Inside: l House leaders support lethal defensive arms for Kyiv – page 3 l Zissels calls for united effort against Russian aggression – page 4 l Photo exhibit in Ottawa marks Maidan anniversary – page 5

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXIII No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 $2.00 NEWS ANALYSIS: The plot to seize Crimea Ukrainian American activists demand by Robert Coalson bring Crimea back into Russia,’ ” a confi- implementation of Freedom Support Act RFE/RL dent-looking Mr. Putin says in the promo- tional clip. In early 2014, the world was caught off Saying “begin the work,” Mr. Putin seems guard by one event after another in a crisis to be implying that no preparation had that culminated with Russia’s annexation of been made for this contingency. However, the Ukrainian Black Sea peninsula of other evidence suggests that detailed plans Crimea. had been drawn up and that Mr. Putin’s Moscow also claimed to be caught up in order to “begin the work” more likely events beyond its control. meant to start the process of implementing On March 13, just eight days before the those plans. annexation, Russian President Vladimir Russian security analyst Andrei Soldatov Putin told a meeting in Moscow that “we told The Moscow Times in March 2014: cannot ignore the situation evolving “The Kremlin always has several plans on around Ukraine, Crimea.” various issues that may not be in use for “I want to emphasize that this crisis is not years. But then when some trigger appears, of our making,” Mr. Putin said. “Nevertheless, Putin asks to put one of the plans into one way or another we are being dragged into it.” A bit earlier, on March 4, Mr. Putin action. So the Crimea operation may have told journalists that the idea of annexing been prepared long ago, but the decision Crimea “is not being considered.” on it was made very quickly.” But a year later, new revelations, includ- The medals that the Russian military Recently elected Rep. Ryan Costello (fourth from left), Republican of Pennsylvania, ing disclosures from Mr. Putin himself, are awarded to service personnel – which Mr. meets with Ukrainian American constituents from his district in Pennsylvania. Putin initially denied were involved in the reshaping this part of the Kremlin’s Crimea mentation of the law. On March 4, UNIS Crimea annexation at all – says the opera- Ukrainian National Information Service narrative and other key aspects as well. organized a Ukrainian Day advocacy event A new documentary that is to be aired tion “for the return of Crimea” began on WASHNGTON – Since President Barack on Capitol Hill to express concerns about by Russian state television in the coming February 20, 2014. Putin advisor Vladislav Obama signed the Ukraine Freedom the negligible implementation of the law, as days is being teased with clips of Mr. Putin Surkov was in Crimea the week of February Support Act (UFSA) into law on December well as to establish better contacts with claiming he made the decision to annex 14, and the first pro-Russian demonstra- 18, 2014, the Ukrainian Congress Ukrainian Americans’ elected representa- Crimea in the early morning hours of tions on the peninsula materialized on Committee of America (UCCA) and its tives in Washington. February 23. February 21. Washington public affairs bureau, the Nearly 50 community activists from “When we were parting, I told all my col- Ukrainian National Information Service leagues, ‘we are forced to begin the work to (Continued on page 17) (UNIS), have been monitoring the imple- (Continued on page 9) Refugees, now in Kramatorsk, recall their experiences in war-torn east

by Yana Sedova Internal Displacement Monitoring Center, an international NGO.) KRAMATORSK, Ukraine – Nikita Suprun Their harrowing stories of violence, is a lucky boy, having survived three proven by their bodies damaged by armed months of artillery fire that rained down attacks or rape, make it all the more appar- upon his hometown of Artemivsk in the ent that a full-scale war is under way, which Donetsk region in the autumn. is not tangibly felt in the relatively peaceful At the same time, he is burdened with streets of Ukraine’s capital. having seen more tragedy at the age of 8 The Kramatorsk shelter is a two-story, than most people do in their entire lives. He Soviet-era building that belongs to saw how his school was destroyed before Pentecostals, who have taken upon them- he himself was wounded by shrapnel and selves the sometimes risky task of evacuat- shell-shocked. Doctors were pessimistic, ing refugees from the hot spots of the war expecting that he would have to learn to zone. Their entire building is now being walk normally again. transformed into a refugee camp. At a refugee camp in Kramatorsk (a sec- On a late January afternoon, there are ond city that was freed from the separatists 45 people in the camp, mostly women with in the northern Donetsk region), there was kids. The youngest is only 7 weeks old, nothing unusual in Nikita’s behavior. He is while the eldest is 92, a blind and deaf man. more interested in the packages of food Nikita Shulyagin Both are unaware of what is going on brought to the camp from Kyiv than in At a Kramatorsk shelter, Donbas war refugees – mostly women and children – gather around them. recalling the details of that awful day he at a table with donated food. The children have already grown accus- was wounded. tomed to their situation, and resemble little About 100 bright bottles of yogurt, more Pentecostal Christians, but rarely do they ing into the protected cities and towns of Spartans who rarely show any sorrow. But than 30 kilos of chicken and 1,000 eggs see milk or meat. the northern Donetsk region, which is still their mothers cry as they share their suddenly placed on the kitchen table also In the weeks leading up to the February under Ukrainian control. accounts of a world turned upside-down. attract the undivided attention of the other 12 Minsk 2 ceasefire, war in the Donbas (The total number of refugees is estimat- Yana Suprun, Nikita’s mother, lifts his shirt kids. They have plenty of cereal and canned region escalated to unprecedented levels, ed at 1.04 million since the start of the food, thanks to the generosity of local resulting in a fresh wave of refugees pour- Donbas war in April, according to the (Continued on page 8) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11

ANALYSIS

Free rein of special services NATO says Russia ‘still in Ukraine’ the exception, for many at risk groups there.” Ms. Nuland said the United States MONS, Belgium – NATO Secretary- had begun initial conversations with makes Russia ungovernable General Jens Stoltenberg has said that European allies on more sanctions should “Russia is still in Ukraine” and urged It was Alexei Navalny, an anti-corruption Russia fail to implement the ceasefire or by Pavel K. Baev Moscow to withdraw all its forces and to take more land. She said there was “incom- Eurasia Daily Monitor blogger and outspoken leader of the demo- end its support for separatists in eastern cratic opposition, who first concluded that plete compliance” by Russia on the Minsk Ukraine. Mr. Stoltenberg said on March 11 agreements. Brian McKeon, deputy under- It took a week for the Russian Federal the murder was nothing other than an that NATO “has seen and still sees a strong Security Service (FSB) to produce a pair of operation by the special services (Rbc.ru, secretary of defense, said it was “correct” Russian presence and strong support for that the United States has not been success- plausible suspects in the shocking murder March 3). On March 6, he was released separatist forces in eastern Ukraine.” U.S. from his two-week-long detention and told ful in getting Russia back into compliance of Boris Nemtsov on February 28 (see General Philip Breedlove, the supreme Eurasia Daily Monitor, March 2). On March a small crowd of journalists that the act of with the Minsk agreements. He said that allied commander of NATO troops, said at 7, FSB Director Aleksandr Bortnikov terror that was the Nemtsov murder would the United States was still “trying” to get the same press conference in Mons, reported to President Vladimir Putin that not scare the opposition from doing its Russia to comply with the ceasefire. two men implicated in the crime were work (Novaya Gazeta, March 6). Belgium, that the alliance has “seen some Ukraine’s army said on March 10 that under arrest; on the following day, another The conclusion about a professionally success” with a ceasefire deal agreed in Russian-backed separatists violated the man killed himself with a hand grenade in executed special operation is logical and Minsk last month that has greatly reduced ceasefire by shelling government positions Grozny (Newsru.com, March 7). The consistent with the proposition that the exe- fighting and led to the withdrawal of some in eastern Ukraine, including attacks near authoritative statement put an end to the cutioners were too arrogant and confident heavy weapons. But Gen. Breedlove said it the city Mariupol. (RFE/RL, with reporting flurry of wild speculations in the main- in their status as “untouchables” to prepare was “difficult to know” where the heavy by the Associated Press) stream media, which had been eager to mix in advance a workable cover story (Slon.ru, weapons moved from the front line have rumors about Mr. Nemtsov’s private life March 5). It assumes, however, that the FSB been taken. He added that the border U.S. to send more nonlethal aid with all sorts of conspiracy theories. Rather, is a well-functioning and disciplined hierar- between Russia and much of eastern WASHINGTON – The United States has the official announcement focused atten- chy, which translates the wishes expressed Ukraine was wide open, making it difficult announced it will send more nonlethal aid tion on the “Caucasian connection,” since by the supreme leader into fool-proof plans to monitor and hard to determine how to Ukraine, including unarmed drones and the names of the suspects – Zaur Dadayev and acts on them unerringly (Forbes.ru, many Russian troops are in Ukraine. Gen. Humvee vehicles. The White House and Anzor Gubashev – appeared distinctly March 4). In reality, corruption has spread Breedlove said it was imperative that moni- released a statement on March 11 saying Chechen (Rbc.ru, March 3). so deep inside this super-structure that it tors from the Organization for Security and This breakthrough in the completely non- has mutated into a loose constellation of Vice-President Joe Biden had telephoned Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) be given full Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko to transparent investigation fit well with the predatory factions pursuing their own and access and freedom of movement in east- instant solution found by Chechnya’s despot- often violent agendas. Illustratively, the inform him of the decision. Administration ern Ukraine to verify the withdrawal of officials were quoted as saying the $75 mil- ic ruler Ramzan Kadyrov, who accused Federal Anti-Narcotics Service was the tar- heavy weapons. Mr. Stoltenberg said that Western special services of organizing the get of several recent hostile takeover lion package includes unarmed Raven the “monitoring of the ceasefire is in no drones, which can be launched by hand, 30 murder in order to provoke internal conflict attempts; and it is only by directly soliciting way sufficient today.” (RFE/RL) in Russia (Gazeta.ru, February 28). It help from President Putin that its chief, heavily armored Humvees and 200 other remains only to connect the murder sus- Viktor Ivanov, has managed to fend off such U.S.: More tanks cross into Ukraine regular Humvees, as well as radios, coun- pects to the Chechen rebels or the wider challenges (RBC.ru, March 7). Often, the real ter-mortar radars and other equipment. North Caucasus insurgency for this tragedy agendas of maverick siloviki (security ser- WASHINGTON – The United States says The armored Humvees were expected to be to morph into a story perfectly catered to the vices personnel) are concealed in Russia by Russia has transferred more weapons to delivered within a few weeks but other needs of the Russian propaganda machine. building up a case of “treason” – hence, separatists in recent days despite an ongo- equipment will take longer to arrive. (RFE/ Too many loose ends in this crime per- investigations against “NATO spies” within ing ceasefire. “We can confirm new trans- RL, based on reporting by Reuters, Agence sist, however, for one to have any confi- the security services are already quickly fers of Russian tanks, armored vehicles, France-Presse and the Associated Press) dence in the official version (Moskovsky proliferating (Newsru.com, March 7). heavy artillery and rocket equipment over Komsomolets, March 5). Arguably, the area The Ukraine crisis has produced a pleth- the border to the separatists in eastern IMF approves $17.5 B loan program around the Kremlin is too tightly controlled ora of new opportunities for Russian spe- Ukraine,” said Assistant Secretary of State WASHINGTON – The International and Mr. Nemtsov was too closely followed cial services, and many of them are enthu- for European Affairs Victoria Nuland at a Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved a $17.5 by the FSB to believe that a gang of free- siastically waging their own “mini-hybrid U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee billion bailout of Ukraine. IMF chief lancers would dare to stage such a demon- wars” with great zeal and scant attention to hearing on March 10. She said that the Christine Lagarde said on March 11, the strative execution (Moscow Echo, March 7). political guidelines. Multiple networks have transfers were “not compatible with either new four-year aid program “will support Video evidence showing numerous people arisen inside Russia to recruit “volunteers” the spirit or letter” of the ceasefire reached immediate economic stabilization in and cars at the crime scene also conflicts for the Moscow-backed rebel forces in east- in Minsk. Ms. Nuland said that Crimea, Ukraine and a set of deep and wide-ranging with the story about a single killer making ern Ukraine. Though, on the whole, these which Moscow illegally annexed a year ago, a fast hit and escaping in a car registered in policy reforms aimed at restoring robust and parts of eastern Ukraine are living growth over the medium term and improv- Ingushetia (Moscow Echo, March 6). (Continued on page 16) under a “reign of terror,” adding, “Today ing living standards for the Ukrainian peo- Crimea remains under illegal occupation WINDOW ON EURASIA and human rights abuses are the norm, not (Continued on page 12)

