ceasefire” effective July 27. ing another former president, Leonid ers of Germany, France, Russia and Ukraine held there. But on July 15, Moscow’s strate- Kuchma, 82 – has received most attention. at their Normandy Four summit in Paris last gy was dealt a severe blow when the (Continued on page 14) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 No. 32

ANALYSIS

Russian Wagner mercenaries arrested Kravchuk now presidential envoy to TCG nical nuances.” He added, “At this point the amount of the compensation remains in Belarus in run-up to presidential election Ukraine’s first President Leonid unclear. The amount cannot be established Kravchuk has agreed to take the post of right away as all involved factors must be presidential envoy in the Trilateral Contact prevent an escalation” of street protests considered when establishing it,” noting by Pavel Felgenhauer Group (TCG) on resolving the armed con- into a coup. that if it becomes apparent that Iran is Eurasia Daily Monitor flict in the country’s east. The 86-year-old The Wagner ChVK was created by veter- delaying the negotiation process, Kyiv will Mr. Kravchuk announced his decision on On July 29, the Belarusian KGB and ans of the Crimea and Donbas campaigns, be ready for an “alternative scenario to July 31, two days after another former OMON special police forces arrested 32 in which armed Moscow-sponsored activ- ensure the payment of compensation by Ukrainian president, Leonid Kuchma, quit Russians residing at a countryside resort, ists spearheaded so-called “hybrid” wars or other possible means.” He did not elabo- the post. Mr. Kravchuk was president of Belorusochka, just outside of Minsk. The insurrections. At least some of the ChVK rate. Iran has admitted that its forces Ukraine in 1991-1994 and was one of three Belarusian authorities have accused the privateers arrested in Belarus have such downed the Ukraine International Airlines Soviet leaders who signed the document on Russians of being members of the notori- firsthand experience (RBC, July 30). (UIA) passenger jet on January 8, saying dissolution of the Soviet Union in ous private military company (Chastnaya According to Mr. Ravkov, a number of the they mistook it for a missile amid height- December 1991. Mr. Kuchma, who ran the Voennaya Companiya – ChVK) Wagner arrested operatives are experienced snip- ened tensions with the United States. All country between 1994 and 2005, served as Group, which has reportedly been deploy- ers or experts in explosives and/or cyber 176 people on board, including 57 Ukraine’s presidential envoy in the TCG, ing fighters and organizing combat opera- warfare. A meeting of the Belarusian Canadians, were killed. Data extraction tions in eastern Ukraine as well as Syria, Security Council chaired by Mr. Lukashenka consisting of representatives of Ukraine, from the jet’s black boxes is being carried Libya, Sudan and other African or Middle decided to boost border security and to Russia and the Organization for Security out in Paris. Canada’s Transportation Safety Eastern hot spots. Belarusian law enforce- demand explanations from Moscow and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) from Board said on July 23 that the download ment also separately arrested another (Kommersant, July 30). 2014 to 2018. After Volodymyr Zelenskyy and preliminary analysis of the cockpit alleged Wagner privateer, who was living As the ChVK crisis unfolded, it became was inaugurated as president in May 2019, voice and flight data was finished, though with his family in Belarus, thus bringing the clear: Minsk had a solid narrative to push, Mr. Kuchma returned to the group, which the investigation continues. (RFE/RL’s total number to date to 33. The govern- while Moscow was in disarray, without a has been involved in negotiations on find- Ukrainian Service, with reporting by ment published a list of the names and coherent public story to present. It took the ing a peaceful solution to the conflict Ukrayinska Pravda and gordonua.com) photos of the Russian passports of the Kremlin more than 24 hours to say any- between Russia-backed militants and FBI raids Ukrainian tycoons’ offices detained men (RBC, July 30). thing in response; even then, Kremlin Ukrainian armed forces in the eastern regions of Luhansk and Donetsk. (RFE/RL’s According to the state secretary of the spokesperson Dmitry Peskov admitted to The FBI has raided the Cleveland and Ukrainian Service) Belarusian Security Council, Andrei Ravkov, reporters, “I am short on information.” Mr. Miami offices of U.S. companies owned by “Some 200 foreign fighters have been infil- Peskov explained there is no such legal Ukraine seeks justice in talks with Iran powerful Ukrainian tycoon Ihor Kolomois­ trated into Belarus” to destabilize the coun- entity as a “private military company” in ky, whose media company informally try in the run-up to the August 9, 2020, pres- Russia, though no one apparently questions Ukraine has reiterated its determination backed Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s successful idential election. “We have arrested 33 and the actual existence of the Wagner ChVK. to bring Iran to justice for the downing of a presidential bid in 2019. “I can confirm that are looking for the rest,” Mr. Ravkov added. Mr. Peskov insisted Moscow cannot possi- Ukrainian airliner shortly after takeoff in we are at both locations,” FBI Special Agent According to Russian and Ukrainian sources, bly be involved in any attempt to destabi- Tehran during talks on compensation over Vicki Anderson-Gregg said in an August 4 some of the captured mercenaries were lize Belarus and repeated that the arrested the January air disaster that killed 176 peo- telephone interview with RFE/RL from Ukrainians from the Donbas, who took part “Russian citizens” did not do anything ple. Foreign Affairs Minister Dmytro Kuleba Cleveland. She said she could not discuss in the fighting there and are wanted by wrong. He told journalists that President told journalists in Kyiv on July 31 that talks the details of the investigation as the case Ukrainian authorities – at least 14 of the 33, Vladimir Putin has no immediate plans to with an Iranian delegation were “construc- “is under seal right now.” Ms. Anderson- according to Mr. Ravkov (Interfax, July 30). phone Mr. Lukashenka, which may be read tive” and that Tehran’s readiness for the Gregg said that no one had been detained in The Security Council secretary also told as Mr. Peskov’s inadvertent admission of negotiations to establish the circumstances the raid. Mr. Kolomoisky and his Ukrainian journalists that the arrested men will be the Kremlin’s internal confusion as to how of the tragedy, bring the individuals respon- partner, Hennadiy Boholyubov, control sev- to address the story (Interfax, July 30). charged with “planning terrorist attacks.” sible for it to justice, and pay compensation eral companies run out of Miami that own Later that same day, the Russian The authorities later announced that the 33 was an important move. “Iran has agreed to U.S. real estate as well as steel and alloy Embassy in Minsk issued a statement Russians will be charged with planning fulfill all of its obligations under the inter- plants. U.S. media reports in April 2019 and implying the ChVK privateers were simply riots (Interfax, July 30). Mr. Ravkov has national aviation conventions to which it is May 2020 said that the FBI was investigat- transiting through Minsk but had missed reportedly told the Belarusian Central a party. This means that we can build the ing Mr. Kolomoisky for money laundering. their flight to Istanbul, on July 25, and were Election Committee that other “groups of relevant work constructively,” Mr. Kuleba However, the FBI never confirmed those stuck. According to the Embassy, the men provocateurs” are being formed on Russian said. He reported that the sides agreed stories. Messrs. Kolomoisky and have a written contract with a Minsk- territory, in Pskov and Nevel (a town in upon a framework for the negotiation pro- Boholyubov – billionaires who own energy, registered company to carry out security Pskov Oblast, close to the Belarusian bor- cess, which will be held on several levels, metals and media assets in Ukraine – are work in a “third country,” adding that refus- der) (Interfax, July 30). with investigators, technical experts and among the most influential businessmen in According to Belarusian officials, the ing to drink vodka or to womanize is not a lawyers communicating “to determine all ChVK privateers arrived in Minsk on July crime (TASS, July 30). Video of the ChVK the circumstances, including legal and tech- (Continued on page 10) 25, spent a couple of nights at a hotel in the privateers’ arrest shown by Belarusian TV apparently includes footage of seized cur- capital and then moved to the Beloru­soch­ rency, including U.S. dollars and some ka country retreat, where they behaved Sudanese pounds, which could support the suspiciously, untypical of usual Russian vis- FOUNDED 1933 case that the men were actually on their The Ukrainian Weekly itors: They did not drink vodka, abstained way to Sudan via Minsk and Istanbul from fraternizing with women at Beloru­ (Kommersant, July 30). An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., sochka and spent most of their downtime That is not entirely inconceivable: a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. working out at the gym (Vzglyad, July 29). Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. Russian borders have been closed due to Belarusian President Alyaksandr Luka­ the pandemic, and wealthy Muscovites Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. shenka has ruled the country for 26 years have been leaving the country via Minsk (ISSN — 0273-9348) and is now running for his sixth consecu- since Belarus never closed its own borders. tive term in office. A number of opposition The Weekly: UNA: Of course, official military traffic, say, to and Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 presidential candidates have been denied from Syria, has been exempt from the registration or arrested. The Belarusian Russian border closures. Mr. Ravkov insist- Postmaster, send address changes to: economy has been hit hard by the effects of ed Moscow never expressed, through any The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz the COVID-19 pandemic, and there is wide- official or unofficial channels, its intension 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas spread discontent. Protesters have for to move Russian ChVK privateers via P.O. Box 280 weeks been demanding the release and Belarus (mk.ru, July 29). Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] registration of opposition candidates. The 33 ChVK privateers – a platoon- Mr. Lukashenka’s re-election campaign sized force – seems too big and noticeable The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com is positioning him as a strong national lead- for a typical terrorist cell but is clearly too er who opposes Russian attempts to domi- small to effectively destabilize Mr. Luka­ The Ukrainian Weekly, August 9, 2020, No. 32, Vol. LXXXVIII nate the country. He has repeatedly shenka’s authoritarian regime. Relations Copyright © 2020 The Ukrainian Weekly accused Moscow of attempts to destabilize between Messrs. Lukashenka and Putin Belarus and undermine his re-election. The have been bad, but it is not clear if Moscow arrest of war-hardened Wagner Group is indeed ready to begin a “hybrid” cam- ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA operatives in the Minsk countryside fits paign to oust the Minsk strongman. The with this overall narrative. On July 24, dur- Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 risks of destabilizing Belarus at a time and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 ing a visit to a special forces unit, Mr. when Russia itself is simmering because of e-mail: [email protected] Lukashenka announced that ChVK priva- the pandemic and the connected economic Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 teers might be sent in from abroad and that e-mail: [email protected] Belarusian soldiers should be “ready to (Continued on page 11) No. 32 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 3

NEWS ANALYSIS New Ukraine ceasefire agreement officializes Donetsk-Luhansk militaries

by Vladimir Socor es effective (though unspecified) disciplin- (Dnr-sckk.ru, accessed July 28). The agree- Normandy summit on December 9, 2019, Eurasia Daily Monitor ary actions for ceasefire violations (imply- ment just concluded in the Minsk Contact in Paris, according to the Ukrainian govern- ing though not stating outright that either Group also references the JCCC’s “current ment’s top official in charge of these mat- PART I side would discipline its own personnel). composition/membership,” without elabo- ters, Oleksiy Reznikov (Hromadske, July 27, All of these measures are intended to be rating. There may well be some overlap to 2020). Moscow has maneuvered Ukraine’s applied along the entire demarcation line. these versions, particularly since the Following the publication of the cease- Presidential Office into quasi-recognizing These measures supplement the pullbacks ORDLO delegations in Minsk were parties fire-strengthening measures just agreed to Russia’s military proxies in “certain areas of of heavy weaponry from the demarcation to negotiating the agreement just conclud- in Minsk, Mr. Reznikov went beyond the the Donetsk and Luhansk regions” (Russian lines following the 2015 armistice and sub- ed. agreed text and hoped aloud that Russia’s and Ukrainian acronym: ORDLO) for the sequent disengagement measures in selec- Ever since Russia discontinued the origi- officers would rejoin the JCCC. Mr. first time. The vehicle for this breakthrough tive sectors. nal JCCC, officers from Donetsk and Reznikov’s argument: “Based on the experi- is the agreement on “Measures to These military measures, however, come Luhansk forces impersonate it in ORDLO ence of other conflicts, such a mechanism is Strengthen the Ceasefire Regime,” negotiat- with their built-in political-diplomatic ram- territory. They wear JCCC insignia, claim to effective… this would allow us to move ed in the Minsk Contact Group, released on ifications, to Ukraine’s disadvantage. perform JCCC-like ceasefire observation on toward de-escalation and a permanent July 22, and effective from July 27 for an The “sides” envisage creat- ceasefire regime” (Hromadske, Interfax- unlimited duration (President.gov.ua, July ing and activating a “coordina- Ukraine, July 27). 22, 28). tion mechanism for respond- The whole arrangement Apart from Ukraine (until 2017), it is Russia, Ukraine, the Organization for ing to ceasefire violations, Georgia and Moldova that could share their Security and Cooperation in Europe through the facilitation of the plays to Moscow’s definition experience with ceasefire-monitoring bod- (OSCE), and ORDLO representatives from Joint Center for Control and of this war as internal to ies structured similarly to the JCCC. Donetsk and Luhansk worked out this doc- Coordination (JCCC) in its cur- ument in the Minsk Contact Group format. rently operating composition” Ukraine, implicitly under- PART II The document officializes the “ORDLO or “currently active member- mining the case that The agreement on additional measures armed formations” as constituting parties ship.” This joint entity would to strengthen the ceasefire in eastern to the agreed measures, on an equal footing be empowered to allow the top Russia is actually involved Ukraine, effective from July 27 for an unlim- with the Ukrainian Armed Forces. It sets up military command of either in a state-on-state war in ited duration (as noted in PART I, above), procedures for the Ukrainian forces and side (Ukrainian or ORDLO forc- resuscitates the Joint Center for Control those of ORDLO (“the sides”) to interact es) to open fire in response to Ukraine. and Coordination (JCCC, an inactive cease- with each other in upholding the ceasefire “offensive actions” by the other fire-monitoring group). The JCCC morphs – a process that would, over time, cement side. into a decision-making body – the linchpin the quasi-recognition of Donetsk-Luhansk The reference to the JCCC’s composition behalf of Donetsk and Luhansk, but also in a new mechanism for responding to forces. The document makes these forces (membership) is not further explained. The control the movement of the OSCE’s moni- ceasefire violations. appear as a free agent, thus covering up JCCC used to be a ceasefire-monitoring mil- tors. These and the Ukrainian side often This agreement casts Ukraine versus their integration with and subordination to itary entity of Russian and Ukrainian offi- have no choice but to deal with the Donetsk “certain areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk Russia’s military. This agreement turns a cers, with ORDLO representatives in and Luhansk “JCCC” personnel on the regions” (known as ORDLO) as “the sides” blind eye to Russia, leaving it free of Russia’s tow as observers. It operated from ground regarding access to ORDLO territo- to the conflict, concealing Russia’s role as responsibility for possible ceasefire viola- 2014 until December 2017, at which point ry and various inevitable transactions the real belligerent against Ukraine. The tions by its proxies (and indeed for employ- Russia withdrew from the JCCC, aiming to across the demarcation line. The Donetsk- JCCC is slated to become, in effect, an arbi- ing proxy forces). The whole arrangement turn it into a Ukraine-ORDLO military enti- Luhansk “JCCCs” profess to be eager to ter between Ukraine and ORDLO in the plays to Moscow’s definition of this war as ty. This was (and is) meant to signify de cooperate with “all sides involved in the mechanism for responding to ceasefire vio- internal to Ukraine, implicitly undermining facto recognition of ORDLO forces by JCCC.” lations. It would be empowered to allow the case that Russia is actually involved in a Ukraine, to depict the conflict as internal to For its part, Kyiv is trying to bring the top military command of either side to state-on-state war in Ukraine. Ukraine, and to make these two “sides” Moscow back into the JCCC. Unlike former open fire in response to “offensive actions” The document, as released by the OSCE’s jointly monitor “their” ceasefire, as if Russia President Petro Poroshenko’s attempts to by the other side. chairmanship (Osce.org, July 23), is valid were not a party to the conflict. Ukraine, include the “Normandy” powers Germany Russia and their Donbas proxies want “for the whole period until full comprehen- therefore, never accepted the ORDLO in the and France in the JCCC, the Zelenskyy presi- the JCCC to include representatives of sive settlement of the conflict.” Its content JCCC. Nor did Ukraine ever quit the JCCC: it dency turned to Russia when the new pres- Ukraine and of ORDLO, apparently on a is almost entirely of a military nature, aim- still exists theoretically but is not opera- ident’s office took over the negotiations. parity basis. Russia had abandoned the ing for a full de-escalation of the positional tional as a joint entity. Ukraine’s delegation to the Minsk Contact JCCC in 2017 in order to download all warfare. Toward that aim, it imposes bans For their part, the Donetsk and Luhansk Group invited Russia back into the JCCC in responsibilities for belligerence on ORDLO. on sniper fire, the use of any types of “people’s republics” (DPR, LPR) each oper- September 2019 – a move applauded by Therefore, Russia declines to re-join the unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), and the ate a “representation to the JCCC,” with a the Kremlin’s Ukrainian protagonist Viktor JCCC at this time, being content to give deployment of heavy weapons in and near dedicated media outlet (Dnr-sckk.ru). They Medvedchuk (112.Ukraine, September 5, ORDLO free rein to obstruct the new JCCC. inhabited localities. Moreover, it precludes advance the obviously false claim that the 2019). President Volodymyr Zelenskyy For their part, some highly placed but any offensive, reconnaissance in force, and JCCC “currently consists of representatives repeated this invitation when meeting sabotage operations. In addition, it envisag- of the Ukrainian, DPR and LPR forces” Russian President Vladimir Putin at the (Continued on page 10)

Bipartisan colleagues introduce legislation to provide assistance, support for Ukraine WASHINGTON – On July 30, Sen. Rob Congress will continue to make sure the “Six years following Russia’s invasion, and shielded from politics. And I look for- Portman (R-Ohio), co-founder and co-chair Ukrainian military has the capabilities it Ukraine remains under daily assault on the ward to working to build support for this of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, joined Sens. needs to defend its sovereign territory – on ground, on the seas and in cyberspace. critical legislation in the Senate.” Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Bob Menendez the land, sea and air.” Ukrainian servicemembers have selflessly “It’s been a rough year for the (D-N.J.), chairman and ranking member, “The Russian Federation’s disregard for and courageously fought Russian forces U.S.-Ukraine relationship but with every respectively, of the Senate Foreign Relations international laws and commitments is no that seek to violate its sovereignty and dis- challenge, comes opportunity. Strong, Committee; Chris Murphy (D-Conn.); John better demonstrated than by its illegal sei- rupt the international order,” said Sen. bipartisan support remains for our rela- Barrasso (R-Wyo.); and Jeanne Shaheen zure of Crimea in 2014 and the six years of Menendez. “The U.S. is Ukraine’s strongest tionship with Ukraine and it’s clear (D-N.H.) to introduce the bipartisan Ukraine covert military support for eastern supporter, but its security needs continue Congress recognizes the strategic value of Security Partnership Act to provide security Ukrainian separatists,” said Sen. Risch. to grow under relentless pressure from the partnership,” said Sen. Murphy. “The assistance and strategic support to Ukraine. “Despite these challenges, Ukraine has Moscow. The bipartisan Ukraine Security Ukraine Security Partnership Act gets the “I’m pleased to introduce this legislation stood as a bulwark against the Russian Partnership Act will address these chal- U.S.-Ukraine relationship back on track by which sends a clear message that America Federation’s malign influence in Europe and lenges by substantially increasing long- increasing our security assistance for Kyiv stands with the Ukrainian people in their a steadfast partner of the United States. This term security assistance for our partners in as the United States continues to support struggle to secure a democratic, prosper- legislation demonstrates to Ukraine, and to Ukraine while ensuring accountability their steps towards political reform and ous and independent future in the face of Russia, that the United States will stand by from their democratic institutions. U.S. helps counter Russian aggression abroad.” Russian aggression,” said Sen. Portman. its friend throughout its democratic transi- security assistance for the people of “The Ukrainian people need every avail- “Our relationship with Ukraine is strategic, tion and in defense of its sovereignty and Ukraine is the right thing to do. It helps to able resource to fight back against Russian and this bill makes clear statements territorial integrity. This bill will strengthen advance our values and is in the national aggression. We stand with Ukraine as they regarding a whole of government strategy Ukraine’s defenses through military train- security interests of the United States. This defend the sovereignty and territorial focused on enhancing all elements of ing and equipment and enhanced U.S. and bill shows that our commitment to Ukrainian security. The United States European diplomatic support.” Ukraine’s security should be unwavering (Continued on page 14) 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 No. 32

FOR THE RECORD Testimony of U.S. ambassador-designate for Ukraine Text of prepared testimony of Lt. Gen. coordinator for Israel and the Palestinian Before the COVID-19 crisis, I would visit ongoing aggression in eastern Ukraine. (Ret.) Keith Dayton, nominee for U.S. ambas- Authority in Jerusalem from 2005 to 2010. Ukraine at least once every six weeks to Russia is responsible for this conflict, and sador to Ukraine, before the Senate Foreign In this role I reported directly to the secre- provide strategic advice to the minister of we are committed to working with our Relations Committee on August 5. tary of state as I led a multinational team in defense and his deputies. As a result of Ukrainian and European partners to con- almost constant contact with the Israeli these engagements, I have come to know tinue to impose political and economic Chairman Risch, Ranking Member government and Palestinian authorities. I and understand Ukraine and its many chal- costs on Russia for its actions. Menendez and members of this committee: routinely conducted liaisons at the most lenges, and I have developed relationships We are equally committed to supporting It is an honor to appear before you today as senior levels in Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, with supporters of Ukraine in the U.S. the complete restoration of Ukraine’s sov- President Trump’s nominee to serve as the the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, not to Congress, at the Department of Defense, ereignty and territorial integrity, including United States’ Ambassador to Ukraine. If mention Ottawa, London and Washington. and at the Department of State. an end to Russia’s blatant violations of confirmed, I look forward to working with After retiring from the Army in 2010, I The Ukraine I encountered as a young international law in Crimea. To move for- this committee and Congress to continue was offered the opportunity to continue man in 1980 is very different from the ward productively and in good faith, Russia our strong bipartisan support for the the practice of diplomacy and serve my vibrant and hopeful country I work with as must honor and implement its commit- Ukrainian people, enhance our already deep senior defense advisor, ments under the Minsk agreements. bilateral relationship, support Ukraine’s but the fundamental At home, Ukraine must continue on the reform agenda, counter Russian malign We must not forget what is challenges remain the path of implementing rule of law, good gov- influence, and work to fully restore sover- at stake. Ukraine is trying to same: Ukraine seeks to ernance and economic reforms that ensure eignty and territorial integrity. These steps rid itself of Moscow’s the government is accountable to its citi- will be critical to advancing our shared goal achieve a just and peaceful reso- interference and build zens. From the Orange Revolution to the of Ukraine joining the Euro-Atlantic com- lution to a conflict created and a government that is Revolution of Dignity to the 2019 elections munity as a full and free member. accountable, transpar- that brought President Zelenskyy and his My name is Keith Dayton. I am married fueled by Russia that has left ent, and responsive to party to power, Ukrainians have repeatedly to Carol, my wife of almost 45 years. We 13,000 dead and caused untold its citizens. One thing demanded accountable leadership and have three grown children, five grandchil- that has not changed – transparent, independent judicial and law dren and one more on the way. I have dedi- civilian suffering. and will not change – is enforcement bodies that respond to citi- cated the past 50 years of my life to public that it is in the national zens’ needs over the demands of oligarchs service. I retired from the U.S. Army as a security interests of and other vested interests. lieutenant general in 2010, after more than country as director of the George C. the United States for Ukraine to overcome I have personally witnessed this passion 40 years in uniform, and for nearly 10 Marshall European Center for Security these challenges and achieve a future in for reform in my interactions at the Marshall years I have served as director of the Studies in Garmisch, Germany. Not long which it is whole, democratic and free. Center with young staffers from the National Marshall Center, addressing regional and after I joined the Marshall Center, the Although the journey has not always Anticorruption Bureau of Ukraine working transnational security issues for the United Revolution of Dignity brought Ukraine back been easy, Ukraine has made great prog- to investigate individuals involved in corrup- States and Germany. to the forefront of my diplomatic responsi- ress. In the United States, Ukraine will tion, and in the efforts of the National Bank Ukraine has been a part of my life for 40 bilities. Inspired by the fierce commitment always find a partner and friend. I come of Ukraine to push back against political years. After I was commissioned in 1970 as to democracy and freedom by the protest- before this committee today honored and influence. However, vested interests contin- a field artillery officer, I learned Russian ers on the Maidan, the Marshall Center humbled to be nominated to head the U.S. ue to resist reform – particularly, reform of and eventually attended and graduated began a comprehensive program of semi- diplomatic mission in Kyiv as Ukraine takes the judicial and financial sectors. from the U.S. Army Russian Institute. It was nars and assistance to Ukraine focusing on the next steps in its national project: end- A strong, independent central bank has through the Russian Institute that I first civil-military relations, civilian oversight of ing aggressive Russian actions on its terri- been critical to Ukraine’s remarkable mac- had the opportunity to visit Ukraine in the armed forces, and security sector tory and making the necessary democratic roeconomic success over the past several 1980. I will never forget the experience of reform to help Ukraine’s new leadership reforms to establish itself as a modern years. Its continued independence is cru- meeting Ukrainians and recognizing the adopt Euro-Atlantic principles of govern- European state and NATO member. cial to a post-COVID-19 economic recovery deep pride they have in their history and ment and take the steps required to join We must not forget what is at stake. and to international confidence in culture, while appreciating the incredible NATO. I am proud to note that this endeav- Ukraine is trying to achieve a just and peace- Ukraine’s economy. If confirmed as ambas- suffering inflicted on the Ukrainian people or would not have been possible without ful resolution to a conflict created and fueled sador, I will work with Ukraine’s leadership by foreign powers throughout their history. support from within the U.S. Senate. by Russia that has left 13,000 dead and to ensure these reforms remain at the top My subsequent military assignments In October 2018, then Secretary of caused untold civilian suffering. President of its agenda. took me far from Ukraine but immersed Defense Jim Mattis asked me to be the Zelenskyy made ending this conflict a cor- If confirmed, my priorities would be me in the world of diplomacy. I accepted senior U.S. defense advisor to Ukraine. In nerstone of his administration, and the coordinated with Congress and the admin- several Foreign Area Officer deployments this role, I chair the Defense Reform United States has always been and will be an istration, but among them would have to be at our Embassies abroad, culminating in Advisory Board composed of the United advocate for a diplomatic resolution. genuine reform of Ukraine’s armed forces my assignment as the U.S. defense attaché States, Canada, the U.K., Poland, Lithuania I want to be clear, however, that the and defense industry. My military back- in Moscow as a brigadier general. As a lieu- and Germany. We serve as strategic advi- United States fully supports Ukraine’s tenant general, I served as U.S. security sors to the Ukrainian defense minister. efforts to defend itself against Russia’s (Continued on page 12)