No thinking person can believe Chechens The Ukrainian Weekly FOUNDED 1933 killed Nemtsov, says Chechen activist An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. by Paul Goble Ramzan Kadyrov, despite their penchant for Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. boosting everything the Kremlin leader does Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. Akhmed Zakayev, who was a close aide (echo.msk.ru/news/1508588-echo.html). (ISSN — 0273-9348) to Dzhokhar Dudayev and who leads the Perhaps some Kremlin propagandists anti-Moscow Chechens from London, says concluded that it was just too much to show The Weekly: UNA: Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 that Moscow’s suggestion that Chechens Mr. Putin honoring the Chechen head, who were responsible for the murder of Russian had called into question the very idea that Postmaster, send address changes to: opposition figure Boris Nemtsov last week there was “a Chechen link” in the Nemtsov The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz is “pure propaganda which has nothing in case, at the very same time that the Russian 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas common with reality.” government was pedaling the idea that P.O. Box 280 Any thinking person can see that this is Chechens were the shooters. Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] only the latest example of Vladimir Putin’s But they shouldn’t have been so worried. long-standing demonization of the Many of the reliable supporters of the The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com Chechens who fought for their own inde- Kremlin and indeed many others could be pendence and who are now fighting for counted on to ignore such self-evident con- The Ukrainian Weekly, March 15, 2015, No. 11, Vol. LXXXIII that of Ukraine, actions Mr. Putin couldn’t tradictions just as they have so many other Copyright © 2015 The Ukrainian Weekly forgive or fail to exploit in his propaganda Putin duplicities and to swallow the increas- exercises (ru.krymr.com/content/arti- ingly Orwellian version of reality now on cle/26890173.html). offer in Moscow. There is even evidence that some close to ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA the Kremlin are ashamed by the absurdity Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on eth- Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and brazenness of this action: Kremlin- nic and religious questions in Eurasia. The and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 e-mail: [email protected] controlled television channels have not article above is reprinted with permission shown a single report about Mr. Putin pre- from his blog called “Window on Eurasia” Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 e-mail: [email protected] senting a state award to his Chechen, (http://windowoneurasia2.blogspot.com/). No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 3 Bipartisan group of House leaders supports lethal defensive aid for Kyiv WASHINGTON – A group of House lead- Frelinghuysen (R-N.J.); and State and Foreign compromised by a lack of vigilance. urge you to quickly approve additional ers and committee chairs in the House of Operations Appropriations Subcommittee The Congress responded to his call to efforts to support Ukraine’s efforts to Representatives on March 4 sent a letter to Chairwoman Kay Granger (R-Texas). action, and we sent you the Ukraine Freedom defend its sovereign territory, including President Barack Obama urging him to The full text of the letter follows. Support Act in December. To date, the admin- through the transfer of lethal, defensive approve lethal defensive aid for Ukraine. “In * * * istration has not utilized the authorities weapons systems to the Ukrainian military. the wake of a ceasefire agreement that Dear Mr. President: provided in the Ukraine Freedom Support We should not wait until Russian troops appears only to have consolidated Russian From the very beginning of the crisis in Act to provide defensive military systems to and their separatist proxies take Mariupol and separatist gains since the first Minsk Ukraine, a bipartisan majority in Congress the Ukrainian government. or Kharkiv before we act to bolster the agreement,” the eight Republicans and three has indicated it understands the crisis in This week, shortly after the one-year Ukrainian government’s ability to deter and Democrats wrote, “we urge you to quickly Ukraine to be about more than a Russian anniversary of the Revolution of Dignity, defend against further aggression. approve additional efforts to support assault on the independence and We understand your desire to Ukraine’s efforts to defend its sovereign ter- sovereignty of Ukraine. It is even prioritize unity of effort with ritory, including through the transfer of more than simply a component of To date, the administration Europe, and we believe our lethal, defensive weapons systems to the a revisionist Russian strategy to has not utilized the authorities European and NATO allies should Ukrainian military.” redraw international borders and make clear that Russian aggression The letter noted that “Congress has impose its will on its neighbors. It provided in the Ukraine in the heart of Europe is unaccept- already, with overwhelming bipartisan sup- is a grotesque violation of interna- Freedom Support Act to provide able with deeds as well as words. port, provided you with the authorities, tional law, a challenge to the West But we urge you to lead Europe in resources and political support to provide and an assault on the internation- defensive military systems to challenging this assault on interna- assistance, including lethal, to the govern- al order established at such great the Ukrainian government. tional order, lest our foreign policy ment and people of Ukraine.” cost in the wake of World War II. be held hostage by the lowest com- The bipartisan letter was signed by On September 18, 2014, mon denominator of European Speaker John A. Boehner (R-Ohio); House President Petro Poroshenko addressed a members of the Ukrainian Rada visiting consensus. In the face of Russian aggres- Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.); Joint Meeting of the United States Congress. Washington reiterated President sion, the lack of clarity on our overall strat- Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed He made a passionate plea for the United Poroshenko’s longstanding plea for assis- egy thus far has done little to reassure our Royce (R-Calif.); Rep. Eliot L. Engel (D-N.Y.), States and other nations to put action tance to the Ukrainian military. We under- friends and allies in the region who, under- ranking member of the Foreign Affairs behind their commitment to freedom, stand these officials discussed a list of mili- standably, feel vulnerable. This needs to Committee; Armed Services Committee democracy, and human dignity. He thanked tary equipment at the Pentagon and with change. Chairman Mac Thornberry (R-Texas); Rep. the Congress for its steadfast, bipartisan National Security Council staff, and we The Congress has already, with over- Adam Smith (D-Wash.), ranking member of support for the people in Ukraine struggling understand these longstanding requests whelming bipartisan support, provided you the Armed Services Committee; Permanent to recapture the freedom and territorial await a political decision from you. with the authorities, resources, and politi- Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman integrity of Ukraine, but he also reminded In the wake of a ceasefire agreement cal support to provide assistance, including Devin Nunes (R-Calif.); Rep. Adam Schiff us and the world that words alone do not that appears only to have consolidated lethal, to the government and people of (D-Calif.), ranking member of the House beat back aggression and violence. He, like Russian and separatist gains since the first Ukraine. We urge you in the strongest pos- Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; so many friends and allies in Eastern Minsk agreement, and in anticipation of the sible terms to use those authorities and Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Europe, the Baltic states and the South near certainty that Russia and its separatist resources to meet the specific and direct Rogers (R-Ky.); Defense Appropriations Caucasus, remind us daily that the cost of proxies continue their efforts to destabilize requests the government of Ukraine has Subcommittee Chairman Rodney P. freedom is high and, like any virtue, it is Ukraine and seize additional territory, we made of your administration. Rada vice-chair completes official visit to Canada OTTAWA – First Vice-Chairman of the the situation in Ukraine a century ago. Verkhovna Rada Andriy Parubiy completed “Today, Ukraine has a unified government an official visit to Canada (February 21-24). and united society, modern army and the Mr. Parubiy came to Canada prior to an offi- support of the international community,” cial visit to Washington. he said. Invited by House of Commons Speaker Mr. Grod noted: “The Ukrainian Andrew Scheer, Mr. Parubiy arrived in Canadian community is working closely Canada on Saturday, February 21, and was with the leadership of Ukraine’s new gov- greeted at Pearson International Airport by ernment and the government of Canada to a delegation led by Ukrainian Canadian ensure continued strong support for Congress (UCC) Toronto President Taras Ukraine’s independence and democracy. Bahriy. During his two-day stay in Toronto, We have embarked on a historic new era of Mr. Parubiy also met with UCC National cooperation between Ukraine and the President Paul Grod, Euromaidan Canada Ukrainian Canadian community, as well as Chair Marc Shwec, Charge D’Affaires of the Ukraine-Canada relations.” Ukrainian Embassy in Canada Marko Visit to Ottawa Shevchenko and UCC Executive Director Taras Zalusky. A delegation from the Ukrainian Canadian On the evening of February 21, an Congress accompanied Mr. Parubiy for his expanded meeting of UCC’s Advisory meetings in Ottawa. On Monday, February Council was held with Mr. Parubiy to dis- UCC 23, Mr. Parubiy met with the chair of the cuss the current situation in Ukraine. At a meeting of Ukrainian Canadian Congress leaders with the Verkhovna Rada’s Canada Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship A busy Toronto schedule continued on first vice-chair (from left) are: UCC National President Paul Grod, Advisory Council Group, MP Ted Opitz. Member George Myhal, Andriy Parubiy and UCC Advisory Council Vice-Chair Ian Sunday with a meeting with community In an interview with The Globe and Mail, Ihnatowycz. members at Buduchnist Credit Union. After Mr. Parubiy told the newspaper, “We think this, Mr. Parubiy attended divine liturgy at emceed by Mr. Shwec and was a solemn continuing Russian invasion of Ukraine. He this is a global challenge, a global fight, not St. Demetrius Church. Following the church commemoration of the Nebesna Sotnia. called for Canada to provide lethal and non- just a Russia-Ukraine fight. We believe we service, a panakhyda was held at the “Andriy Parubiy brought with him a true lethal assistance to Ukraine’s military. are fighting not only for Ukraine but for Holodomor monument outside the church spirit of the new generation of politicians in Mr. Parubiy noted the biggest differences to pay respects to those who perished as Ukraine, free of corruption and dictator- between the situation in Ukraine today and (Continued on page 5) part of the Heavenly Brigade (Nebesnia ship, with a European democratic tradi- Sotnia), as well as those who have perished tion,” said Mr. Shwec. defending Ukraine from Russian aggression Mr. Parubiy was the keynote speaker Quotable notes over the past year. and the event also featured speeches by Mr. Parubiy met with Toronto’s Minister of Citizenship and Immigration “…we would like to have more leadership of the United States in solving problems Euromaidan activists for a vibrant question Chris Alexander, who gave an impassioned around Ukraine, because it actually has to do with not only the fate of that country in and answer session at the Huculak Center. speech about Canada’s support for Ukraine, the middle of Europe, but also with our credibility and what we have to do facing this This was followed by a series of media and UCC leaders Messrs. Grod and Bahriy. very unusual situation in 21st century during the aggression against a sovereign interviews. Sunday’s highlight was Addressing the assembled crowd, Mr. country. And we’re going to have to do the best in order to contain Russian aggres- undoubtedly the fund-raising reception and Parubiy expressed gratitude to Canada and sion in Ukraine.” dinner “Tribute to the Brave Defenders of the Ukrainian Canadian community for – Lithuanian Foreign Affairs Minister Linas Linkevicius, speaking on March 9 in Ukraine” held at the Golden Lion restau- their assistance and support during the Washington during an appearance with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. rant. Attended by 400 people, the event was Maidan, as well as assistance during the 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11 Jewish Ukrainian leader Zissels calls for united effort to confront Russian aggression

by Oksana Zakydalsky Jackson-Vanik Amendment. path of development; and to force NATO to [Passed in 1974, the Jackson-Vanik return to the principles it was founded TORONTO – On March 3-7, the vice- Amendment imposed trade restrictions on upon, i.e. to the defense of people who president of the World Jewish Congress and the Soviet Union in response to its poor chose the democratic path of development. chairman of the Confederation and human rights policies, particularly restric- Mr. Zissels also proposed where to look Communities in Ukraine, Josef Zissels, spoke tions on the emigration of religious minori- for members of these coalitions. He said to both Ukrainian- and Russian-speaking ties. The amendment stated that non-mar- that the Ukrainian World Congress member communities in Toronto and Ottawa. During ket economies that continue to impose groups could become the core of coalitions the Soviet period, he was active in the dissi- emigration restrictions on their citizens in different countries and added that he dent movement, serving six years in penal would not be granted permanent normal could see the following groups as potential colonies. In 1988 he set up Ukraine’s first trade relations or most favored nation sta- allies in the coalitions: governments, Jewish organization and has been a fervent tus by the U.S. The Jackson-Vanik embassies and diaspora groups of the defender of Ukraine’s independence and Graduation Coalition created a network of Turkic-speaking states, Eastern European democratic path. Mr. Zissels’ visit to Canada support, made up of 250 businesses – countries, post-Soviet countries that are was sponsored by the Ukrainian Jewish Ukrainian American, Jewish American and trying to follow the democratic route, Encounter (UJE) and supported by the non-governmental organizations – and Jewish organizations and wide profile Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) and the developed an action plan to work with human rights organizations. Ukrainian Canadian Research and Oksana Zakydalsky Congress to remove Ukraine from the Their possible venues of activity could Documentation Center (UCRDC). restrictions of the Jackson-Vanik be the Internet, TV, radio and printed Josef Zissels An interview with Mr. Zissels was pub- Amendment and grant normal trade rela- media. They could hold rallies, events and lished in The Ukrainian Weekly on August from others how to use informational cam- tions treatment to the products of Ukraine. marches to attract mass public attention 17, 2014, when he last visited the UCRDC paigns to defend national interests. It was passed in 2005.] and use them as news hooks, and they and explained how former Soviet Jews in Mr. Zissels advised that there was a pos- He outlined some goals and aims of the could lobby through parliamentary and Ukraine have today become Ukrainian Jews sibility of creating many Coalitions for coalitions: to attract allies who are interest- government channels. and are identifying with Ukraine and its Democratic Choice in various countries, ed in strengthening democracy; to counter His proposed project is a massive initia- struggle against Russian aggression. using the example of the formation of the Russian propaganda in their respective tive, but Mr. Zissels said he sees Russian The purpose of his visit this time was to Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition in the countries; to put pressure on their own gov- aggression as a long-term problem that propose a project – the Coalition for U.S. that succeeded in persuading the U.S. ernments to do more to protect the inter- requires the marshalling of all possible Democratic Choice – to stand up to Congress to graduate Ukraine from the ests of countries that chose the democratic resources to combat it. Vladimir Putin’s armed aggression. He sug- gested that countries and communities which oppose Mr. Putin’s belligerence should unite and form a coalition. Because Ukraine is the first post-Soviet country that Is a Savchenko deal in the offing? has been able to resist Russia’s aggressive before his client she is accused of phoning Aidar commander policy aimed at re-integrating post imperial by Daisy Sindelar RFE/RL Serhiy Melnychuk with the coordinates of the two Rossiya TV territories into a new Eurasian Union, Mr. journalists, who then died in a shelling attack. Zissels proposed that such an initiative Mark Feigin, a lawyer for the jailed Ukrainian pilot Nadiya “They died around 12 o’clock,” Mr. Feigin said. “By then, should come from Ukraine. Savchenko, claims to have new evidence proving that his client Savchenko had already spent more than two hours in captivity. He explained that the war launched was not involved in the deaths of two Russian journalists. Of course, she wasn’t able to make any kind of phone call. They against Ukraine is a new type and is being Speaking to Ukraine’s 24 TV, Mr. Feigin said a video shot in had taken her mobile phone. In that video, you can see that waged on three fronts: propagandistic, eco- June 2014 in the Luhansk Oblast shows Ms. Savchenko, then a they’ve put that balaclava or whatever on her and that she’s in nomic and military. The most wide-ranging member of the Aidar volunteer battalion, being taken prisoner the custody of the [pro-Russia] Zarya battalion.” aspect of this war is propagandistic, and hours before the journalists, Igor Kornelyuk and Anton Voloshin, Russia is using many channels to dissemi- were killed. “Inconvenient people” nate its propaganda – the media, diploma- The shaky video, shot during a roadside battle, shows a Mr. Feigin says the footage will be submitted to experts to cy, intelligence, culture and corruption. The female figure dressed in a striped paratrooper’s shirt and a cam- determine if the voice is, in fact, Ms. Savchenko’s and to check propaganda war is global and is being ouflage jacket, her face covered with a blue-and-yellow scarf for any altering of the video, which was reportedly shot by a waged in many languages, with old and printed with the words “Maidan Self-Defense.” Russian citizen, Yegor Russky, now serving as the self-declared new technologies. In order to obtain a fair “I’m not a sniper,” the figure says in response to a volley of mayor of the Luhansk village of Lutuhino. reaction from the global community, questions from her apparent captors. Asked who she is, she If valid, the video may add to speculation that Ms. Savchenko, Ukraine needs to find solutions to this pro- replies simply, “I’m a gunner.” 33, is soon to be released from Russian pretrial detention, where paganda. Fortunately, Ukraine has a well- The fleeting exchange is just a tiny fraction of a seven-minute she has spent the past eight months, including 83 days spent on developed civil society, but it also needs video reportedly shot on June 17 in the village of Metalist, the a highly publicized hunger strike aimed at securing her release. material and intellectual resources and scene of heavy fighting between Ukrainian soldiers and militia- Mr. Feigin himself has hinted a deal may be in the offing. allies, he noted. men from the self-proclaimed Luhansk People’s Republic. Speaking on March 9, he said he had already begun the first To organize this coalition, Mr. Zissels The video, which intermittently shows the logo of Russia’s steps toward her transfer back to Ukraine, adding that a “secret proposed a systemic search for potential pro-Kremlin Life News channel, was apparently posted online protocol” prevented him from giving further details. on June 19, 2014. allies, involving not only other govern- Days earlier, on March 5, the United States, Britain and the With her face completely covered, the woman in the video ments and countries, but ethno-cultural, United Nations had called for an emergency session of the U.N. cannot be positively identified as Ms. Savchenko. But speaking Security Council to pressure Russia for Ms. Savchenko’s release. religious and inter-governmental to 24 TV, Mr. Feigin said the video shows specific details of the approaches to engage them in a system of day’s fighting that can be traced to 10 a.m. – a full two hours (Continued on page 17) informational security, and in learning

The Ukrainian Weekly Press Fund: January 2015 Amount Name City State Oharenko Maria Redondo Beach CA Skuza K Douglas WY $250.00 Bihun Yaro Washington DC Shepelavy Julianne Niskayuna NY Soleiman Andrea Pound Ridge NY $110.00 Nowadly John Fairfax VA $25.00 Nebesh Chrystyna Parma OH Strilbyckyj Alexander Fort Wayne IN Sos John Y & Ulana Providence RI Tatchyn Stephania Timonium MD $100.00 Buniak Gregory Morris Plains NJ Sybydlo Bohdan Mississauga ON Zozulak Maria & Irene Ellicott City MD Pankiw Andrew Upper Arlington OH Tkaczyk Gregory St Catharines ON $5.00 Cap Bohdan Roxboro QC Pokrifcak Helen East Chicago IN $20.00 Bilynsky Michael Hollywood FL Daisak Stephen Freehold NJ $90.00 Worobec Sophie Chicago IL Dziwak Walter Lake Hiawatha NJ Kokolskyj Roman Sicklerville NJ $70.00 Peleschuk Stefan Stamford CT Martyniuk Irene Fitchburg MA Oleszko Oksana Berkeley CA $60.00 Dykyj Daria Forest Hills NY Mirchuk Mykola Livingston NJ Saldyt Myron Corrales NM $50.00 Halaburda-Patti Daria Clifton NJ Nychay Irena Bayonne NJ Majuk Zenowij Capitola CA Polansky Larysa Cleveland OH TOTAL: $1,715.00 Myskiw Peter Phoenix AZ $15.00 Cap Demetrius Newburyport MA Olijnyk Roman Radnor PA Horbachevsky Andrew Yonkers NY Sincere thanks to all contributors $45.00 Sorobay Roman Soltys George Montreal QC & Chrystyna New York NY Woloschuk Peter Dorchester MA to The Ukrainian Weekly Press Fund. $40.00 Sochaniwsky Daria Mississauga ON $10.00 Lepki Stephen Cambridge OH $35.00 Laschuk Bill San Francisco CA Makuch Anna Glendale CA The Ukrainian Weekly Press Fund is the only $30.00 Murskyj Mykola Troy MI Melnycky Peter Edmonton AB fund dedicated exclusively to supporting Murskyj L Troy MI Sachno Joseph Flushing NY the work of this publication. No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 5 Photo exhibit in Ottawa marks anniversary of Euro-Maidan Canada’s minister of defense expresses support for Ukraine

OTTAWA – EuroMaidan Ottawa orga- exhibit, demonstrating the strong support nized a photo exhibit and fund-raiser mark- of the government of Canada for a free and ing the first anniversary of the brutal sniper democratic Ukraine. attacks in Kyiv that killed over 100 peaceful Canada has been one of the foremost protesters on the Maidan in 2014. The leaders in supporting Ukraine since the February 23 exhibit followed events earlier beginning of Russian aggression against the in the day with Verkhovna Rada First Vice- country. “Canada will always recognize Chairman Andriy Parubiy, who was in Crimea as sovereign Ukrainian territory,” Parliament on an official visit. The former Defense Minister Kenney said in his key- secretary of the National Security and note remarks that evening. Defense Council of Ukraine, and co-founder Ukrainian Canadian Congress National of the People’s Front party, who now is President Paul Grod was also in attendance vice-chairman of Ukraine’s Parliament, also at the event. participated in a remembrance ceremony The commemorative exhibit comprised at the Confederation Flame in front of 20 works by Maria Arseniuk, photographs Parliament’s Center Block. taken in the days after the shooting on “It was an exceptional honor to have Mr. Independence Square. Ms. Arseniuk was Andriy Parubiy and the Ukrainian community of Ottawa pay tribute to the Euro- Parubiy present as we commemorated the born in Kyiv, but has lived in Ottawa most of Maidan’s heroes on Parliament Hill. heroes of the Maidan. He is a genuine lead- her life, where she is currently completing a er, and he stood with the people at master’s degree. EuroMaidan Ottawa is a grass-root orga- the Ukraine crisis. Independence Square in Kyiv,” said Anna “In choosing these particular pieces for nization in solidarity with the Ukrainian pro- With the support of the Ukrainian Dombrovska, co-founder of EuroMaidan exhibition, we were consciously trying to democracy movement; it seeks to help raise Canadian community and its friends, Ottawa. capture the zeitgeist of the Euro-Maidan,” awareness and assist in the strengthening of EuroMaidan Ottawa has raised over Defense Minister Jason Kenney, noted Yaroslav Baran, one of the exhibit democracy and rule of law in Ukraine. Since $25,000 in support of Ukraine – ranging Immigration Minister Chris Alexander, and organizers. “Tremendous things happened November 2013, EuroMaidan Ottawa has from medical supplies and sleeping bags MPs James Bezan and Ted Opitz of the on that square. A revolution was born, and organized over 20 demonstrations, com- for Ukrainian soldiers on the front to direct Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship many lost loved ones. We wanted to ensure memorative services and public speaking support for internally displaced Ukrainians Group joined the commemorative photo these events were given the proper respect.” events to raise awareness in Canada about and Crimean Tatars. EuroMaidan Ottawa partners with mul- tiple organizations in Ukraine to ensure that aid is received by those who need it most. “In these critical times, we have every intention of continuing our work for as long as it is required. We will carry on with new initiatives, and are always looking for new ideas and partnership opportunities,” said Yaroslav Bezverkhnyev, one of the group’s founding members. Saakashvili lobbies for arms to Ukraine RFE/RL EuroMaidan Ottawa activists at the photo exhibit