Testimony of UCCA at nomination hearing of Lt. Gen Keith Dayton Text of testimony by the Ukrainian Ukrainian descent for 80 years, would like to Federation’s outright invasion of eastern made America great are being called into Congress Committee of America submitted express our community’s gratitude to the Ukraine, illegal occupation and annexation question by old allies, while a new set of into the record of the U.S. Senate Foreign Senate Foreign Relations Committee for your of Crimea, the neo-colonialist policy of partnerships, developed after the fall of the Relations Committee’s nomination hearing continued support in supporting Ukraine’s expanding a “Russkyi Mir” (“Russian Soviet Union, have increasingly emerged as on August 5 for Lt. Gen. Keith Dayton as territorial integrity, strengthening that coun- World”), not to mention the multi-vectored, the potential stabilizing partners the ambassador-designate to Ukraine. try’s reform efforts, providing desperately political, economic, social, cultural, and reli- United States has been seeking. Most nota- needed security assistance to Ukraine, and gious aggression directed against Ukraine’s bly, countries within the Euro-Atlantic alli- The Ukrainian American community is enhancing the bilateral relations between sovereignty, is a direct security threat to ance are proving to meet or exceed NATO’s united in its support for the independence the United States and Ukraine. the Euro-Atlantic community. As a result, minimum defense spending criteria. and territorial integrity of Ukraine. As The UCCA would also like to take a Russia’s behavior towards Ukraine is right- Europe’s largest country – Ukraine – is Americans, we believe that a democratic moment to express the Ukrainian ly viewed with alarm by our NATO allies, on pace to field Europe’s largest military, and independent Ukraine is in the national American community’s gratitude for our most particularly by those in Central with spending levels also exceeding security interests of the United States and troops on the ground in Ukraine that are Europe. It is understood to be a threat to NATO’s minimums. Furthermore, Ukraine consistent with our traditions of support for providing essential modern training meth- the stabilizing transnational, trans-Atlantic already stands as the only non-NATO part- individual freedom and self-determination. ods to its military personnel. We pray for security framework that first emerged in ner to have contributed actively to all Mr. Chairman and members of the our soldiers’ heroic tasks and the speedy the years after the second world war. NATO-led operations and missions for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, thank and successful establishment of sovereign- For the United States and its allies, the past 20 years. As we commemorated the you for the opportunity for the Ukrainian ty and territorial integrity in Ukraine. post-World War II collective security model 75th anniversary of the end of World War Congress Committee of America (UCCA) to delivered the space to develop economic II in May 2020, nearly seven decades after Background comment on the nomination hearing for growth at a pace that the world had never the conclusion of that war, Russia’s inva- Ambassador-designate to Ukraine Lt. Gen. In the context of U.S. geostrategic inter- before seen. That security model consisted sion of Ukraine in 2014 has resulted in Keith Dayton. ests, the current situation in Ukraine can- of not only sustained military dominance, over 13,000 people killed and over 1.5 mil- The Ukrainian Congress Committee of not be understood without recognizing its but the continued spread of democracy, lion civilians displaced – the largest war- America, an umbrella organization repre- far-reaching consequences for the world’s further generating greater peace and pros- senting the interests of Americans of security dynamics. The Russian perity. Today, the security components that (Continued on page 9) No. 32 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 5

“The price of truth”: The story behind Agnieszka Holland’s “Mr. Jones”

by Serhii Plokhii What exactly did Jones encounter in Ukraine? In March 1933, Jones took a train from Moscow to Kharkiv, which “Mr. Jones,” a feature film written by Andrea Chalupa was then the capital of Soviet Ukraine. As the train drew and directed by the Oscar-nominated director and screen- close to the Russia-Ukraine border, he disembarked sur- writer Agnieszka Holland, is a joint Polish, Ukrainian and reptitiously and continued his journey on foot. While there British production that was premiered at the Berlin was evidence of food scarcity on the Russian side of the International Film Festival in 2019 and released in the border, it soon became clear that Ukraine was in the midst United States in April of this year. Its Ukrainian title is “The of a vast and deadly famine. Price of Truth,” and at its center is one man’s struggle to get “In almost every village, the bread supply had run out to the truth about Joseph Stalin’s famine in Ukraine in two months earlier, the potatoes were almost exhausted, 1932-1933, which the regime was hiding from the outside and there was not enough coarse beet, which was formerly world on the eve of the diplomatic recognition of the Soviet used as cattle fodder, but has now become a staple food of Union by the United States. the population, to last until the next harvest,” Jones wrote a “Mr. Jones” is based on real people and real events. The few weeks later in a letter to the editor of the Manchester movie’s central character is Gareth Jones, a young Welsh Guardian newspaper [the forerunner of today’s Guardian journalist who travels to the Soviet Union in the early newspaper]. 1930s hoping to interview Stalin. Instead, he ends up “In each village I received the same information – name- uncovering the dictator’s big secret, the Ukrainian famine. ly that many were dying of the famine and that about four- Jones’s principal antagonist is the Pulitzer Prize-winning fifths of the cattle and the horses had perished. One phrase Moscow correspondent of The New York Times Walter was repeated until it had a sad monotony in my mind, and Duranty, who uses his considerable status to publicly that was: “Vse opukhli” (“all are swollen from hunger”), attack Jones and deny the existence of the famine. The two and one word was drummed into my memory by every leading actors, James Norton (Jones) and Peter Sarsgaard talk. That word was “golod,” meaning “hunger” or “famine.” (Duranty), brilliantly capture this struggle for truth during Nor shall I forget the swollen stomachs of the children in what was one of the darkest periods in European history. the cottages in which I slept.” The film speaks to today’s problems and concerns in a Upon leaving the Soviet Union in late March 1933, Jones very powerful way. In this era of the fake news and alterna- issued a press release about his recent experiences in what tive facts, “Mr. Jones” sends out a consequential message he called the “black earth region” of the Soviet Union. It about the importance of truth and the responsibility of the was picked up by several newspapers, but not The New media to tell it, despite the never-vanishing desire of York Times. Others proved equally unwilling to accept authoritarian regimes and unscrupulous politicians to hide reports of the famine. Those who, for ideological or other Poster for the film “Mr. Jones” by Agnieszka Holland, the truth about their actions. reasons, were sympathetic towards the Soviet Union, did with screenplay by Andrea Chalupa. But “Mr. Jones” is not only about politics, it is also about not want to hear about people dying of hunger in the fledg- history. Many viewers will be stunned by the events depict- ling socialist paradise. The chorus of denials included some access to leading Bolsheviks. Having won considerable ed in “Mr. Jones” and will come away encouraged to of the intellectual heavyweights of the age such as George fame for his coverage of the Soviet experiment and his ear- explore the subject in further detail. They will soon discov- Bernard Shaw, who signed a collective letter to the lier interview with Stalin, Duranty seems to have had few er that debate continues to rage over exactly what Gareth Manchester Guardian which accused the British media of qualms about following the party line as Ukraine starved. Jones witnessed in Ukraine in March 1933. presenting “the condition of Russian workers as one of Beyond the many obvious ethical issues they raised, the The film’s suave villain, Walter Duranty, was only the slavery and starvation.” criticisms leveled at Jones were also factually dubious. first in a long line of Western journalists, academics and The main rebuttal to Jones came from Duranty himself Duranty accused the Welshman of presenting “a rather intellectuals to deny the reality of the famine. This denial via an article published in the March 31, 1933, edition of inadequate cross section of a big country.” In reality, by has taken on different forms over the past nine decades. It The New York Times. This masterpiece of disinformation journeying through the Russian-Ukrainian borderlands began with outright refusals to recognize the famine, directly attacked Jones, accusing him of jumping to the con- and testifying to the different conditions he encountered in before later evolving into attempts to reject the deliberate clusions on the basis of limited facts and not telling the Russia and Ukraine, Jones had unknowingly stumbled character of the mass starvation that resulted in millions of entire story. “Conditions are bad but there is no famine,” upon a major characteristic of the Holodomor. Far from Ukrainian deaths. wrote Duranty. being a natural disaster, this was a famine that followed Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the discussion has While dismissing talk of mass starvation, Duranty national and political boundaries. centered around whether the Holodomor qualifies as an echoed Soviet propaganda by acknowledging “food short- The immediate cause of the famine was Stalin’s drive to act of genocide. This was the definition given to the famine ages” due to mismanagement and sabotage within the agri- gain control over the Soviet Union’s agricultural sector in by no less an authority than Raphael Lemkin, the lawyer cultural collectivization process. Notoriously, The New order to finance his ambitious industrialization and milita- York Times correspondent also shared his own thoughts who coined the term “genocide.” Despite this seemingly rization plans. This meant forcing millions of peasants onto on the situation in Ukraine. “To put it brutally, you can’t decisive verdict, others continue to insist the Holodomor collective farms. As resistance to collectivization grew in make an omelet without breaking eggs,” he wrote. This was not genocidal. Tellingly, these arguments remain pri- the late 1920s and early 1930s, Ukraine became a focal chilling line appears in “Mr. Jones.” It is perhaps the ulti- marily political rather than academic in nature. point of peasant uprisings. In response, Stalin deployed the mate testament to the cynicism that allowed Duranty and secret police to conduct larger-scale deportations while his fellow Moscow correspondents to cover up the mass continuing with collectivization and the requisition of Serhii Plokhii is the Mykhailo Hrushevsky Professor of murder of millions. grain. Ukrainian History and the director of the Ukrainian There is no suggestion that Duranty’s denials were ideo- By spring 1932, the removal of grain supplies had led to Research Institute at Harvard University. logically driven. The Liverpool-born journalist was any- famine in parts of Ukraine. Within a year, virtually the The original version of this article appeared on the thing but a Communist fellow traveler. His chief motivation whole of Ukraine was suffering from mass starvation. Atlantic Council website under the title “ ‘Mr. Jones’ brings in concealing the Holodomor appears to have been a desire Other grain-producing areas of the USSR were also experi- Stalin’s Ukraine genocide to international audiences.” to maintain his high standing in Soviet Moscow and his encing famine, including Kazakhstan and the Kuban region of the North Caucasus, which was largely settled by Ukrainians. The available evidence indicates that Stalin used the cri- sis to crush what he considered to be Ukrainian national- ism, manifested in Ukrainian resistance to collectivization. As a former people’s commissar for nationalities, Stalin was well-versed in the intricacies of national identity with- in the USSR. He believed the cultural accommodation of Ukrainians during the early years of the Soviet Union had strengthened rather than weakened their resistance to the regime. It was an error he sought to correct. In December 1932, a few months before Jones’s trip to Ukraine and as famine conditions continued to worsen, Stalin launched a major attack on the Ukrainian language and culture. In the regions of Kuban settled by Ukrainians, these measures resulted in the closure of all Ukrainian schools, cultural institutions and newspapers. Stalin was not only going after Ukrainian grain; he was also targeting Ukrainian culture and, ultimately, Ukrainian identity itself. In contrast to the parallel collectivization process in Russia, the famine in Ukraine was not restricted to grain- producing regions. The impact of the Holodomor extended to parts of the country that were never considered part of the fabled Ukrainian breadbasket. This included the Courtesy of Samuel Goldwyn Films James Norton stars as Welsh journalist Gareth Jones in “Mr. Jones.” (Continued on page 15) 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 No. 32

COMMENTARY The Ukrainian Weekly Appreciating memoirists Orthodox Church of Ukraine in Crimea The literary genre of memoirs is described as a collection of memories written by an individual about events in the author’s life. Memoirs are a way of sharing notable faces imminent threat after court ruling events, or even an entire life story. The audiences for such works vary greatly, of by Halya Coynash open persecution of the Ukrainian course, depending on who the writer is, the relevance of the writer’s experience to a Orthodox Church, and instead used so- Kharkiv Human Rights Protection reader, and the significance of the writer’s life to the public. called “reregistration” under Russian legis- Group Recently we’ve had the chance to read three such books by notable members of lation as a weapon, and set about physically the Ukrainian American community. (The release of each was noted on the pages of A week after Archbishop Klyment was removing the Church’s property. this newspaper.) What is common to all three is that they are truly a labor of love. threatened with criminal prosecution if he It should be said that the Ukrainian gov- In “My Memoirs. Life’s Journey through WWII and Various Historical Events of the did not demolish a Ukrainian Orthodox cha- ernment was much too slow to take obvi- 21st Century,” historian Dr. Taras Hunczak writes in the prologue: “There comes a pel in Yevpatoria, Russia’s Supreme Court ous measures to protect the Church. It was time when the life of an individual becomes valuable to others – through his or her has taken a decision which places in jeopar- only in the spring of this year that the gov- experiences, history and knowledge. Grandchildren and descendants wish to know dy the very existence of the Orthodox ernment finally took measures to officially about the lives of their ancestors; they are interested in learning how they lived, Church of Ukraine in occupied Crimea. transfer the OCU cathedral in Symferopol to how they thought, how they acted and what motivated their actions…” The profes- On August 4, the Supreme Court refused state ownership. Although this was unlikely sor emeritus of Rutgers University adds that “the time came when I felt the personal to reconsider the decision to evict the con- to change Russia’s illegal behavior, the need to…. convey what I know and narrate my experiences – the path of my life’s gregation of the Orthodox Church of move was important in providing an journey in the event that it may benefit others.” A most fitting way to describe the Ukraine (OCU) from the Cathedral of Ss. instrument, so that Ukraine could call upon value of such memoirs! Dr. Hunczak’s book describes life under both Communism Volodymyr and Olha in Symferopol, which international partners and approach inter- and Nazism – twin evils of the 20th century – and takes readers from Ukraine to the Russia has been trying to take over since its national courts to defend Ukraine’s cathe- United States, with the displaced persons’ experience in between, and then back to invasion and annexation of the Crimean dral and its believers from the occupiers. Ukraine as truly historic events unfold in the 1990s. peninsula in 2014. The move should have been taken imme- The memoirs of Dr. Myron B. Kuropas, titled “Lesia and I. A Progress Report and a Serhiy Zayets, the lawyer representing diately after annexation. Instead, since the Ukrainian-American Love Story,” recount the lives of two people who “were born on the OCU congregation, reported the deci- land, under Ukrainian law, had been the different continents and grew up in different cultural environments.” The book tells sion, saying that it is time to sound the property of the Autonomous Republic of the stories of the Kuropas and Waskiw families, conveys the major influences in the alarm. The Supreme Court’s decision, he Crimea, the Russian occupiers claimed it to lives of Myron Kuropas and Lesia (née Waskiw) Kuropas – both teachers – and believes, “essentially means the total disso- be “federal Russian property” that the arch- speaks of the organizations in which they were involved. Also remembered in this lution of the Ukrainian Orthodox communi- bishop was illegally occupying. book is Dr. Kuropas’s service in federal agencies and at the White House as President ty in Crimea. This is not formally genocide, The battle to seize control of the Gerald R. Ford’s special assistant for ethnic affairs. Above all, it is clear the book is but it borders on it. Russia is destroying yet Cathedral of Ss. Volodymyr and Olha effec- intended for the author’s family, as it ends with a loving note to the Kuropases’ chil- another Ukrainian religious and cultural tively began soon after Russia’s invasion, dren and grandchildren. group and is continuing to purge Crimea of with Archbishop Klyment reporting that he “Borders, Bombs, and… Two Right Shoes” is the intriguing title of memoirs by all that is Ukrainian.” was initially offered $200,000 to give up the Prof. Larissa Zaleska Onyshkevych, a literary scholar, former professor at Rutgers Archbishop Klyment has long warned of cathedral. University and former president of the Shevchenko Scientific Society. Its subtitle is the danger and of the consequences if Then, in January 2016, the Russian- “World War II Through the Eyes of a Ukrainian Child Refugee Survivor.” With useful Russia is allowed to destroy the Ukrainian controlled Crimean Arbitration Court maps, chapter notes, historical timelines and a glossary, the book details the difficult Orthodox Church in Crimea. In December issued a ruling ordering the Church to and oftentimes dangerous life of a child whose formative years were during the sec- of last year, the warning was stark: “If there vacate 112 square meters of the premises ond world war. Dr. Onyshkevych provides great detail about her family’s escape from is no diocese and no cathedral (of Ss. (the ground floor) and to pay a prohibitive Ukraine to Slovakia, Germany and Austria, as well as life in the DP camps and emi- Volodymyr and Olha), it will not be possible 500,000 rubles, which were claimed to be gration to Canada. The author notes that, in addition to telling her family’s story, “the to speak of anything Ukrainian having been for communal services. bigger inducement is the realization that so many individuals, groups and nations preserved in Crimea.” The attempts to totally evict the diocese today continue to be suddenly ravaged and/or annihilated by historical events simi- This, unfortunately, is exactly what and the congregation date back to 2019. Mr. lar to those that I experienced.” She adds: “At times, one feels almost pressed to Russia is seeking to achieve, and it is no Zayets writes that the original eviction shout to the world: …‘but didn’t you learn from history…?’” accident that it was the Orthodox Church of notice was in the summer of 2019, however Reading these three memoirs, one gains a special appreciation for the authors’ Ukraine that first came under pressure Archbishop Klyment reported on February lives and their efforts, along with the realization that their stories are our stories, our from the occupation regime. It is immense- 8, 2019, that he had received a writ order- nation’s stories, our community’s stories, even our families’ stories. Not all of us are ly frustrating that the Ukrainian govern- ing that he vacate the cathedral within 30 lucky enough to have a family member put pen to paper (as they used to say) to ment has been so slow to take measures days. The archbishop then warned that this write memoirs for their progeny. But we are indeed lucky that there are those in our aimed at protecting the Church and was likely to lead to eight parishes in rural midst who do. Thank you, esteemed memoirists, for sharing your stories, your Ukrainian believers under occupation. areas also being forced to close. insights and what is dear to your heart with all of us. With Russia systematically trying to On June 28, 2019, the de facto Crimean eliminate any elements of Ukrainian identi- Arbitration Court ordered the dissolution of ty from occupied Crimea, it was inevitable the lease agreement for the cathedral that the Ukrainian Church should have signed in 2002 between the Ukrainian become for many Crimeans a place they authorities (the Crimean Property Fund) Aug. could come to hear, speak and worship in and the Crimean diocese of what was then Turning the pages back... Ukrainian. Archbishop Klyment recently the Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kyiv spoke of the Church having become the Patriarchate. 10 Five years ago, on August 10, 2015, residents in a village locat- only island of Ukrainian identity and spiri- The real attempts to evict the Church, Mr. ed halfway between Donetsk and Mariupol reported exchanges tuality on the occupied peninsula. Zayets says, began at the end of August of heavy mortar and rocket fire that had not stopped for several The archbishop has said that, despite 2019, although they swiftly hit what should 2015 days. The clashes focused on a highway that connects Mariupol many Ukrainians having left for mainland have been a formidable obstacle. In with Donetsk, and the majority of the road was under the control Ukraine, the number of believers has not September 2019, the United Nations Human of the government forces. significantly fallen, with new people – some Rights Committee intervened, applying Rule Also on August 10, the Ukrainian military reported the heaviest shelling by Russia- of them not ethnic Ukrainians, but clearly 94 to halt the eviction of the congregation. backed militants since the Minsk truce was signed in February 2015. feeling Ukraine to be their homeland – join- Russia had appeared to be hesitating, On August 12, a Ukrainian military spokesman said that the clashes in the north of the ing the congregation. with the Supreme Court in December 2019 strategic city of Mariupol had killed one soldier and injured three. It is this Ukrainian identity that Russia halting implementation of the eviction The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) on August 7 reported has sought to eliminate. It is likely, however, order. Mr. Zayets says that, after the same a “significant increase” in ceasefire violations in areas east and north of Mariupol and near that the Church and its archbishop were Supreme Court twice (in March and in June the Donetsk airport. On August 9, four armored vehicles of the Special Monitoring Mission also viewed as “the enemy” due to their of this year) extended the period for con- of the OSCE (which is charged with overseeing the implementation of the 2015 Minsk openly pro-Ukrainian position and to the sideration of the appeal, there had been agreements) were “destroyed overnight in [an] apparent arson attack” near the city of public statement from the Church on some grounds for hope. There may have Donetsk at the mission’s residence. Three of the vehicles were completely destroyed, March 11, 2014, condemning Russian occu- been some political reason for the delay, while one was heavily damaged and three others were partially damaged. There were no pation of Crimea. however, the decision of August 4 suggests reported injuries. During the first year after Russia’s inva- that the situation is now critical. SMM deputy head Alexander Hug called the incident an example of “intimidation aimed sion, 38 out of the 46 parishes under what Reaction from both Kyiv and the interna- at stopping the OSCE from reporting what is going on in the area.” was then still the Ukrainian Orthodox tional community is absolutely vital. Russia On August 9, there was shelling of the town of Horlivka, northeast of Donetsk, with both Church – Kyiv Patriarchate ceased to exist. has already demonstrated its willingness to parties accusing each other of the action. The Russia-backed side reported that one civilian In at least three cases, churches were seized harass and even detain Archbishop was killed, while the Ukrainian military said the Russia-backed side had shelled the posi- by the occupation regime: in Sevastopol, Klyment. If Moscow does not encounter tions of government troops nearby. One Ukrainian serviceman was killed, while 10 other Symferopol and in the village of Perevalne. real resistance from the West, the next step servicemen, a civilian woman and two children were wounded during the past 24 hours. Although Western countries reacted will almost certainly be persecution of the very weakly to Russia’s invasion, Moscow archbishop and of Ukrainian members of (Continued on page 15) probably feared a more active reaction to the Church. No. 32 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 7