with MPs and community leaders (from left): Natalia Stepaniuk, MP James Bezan, photographer Maria Arseniuk, Minister Jason Kenney speaks at the WASHINGTON – Former Georgian Yaroslav Bezverkhnyev, Minister of Defense Jason Kenney, Bohdan Tomiuk, Natalia photography exhibit of Maria Arseniuk President Mikheil Saakashvili says he is Romas, Anton Sestritsyn, MP Ted Opitz, Yaroslav Baran, Ukrainian Canadian (left) that was organized by EuroMaidan meeting with U.S. lawmakers and offi- Congress National President Paul Grod and Anna Dombrovska. Ottawa. cials in Washington to discuss “increas- ing legislative pressure” to provide weapons to Ukraine. Mr. Saakashvili wrote in a February 25 Rada vice-chair... post on his Facebook page that “never (Continued from page 3) have so many [U.S.] lawmakers agreed to meet with me, even when I was presi- Euro-Atlantic and European values. So I dent: 34 meetings in three days.” think it’s fair for us to expect support.” Many prominent members of the U.S. Mr. Parubiy met with MPs James Bezan, Congress have advocated providing parliamentary secretary to the minister of arms to the Ukrainian government in its national defense, and Dean Allison, chair of standoff with pro-Russian separatists in the House of Commons Standing eastern Ukraine that Washington accus- Committee on Foreign Affairs. es Moscow of backing. The Facebook post featured a pic- As part of his official visit at the invita- ture of Sen. Benjamin Cardin (D-Md.), a tion of the House of Commons speaker, Mr. vocal Kremlin critic, standing next to Parubiy was hosted by Mr. Scheer for a Mr. Saakashvili, who wrote that his lunch in the speaker’s dining room along “meetings have begun.” Mr. Saakashvili with dignitaries including members of is currently serving as an adviser to Parliament from all parties: Wladislaw Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko. Lizon, Mr. Opitz, Geoff Regan, Mike Wallace, In a February 24 op-ed published by Mr. Bezan, Marc Garneau, Alexandrine UCC The Washington Post, Mr. Saakashvili Latendresse and Bernard Trottier (parlia- At the panakhyda at St. Demetrius Church for the Heavenly Brigade and others who said opponents of Moscow’s actions in have perished in Ukraine. mentary secretary to the minister of for- Ukraine must raise “the military cost” eign affairs), and Sen. David Tkachuk. completely opposed by Canada.” Ukraine bilateral economic relations; MP for Russian President Vladimir Putin After the luncheon, Mr. Parubiy attended Mr. Parubiy then braced the frigid Jason Kenney, minister of national defense, “by supplying Ukraine with defensive the daily Question Period in the House of Ottawa cold (close to minus 40 degrees to discuss Canada’s leadership and support weapons, specifically antitank weapons Commons and was formally recognized Celsius) and attended a solemn commemo- for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s invasion that can halt the further advance of the Russian tanks and armored vehicles.” and welcomed by Speaker Scheer. ration of the Nebesna Sotnia at the and continued aggression; and Prime The pro-Western Mr. Saakashvili Afterwards he met with Canada’s Minister Centennial Flame, organized by UCC Minister Stephen Harper and his office. served as Georgia’s president during the of Foreign Affairs Rob Nicholson. At the Ottawa and EuroMaidan Ottawa. Members of the delegation also met with country’s brief war with Russia in 2008, joint media availability Mr. Nicholson said In addition to Mr. Parubiy’s official meet- MPs Ralph Goodale and Garneau on after which Moscow recognized Ottawa is against any violation of the Minsk ings, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress dele- February 24, and with MPs Paul Dewar (offi- Georgia’s breakaway regions of Abkhazia ceasefire. “Any attempt to reduce or take gation met with MP Ed Fast, minister of cial opposition foreign affairs critic), Peggy and South Ossetia as sovereign states. away Ukraine’s sovereignty in that way is international trade, to discuss Canada- Nash and Linda Duncan on February 26. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11 CONGRESSIONAL TESTIMONY: Victoria Nuland The Ukrainian Weekly before Senate Foreign Relations Committee Still waiting… as war goes on Below are excerpts of testimony by back the corruption, dependence and The Obama administration continues to stall on making a decision about provid- Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland, external pressure that have thwarted ing lethal defensive weapons to Ukraine. Or, perhaps it has already made its decision, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, Ukrainians’ aspirations for decades. For which is to not provide those weapons, but prefers not to admit it publicly. (Indeed, delivered on March 10 before the Senate this to happen, we must ensure that the there were reports that Mr. Obama had assured German Chancellor Angela Merkel Foreign Relations Committee. government lives up to its promises to the that the U.S. would not send arms to Ukraine while the Minsk 2 ceasefire was being Ukrainian people, and keeps the trust of the negotiated and put into effect. Now, many observers are wondering whether those Chairman [Bob] Corker, Ranking international financial community. And, at assurances were more far-reaching.) Member [Robert] Menendez and members the same time, the United States, Europe The administration’s pondering persists despite the fact that numerous credible of this committee – thank you for the and the international community must sources are reporting continued Russian troop movements and while attacks go on opportunity to speak to you today on the keep faith with Ukraine, and help insure against pro-Ukrainian activists in areas outside the war zone such as Odesa and situation in Ukraine and for your personal that Russia’s aggression and meddling can’t Kharkiv. investment in that country’s future. As crash Ukraine’s spirit, its will or its econo- U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland told a Senate Foreign Relations many of you know from your travels, your my before reforms take hold. Committee hearing on March 10: “We can confirm new transfers of Russian tanks, meetings and the establishment of the Which brings me to my second point – armored vehicles, heavy artillery and rocket equipment over the border to the sepa- bipartisan Senate Ukraine Caucus last even as Ukraine is building a peaceful, dem- ratists in eastern Ukraine.” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on March month, Ukrainians deeply appreciate this ocratic, independent nation across 93 per- 11 that “Russia is still in Ukraine” and noted that NATO “has seen and still sees a committee’s support for their country’s cent of its territory, Crimea and parts of strong Russian presence and strong support for separatist forces in eastern security, democracy, sovereignty and future eastern Ukraine are suffering a reign of ter- Ukraine.” Assistant Secretary Nuland further noted: “Since the February 15 ceasefire, prosperity. … ror. Today Crimea remains under illegal the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission has recorded hundreds of violations. First – a quick reminder of why we’re occupation and human rights abuses are Debaltseve, a key rail hub beyond the ceasefire lines, fell to the separatists and here. Sixteen months ago, the Kyiv Maidan the norm, not the exception, for many at- Russian forces six days after Minsk was signed and three days after the ceasefire was and towns across Ukraine erupted in peace- risk groups there – Crimean Tatars, to come into effect. In Shchastia, in villages near the Donetsk Airport, in Shyrokyne ful protest by ordinary Ukrainians fed up Ukrainians who won’t surrender their pass- and other towns around Mariupol the shelling continues, as verified by OSCE Special with a sleazy, corrupt regime bent on cheat- ports, journalists, LGBT citizens and others. Monitor Authority.” ing the people of their sovereign choice to In eastern Ukraine, Russia and its sepa- Why, even Secretary of State John Kerry had stated back on February 24 that the associate with Europe. They braved frigid ratist puppets unleashed unspeakable vio- Russians “have been persisting in their misrepresentations, lies, whatever you want temperatures, brutal beatings and sniper lence and pillage. This manufactured con- to call them, about their activities there [in Ukraine] to my face, to the faces of others, bullets. The leader of that rotten regime fled flict – controlled by the Kremlin; fueled by on many different occasions.” the country, and he was voted out by the Russian tanks and heavy weapons; financed And still, the Obama administration sees only what it wants to see. Parliament – including most members of his at Russian taxpayers’ expense – has cost the Senate Foreign Relations Committee members, who unanimously support send- own party. Then, Ukraine began to forge a lives of more than 6,000 Ukrainians, but ing lethal weapons to help Ukraine defend itself against continuing Russian aggres- new nation on its own terms – signing an also of hundreds of young Russians sent to sion, are not pleased. Nor are leaders in the House of Representatives, who under- Association Agreement with the European fight and die there by the Kremlin, in a war scored in a bipartisan letter (see page 3) sent to President Obama: “We should not Union; holding free and fair elections – their government denies. When they come wait until Russian troops and their separatist proxies take Mariupol or Kharkiv twice – even as fighting raged in the east; home in zinc coffins – “Cargo 200,” the before we act to bolster the Ukrainian government’s ability to deter and defend and undertaking deep and comprehensive Russian euphemism for war dead – their against further aggression.” economic and political reforms. mothers, wives and children are told not to An article by David Francis posted on March 10 on foreignpolicy.com, began with Against the backdrop of Russia’s aggres- ask too many questions or raise a fuss if these words: “Republicans and Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations sion, the situation in the country remains they want to see any death benefits. Committee are already angry at the White House for its failure to deliver arms to precarious. Ukraine’s leaders, in the execu- Throughout this conflict, the United Ukraine. The administration’s admission that it has also failed to send about half of tive branch and the Parliament, know they States and the EU have worked in lock-step the $118 million in non-lethal assistance it promised Kiev [sic] isn’t helping matters. are in a race against time to clean up the to impose successive rounds of tough sanc- …Brian McKeon, the principal deputy undersecretary of defense, said that some of country and enact the difficult and socially tions – including sectoral sanctions – on the assistance, which includes radar systems and night-vision goggles, hasn’t been painful reforms required to kick start the Russia and its separatist cronies as the sent to Ukraine because of U.S. logistical or supply chain problems.” economy, and meet their commitments to costs for their actions. In Crimea, we have To be sure, the administration did announce, the very next day, that it would send their people, the IMF and the international shown through our investment sanctions another $75 million worth of nonlethal aid (radios, first-aid kits, surveillance drones, community. The package of reforms that if you bite off a piece of another coun- counter-mortar radar systems, military ambulances and Humvees) to Ukraine’s mil- already put forward by the government, try, it will dry up in your mouth. Our unity itary. And that was welcome. However, stalling on the decision about whether to and enacted by the Rada, is impressive in with Europe remains the cornerstone of send lethal defensive arms to Ukraine is the same as saying no. And that is simply its scope and political courage. ... our policy toward this crisis. unacceptable. With U.S. support – including a $1 billion And it is in that spirit that we salute the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense McKeon told the Senate Foreign Relations loan guarantee last year and $355 million efforts of German Chancellor [Angela] Committee that the administration was wrestling with the consequences of sending in foreign assistance and technical advisors Merkel and French President [Francois] weapons to Ukraine (that’s according to The Washington Post’s account). But we – the Ukrainian government is: helping Hollande in Minsk on February 12 to try must ask: What are the consequences of NOT sending those weapons? The answer, insulate vulnerable Ukrainians from the again to end the fighting in Ukraine’s East. we believe, is evident in the scenario that unfolded in Crimea. impact of necessary economic reforms; The Minsk package of agreements – improving energy efficiency in homes and September 5, September 19 [2014] and the factories with metering, consumer incen- February 12 implementing agreement – tives and infrastructure improvement; offer a real opportunity for peace, disarma- building e-governance platforms to make ment, political normalization and decen- March Turning the pages back... procurement transparent and basic gov- tralization in eastern Ukraine, and the ernment services cleaner and publicly return of Ukrainian state sovereignty and Seven years ago, on March 19, 2008, 10 NATO member-countries accessible; putting a newly trained force of control of its territory and borders. Russia wrote to the alliance’s Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, urg- beat cops on the streets of Kyiv who will agreed to it; Ukraine agreed to it; the sepa- 19 ing that Georgia and Ukraine be granted Membership Action Plans protect, not shake down, the citizens; ratists agreed to it. And the international 2008 at the NATO summit in Bucharest on April 2-4, 2008. Canada was reforming the Prosecutor General’s Office community stands behind it. joined by Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Poland, the Czech Republic, (PGO) – supported by U.S. law enforcement For some eastern Ukrainians, conditions Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria and Slovenia in signing the document. and criminal justice advisors – and helping have begun to improve. Along long areas of Noticeably absent was Hungary, whose Socialist government “conducts a Hungarian energize law enforcement and just prose- the line of contact, particularly in Luhansk mini-version of Ostpolitik with Russia,” wrote Vladimir Socor of the Eurasian Daily cutions; moving to bring economic activity Oblast, the ceasefire has taken hold; the Monitor. Other doubters included Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, out of the shadows; supporting new agri- guns have quieted in some towns and vil- the Netherlands, Norway and Spain. culture laws – with the help of USAID lages; some weapons have been with- Mr. Socor noted: “…Real differences over the Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs could have experts – to deregulate the sector and allow drawn; some hostages have been released. been resolved in the course of existing NATO consultation processes, without public con- family farms to sell their produce in local, But the picture is very mixed. Since the frontation among allies. However, the German government and Chancellor Angela Merkel regional and wholesale markets; and help- February 15 ceasefire, the OSCE Special personally short-circuited those consultation processes, which were set to continue after ing those forced to flee Donetsk and Monitoring Mission has recorded hundreds Luhansk with USAID jobs and skills train- of violations. Debaltseve, a key rail hub the March 6 Brussels meeting of ministers of foreign affairs of NATO countries. Instead, ing programs in places like Kharkiv. beyond the ceasefire lines, fell to the sepa- Ms. Merkel held talks two days later with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to And there’s more support on the way. ratists and Russian forces six days after establish a common front against the Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs.” The president’s budget includes an FY16 Minsk was signed and three days after the President George W. Bush said during Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili’s March [Fiscal Year 2016] request of $513.5 million ceasefire was to come into effect. In 19-20, 2008, visit to Washington, “I believe that NATO would benefit from Georgian mem- – almost six times more than our FY14 Shchastia, in villages near the Donetsk bership.” The U.S. was set to press for a political decision regarding Georgian and request – to build on these efforts. Airport, in Shyrokyne and other towns Ukrainian MAPs that would have been adopted at the Bucharest summit. ...the most lasting antidote to Russian around Mariupol the shelling continues, as The letter’s signatories argued that it is in NATO’s interest and to the benefit of Euro- aggression and malign influence in the verified by OSCE Special Monitor Authority. Atlantic security and stability to integrate Georgia and Ukraine further. Each round of medium term is for Ukraine to succeed as a democratic, free-market state and to beat (Continued on page 12) (Continued on page 16) No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 7 FOR THE RECORD: Samantha Power The things we do ... speaks at Security Council debate by Orysia Paszczak Tracz Following are excerpts of remarks at the call on Russia to release Nadiya Savchenko, United Nations Security Council debate on who has been on hunger strike for over 80 Ukraine on March 6, as delivered by days, and her Ukrainian counterparts. This Samantha Power, U.S. permanent represen- is something Russia can do today. … tative to the U.N. The devastating consequences of this conflict are brought into sharp relief by the Shevchenko and song …For the first time since the Minsk Office of the High Commissioner for Human It would not be an exaggeration to say of the Tarnovsky family in the Chernihiv Implementation Package was signed on Rights’ most recent report. More than 1.7 that almost every Ukrainian child in the region. Andriy Kot, the old nurseryman of February 12, we have seen a reduction in million people displaced. More than 5,800 world knows at least one Taras the park, pointed to the Shevchenko Oak violence. Of course no one forgets that Russia people killed – a casualty count that does Shevchenko poem set to music. It could be and remembered his own father telling and the separatists they trained, armed, not include the hundreds of bodies found “Zapovit” (Testament), “Dumy Moyi” (My him about that visit: “Here, under this oak, directed and fought alongside, started violat- once Russian-backed separatists finished Thoughts), or “Reve ta Stohne Dnipr my father and other serfs gathered in the ing their commitments in the package from their deadly siege of Debaltseve. Shyrokyi” (The Wide Dnipro Roars and evenings to listen to Shevchenko sing to the first minutes and hours after the deal An OCHA [Office for the Coordination of Moans). For most children it would proba- them. He sang, and the people wept.” was signed – by laying siege to Debaltseve, a Humanitarian Affairs] report from the end bly be “Sadok Vyshnevyi Kolo Khaty” (The When in St. Petersburg, in 1858 city dozens of kilometers beyond the contact of last month said that 500 bodies had been Sour Cherry Orchard near the House). Shevchenko met Ira Aldridge, the black line, with their deadly and indiscriminate found in houses and basements at the end Shevchenko did not intend to write Shakespearian actor from New York who pummeling. Violations started on day one, of the siege – 500 bodies. Homes and base- songs, but the language of his poems was performed in Europe. They became friends and violations of the ceasefire continue in a ments where people took shelter from the so musical – as Ukrainian is – that they and found a common language – singing number of places, particularly outside endless barrage of Russian-made mortars became beloved Ukrainian folk songs, traditional Ukrainian folk melodies and Mariupol, where Russian-backed separatists and rockets as they rained down on the some already during his lifetime. Music had Negro spirituals to each other. have engaged in intense fighting attacking city’s residents – residents who could not always been a part of his life. When he was Shevchenko had a beautiful dramatic the village of Shyrokyne in recent days. escape. Weeks into the siege, at the end of a child, he was surrounded by Ukrainian tenor and loved to sing. He had a phenome- Unfortunately, although the violence has January, the self-declared leader of the folk songs, and mentioned them often in nal memory and remembered a song after decreased, there has been only partial com- Russian-backed separatists had announced, his poetry. A lullaby he remembered, the hearing it once. He felt the emotion of the pliance with the Minsk Implementation “Anybody who leaves… will be in the inter- songs his mother, sisters and playmate songs. One of his contemporaries wrote, Oksana sang, the dumy from Kozak times Package. As members of this council know, locking field of fire of our artillery. From “As if just now, I see him finishing a song, that his grandfather remembered, the folk the package calls for, “an immediate and today, the road is under fire.” And so those with his voice trembling and a tear running songs he heard all around him – they all comprehensive ceasefire,” not a gradual and inside were left with a choice: risk your life from his eye onto his long mustache.” After found their way into his works. He either winning his freedom, when he attended partial reduction in fire. It does not say that by staying, or risk your life by leaving. just mentioned them, or actually included Russian-backed separatists can continue to Civilians were killed doing both, and again, receptions among the nobility, he was often the lyrics in his poems. requested to sing Ukrainian folk songs – shell, engage in sniper fire, or use barrel and 500 bodies found in homes and basements In writing about his childhood, rocket artillery – yet they have carried out where people took shelter. and everyone stopped to listen. Among his Shevchenko remembered his mother’s beloved folk songs were:“Oy, ziydy, ziydy, ty, all of these attacks in recent days. Since And the casualties and the displaced are song: “As my mother swaddled me she zirochko ta vechirniaya” (Come out, come February 20, Russian separatist attacks like one of the devastating consequences of this sang, and poured her melancholy and grief out, evening star), “Ta nema hirsh v sviti these have killed 15 Ukrainian military per- conflict. Another – and one we rarely speak into her child” (“Yakby vy znaly, panychi” – nikomu, yak siroti molodomu” (No one in sonnel and wounded nearly 100 more. about in this council anymore – is the ongo- If you only knew, lords). Shevchenko lis- the world has it worse than a poor young A second condition in the Minsk ing illegal occupation and attempted tened to the songs sung by the serfs in his wretch), “Ta zabilily snihy” (The snows Implementation Package is full, unfettered annexation of Crimea by a permanent village both during their work and at short- glow white), “Teche richka nevelychka” access for OSCE monitors to the entire con- member of this Council. lived rest. In his travels he met Ukrainians, (The little river flows), “Oy, hylia, hylia, siri flict zone. While there have been occasional Crimea is important not only because it and they often sang. He wrote in his journal husy, hylia na Dunay” (Go, grey geese, to instances when the SMM has been stopped constitutes the continuing violation of the that, returning from exile, by chance he lis- the Danube), “Shumyt hude dibrovonka” at Ukrainian checkpoints, the restrictions territorial integrity of a sovereign nation – a tened to a Ukrainian violinist, a serf: “I will (The grove rustles and hums) and “Oy, ne on the SMM by Russia and the separatists violation orchestrated in Moscow, and never have enough of these sincere, deeply shumy luzhe, zelenyi bairache” (O, don’t are documented as widespread. … dressed up in a sham referendum – but also moving songs. I thank you, my fortuitous rustle, meadow, you green ravine). To date, the separatists have granted because it offers a preview of the kind of gracious serf Paganini.” It would be a fulfilling, beautiful event if OSCE monitors sporadic access limited to rule that we can expect in the other parts of Ukrainian songs were a balm to someone organized a concert not only of certain roads, when and where it suits Ukraine seized by those who see them- Shevchenko when he was exiled and the many compositions set to Shevchenko’s them. As we have asked before, it bears selves as part of Novorossiya. … imprisoned. In Kos-Aral, Kazakhstan, he poetry, which we have heard so often, but asking again: Who obstructs an objective So, occupy territory, unilaterally attempt wrote: “I will walk along the sea, and think also of the many folk and historical, chu- observer other than someone who has to annex it, and then retroactively and arbi- of my woe, will remember Ukraine, and mak and other songs that Shevchenko something to hide from an unbiased eye? trarily apply your laws to those who dared will sing a song. It will console me.” loved and sang. The Minsk Implementation Package also to question your takeover as it was occur- Artist Viktor V. Kovalyov, who lived with “Our duma, our song will never die, calls for the full pullback of all heavy weap- ring. It does not get much more Orwellian Shevchenko in 1841, reminisced that the never perish. People, in it is where our latter liked to relax by singing, and would ons. That, too, has not happened. than that. And as anyone who has read the glory lies, the glory of Ukraine” (from say “Now, boys, let’s sing!” The friends Two days ago, Russia sent its 17th so- human rights report knows, this is just one Shevchenko’s poem “Do Osnovianenka” – would forget their hard life by singing called humanitarian convoy into Ukraine, in a long list of repressive tactics – includ- Dedicated to Osnovianenko) away. Shevchenko would include his own once again denying international observers ing torture, enforced disappearances, and poetry, which he set to music, such as “Oy, Sources: and Ukrainian border guards the right to targeted political killings – that have poviy vitre, z dalekoho luhu ta rozlyi nashu Macenko, Pavlo. “Taras Shevchenko v conduct a full and complete inspection of its defined Russia’s occupation. tuhu” (O, blow wind from the far meadow, Ukrainskii Muzytsi” in Shevchenkivskyi contents. Russian convoys that should be It is to avoid an Orwellian world like this and take away our sadness). Shevchenko’s Almanakh dlia Vidmichennia Sotykh coming out of Ukraine are instead going in. – where we talk of peace while undermin- friend, composer Semen Hulak-Artemovsky Rokovyn Smerty Tarasa Shevchenka 1861- If these convoys are carrying humanitarian ing it – that we must ensure that Minsk is (known for the opera “Zaporozhets za 1961. Winnipeg: Ukrainskyi Holos/ assistance, why not allow a full inspection? implemented. The council members Dunayem” -- The Zaporohian Kozak beyond Vydavnytstvo Tryzub, 1961. Colleagues, the ceasefire, weapons pull- around this table must confront the situa- the Danube) dedicated his composition Kolomiyets, V., Ivanova, O. “Narodna back and OSCE verification – none of which tion on the ground as it exists rather than “Stoyit Yavir nad Vodoyu” (The Maple Pisnia v Zhytti i Tvorchosti Tarasa are complete – are all