COMMENTARY The case for small private colleges during COVID-19’s fall of 2020 by Jonathan Peri financial aid grants, averaging almost $23,000 per student per year. And gradua- Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, students tion rates of Pennsylvania’s independent “Most irreconcilable” are determining what their next steps will nonprofit colleges have a record that makes be for fall. There is good data showing that their strong value apparent: Shortly before dawn on Monday, April 9, Hungarian consular official even started students are: delaying; con- 1990, I was awakened by an ear-splitting issuing passports to ethnic Hungarians in sidering their alternatives, Graduation Rates clanging and bone-rattling jolts. My over- the Transcarpathian town of Berehove including staying closer to night train from Budapest had stopped at (Beregszáz). This caused a diplomatic spat Independent State-Related State System home; spending less money Nonprofit Colleges of Higher Ed Chop, at the junction of Hungary, between Kyiv and Budapest. (Marton on tuition; and being pre- Czechoslovakia and the USSR. There, its Dunai, “Hungary, Ukraine clash over Kiev’s pared for online and hybrid 62% in 4 years 51% in 4 years 40% in 4 years wheels and axles were changed to fit the new language law,” Reuters, October 12, learning that may take them 74% in 6 years 71% in 6 years 58% in 6 years wider-gauge Soviet tracks. Leaving my 2017.) Furthermore, since 2017 Hungary to the classroom some days, compartment for a first breath of Ukrainian has been the sole NATO member to block but not others, thus spacing air, I peered out through a grimy window in Ukrainian integration through the NATO- Students who are looking for the closer- out their courses in a way that continues the passageway and saw a uniformed offi- Ukraine Commission. (Creede Newton, “ to-home/costs-less/safe-environment cial barking out orders to his subordinates. ‘High Treason’: Hungary, Ukraine in dispute social distancing. combination during COVID-19 should be Or so I surmised. For his language sounded over language laws,” Al Jazeera, October 5, It is true everyone is eager to return to looking to Pennsylvania’s independent alien, barbaric, even a bit frightening. It 2018.) Moreover, Budapest has threatened “normal,” and the Pennsylvania Secretary of nonprofit colleges, such as those colleges was, of course, Hungarian. I imagined what to block Ukraine’s aspirations to integrate Education has given indicators that he who are members of the Association of it must have been like to be a Galician vil- with the European Union. Its friendship wants schools to reopen in the fall, subject Independent Colleges and Universities of lager during World War I with armed with Russia is sometimes considered a sig- to safety conditions. We remain hopeful as Pennsylvania (AICUP). Honvéd soldiers threatening you in an nificant factor in this policy. to what that looks like. For now, all schools, Manor College is a proud member of utterly incomprehensible Central Asian Last year’s new Ukrainian language law including colleges and universities, are in AICUP and we are also proud to be the tongue. has also become a point of contention. In the planning stages for reopening and miti- best-priced local and private residential When the pastoral Magyars crossed the 2012, the Yanukovych administration had gating risk for fall 2020. college in Pennsylvania with an amazing Carpathians and settled in the Danube approved a law granting minorities exten- Generally speaking, Pennsylvania’s gover- 12:1 student teacher ratio, which gives us Basin in the ninth century, they discovered sive language rights in regions where they nor and the secretary of health are working the advantage of offering personalized that their language was “outlandish” to the represented more than 10 percent of the to ensure each county opens safely, and that attention to our students. We’ve been rated peoples surrounding them. As Philip population. On April 25, 2019, however, schools wait until later (than others, like by Niche.com as among the safest colleges Longworth put it, Magyar was “a linguistic Parliament approved a law “On Ensuring construction for example) in the reopening in Pennsylvania and recognized by The wedge driven into the heart of Slavonic the Functioning of the Ukrainian Language process to ensure student and student-com- New York Times for being the best in the Europe.” (“The Making of Eastern Europe,” as a State Language.” Although provisions munity safety. Colleges and schools cannot area for intergenerational (economic) recommence face-to-face/in-class learning 2nd ed. 1997, p. 309). Moreover, as an to protect minority languages would be mobility. agglutinative language, it forms bewilder- until the respective county becomes “green” We offer more than 50 bachelor’s, asso- retained, Hungary was displeased. under the governor’s orders. ingly long words, peppered with accent (“Hungary: Ukrainian language law is unac- ciate’s and certificate programs. In addi- marks and both long and short umlauts. From the college students’ perspective, tion, Manor’s faculty made a concerted ceptable,” UAWire, April 29, 2019.) A new most students want to get on with life. The Hungarians’ linguistic isolation may statute on secondary-school education effort to reduce the costs of books by using have contributed to a sense of insecurity. They’re ready to enjoy some time in the adopted last January, confirming Ukrainian open educational resources (OER), which Hungary grew to be a formidable king- sun this summer, and they are looking for- as the chief language of instruction but then became, starting this fall, all books dom, ruling Transcarpathia and even ward to their freshman year of college, allowing flexibility in its application, like- included with tuition for all but three of our claiming the title of Galicia and Lodomeria since many missed out when their senior wise drew fire from Budapest. 50-plus programs. (Volhynia) in 1189. Joined dynastically year of high school was cut short on gradu- Recently, however, Hungarian Prime All in all, when students and parents/ with the Habsburgs in 1526, it became a ation ceremonies and proms. Minister Viktor Orbán has resumed a more guardians are evaluating the total picture of nearly equal partner with Austria after the The question presented then, is where to diplomatic approach. For its part, Ukraine higher education, they shouldn’t just think latter’s defeat in the Austro-Prussian war of go in the fall? Lots of people don’t know has sought to comply with the recommen- about public institutions as the low-cost 1866. But after the dissolution of Austria- this, but Pennsylvania’s nonprofit indepen- dations of the European Parliament’s option, because the data are clear: students Hungary in the wake of World War I, the dent colleges and universities have more to Venice Commission on Democracy through coming out of independent nonprofit col- Treaty of Trianon, the 100th anniversary of offer than meets the eye. The average stu- Law. But Hungary continues to object to leges wind up with less debt (as well as the which Hungarians mourn this year, dent loan debt for bachelor’s degree gradu- certain provisions of Ukrainian legislation. lowest loan default rates) and stronger deprived them of more than two-thirds of ates of Pennsylvania’s independent non- (Dmytro Tuzhansky, “Piat’ prychyn dlia odds of graduation, and they go on to their lands. profit colleges has been lower for five out of Uhorshchyny: chomu ta yak Budapesht careers that are meaningful for the gradu- Today, the once dominant Hungarians the last six years than graduates of public zminiuye taktyky shchodo Ukrayiny,” ates and their future industries. are ethnic minorities on their former terri- institutions. Almost every undergraduate Yevropeiska Pravda, February 18, 2020) tories in Slovakia, Romania, Serbia, Croatia student attending one of Pennsylvania’s Fears that President Volodymyr Jonathan Peri, Ph.D., J.D., is president of and Ukraine. Budapest supports them independent nonprofit schools receives Manor College. Zelenskyy might prove more amenable to through diplomatic as well as socio-eco- Hungarian demands than his predecessor nomic and cultural assistance. In Ukrainian seemed vindicated when, in June of this LETTER TO THE EDITOR Transcarpathia (Zakarpattia), Hungarians year, the Ministry for Development of retain extensive linguistic autonomy. Under Communities and Territories announced a an education reform law approved by project to redraw district boundaries in tory of African Americans. The opinion Parliament on September 5, 2017, and Ukraine’s regions (oblasts). In Zakarpattia, Confronting racism piece by Andriy Semotiuk titled “Why signed on September 25 by then-president 30 districts were reduced to five. In the in our community Ukrainians should support Black Lives Petro Poroshenko, they are entitled to have expanded Berehiv district, ethnic Matter Movement”(June 28/July 5) was Hungarian as a language of instruction in Hungarians will dominate. most welcome. I was also very glad to see primary public education (that is, through Dear Editor: Ukraine must balance the reigning the July 12 paid ad in The Ukrainian the fourth grade). From middle school on, European ideology of multiculturalism Until now the Ukrainian American com- Weekly announcing the formation of the however, it is to be Ukrainian. University with the urgent task of nation- and state- munity’s involvement in U.S. political mat- Ukrainian Antiracist Community. Its calls to exams are given in Ukrainian. Proponents building, including language and education. ters has been mostly focused on Russia’s action are thoughtful and targeted. of these rules point out that they help Once the coronavirus crisis is over and impact on Ukraine and how to influence On the other hand, the letters from Dr. minorities integrate with the national cul- appropriate draft agreements are pre- U.S. policies. It is time for us to broaden Michael Karol and Dr. George Baranowskyj ture and become eligible for public-sector pared, Prime Minister Orbán is set to meet that stance. We Ukrainian Americans are (July 26) are completely off the mark in jobs. with President Zelenskyy in Kyiv (Vladimir first and foremost Americans – we live in ascribing the Black Lives Matter movement Although the 2017 law conforms to Socor, Eurasia Daily Monitor, “Ukraine and the U.S., we work in the U.S. and we vote for racial justice in the U.S. to Russian inter- ordinary international practice, the Hungary move to settle differences over here, our children and grandchildren were ference and dismissing it as the work of a Hungarian government has repeatedly crit- national minority legislation,” reprinted in born here, and most of us will be buried icized it, demanding a return to Hungarian Marxist-Leninist group. How easy it is to The Ukrainian Weekly, June 19). Whether here. We should all support a more equita- as the language of instruction in state hide behind the Russian bogeyman rather Hungary will temper its demands remains ble and just U.S. society. schools in Zakarpattia beyond the primary than confront racism in our Ukrainian to be seen. And yet, historically we have neither American community. level. In retaliation against the law, a taken the time nor made the effort to The Viennese journalist Jörg Mauthe tells the story of how, on the eve of World understand the impact of racial diversity Alicia Szendiuch Andrew Sorokowski can be reached at and, especially, the tragic and complex his- Watertown, Mass. [email protected]. (Continued on page 11) 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 No. 32 No. 32 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 9

COMMUNITY CHRONICLE Virtual program honors Ukrainian heroes

by Michael Koziupa person. Instead, on Sunday July 5, the ODFFU hosted a virtual “Sviato Heroyiv” SOUTH BOUND BROOK, N.J./NEW YORK commemoration simultaneously on Zoom, – For centuries, Ukraine has struggled for Facebook Live and YouTube Live that was its independence, sovereignty and territori- broadcast to viewers all around the world. al integrity. For just as long, Ukraine has The program began at St. Andrew amassed innumerable heroes who have Ukrainian Orthodox Cemetery in South dedicated their lives to make this progress Bound Brook, N.J., – one of the locations possible. where tri-state Ukrainians do typically Every year, on May 23, Ukraine and gather for events such as this one. There, Ukrainians all around the world celebrate Ukrainian American Veterans solemnly “Sviato Heroyiv,” the Day of Heroes. In the raised the U.S. and Ukrainian flags, while United States, the Organization for Defense opera singer Stefan Szkafarowsky sang the of Four Freedoms for Ukraine (ODFFU) has national anthems. traditionally and historically led the This was followed by blessings from Ukrainian diaspora community in honoring Father Ivan Lyszyk (of St. Andrew Father Ivan Lyszyk offers a blessing. Ukraine’s heroes. In previous years, this Memorial Church, South Bound Brook) and commemoration was hosted during the Father Volodymyr Muzyczka (of St. developing the Ukrainian American com- Alina Ponypaliak, a historian from the July 4th weekend in Ellenville, N.Y., at the Volodymyr Cathedral, New York). munity; continue supporting Ukraine’s National Museum of Ukraine, who spoke Ukrainian American Youth Association Dmytro Lenczuk, recently elected presi- democratic ambitions; and pray for the about “The Last UPA Commander, Vasyl Resort Center. dent of ODFFU, greeted everyone and set reunification of our community as a whole. Kuk”; Lida Slysh from the Ukrainian This year, due to the COVID-19 pandem- the tone of the program with a call to honor After this, Michael Koziupa, the event’s National Women’s League of America, who ic, it was not possible to hold this event in our heroes; unite in strengthening and emcee, introduced each of the various spoke about “Ukraine’s Female Heroes and speakers and performers that were part of Legends”; Father Mykhailo Bachynsky, pas- the program. The Iskra Ukrainian Dance tor of the Church of the Nativity of the Academy started off the program with the Virgin in Stebnik, Ukraine, who spoke about traditional “Pryvit”( Welcome). “Church Martyrs – Heroes”; Volodymyr This year, ODFFU wanted to make sure Zhemchuhov, a living Hero of Ukraine, who that a more diverse roster of heroes was spoke about “Why People of Different honored: the heroes, heroines and also Ethnic Roots in the Donbas Joined the Army Church martyrs who fought for (and many to Defend Ukraine”; and Zakhar Makovsky, who died in pursuit of) a free and indepen- of the Volunteer Division, who spoke of the dent Ukraine throughout history, as well as “Modern Russian-Ukrainian War and the who that have been bravely supporting the Role of the Volunteer Movement.” The pro- country’s freedoms in the current war in gram also included Ayla Bakkalli and eastern Ukraine. Nedim Useinov, who joined on behalf of the Seven speakers gave short presentations: Crimean Tatars, and highlighted their pres- Serhii Kuzan of “VymkneRosiyske”, who ent and historical heroic struggles for exis- Stefan Szkafarowski sings the national anthems with Ukrainian American Veterans spoke about “The Joint Action of all in the background. Ukrainians Against Russian Aggression”; Dr. (Continued on page 15)

Budapest Memorandum, its commitments United States, remain actively involved and Testimony of UCCA... under the CSCE [Conference on Security covert and overt Russian forces and equip- continue to advocate democratic principles (Continued from page 4) and Cooperation in Europe] Final Act, the ment• Demand from Ukraine, the immediate and compliance withdrawal with of and a strategic outlook for enhanced rela- 1997 bilateral Ukraine-Russia Treaty, the ceasefire agreements [prior to holding elec- tions with that country. We have a chance to time displacement in Europe since 1945. United Nations Charter, to name a few – tions in the Donbas, as per the Minsk agree- assist Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and The United States government has consis- and threatens global security while under- ment]. territorial integrity, to be a strong, demo- tently supported Ukraine’s sovereignty, mining the nuclear non-proliferation cratic nation with all the methods and tech- independence and the inviolability of its regime. including lethal defensive arms, naval and nologies to continue self-improvement. borders since Russia’s invasion, declaring Although the United States responded air• force Expand support, direct and military additional assistance, military Nearly 29 years of Ukrainian indepen- as official government policy to “assist the appropriately to Russia’s illegal behavior training programs. dence have brought nine U.S. ambassadors government of Ukraine in restoring its sov- towards Ukraine by implementing sanc- as envoys of American diplomacy. These ereignty and territorial integrity in order tions against the Nord Stream 2 pipeline eventual NATO membership for Ukraine by envoys have secured a lasting partnership to deter the government of the Russian (2019), the Crimean Declaration (2018) actively• Continue implementing the “open door”the Enhanced policy for between our two countries, and we believe Federation from further destabilizing and and the Countering America’s Adversaries Opportunity Program (EOP) for Ukraine. that President Trump’s recent nomination invading Ukraine and other independent Through Sanctions Act 2017 (CAATSA), the - of Lt. Gen. Keith Dayton, a career military countries.” United States must not be deterred in coun- nomic sanctions against the Russian officer, will only enhance our cooperation/ The Ukrainian American community tering continuing actions that threaten Federation,• Maintain including and strengthen a possible targeted ban eco on partnership with Ukraine. At this time, looks to the United States to not only live up European security and stability. The United SWIFT banking, until it fully complies with when more opportunities exist for the to its public and binding security guaran- States, as a signatory to the 1994 Trilateral its international obligations, including the advancement of U.S. strategic interests in tees to Ukraine, but to further develop this Agreement, has an obligation to assist Budapest Memorandum and Minsk agree- Central Europe, Lt. Gen. Dayton will be a strategic relationship as a buffer against Ukraine in defense of its national security ment. great asset, given his experience working in rogue nations threatening the collective and territorial integrity, and in its efforts to - the region and current capacity as director security order. As such, we strongly believe institutionalize democratic and economic rative objectives to the Russian propaganda of the George C. Marshall European Center that the security of the U.S. lies in the reforms. The national security interests of operation• Monitor through and ramp the upalready-established U.S. counter-nar for Security Studies. The Ukrainian expansion of democracy and mutual securi- the United States lie in the fulfillment of Global Engagement Center (GEC). Congress Committee of America lauds the ty guarantees, not in the appeasement of an that obligation and constitute the very experience and commitment Lt. Gen. imperial state. U.S. support for Ukraine’s foundation upon which the existing rela- Russians suspected of money laundering or Dayton has shown in his years of service. territorial integrity and sovereignty, ensur- tionship between sovereign nations rests. involvement• Freeze assets in of,the and nefarious deny visas actions to, elite Thereby, the UCCA supports the nomina- ing the non-use of force by other nuclear Thus, the Ukrainian American communi- against the sovereignty of Ukraine. tion of Lt. Gen. Keith Dayton as the next U.S. states, or the use of economic coercion as a ty urges the United States to take the fol- ambassador to Ukraine. hybrid weapon, will eventually see a lowing actions: Partnership to include comprehensive sup- The Ukrainian American community decrease in U.S. international deployments port• Enhanceof Ukraine’s the defense U.S.-Ukraine capacity, Strategiceconom- praises the efforts and commitment of the as Europe’s pro-democratic East steps up explicit commitment to Ukraine’s sover- ic reform efforts and foreign direct invest- previous U.S. ambassadors to Ukraine in to repay the faith invested in them. eignty• Uphold and independencea clear, unified, by steadfast the United and ment opportunities. ensuring that Ukraine develops into a truly States and our European allies. Ukraine’s democratic state grounded in international * * * Recommendations Over the past several years, Russia’s territorial integrity is non-negotiable and norms and principles of independence, sov- aggression toward Ukraine constitutes a any change to it cannot be discussed while It is clear that Ukraine is at a critical junc- ereignty and territorial integrity, ensconced fundamental challenge to the post-World parts of it are under threat and occupation. ture in its true Euro-Atlantic integration. in a prosperous market economy. It is our War II order in Europe and jeopardizes More than a year after Ukraine’s presiden- hope that Lt. Gen. Keith Dayton will contin- every member of the international commu- Russian rule over the illegally occupied tial elections in May 2019, political parties ue assisting Ukraine at this most important nity. Their illegal seizure of Crimea, is the Crimean• Reject peninsula all forms by adhering of recognition to objec of- are struggling to bring forth their issues to junction of transformation into a state most blatant violation of international law tives explicitly stated in the Crimean the electorate. It is essential that the inter- where people hold the power and elites and order – specifically, a violation of the Declaration of July 2018. national community, in particular the serve and protect their interests. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 No. 32

commercial property, ferroalloy plants and Mr. Tsapkala, who fled amid rumors of his observers from polling stations and threat- NEWSBRIEFS specialty steel companies in the United imminent arrest, preferred the Ukrainian ening to deploy troops to put down any (Continued from page 2) States – along with several Cleveland office capital to Russia. The announcement comes protests. Officials have barred aspiring can- buildings – without ever returning the seven days before Belarus’s August 9 vote, didates like Mr. Tsapkala and popular vlog- the country. The tycoons returned to money, the bank claims. PrivatBank has which has already been marred by dubious ger Syarhey Tsikhanouski, whose wife, Ukraine from self-imposed exile a month dubbed the alleged fraud the Optima disqualifications and an unprecedented Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya, entered the race after Mr. Zelenskyy won the presidential Schemes because the U.S. assets were scale of detentions and other persecution after her husband was jailed following his election in a landslide in April 2019. Mr. largely controlled by companies with the against a backdrop of a pandemic and pro- announcement that he would also seek the Kolomoisky’s 1+1 channel aired the TV name Optima. The bank is seeking hun- democracy protest. Add to that a fresh accu- presidency. The Central Election comedy series produced by Mr. Zelenskyy’s dreds of millions of dollars in restitution. sation by Mr. Lukashenka that Russian mer- Commission dismissed Mr. Tsapkala’s appli- production company. Mr. Zelenskyy The Optima businesses are run out of cenaries were detained while purportedly cation on July 14 after apparently rejecting appointed Andriy Bohdan, Mr. Kolo­ Miami by the tycoons’ U.S. business part- trying to destabilize Belarus ahead of the around half of the 160,000 signatures that moisky’s former lawyer, as his first chief of ners, Mordechai Korf and Uriel Laber. A election, and it shapes up as one of the most accompanied his application to run. Mr. staff before replacing him in February. The spokesperson for Messrs. Korf and Laber alarmingly volatile elections of Mr. Tsapkala appeared on Russian TV 10 days president’s reported close ties to Mr. declined an RFE/RL request for comment Lukashenka’s authoritarian tenure. More later to say he’d fled out of concern for his Kolomoisky have been a concern for about the August 4 raids. Special Agent than 1,100 people have been arrested since safety after prosecutors visited his chil- Ukraine’s Western partners, who have tied Anderson-Gregg confirmed the FBI agents campaigning began, including politicians, dren’s school and “reliable sources” told financial and political support to Kyiv to were at the Cleveland office of Optima organizers, and journalists. Human rights him he was going to be arrested. Mr. reforms that reduce the influence of Management, which oversees the tycoons’ groups and other critics have accused Tsapkala’s wife, Veranika, is reportedly still tycoons. The United States does not have local real-estate investments. Optima Belarusian authorities of fostering an atmo- in Belarus. Ms. Tsapkala, along with Maryya an extradition agreement with Ukraine, Management is located inside One sphere of “fear and intimidation” ahead of meaning the tycoons will likely never face Cleveland Center, which is one of the local the vote, including by banning independent (Continued on page 11) prosecution in a U.S. court even if the commercial buildings owned by the Department of Justice were to bring charg- tycoons. (Todd Prince of RFE/RL) es against them. RFE/RL could not immedi- Lukashenka challenger headed for Kyiv Berlin crises. Each time the Soviet authori- ately reach Mr. Kolomoisky or Mr. Boholy­ New Ukraine... ties emboldened their East German (GDR) ubov for comment. The confirmation of the A critic of Belarusian President Alyak­ (Continued from page 3) satellite to breach the four-power agree- FBI investigation follows on the heels of a sandr Lukashenka who last month fled the ments, the Western side protested to the civil lawsuit filed against the tycoons by country along with his children after his apparently confused Kyiv officials are try- Soviet side, and the latter told the West to Ukrainian lender PrivatBank in Delaware in and others’ candidacies were rejected for ing hard to bring Russia back into the JCCC, re-address the complaint to the (then- May 2019. Messrs. Kolomoisky and next week’s presidential election has hoping to avoid granting de facto recogni- unrecognized) GDR authorities (the tactic Boholyubov owned PrivatBank until reportedly left Russia for neighboring tion to ORDLO’s militaries. Such hopes of “pere-adresatsiya”). December 2016, when Ukraine national- Ukraine. A spokesman for Valer Tsapkala seem to overlook the fact that this new This agreement references the “the ized it after the tycoons failed to inject capi- said on August 2 that the 55-year-old politi- agreement itself is conceding quasi-recog- ORDLO armed formations” in several plac- tal to stabilize the lender during a severe cian and founder of a prominent high-tech nition and status equivalence to the es, marking a major step forward to their economic downturn. PrivatBank claims the park in Minsk – who was seen by some as a “ORDLO armed formations” (as noted in legitimization. The agreement, moreover, men laundered $780 million into the U.S. serious challenger to the 26-year incum- PART I). fails to mention Russia at all in connection financial system through a series of bogus bent Lukashenka – was on his way from Under this agreement, “retaliatory fire with military issues. “The ORDLO armed loans issued to companies they control. The Moscow to Kyiv. The spokesman, Alyaksey responding to an offensive action is only formations” is this agreement’s almost tycoons then used the money to acquire Urban, did not provide details or say why permissible if it is ordered, respectively, by undisguised synonym for the “Donetsk and the leadership of the Armed Forces of Luhansk people’s republics [DPR/LPR] Ukraine or by the leadership of the armed militias” – the DPR-LPR’s Russia-led, corps- formations of ORDLO, after an unsuccess- sized armed forces. The “armed forma- ful attempt to use the said coordinating tions” and the “people’s militias” are one mechanism [for ceasefire violation and the same organization, under one response]” (Osce.org, July 23). name in Donetsk-Luhansk and an alterna- TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL WALTER HONCHARYK (973) 292-9800 x3040 In practice, this means that only or e-mail [email protected] tive name in the Minsk process. Ukraine’s General Staff, not field officers, Given these sins of commission and could order retaliatory fire against ORDLO omission, this agreement gravely under- SERVICES PROFESSIONALS violations of the ceasefire. However, mines the Ukrainian government’s stated Ukraine’s General Staff would need, first, to (and no doubt genuine) goal to achieve the contact the JCCC, explain its view of what ОКСАНА СТАНЬКО withdrawal of Russian forces and demobi- Ліцензований продавець happened, request the JCCC’s permission lization of ORDLO forces from the Russian- Страхування Життя to fire back, and await the JCCC’s assess- controlled territory. OKSANA STANKO ment of the situation. Only then would the President Zelenskyy and his Licensed Life Insurance Agent JCCC make a decision on whether to autho- Presidential Office chief, Andriy Yermak, Ukrainian National Assn., Inc. rize Ukraine’s General Staff to order firing hastened to conclude this agreement back, or reject Kyiv’s request, or delay a Tel.: 908-872-2192 under the sway of short-term political decision. And all of this would be happen- goals (earn another Normandy summit, email: [email protected] ing on Ukraine’s sovereign territory inter- deliver “peace” to help the president’s nationally recognized as such. party ahead of Ukraine-wide local elec- The JCCC’s own internal rules of proce- tions). Their cave-in on this issue is only OPPORTUNITIES dure are yet to be determined; but, irre- one aspect in the variegated picture of spective of those procedures, the JCCC Kyiv’s current negotiating positions. Kyiv seems predestined for deadlock between (and various centers of authority within it) EARN EXTRA INCOME! the Ukrainian side and the other side, shows firmness on some issues and weak- The Ukrainian Weekly is looking whether the latter consists of Moscow rep- ness on others in the Minsk and Normandy for advertising sales agents. resentatives, ORDLO representatives or a processes and toward Moscow. But the For additional information contact combination of these two groups – indis- Presidential Office remains the most con- Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, tinguishable from each other in any case. cession-prone institution. The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. The JCCC is envisaged to serve Russia’s goal that any complaints about ceasefire The article above is reprinted from violations should be re-addressed, from Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from Moscow’s address to that of Donetsk- its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, Luhansk. This tactic calls to mind the www.jamestown.org.

Run your advertisement here, in The Ukrainian Weekly’s CLASSIFIEDS section. No. 32 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 11

fact have explosives. Deputy Minister of NEWSBRIEFS Internal Affairs Anton Herashchenko identi- With profound sadness we announce the (Continued from page 10) fied the perpetrator as Suhrob Karimov, a passing of our beloved son and brother, 32-year-old Uzbek citizen. The man said Kalesnikava, a coordinator of the campaign that he is “a holy spirit” and “ordered” to Andrew “Andriko” Luka of another excluded presidential aspirant, “arrest all presidents of the world.” It was former Belgazprombank head Viktar Ukraine’s third hostage incident in recent Bilaniuk Babaryka, joined forces to support Ms. weeks. In the first such incident, a man in Tsikhanouskaya, who unlike Messrs. Ukraine’s northwestern city of Lutsk on July on July 12, 2020 Tsapkala and Babaryka was registered as a 21 held 13 people hostage inside a bus with Andriko was born in Charlottesville, Virginia on presidential candidate. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya a firearm and explosives for 12 hours before July 18, 2004. He grew up in Vienna, Virginia. He reportedly sent her two children to an EU he was apprehended by security forces. The completed his sophomore year at Bishop O’Connell member state out of concern for their safe- perpetrator was later identified as 44-year- High School, Arlington, VA and was a 2020 graduate ty after receiving threats ahead of the elec- old Maksym Kryvosh, a native of the city of of the Taras Shevchenko School of Ukrainian Studies, Washington, DC. tion. (Current Time) Dubno and a resident of Lutsk. A few days Andriko was an active member of the DC Branch of Plast and greatly later, a criminal suspect brandishing a hand enjoyed Plast summer camps at Vovcha Tropa, East Chatham, NY. Andriko Hostage taker detained in Kyiv grenade forced a senior police officer to also spent three summers at the Roma Pryma Bohachevsky Dance Ukrainian police detained a man who drive him for hours through the countryside, Academy Camp. He studied the violin for ten years and played in the held a woman hostage in a Kyiv bank for chased by police. More than six hours after Herndon Regional Youth Orchestra and the District XII Honors Orchestra, hours, threatening to detonate an explosive the pursuit began, the man left his hostage Fairfax County, VA. Andriko participated in soccer and basketball leagues, device that he said was in his backpack. in the car and fled into a forest. Authorities and volunteered his time performing Christian service projects and Police managed to detain the man after located that suspect a week later and shot playing the violin for the Tacy Foundation. allowing him to talk to journalists inside him dead on August 1, state media reported. Andriko leaves behind in great sorrow: Kyiv’s Universal Bank. Officials confirmed (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service, with reporting by AP, Reuters and DPA) parents: Ivan and Andrea (Lebedovych) Bilaniuk after the man was detained that he did in brother: Peter Bilaniuk grandmothers: Vladimira Bilaniuk and Zwenyslawa Lebedovych Godfather/uncle: Orest W.O. Lebedovych might lead to a serious risk reassessment Godmother: Vera Kobzar Kuzyk Russian Wagner... in Moscow. Hastened regime change in And numerous grieving cousins, aunts and uncles in the United (Continued from page 2) Belarus could, then, become a political priority, and the ChVK privateer deploy- States and Canada. crisis are quite high. ment to Belorusoch­ka might, indeed, turn He is predeceased by his grandfathers Jaroslaw Bilaniuk and LTC Milas W. Nevertheless, the detention of the into the first move of a new “hybrid war” Lebedovych, MD. Wagner mercenaries (if they are not effort. Funeral services were held at St. Mark Catholic Church, Vienna, VA; Holy released soon after election day, on August Trinity Particular Ukrainian Catholic Church, Silver Spring, MD; and Holy 9), persistent perceived anti-Russian rhet- The article above is reprinted from Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church, Kerhonkson, NY. oric coming from Belarusian officials, or Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from Andriko was laid to rest on his sixteenth birthday at Pine Bush Cemetery, the extradition of the arrested Russian its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, Kerhonkson, NY. fighters to Ukraine (as Kyiv demands) www.jamestown.org. Donations in Andriko Bilaniuk’s memory can be made to the following organizations he selected: Plast Camp – Vovcha Tropa and the DC able.” Unfortunately for the Hungarians, Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation. “Most...” this word was “Legmegengesztelhetet­ Andriko’s additional obituary may be viewed at www.moneyandking.com. (Continued from page 7) lenebbek.” Flummoxed, they agreed to the Вічная пам’ять! May his memory be eternal! Latin “Viribus unitis” (“With United War I, Austria-Hungary built a dreadnought Forces”) – which just happened to be the at Trieste that was to be named after Field personal motto of the Habsburgs. (Mauthe, Marshal Radetzky. The Hungarians protest- “How to Be a Viennese,” 1966, pp. 58-60) ed, insisting on a Hungarian name. Finally Let us hope Ukraine’s leaders prove as Emperor Franz Josef relented. The ship wily as the good old kaiser and put those could be christened with whatever the “most irreconcilable” Hungarians in their Hungarian word was for “Most Irreconcil­ place.