among just the imme- as we wish it were. Peace will not come Stands at the Riverbank) to Shevchenko. Shevchenka.” Ternytsia. diate steps in the Implementation Package. from more words – and there have been so He especially loved singing to his broth- Further, all of the Minsk agreements to date many words in this chamber. It will come er serfs. During his infrequent trips to have called for the release of all hostages by from the long-awaited and faithful imple- Ukraine, Shevchenko, already a free man, Orysia Tracz may be contacted at all sides. Nadiya Savchenko and other mentation of the many agreements that visited Kachanivka, the park on the estate [email protected]. Ukrainians being held in Russia are hostag- have been entered into, and renewed es, just as surely as those being kept in base- respect for the territorial integrity of a ments in Donetsk and Luhansk. Again, we member state of the United Nations. Quotable notes The victim of hybrid aggression is also victimized by Western caution and prevari- cation. While Russia has introduced thousands of weapons into the conflict, The Ukrainian Weekly welcomes letters to the editor and commentaries European and American political hesitation in helping Ukraine acquire replacements on a variety of topics of concern to the Ukrainian American and Ukrainian for its losses (and the political message it sends to others who would like to help) Canadian communities. Opinions expressed by columnists, commentators serves as a virtual military embargo on Ukraine. Ironically, the most successful and letter-writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions Western sanction has been in preventing a friendly country from defending itself. of either The Weekly editorial staff or its publisher, the Ukrainian National Association. – Dr. Phillip A. Karber, speaking on March 10 at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington on “Russian Hybrid War Campaign: Implications Letters to the editor must include the complete mailing address and day- for Ukraine and Beyond.” (To watch video of his speech, see http://csis.org/event/rus- time phone number of the letter-writer. sias-hybrid-war-campaign-implications-ukraine-and-beyond.) 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11

of second-hand clothes and shoes brought Refugees... to the camp by citizens of Kramatorsk who can empathize with the refugees after hav- (Continued from page 1) ing their city taken over by the separatists to reveal the scars on her son’s back left by between April and July of last year. shrapnel. She recalls what happened as if A few women with children sort out and she were reliving the horror, partly out of choose something for themselves. Here we therapy. meet Oksana Ageyeva, a mother of three “I ask Nikita not to go to school that day, children age 2, 13 and 14. With their grand- December 8, because I hear shooting in the ma, they escaped from Yenakiyeve, the distance. Then it’s quiet for some time. He’s hometown of Viktor Yanukovych that is very bored and pleading to let him go out- now under separatist control. side. So I let him. Suddenly I hear window Ms. Ageyeva’s husband didn’t survive the glass breaking, I come out to the balcony, constant bombardment; he died while try- everything is in smoke and I start calling ing to fight a blaze that ignited on their my son: ‘Nikita! Nikita!’ and he doesn’t street. Ms. Ageyeva decided to go to the come. And then I see him crawling back Ukrainian side of the war zone after experi- and standing up to lean on a handrail. I see encing life in the so-called Donetsk People’s that he is limping, and I think that he twist- Republic (DNR). ed his ankle. I see that his four layers of “There are no jobs and no future for the Nikita Shulyagin clothes have been pierced and there is a kids,” she explains. “The separatists do that Nikita Suprun, 8, survived the three-month bombardment of his hometown of piece of shrapnel in his back. We call an on purpose so that men could be easily Artemivsk in the autumn, but not without the scars of shrapnel shards in his back ambulance,” she said in a monotone, staring recruited to their squads.” and suffering shell shock. at some invisible spot in front of her. She recalled waiting in a line in Yenakiyeve often ridiculed by Ukrainians for its peaches. We always had plenty of peaches,” It was painful for Nikita to even lie down for a couple of days just to get aid, brought to mounds of spent coal and other industrial she said rather skeptically, not understand- after his surgery in December and he suf- the city by the foundation of billionaire Rinat waste, this northern region – which serves ing how they could think the peaches could fered from shellshock afterwards for more Akhmetov, the only organization that has as a buffer between the industrial south somehow compensate for the destruction than a month. provided food for civilians in the occupied and the ethnically Ukrainian steppes of the they caused. The boy quickly recovered, despite the territories. (Mr. Akhmetov is also widely Slobozhanshchyna region – is free of indus- It took the war for many refugees to doctor’s prognosis, but he still has night- suspected of having ties to the terrorists.) try and is among the best-kept secrets of realize that life wasn’t so bad under the mares. The family left Artemivsk after a mor- Many elderly passed out in the frost Ukraine’s natural wonders. Ukrainians. “Now we think that we had a tar shell crashed into their apartment one after standing in line for so many hours. It remains untouched by war, and it’s wonderful life. Yes, we had some troubles, January day. It destroyed the roof, landed in Ironically, Ms. Ageyeva managed to escape hard to believe that the road here is guard- but we lived in peace. We still want to live their pantry and luckily didn’t explode, but from the DNR owing to a one-time payment ed by soldiers posted at roadblocks and in Ukraine and want this war to stop,” Ms. it made the apartment uninhabitable. from separatists of 1,000 hrv to pensioners, lined on either side with bombed-out vil- Petrianyk said. The Supruns’ new roommate Tetiana sat which had amounted to a handsome $40 in lages and towns. Tetiana, who has a room down the hall, in the kitchen with them, holding her infant January. It was Ms. Ageyeva’s mother who Sviatohirsk’s campgrounds, which used asks us not to take her photo. She came to son, asleep under a blanket and unaware of received the money that enabled them to to draw kids from all over the Donbas for the camp a couple of weeks ago, escorted the dangers of the world into which he pay for their escape to Kramatorsk. summertime enjoyment, were hosting refu- by Ukrainian soldiers. But she is still afraid entered seven weeks earlier. “In that car, I was thinking, ‘Am I doing gees on a late January evening. One of them, that separatists can find and kill her. For Tetiana recalled her months of pregnan- the right thing?’ At first, it was difficult, but Camp Little Hawk, has accepted 115 from months, she helped the Ukrainian army by cy spent in a basement in her native town now I am sure that I was right. My elder the ruined town of Debaltseve, offering revealing hidden forest paths and passing of Avdiyivka that so far is under Ukraine’s daughter, 14 years old, had a nervous shelter and food. on information about separatist locations. control but under heavy bombardment breakdown because of continuous shelling Our volunteer group, Wings of Generosity She lived in the village of Kamianka, since the New Year by the Russian-backed outside our home. Now she feels better and and Care, brings washing machines and which was under Ukrainian control and is separatists. is no longer afraid to go outside. I need a electric stoves. We arrive while women are located about 20 miles east of Yenakiyeve, The factory town was under fire even as peaceful place for my children,” she says. cooking dinner in the kitchen. Residency is which was under separatist control. she was in labor with her son at the local Ms. Ageyeva wants to go to work in the free for as long as the refugees choose to The village was under Ukrainian army maternity hospital in January. “I didn’t want springtime at the local supermarket, which stay; most will remain for a long time since control when one January evening two to go back to the basement with a baby,” will allow her to rent an apartment and move their homes have been destroyed. Chechens broke into her house, raped and she says, deciding to leave Avdiyivka after a on. Until that time, she will collect her pay- Kids of all ages are running in a long cor- tortured her, shot her dog and destroyed all shell ruined her house right after she gave ments for newborns, which are for the first ridor with about 14 rooms on both sides. A the furniture as part of the terror raids birth. Tetiana’s husband decided to stay three years after childbirth. She didn’t get knock on the nearest room in the corridor they’ve become notorious for. and keep going to work at the local coke them for more than six months in Yenakiyeve. reveals two families with four kids, who “They were high,” Tetiana recalls plant, the largest of its kind in Ukraine, that As with other refugees, she believed that said they recently arrived from Debaltseve, through tears. “They even showed me their has been attacked by artillery fire on a she finally had escaped the war, once and after the attacks escalated. documents first and ordered me to reveal weekly basis, as recently as March 7. for all. And when we talked to her in the There are only beds, a few bags on the Ukrainian army locations.” But she says she Refugees are allowed to stay at the camp camp, it seemed they had. floor and a little table near the door where didn’t say a word to the terrorists who until they succeed in renewing their social However, only a few days later, on they cook meals for the baby. weren’t afraid to reveal their identity. payments (for newborns, for example) at a February 10, 17 people died in Kramatorsk “We put a white ribbon on a car and When Ukrainian soldiers heard gun- local Oschadbank (the state savings bank). and 34 were wounded in attacks from the wrote ‘dyeti’ (children) on a piece of paper, shots fired following the rape, they quickly Then they usually rent a small apart- separatist side. Throughout the Ukrainian- attached it to a window and left the city in came, but the Chechens managed to flee. ment, try to find a job and start a new life, controlled Donbas, the war continues to the morning, when it was rather quiet,” They wore camouflage and the Ukrainian usually in Kramatorsk. They have more produce new refugees, who remain afraid says Vita Borysenko. soldiers didn’t want to shoot because they chances of finding a job in the city, but it isn’t that their hometown will turn into the lat- Her husband, Pavlo, used to work as a were afraid to kill Tetiana by accident. always easy. In their rooms at the refugee est battle zone on the east Ukraine map. locomotive driver, but separatist-launched “I didn’t want to go to the hospital and at camp, at least it’s warm, though tables, beds Among those is Sviatohirsk, located 21 Grad missiles destroyed the train station. some point was close to committing suicide,” and baby carriages are lacking. Normally, miles north of Kramatorsk, which is sur- “In recent weeks, all the shops were she says, sobbing, as she recalls the first days two or three families share one room and all rounded by a pristine pine forest covered closed, there was no electricity and the gas afterwards. She’s says that she’s ashamed to their belongings are on the floor or on win- by snow that could have easily been trans- stations didn’t work. Even those who had have been raped. The men who guarded her dowsills in bags and packages. planted from the Carpathians. cars could not leave because they had no after the attack found a safe place in In a room near the kitchen, there are piles Although the Donbas landscape was gasoline. We were lucky because we had Sviatohirsk and drove her there a week later. some saved up,” he notes. Tetiana adds that she knows the snitch Another escapee, Svitlana Petrianyk, who passed on the information about her says the family moved to a basement in activity to the Chechens, but refuses to name their Debaltseve apartment building after the person, stating only that he’s a former the first bombardment on July 27 and lived classmate. Another local helped the Chechens there since. “We didn’t want to leave our sneak inside the village for the attack. apartment for months because we worked Ukrainian soldiers said there were no so hard to buy all our stuff, but we were footprints from the forest into the village finally forced to go” by the bombings, she that day, which means that the Chechens said. “We could only take a bag with dispos- were hiding in somebody’s house before able diapers and a few clothes.” the attack. Tatiana is convinced they came When asked if they have any money, Mr. with only one aim: to punish her for her Borysenko shows their savings of around supporting Ukraine. 800 hrv ($30). The Petrianyks are in about Tetiana wonders aloud how many local the same financial situation as the people hate Ukraine despite the fact that Borysenkos. Their youngest baby, Yelizaveta, Ukrainian soldiers often provide them with was born last spring in the occupied city of food and medicine. Now she wants to evac- Horlivka. Ms. Petrianyk said she often saw uate from Donetsk her two sons who are separatists with rifles in the maternity hos- staying with a sister, the only one in her pital, having brought women from other family who supports her. Her two other sis- Svitlana Petrianyk (left) and Vita Borysenko escaped with their kids from their home- occupied cities and villages. ters support the separatists and don’t talk town of Debaltseve after attacks on the railroad hub escalated. “I remember the separatists also gave us to her any more. No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 9 BOOK REVIEW: Jewish and Gentile Ukrainians, and the Euro-Maidan “Jews, Ukrainians, and the Euromaidan,” Lubomyr Y. leaders of the truly intrepid Kharkiv Human Rights Luciuk, editor. Kingston, Ontario: Kashtan Press in coopera- Protection Group; the Ukrainian American scholar tion with the Chair of Ukrainian Studies at the University of Alexander J. Motyl, a premier analyst of contemporary Toronto, 2014. ISBN 978-1-896354-13-2. Hard-cover, 258 events in Ukraine and a professor at Rutgers University, pages. $45. and many others. The volume concludes with an afterword by Prof. by Bohdan Vitvitsky Robert Paul Magocsi, the historian who holds the Chair of Prof. Lubomyr Luciuk of the Royal Military College of Ukrainian Studies at the University of Toronto. Although Canada is the editor of a volume titled “Jews, Ukrainians, written almost a year ago, Prof. Magocsi’s last paragraph and the Euromaidan” (hereafter “Euromaidan”) that is seems particularly apt today: both fascinating and richly informative. What is more, in “The United States, Canada and the European Union contrast to the writings of various academics, whose should do what is their own best interest: support in what- knowledge and understanding of Ukraine barely rises ever way possible the increasing number of Ukrainian citi- above the level of malpractice yet who don’t have the zens, regardless of their ethnic or religious background, decency to keep quiet, Prof. Luciuk’s volume has the added who reject Putin’s ‘Little Russian’ scenario and who prefer attractions of being highly relevant, accurate in its compre- to live in a pro-Western independent Ukraine.” hension of the state of relations between Ukraine’s gentile I have two tiny quibbles with the book. It would have and Jewish citizens, and important in noting a kind of sea been helpful to include short, one- or two-sentence bio- change in relations. graphical descriptions of the authors of the items included Perhaps nothing captures this sea change more than the in “Euromaidan.” And, although it didn’t occur to me until picture found in the introductory section of the book on after I had read “Euromaidan,” instead of naming the vol- page xvi. The caption to that photo reads: “Right Sector ume “Jews, Ukrainians, and the Euromaidan,” perhaps the activists pay their respects at burial of Alexander title should have been something along the lines of “Gentile Scherbaniuk, a Ukrainian Jew killed on 20 February 2014 by and Jewish Ukrainians, and the Euromaidan.” a sniper on the Euromaidan.” A Jewish Ukrainian had laid Quibbles aside, “Euromaidan” contains innumerable down his life for a brighter Ukrainian future. And Ukrainian gems. I will close this short review with the ending from nationalists proudly participated in and paid their respects Prof. Wynnyckyj’s “Philosophical Thoughts from Kyiv” to their compatriot, a Ukrainian openly and proudly com- dated March 20, 2014: memorated as a member of the Jewish community. “Perhaps the ‘beacon on the hilltop’ of the future will be “Euromaidan” is a compilation of 42 articles, statements in Kyiv – a place that offers the world a new civilizational and reflections about, variously, Jewish and Ukrainian rela- The 42 items included in the volume were penned by a principle of ‘spravedlivist’ (natural justice) and ‘hidnist’ tions, perceptions and opinions in the context of the Euro- wide variety of authors. They include Jewish Ukrainians (individually realized/collectively recognized – dignity). Or Maidan from its beginning in November 2013 to March such as the former Soviet dissident and prisoner of con- maybe I’m being too optimistic… 2014, at which time the materials for publication were science Josef Zissels; Jewish Frenchmen such as the philos- “If only the Kremlin would allow us to find out!” assembled. The volume begins with a foreword penned by opher and public intellectual Bernard-Henri Levi, who has Prof. Luciuk has performed an invaluable service by Serhiy Kvit, then the president of the National University of since the appearance of Prof. Luciuk’s volume written addi- gathering and publishing a really extraordinary collection Kyiv Mohyla Academy and now the minister of education. tional op-ed articles in defense of Ukraine; Jewish of statements, opinions and photographs from and about Titled “The Euromaidan Revolution and the Struggle for Americans such as Abraham Foxman, the director of the the most recent events in Ukraine. “Euromaidan” was pub- Ukraine’s Place in Europe,” the foreword does an excellent Anti-Defamation League in the United States; and the lished jointly by the University of Toronto Chair of job of providing a short historical and political analysis of author of numerous books and a columnist for The Ukrainian Studies and Kashtan Press. The book can be pur- the context in which the Euro-Maidan arose and of its Washington Post, Anne Applebaum. chased directly from the Kashtan Press at 849 Wartman extraordinarily inclusionary character once it evolved into Other authors include Mychailo Wynnyckyj, the always Ave., Kingston, ON, Canada, K7M 2Y6 at $45 a copy plus a revolutionary movement intent upon changing the thoughtful Canadian Ukrainian sociologist who now teach- shipping and handling ($10 for U.S. orders). The publisher nature of contemporary Ukraine. es at Kyiv Mohyla Academy; Halyna Coynash, one of the advises that there is a limited supply of the book.

The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America was a Ukrainian American... founding member of the CEEC in 1994. Together, the CEEC and the UCCA have co-sponsored advocacy events in (Continued from page 1) Washington and issued policy briefs on issues the CEEC throughout the United States participated in the event, ardently advocates. which began with an opportunity to attend a hearing of the UNIS Director Sawkiw also introduced Ivan Radichenko, House Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC). a volunteer with the 25th Volunteer Battalion Kyiv Rus’, Testifying that morning at the HFAC hearing titled who spoke about the role of volunteers in defending “Ukraine under Siege” was Assistant Secretary of State for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and independence. European and Eurasian Affairs Victoria Nuland. Members of Following the formal presentations, Ukrainian Day par- Congress questioned the Obama administration’s implemen- ticipants were hosted to traditional Lithuanian fare, and tation of the Ukraine Freedom Support Act, inquired about sampled Lithuanian beverages and Georgian wine. military assistance to Ukraine, and probed about additional In all of their meetings on Capitol Hill, the participants of sanctions against Russia for the illegal annexation of Crimea Ukrainian Day presented members of Congress with vari- and the continuous invasion of eastern Ukraine. Rep. Louise Slaughter (third from left) meets with constit- ous policy papers on issues related to the implementation During the day, community representatives split into uents from Rochester/Buffalo, N.Y., area. On the left are of the Ukraine Freedom Support Act, as well as information- Andrij Dobriansky, UCCA executive board member, and groups and held meetings at the congressional offices of al brochures about the Ukrainian Congress Committee of Ivan Radichenko, volunteer from the Kyiv Rus’ Battalion. their senators and representatives, among them: Sens. Rob America, the Ukrainian National Information Service and Portman (R-Ohio), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Robert United States, who urged them to continue their advocacy the Ukrainian Genocide of 1932-1933. Policy paper topics Menendez (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Richard Burr for the implementation of the Ukraine Freedom Support included: an overview of the UFSA law; military assistance (R-NC), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.) Patrick Act. Mr. Pavilionis requested the advocacy participants to to Ukraine; economic sanctions against Russia; lists of the Toomey (R-Pa.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.).; and Reps. Bill make a short video clip titled “We believe in freedom.” The Congressional Ukrainian Caucus and the newly formed Pascrell (D-N.J.), Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), Rodney video was broadcast throughout Lithuania to show solidar- Senate Ukraine Caucus; and an overview of Russian aggres- Frelinghuysen (R-N.J.), Louise Slaughter (D-N.Y.), Charlie ity with the people of Ukraine. sion in Ukraine and Russia’s human rights violations, as evi- Dent (R-Pa.), Mike Turner (R-Ohio), Chaka Fattah (D-N.Y.), The director of UNIS presented the Friend of UNIS denced by the detention of Nadiya Savchenko and other Robert Brady (D-Pa.), Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), Brian Higgins award to Ambassador Pavilionis for his unwavering sup- Ukrainian POWs. A complete lists of congressional actions (D-N.Y.), Mike Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), Michael Hanna (R-N.Y.), port of Ukraine. to support newly introduced bills and resolutions in sup- Matt Cartwright (D-Pa.), Barbara Comstock (R-Va.), Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States, Olexander port of Ukraine was also included in the advocacy folder. Grace Meng (D-N.Y.), Ryan Costello (R-Pa.), Nita Lowey Motsyk, also took to the podium to deliver a few remarks. Understanding that not everyone was able to attend the (D-N.Y.), Steve Stivers (R-Ohio), Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) and “We have a common goal before us. We are all striving to Ukrainian Day on March 4, UNIS is urging Ukrainian Nydia Velazquez (D-N.Y.). integrate Ukraine in Euro-Atlantic structures and return its American community members to make every effort to A special meeting was arranged with Rep. Eliot Engel former status of a prominent European state. Together, I am meet with their elected officials at their respective district (D-N.Y.), ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs confident we will successfully resolve our issues,” he stated. offices. Copies of the policy papers presented at this latest Committee, at which UNIS Director Michael Sawkiw Jr. and The second Friend of UNIS award was presented to the advocacy event may be obtained at the Ukrainian National Andrew Horbachewsky, chairman of the board of the Central and East European Coalition (CEEC) for its strong Information Service. SUM-A Yonkers Federal Credit Union, presented the ardent support of Ukraine throughout the Euro-Maidan – the Due to a snowstorm in the Washington region that supporter of Ukraine the Friend of UNIS award. The award Revolution of Dignity – and the invasion of Ukraine by the closed the U.S. federal government, the second day of what is an opportunity to recognize and thank those who have Russian Federation. Coalition members took turns at the was scheduled to be a two-day advocacy event had to be provided leadership and have shown unwavering support podium expressing their solidarity with the Ukrainian postponed for a future date. The second day’s program was of the Ukrainian American community’s concerns. community expressing such sentiments as: “We are in this to include a breakfast meeting with the Congressional At an evening reception at the Embassy of Lithuania, together” and “Your fight, is our fight.” The CEEC embodies Ukrainian Caucus, as well as a rally in support of Ukraine in Ukrainian Day participants were warmly welcomed by 18 national ethnic organizations that represent nearly 22 front of the White House. A new date for the White House Zygimantis Pavilionis, Lithuania’s ambassador to the million Americans of Central and East European descent. rally is pending. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11 No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 11 Exhibit showcases artists who shaped theater of early 20th century NEW YORK – The Ukrainian Museum is In adopting expressionist drama, which presenting the first comprehensive exhibit makes up the second aspect of the exhibi- showcasing avant-garde artists who shaped tion, constructivist aesthetics and contem- early 20th century Ukrainian theater and, porary social content, the productions of ultimately, influenced the theatrical world Berezil shaped the distinct modernist land- stage. “Staging the Ukrainian Avant-Garde of scape of theater in Ukraine. Berezil repre- the 1910s and 1920s” was organized by The sents the apogee of Ukrainian theatrical Ukrainian Museum with guest curators arts on par with the best contemporary Myroslava Mudrak, professor emerita, productions of Erwin Piscator in Berlin and Department of History of Art, The Ohio Vsevolod Meyerkhold in Moscow. In 1933 State University; and Tetiana Rudenko, chief the Bolshevik government shut down the curator of the Museum of Theater, Music Berezil theater in Kharkiv and sent Kurbas and Cinema Arts of Ukraine in Kyiv. into exile and the gulag, where he was later The exhibit, which opened on February executed. Repression and execution were 15, will be open to the public through the weapons used by the Soviet regime September 13. against an entire generation of artists and The first of its kind outside Ukraine to writers of the early 20th century, abruptly feature important contributions to the the- halting the exuberant modernist expres- ater arts in the 1910s and 1920s by mod- sion of Ukrainian culture. ernist Ukrainian artists, the exhibition tells Ukrainian theater set itself apart by the story of an avant-garde that generated exploiting Ukraine’s own popular culture, innovation, entrepreneurship and, to a Cover of the catalogue for the exhibit Artist Borys Kosarev’s sketch (gouache its traditions and customs, including folk large extent, social engagement with con- “Staging the Ukrainian Avant-Garde of on paper) for costumes for three witches the 1910s and 1920s.” in Ivan Kocherha’s “Marko v Pekli” costume, puppet theater, and the Kozak temporary issues. (Marko in Hell), State Red Factory “Staging the Ukrainian Avant-Garde” early 20th century Ukrainian stage design Theater, Kharkiv, 1928. (Continued on page 16) showcases 125 original art works for the are specifically highlighted, each intermin- theater by 13 artists, many of them exiled gling formalist and socio-cultural issues of or executed during Stalin’s purges of the the day. 1930s for their perceived political beliefs. The first examines the period of enter- The exhibition comprises 142 objects on prising collaborative projects initiated by loan from the collection of the Museum of experimental theater and dance, wherein Theater, Music and Cinema Arts of Ukraine the cubo-futurist painter Alexandra Exter in Kyiv, including art works on paper of cos- and dancer and ballet choreographer tume, set and make-up design, photo- Bronislava Nijinska revolutionized the bal- graphs and original posters. letic stage. While these figures have become A historical trajectory serves as the orga- well-known in theater and dance history in nizing principle for the exhibition, begin- the last few decades, the exhibition intro- ning with experimental designs for dance duces Exter’s protégé, Vadym Meller, who and culminating with theatrical spectacle would become the premier designer for the at its most innovative period in the theaters Berezil Artistic Association, led by visionary of Kyiv, Odesa and Kharkiv. Three aspects of director Les Kurbas. 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11