With deep sorrow we announce the passing into eternal rest of our beloved With great sorrow we announce that mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother Maria (Martyniuk) Borbycz Irene Koczerzuk Harris on July 31, 2020, at the age of 90. daughter of Rev. Julian Koczerzuk and So a Koczerzuk, widow of Dr. Zoltan Harris, stepmother of the late Gabor Hariss, She was the widow of Iwan Borbycz, sister of the late Roman Koczerzuk and Maria Hrynevych born in Velesniv, Ternopil Oblast, Ukraine, on July 27, 1930. and aunt of the late Zirko Hrynevych. Maria lived guided by her faith in God, her love and devotion passed on July 15, 2020 at home in Winchester, VIrginia, at the age of 97. to her family, and her love of Ukraine. She was born on April 16,1923 in Zarice, Ivano-Frankivsk oblast, Ukraine. Left in deep sorrow: daughters: Oksana Korduba and husband Peter Remaining in deep sorrow: Irene Ilnicki grandchildren: Taissa Isaacs and husband Je sons - Steven Harris and wife Raina of Conway, South Carolina Laryssa Rodriguez and husband Hjarmar - Congressman Andrew Harris MD, and wife Nicole Mark Ilnicki of Hunt Valley, Maryland Tatiana Ilnicki - Dr. Gregory Harris and wife Maura of Winchester, Virginia Andrea Ilnicki niece - Maria Shandor and husband Bohdan of Bonita Springs, great-grandchildren: Natalia and Alexa Rodriguez Florida Lia and Kayla Isaacs great nephew - Roman Hrynevych of Lviv, Ukraine Funeral services were held on August 3, 2020, at St. Nicholas Ukrainian 13 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren Catholic Church in Passaic, NJ, with burial at St Mary’s Cemetery in Saddle Private funeral services were held on July 24, 2020 at Sacred Heart of Brook, NJ. Jesus Catholic Church in Winchester, Virginia. In Memory of Maria Borbycz donations can be made to: Memorial contributions can be made in Irene’s memory to: • United Ukrainian American Relief Committee, Inc. (fl ood victims in Ukraine), 1206 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111 UCEF Ukrainian Catholic Education Foundation 2247 W.Chicago Ave. • Cure Alzheimer’s Fund Chicago, IL 60622-8957 34 Washington Street, Suite 310, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481 Eternal memory! Вічная пам’ять! Вічная пам’ять! 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 No. 32

The questioning then turned to corrup- the reactivation of a special envoy for Ukraine than other countries.” Senate... tion and the fight against oligarchical con- Ukraine (a position previously held by As the nearly two-hour nomination hear- (Continued from page 1) trol in Ukrainian politics. The nominee Ambassador Kurt Volker) would be of sub- ing was coming to a close, Sen. Menendez described their presence in Ukrainian poli- stantial benefit. concluded the questioning by seeking reas- The ambassador-designate first visited tics as “very powerful.” When discussing the A spirited discussion ensued when Sen. surances that should any interference be Ukraine in 1980 and almost immediately actions of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) asked if, in the prevalent in the November 2020 presiden- recognized the deep pride in Ukraine’s his- and his team, the general mentioned that general’s capacity as ambassador to tial election, the nominee would “report not tory and people, but most notably the trag- the president is “still popular, but he needs Ukraine, he would meet with members of a only to the executive branch, but also to ic suffering the nation has had to endure some help,” in his reform efforts. U.S. presidential campaign. “The greatest Congress.” In an emphatic response, Lt. Gen. due to foreign powers. The co-chair of the Senate Ukraine strategic asset [that Ukraine has] is biparti- Dayton replied: “Of course!” Lt. Gen. Dayton concluded his oral testi- Caucus, Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio), spoke san support in Congress and… I would seek Lastly, Sen. Menendez inquired about mony by stating that, “My military back- highly of Lt. Gen. Dayton, declaring that the audiences with a critical eye,” responded additional security assistance to Ukraine ground and current role as Ukraine’s general is a “star” and “the right person at the ambassador-designate. and asked what the nominee’s priorities senior defense advisor provide me unique the right time” to serve as ambassador to Sen. Murphy then went on to speak of the would be in Ukraine, to which the general insight that I hope to leverage to assist Ukraine. Sen. Portman then mentioned testi- efficacy of not just military/security assis- clearly responded that Ukraine’s “Navy and Ukraine’s armed forces become an increas- mony submitted by the Ukrainian Congress tance to Ukraine, but also critical political Air Force are two sectors that need the most ingly effective fighting force.” (Lt. Gen. Committee of America (UCCA) to the SFRC and economic support, noting that Russian work.” With regard to priorities, the general Dayton’s prepared testimony appears on in support of Lt. Gen. Dayton’s nomination President Vladimir Putin’s aim is to sow elaborated on his work at the Marshall page 4 of this issue.) and requested that the written document be strife in the country, not to amass troops in Center in Germany and his interactions with Sen. Menendez began a line of question- put into the record. (The UCCA’s written tes- Kyiv. Lt. Gen. Dayton agreed that “Putin’s many Ukrainian delegations, especially ing probing Lt. Gen. Dayton if he would meet timony appears on page 4.) goal is to destabilize the country. Why fight among the younger generations, underscor- with President Trump’s lawyer Rudy Continuing his remarks, the senator when you can do it by other means.” ing that his priorities would have to be “rule Guiliani while at the helm at the U.S. highlighted the threats to Ukraine’s sover- When asked in the last round of ques- of law and the judiciary. “ He explained that Embassy in Kyiv. Continuing that line of eignty and pointed out that, as a strategic tions whether assistance offered to Ukraine “The younger generation sees the judiciary questioning, the senator also asked the gen- partner of the United States, Ukraine has from European countries, in particular as the problem” in Ukraine. eral if he would “report to appropriate made real strides in its reforms. Just last Germany, had “done nothing” to support A confirmation vote for the nominees authorities for any interference in the week, Sen. Portman, along with other sena- Ukraine, Lt. Gen. Dayton replied that was not taken at the hearing and will be November 2020 elections.” In response to tors introduced the Ukraine Strategic “Germany could do more and likely will, considered at a future date by the Senate election interference, Lt. Gen. Dayton’s Partnership Act, which would support and that little Lithuania does more for Foreign Relations Committee. response was fairly succinct, “I see no rea- Ukraine’s security needs. (See story on son not to do that.” The general continued page 3.) The senator elaborated, that as a by stating that he is aware he would serve in result of the bill’s introduction, members of Ukraine’s defense sector needs reform, but Kyiv “at the discretion of the president, but the Russian Duma insisted that Russia Testimony of U.S. ... ultimately it should work for the people of also at the disposal of the American people.” would thereby begin to supply weapons to (Continued from page 4) Ukraine – not China. Additional inquires by the ranking mem- areas of Ukraine already invaded by Russia. Ukraine needs to ensure a level playing ber related to how the general would boost To that remark, Gen. Dayton responded “as ground and current role as Ukraine’s senior field through transparent economic institu- morale at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv and if they [Russian regular forces] were not defense advisor provide me unique insight tions that deter vested interests and break whether he was familiar with the newly involved [already],” with over 400 tanks, that I hope to leverage to assist Ukraine’s the stranglehold of corruption. Only when introduced Ukraine Security Partnership 700 artillery pieces and the like. armed forces become an increasingly effec- international businesses have real confi- Act bill. While the general had not read the Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) began her tive fighting force. This includes helping dence in their investments will Ukraine details of the new bill, he was resolute in line of questioning centered on the Minsk Ukraine implement the interoperability realize its full economic potential. Key to stating that he is a “team builder” and looks process and its feasibility. “Should we con- reforms necessary to achieve NATO member- building that confidence is to make good on to bring that skill set to the U.S. Embassy. sider coming up with a different agree- ship. NATO’s recent decision to offer Ukraine’s reform commitments. Other senators took turns asking Lt. Gen. ment?” she inquired. “There have been dis- Enhanced Opportunity Partner status to Over the past five years, the United Dayton his opinions and viewpoints on sev- cussions with Europeans if a new agree- Ukraine is a huge step in the right direction States has provided over $4 billion in aid, eral key issues. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) ment is needed.” Sen. Shaheen also men- and the culmination of efforts I initiated at and others in the international community queried the general about his assessment tioned the distribution last year of over 1 the Marshall Center in 2014 and advocated at have provided billions more. Meeting the of the current situation in Ukraine, both million Russian passports to Ukrainian citi- the North Atlantic Council earlier this year. conditions set forth by international finan- militarily and politically. In his response, zens and asked what the effect of that poli- Ukraine’s defense industrial base is also cial institutions will ensure Ukraine contin- the nominee was forthright in describing cy might be for Ukraine. in need of urgent attention and transforma- ues to serve its people – and I mean every- practical needs for Ukraine’s security, Lt. Gen. Dayton responded that the tional leadership. Years of corruption and one – not just a few individuals. Continued which includes the “Sea of Azov and the peace process is “not going well” and said mismanagement have pushed Ukrainian compliance with Ukraine’s IMF and World Black Sea as important entities,” and noted he would have to assess the situation first- defense firms to the brink of collapse. This Bank programs is the strongest signal the that Ukraine’s fledging Navy needs imme- hand in Ukraine before recommending any neglect has made Ukraine’s hard-earned government can send that it remains com- diate assistance. His assessment of the war changes. As regards the Europeans, Lt. Gen. intellectual property and defense technolo- mitted to reform. in eastern Ukraine was enlightening: “The Dayton replied in the affirmative that they gy vulnerable to Chinese exploitation and Mr. Chairman and members of the situation in the east [Donbas] is stable… are “steadfast in their sanctions… and I expropriation – something we cannot Committee, thank you for this opportunity Could Russia invade? Yes, but they’d be would consult with ambassadors of the allow. We cannot turn a blind eye to China’s to appear before you. I welcome any ques- bloodied.” Normandy process.” He also advised that malign intentions in Eastern Europe. tions you may have. Thank you. No. 32 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 13 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 No. 32

ters to advisers of the Normandy format ter and minister for reintegration of the updated and repackaged by them. They are How quiet... leaders, allegedly calling the talks on the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, talking about the need to develop an eco- (Continued from page 1) Donbas at the level of advisers “meaning- When asked on July 29 who would replace nomic strategy for the re-development of less” and suggested abandoning them. This Mr. Kuchma in the TCG, the president this war-torn, destroyed and plundered The Presidential Office issued a state- move created confusion, and the Kremlin named Messrs. Reznikov and Kravchuk as region. Mr. Kravchuk has also invited his ment expressing the basic preconditions for hurriedly clarified that Russia did not the leading candidates. former prime minister, 87-year-old Vitold holding elections in Donbas. “Elections in intend to withdraw from the Normandy President Zelenskyy elaborated: “We Fokin, a native of the Donbas, to help. the temporarily occupied territories of process. need to find a balance, a person whom Within his first week in his new position, Ukraine are only possible after a compre- The head of Mr. Zelenskyy’s Presidential Russia talks to, a person who, most impor- Mr. Kravchuk was not afraid to give a video hensive de-escalation; withdrawal of foreign Office, Andriy Yermak, who has been tantly, is respected in Ukraine, a person interview to a scandalous Russian TV pro- military units and equipment, disarmament tapped by the Ukrainian leader as his prin- who can dominate the negotiating table, a pagandist in order to get the Ukrainian of illegal armed formations; restoration of cipal negotiator with Russia, told Interfax- person who can react, who will not betray position across to a Russian audience. He control by the Ukrainian government over Ukraine on July 31 that the negotiation pro- Ukraine in difficult moments, in challenging also voiced his preliminary ideas on how he the Ukrainian-Russian border,” it read. cess has been “qualitatively reformatted” moments. A person with experience and a sees the way forward. On the eve of the ceasefire, July 26, and that “Ukraine has taken a proactive and person who is neither right nor left, is a Mr. Kravchuk has spoken about the need President Zelenskyy held a phone conver- tougher position.” In his opinion, Mr. centrist, he maintains a balance, is respect- for dialogue and compromises, but has been sation with Russian President Vladimir Kozak’s letter was “rather about a subtle ed by most Ukraine’s population, both in careful to stress that he does not mean Putin. Afterwards, he confirmed that the diplomatic game, when one of the parties the east and in the west” speaking directly with Moscow’s proxies and ceasefire was welcomed by both sides and to the negotiations wants to strengthen its The following day, President Zelenskyy thereby legitimizing them, nor conceding that the two leaders had discussed the positions and seize the initiative.” confirmed his choice appointing the first on matters of principle as regards Ukraine’s implementation of the agreements reached At this time, it became known that Mr. president of post-Soviet independent sovereignty and territorial integrity. during the Normandy Four summit in Paris. Kuchma was relinquishing his role as head Ukraine, Mr. Kravchuk, to the position. The Instead of a “special status” for the The ceasefire came into effect at the of the Ukrainian delegation in the TCG – a 86-year-old politician and statesman Donbas, he proposes negotiating a compro- agreed-upon time. Although the Ukrainian position to which he had been appointed by responded that, at a time of war, “when our mise “special system of governance.” He side has noted sporadic minor violations President Petro Poroshenko. No explana- young boys and girls are dying, defending wants the United States to be involved in since then, it appears that, over all, the tion was provided, and most commentators our land… and sovereignty,” he could not the Donbas peace process and to invite rep- ceasefire has been observed – certainly assumed he had grown weary of what often refuse. “I have made my decision… I want resentatives of the occupied Donbas to for- more effectively and for longer than on pre- seemed to be a thankless task. President to do something to speed up the attainment mulate their views of the region’s future. vious occasions. Zelenskyy thanked Mr. Kuchma for his con- of peace in the Donbas. I will do it to my last In short, there is finally some movement Against this encouraging background, tribution to the peace process. breath,” he said in a video commentary. in this delicate sphere. Although it is still two other events occurred. In fact, the real head of the Ukrainian Since then, Messrs. Kravchuk and premature to confirm that a breakthrough Unexpectedly, in the last week of July, the delegation in the TCG for some time now Reznikov have begun to work in tandem has been made and can be sustained, sud- deputy head of the Administration of the has been the capable legal specialist Oleskii and have produced some proposals, which, denly the situation seems more promising President of Russia, Dmitry Kozak, sent let- Reznikov, who is also deputy prime minis- if not entirely new, are being skillfully than in the first half of this year.

the territory. The primary purpose of the October, as was planned, according to the their power the day after the election, on Verkhovna Rada... change is to make it easier for the govern- new administrative division, so that the October 26. Raion administrations, the (Continued from page 1) ment to organize various structures on the country can advance in terms of improving executive bodies on the raion level, will ground that deal with such matters as the provision of public services to the citi- work until the end of 2020 because they borders remained unchanged. One of the courts, taxes, social security, pension funds, zens. We mustn’t slow down or delay the have ongoing funding. consequences is that disproportionate police, etc. Thus, a raion is an administra- process. The reform is primarily imple- “The biggest problem of the administra- raions have appeared in Ukraine. tive-territorial unit for the government, not mented for the benefit of the people, for tive-territorial reform, the so-called zoning, “We have raions inhabited by a little for citizens. their convenience,” the prime minister is that most of the funds that should be in more than 5,000 residents [Polissia raion in There are united territorial communities stressed. For the communities to function the united communities have remained at Kyiv oblast – ed.] and areas with over for citizens, a modern form of self-gover- successfully, Mr. Shmyhal said he believes it the raion level,” said National Deputy 180,000 people [Kharkiv raion in Kharkiv nance created as a product of decentraliza- is necessary to move to the next stage of Yaroslav Yurchyshyn from Holos faction. oblast]. Because of this, there are consider- tion reform in 2015. Back on March 6, reform – the formation of optimized raions. “We have formed new raions chaotically, able imbalances, causing difficulties in Prime Minister Shmyhal said that 1,045 Initiators and supporters of the new very often without the consent of local administration. The responsibility of these united territorial communities had already zoning say it is impossible to eliminate communities. Currently, the raions have a raions is the same, but the workload varies been established in Ukraine, noting that raions and leave only communities. Due to lot of money and a minimum of functions. greatly, so that requires correction,” Mr. 350 more were to be created soon. Ukraine’s size, united communities and United communities have a lot of power Shmyhal explained at the Cabinet meeting. A community is a basic unit of adminis- oblasts alone are not enough – there should and a minimum of resources to implement Another consequence of outdated zon- trative division in Ukraine. According to the be an intermediate level of government. them,” Mr. Yurchyshyn pointed out. ing is that the division into raions does not law of Ukraine adopted in 1997, a commu- Raion authorities are partially responsible “For the central government not to put correspond to the state’s political tasks. nity, also known as “hromada,” is composed for medicine, education, social protection pressure on local self-governance, it is nec- During the Soviet era, raions in western of residents who are united by permanent- and logistics. Raion councils will support essary to withdraw funds from the raions Ukraine were shrunk to form as many ly living in a village, settlement or city, or a those institutions that communities are not and transfer them to the communities. party cells as possible and to manage peo- voluntary association of residents of sever- able to afford. These include local hospitals, Because while united communities have ple and territories more easily. Nowadays, al villages that have one administrative cen- out-of-school educational institutions, chil- been given powers, they have not been the trend is different: the greatest number ter. The communities form raions, several dren’s and youth sports schools, orphanag- given the resources to implement them. It of raions is being formed in temporarily raions form an oblast. es and homes for the elderly. A raion’s bud- is not decentralization, but an imitation of occupied Crimea (10) and partially occu- “Administrative and territorial reform is get will now be replenished mainly by utili- reform, like everything that the current pied Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts (right one of the most important and successful ties and institutions that remain on its bal- government implements,” commented Mr. each) in order to increase the presence of transformations, and it should be complet- ance sheet and subsidies from the national Yurchyshyn, who is the deputy chairman of Ukrainian authorities in these territories ed before the local elections scheduled for budget. the Verkhovna Rada’s Committee on Anti- after de-occupation. A group of migrants October this year,” the prime minister The local elections on October 25 will be Corruption Policy. from the Crimean peninsula and represen- announced on June 12 as he opened an held according to the new zoning. More “This is a reform of the so-called basic tatives of the Crimean Tatars worked on extraordinary meeting of the government. than 1,000 community leaders will be level, when sustainable communities cover new zoning in Crimea. “This is one of the most essential and most elected in Ukraine, as will deputies to the the territory,” Mr. Shmyhal said on June 12. Among the criteria for the formation of successful reforms. This reform is also one village, settlement and city councils, depu- “The communities need to be modern and new raions are these: location within one of the most understandable and is support- ties to more than 100 raion councils, and responsive to people’s needs. That implies oblast, a population of at least 150,000 ed by the people, so we should complete it deputies to 22 oblast councils (councils in convenient services. After the election pro- inhabitants in accordance with European this year.” Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts will not be cess in the fall, the communities will work at standards, compactness and continuity of “We have to hold local elections in elected). The current raion councils lose full capacity,” the prime minister predicted.

global stability,” said Sen. Shaheen. “This years; Bipartisan... bipartisan legislation provides urgently State Department report on the capability (Continued from page 3) needed security assistance to Ukraine to establish a working group on Ukraine with and• requirescapacity a requirementsDepartment of ofDefense Ukraine’s and defend its sovereignty, and helps ensure relevant• encourages European the allies; Department of State to armed forces, a plan to supply U.S. security integrity of their nation,” said Sen. Barrasso. Ukraine‘s commitment to reform and assistance to Ukraine, and any recommen- “Our bipartisan legislation provides democracy. The Kremlin’s malign behavior a special envoy for Ukraine to serve as the dations; Ukraine with key military and diplomatic against the U.S. and our trans-Atlantic part- U.S.• liaisonrequires for the the administration Normandy format to appoint peace resources to help secure a peaceful, demo- ners continues unabated, which is why negotiations and to facilitate dialogue defense articles to Ukraine, and calls for a cratic future for their country. The United ensuring our partners in the region have between Black Sea countries; strategy• expedites to encourage the partner transfer nations of excess to do States is committed to fully supporting our the ability to counter this aggression on the the same; and strong partner, Ukraine.” frontlines is so critical.” of foreign military financing to Ukraine, “Supporting Ukraine against the The Ukraine Security Partnership Act: subject• authorizes to certifications, up to $300 million including per yearthe Ukrainian military officers through the Kremlin’s aggression is a critical U.S. authority to provide Ukraine with lethal Institute• authorizes of Marine $4 million and perEnvironmental year to train national security priority and important for support for Ukraine over the next five military assistance; Technology. • requires a report on U.S. diplomatic No. 32 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 15

Bohdan Hawryluk (committee chair- Virtual... man), Ms. Griffin and Dmytro Stapinskyy (Continued from page 9) managed the technical aspects of the pro- gram leading up to and during the event. tence and resistance to Russian oppression The program committee also included: and occupation. Zenon Halkowycz, Ivan Kebalo, Stepan Music and dance performances took Kaczurak, Mr. Lenczuk and Mr. Koziupa. August 11 Conversation, “The Time Is Now: Connecting Euromaidan place between the speakers’ presentations. The final program was the culmination of Online and Black Lives Matter: A Conversation Between Kimberly Local (New York/New Jersey) talent includ- over six weeks of planning, preparation and St. Julian-Varnon and Emily Channell-Justice,” Harvard ed: the Iskra Ukrainian Dance Ensemble; implementation University, https://youtu.be/wQrJtnSscUo sisters Oksana Telepko and Halyna Leskiw Themes for this event included: loving (banduras and singing); Mr. Koziupa and our Ukrainian culture; celebrating our August 12, 19 Community Conversations, Ukrainian Canadian Congress, Tatyana Koziupa Griffin (accordion and motherland, Ukraine; and honoring our Online discussions hosted on various topics of interest to Ukrainians, singing); the Whippany, N.J., branch of the heroes. www.ucc.ca/programs or [email protected] (online Ukrainian American Youth Association The Organization for the Defense of Four registration is free) (performing a dance); Ukrainian Village Freedoms for Ukraine sincerely thanked all Voices (performing a song); and Uliana and of the invited speakers and performers; as August 16 Children’s workshop, “Petrykivka Painting” with Halyna Kalyna Leshchuk (bandura and singing). well as “attendees” and those who helped Online Nazarenko, Ukrainian History and Education Center, There was also a very special music perfor- spread the word about the event. www.ukrhec.org (registration required) mance by Serhiy Vasyliuk of the Ukrainian To watch the Sviato Heroyiv 2020 video, rock band Tin Sontsia. readers may visit www.ODFFU.tv. August 20 Webinar with Alex Bakus, “COVID-19 and Technology: Online Impacts, Challenges and Opportunitites,” Ukrainian National Federation – Ottawa-Gatineau, [email protected] (registration required)

August 22-30 Ukraine 5K Run/Walk hosted by Ukrainian Running Club Online New York, run anywhere in the world, to post your result and receive a complimentary Vyshyvanka-themed mask, register at https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Yourcity/ UkraineRunbyUkrainianRunningClubNewYork

August 24 Ukrainian Independence Day commemoration, Ukrainian Binghamton, NY Congress Committee of America – Binghamton branch, Binghamton City Hall, [email protected]

August 26 Online workshop, “Nature – Inside Out” with Gunjan Kumar, Online Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, [email protected]

September 2-7 Labor Day Week, Soyuzivka Heritage Center, Tatyana K. Griffin and Michael Koziupa perform during the program. Kerhonkson, NY www.soyuzivka.com

exaggeration or malignant propaganda.” Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events The story... This continued whitewashing of Stalin’s advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors (Continued from page 5) Ukraine famine proved internationally con- venient. At a time when the democratic and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. Kharkiv borderlands of Ukraine that Gareth world was far more concerned by Hitler’s Jones visited in spring 1933. recent rise to power in Germany and the Jones’s journey took place before the economic impact of the Great Depression, worst months of the Holodomor. The death there was little appetite for a confrontation toll in Ukraine would not reach its peak with the Kremlin. until June 1933. Overall, close to 1 million Indeed, as Ukraine starved, the United people are believed to have died in the States was preparing to extend official rec- Kharkiv region alone. More than half of the ognition to the Soviet Union. Duranty’s estimated 4 million Ukrainians who lost Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage of the their lives in the famine perished in regions USSR was widely seen as important in that did not belong to the country’s grain- influencing U.S. President Franklin Delano producing agricultural heartlands. The only Roosevelt and convincing American public reason these areas suffered so badly was opinion of the need to open diplomatic because they were part of Ukraine. relations with the communist state. As famine conditions began to recede in At the dinner given for Soviet Foreign late summer 1933, the denials took on a Minister Maxim Litvinov at New York’s new tone. In an August 1933 article for The Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in November 1933 New York Times, Duranty belatedly recog- to celebrate the establishment of relations nized that the “food shortages” cited in his between the United States and the USSR, earlier reports had in fact been a large- Duranty’s presence was greeted with the scale famine. He acknowledged that up to 2 most thunderous applause of the entire million people had died, but he refused to evening. This triumphant scene for Stalin’s attribute this to the actions of the Soviet greatest apologist appears in Agnieszka government. Instead, his focus remained Holland’s movie. It has little in common on discrediting opponents while trumpet- with the happy endings typical of ing the bright future of the USSR. The first Hollywood blockbusters, but it is a fitting sentence of his article read: “The excellent finale to a true story that has much to tell harvest about to be gathered shows that modern audiences about the dangers of any report of a famine in Russia is today an disinformation.

officials under the control of Russia-backed Turning... forces, said at least two people were killed (Continued from page 6) by shells. On August 15, Ukrainian military Ukraine and Russia-backed forces trad- spokesman Andriy Lysenko said, “Over the ed accusations of attempting to break a past 24 hours we recorded the highest level ceasefire deal that was agreed upon in of firing by the illegal armed groups for the Minsk in February 2015. Artillery fire past six months.” exchanges intensified through August 17, Mariupol remains a strategic port city, which residents described as the heaviest linking parts of eastern Ukraine controlled fighting they had seen in three months. In by the militants and Russia-annexed the village of Sartana, 20 kilometers east of Crimea. Mariupol, houses were destroyed as a Source: “Ukraine reports intense battles result of the fighting; in Horlivka, at least near Mariupol,” RFE/RL, The Ukrainian three people were killed. In Donetsk, city Weekly, August 16, 2015. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2020 No. 32