tunity to examine me. Today is already Azarov. The Treasury Department on Ukrainian media reports say some 20,000 NEWSBRIEFS March 11, 2015, and yet Russia still won’t March 11 also sanctioned a bank in Crimea Ukrainians have Czech roots. In late 1990s, grant Ukrainian doctors permission to – the Russian National Commercial Bank – the Czech government repatriated some (Continued from page 2) examine me! Meanwhile, Russian doctors two other former officials from the govern- 200 citizens of Kazakhstan who had Czech ple.” Earlier on March 11, Ukrainian are taking me off the hunger strike by intro- ment of ousted Ukrainian President Viktor roots. (RFE/RL, based on reporting by Finance Minister Natalie Jaresko said her ducing more and more new products into Yanukovych, eight Ukrainian “separatists,” Czech Radio and newsmir.info) country expects to receive $5 billion in my diet. They aren’t always good for me – in and two other leaders of Mr. Dugin’s credit from the IMF in the coming days to fact, they are already causing me acute pan- Eurasian Youth Union. Any U.S. property Interest rates hiked to stabilize hryvnia boost its international reserves, which are creatitis! I understand that for the doctors held by those individuals is frozen, and U.S. KYIV – Ukraine’s central bank has sharp- at their lowest level in more than a decade. here, as well as the Russian Federation’s citizens are prohibited from doing business ly raised the country’s interest rate in an The Ukrainian economy is forecast to con- investigative committee and the Russian with them. The United States took the effort to stabilize the national currency and tract by 5.5 percent in 2015 as government government, the most important thing is action to “hold accountable those responsi- halt inflation. National Bank of Ukraine forces fight pro-Russian separatists in the switching me back to [eating from] the reg- ble for violations of Ukraine’s sovereignty chief Valeriya Hontareva said in Kyiv the country’s east and trade with Russia has ular prison pot and shipping me off to jail and territorial integrity.” Russian FSB chief benchmark interest rate would be almost ceased. Last week, Ukrainian law- again, to make sure the investigation can Aleksandr Bortnikov, who has been target- increased from 19.5 percent to 30 percent makers passed austerity measures, includ- last forever! Unless Ukrainian doctors are ed by sanctions in the European Union and as of March 4. The move is aimed at stabi- ing pension cuts and tax increases, intend- granted access to me before the end of the Canada, was not on the list of individuals lizing the value of the hryvnia, which has ed to help secure the fresh IMF bailout week to correct the way I am being reintro- targeted by the Treasury Department in lost 80 percent of its value against the dol- package. (RFE/RL, based on reporting by duced to food, then, starting from Monday, this latest round of sanctions. (RFE/RL) lar since January 1. Prices in January were Agence France-Presse and Reuters) March 16, 2015, I am refusing food again EU removes four from sanctions list 28.5 percent higher than in January 2014. and resume my hunger strike – until I can The Ukrainian economy – forecast to con- Savchenko may resume hunger strike meet with doctors from Ukraine! I have BRUSSELS – The European Union has tract by 5.5 percent in 2015 – has suffered submitted an appropriate statement to the MOSCOW – On March 11, Nikolay removed four Ukrainians from a sanctions in the past year as government forces fight FSIN [Federal Penitentiary Service] of Polozov, a lawyer for Nadiya Savchenko, list due to lack of evidence. The EU list, pro-Russian forces in eastern Ukraine and Russia.” (maidantranslations.com) met with his client, who gave him another announced in March 2014, had targeted 22 trade with Russia has almost ceased. The letter addressed to the people. The letter, More individuals, entities sanctioned Ukrainian officials suspected of embezzling interest rate increase comes ahead of a tweeted by lawyer Mark Feigin, reads: “To state funds and illegally transferring the decision by the International Monetary Ukrainians, to the people. Starting from WASHINGTON – The United States has funds outside Ukraine. The EU has frozen Fund, expected on March 11, to release a March 5, 2015, I agreed to eat broth, to issued a new list of individuals and entities their assets held in the 28-nation bloc. The $17.5 billion loan that Kyiv needs to avoid a avoid getting hospitalized in a Russian hos- to be sanctioned over Russia’s interference four men, whose names didn’t appear in default on its debts. (RFE/RL, based on pital and force fed, and also in order to be in Ukraine, including Kremlin-connected the updated list on March 6, are: Oleksiy reporting by the Associated Press and visited by Ukrainian doctors, since German nationalist ideologue Aleksandr Dugin and Azarov, the son of former Prime Minister Agence France-Presse) and Russian doctors already had the oppor- former Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Mykola Azarov; former presidential advis- Russia, Ukraine reach gas deal ers Andriy Portnov and Ihor Kalinin; and former security chief Oleksandr BRUSSELS – Russia and Ukraine have Yakymenko. The EU said another four peo- reached an agreement to ensure Russian gas ple will remain on the list for three months, supplies to Ukraine for the month of March, during which the Ukrainian Procurator averting possible cuts that could have hit TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL Walter Honcharyk (973) 292-9800 x3040 General’s Office is required to provide more supplies to the European Union. The break- or e-mail [email protected] evidence against them. The list will be through followed EU-mediated talks in updated after 12 months. It includes ousted Brussels on March 2 involving Russian Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych Energy Minister Alexander Novak and his SERVICES PROFESSIONALS and Mykola Azarov as well as the former Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr head of the Ukrainian Security Service, a Demchyshyn. Moscow threatened to turn off former prosecutor-general, a former inter- the taps to Ukraine on March 3 unless it nal affairs minister and a former justice received outstanding pre-payments, as minister. (RFE/RL) agreed in a deal last October. Complicating the dispute has been deliveries to Ukraine’s Ukrainians with Czech roots leave rebel-held east. The previous week, Russia PRAGUE – Ukrainians of Czech descent began directly pumping gas to rebel-held have started leaving eastern Ukraine for areas after Kyiv cut them. Moscow said those the Czech Republic. Czech Radio reported deliveries should be counted in gas exports on March 1 that a bus carrying 40 people to Ukraine. Under the agreement, Kyiv and whose ancestors came to Ukraine when it Moscow agreed the supply issue in eastern was part of the Russian empire in the 19th Ukraine “is highly complex in legal, technical СТЕФАН ВЕЛЬГАШ century left the village of Chekhohrad – and political terms,” and that more talks Ліцензований Продавець which means Czech city – in the southeast- would be required. (RFE/RL, based report- Страхування Життя ern Zaporizhia region. The village, populat- ing by Reuters and Agence France-Presse) STEPHAN J. WELHASCH ed mainly by descendants of Czech immi- Ukraine pays for gas supplies Licensed Life Insurance Agent grants, lies about 200 kilometers west of Ukrainian National Assn., Inc. the front line in the conflict between gov- MOSCOW – Russian gas giant Gazprom 548 Snyder Ave., Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922 ernment forces and Russian-backed rebels, said on March 6 it had received a pre-pay- Tel.: 908-508-1728 • Fax: (973) 292-0900 which has killed more than 6,000 people ment for gas from Ukrainian state energy e-mail: [email protected] since April. At total of 138 Ukrainians of company Naftohaz, ensuring supplies to Czech descent are expected to arrive in the Ukraine through mid-March. Gazprom PERSONAL Czech Republic in the coming weeks. Czech spokesman Sergei Kupriyanov said Ukraine officials say all repatriates will be provided with housing, jobs, and medical insurance. (Continued on page 13) Handsome, successful 31 y.o. Ukrainian-American would like to meet a beautiful, successful the beginning of their first MAP cycles. woman between 24-29 y.o. Turning... The document also warned that the for a serious relationship. MAP debate was testing NATO’s adherence E-mail: [email protected] (Continued from page 6) to its own principles and procedures, and urged inviting Ukraine and Georgia to par- NATO enlargement has strengthened the ticipate in MAPs at the Bucharest summit. alliance, despite initial doubts, they added. OPPORTUNITIES Moscow suggested that the Georgian A negative response to Georgia and and Ukrainian MAPs were essentially a U.S. Ukraine would generate doubts about project that would spoil European relations NATO’s continuation of its open-door poli- with Russia. These “newcomers” to the alli- Earn extra income! cy, would deprive Ukraine and Georgia of a ance were portrayed by Moscow as an ero- The Ukrainian Weekly is looking chance to choose their place in the sion of Germany’s and France’s influence. for advertising sales agents. European security architecture, and would The document was denounced by For additional information contact leave the impression that outside factors Moscow as a Washington-directed move to Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, were able to exert influence on the alli- divide Germany and France from other The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. ance’s decision-making. countries in the alliance, as stated by Dmitry The signatories also underscored the Rogozin, Russia’s envoy to NATO, who is now value of MAPs as a tool in promoting inter- deputy prime minister of Russia. WANT IMPACT? nal reforms in the aspirant countries and Run your advertisement here, stimulating them to improve relations with Source: “NATO members stating the case in The Ukrainian Weekly’s neighboring countries. Ukraine and for Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs,” by Georgia compared favorably with the situa- Vladimir Socor (Eurasia Daily Monitor), The CLASSIFIEDS section. tion in current MAP countries that were at Ukrainian Weekly, March 30, 2008. No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 13

March 10. The naval rapid reaction force in in September of last year and February of Kharkiv. Police told RFE/RL that Andriy NEWSBRIEFS the drills comprises a U.S. flagship, the this year were high on the Riga agenda. On Yanholenko and his wife, Inna, were hospi- guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg, and March 6, Russian Foreign Affairs Minister talized after a bomb under Mr. Yanholenko’s (Continued from page 12) ships from the six other participating states Sergei Lavrov and German Foreign Affairs car exploded on March 6. City officials said had made another $15-million advance pay- – Black Sea countries Turkey, Romania, and Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier agreed in they suffered shrapnel wounds. Mr. ment, enough to receive an additional 45.6 Bulgaria, plus Canada, Germany and Italy. a telephone conference on the need for the Yanholenko commands Slobozhanshchyna, a million cubic meters of gas. The announce- NATO has held a series of exercises in European security organization, the OSCE, police battalion whose members refused to ment came as Ukraine was facing an Eastern Europe, aimed in part to reassure to double the number of its monitors in participate in a crackdown on the protests impending suspension of gas supplies that members concerned about Russian inten- Ukraine to 1,000. Kyiv and the West accuse that led to the ouster of President Viktor could have started as early as March 6. tions following Moscow’s annexation of the Russia of deploying troops and weaponry in Yanukovych in February 2014. An aide to Under the terms of an agreement the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea in March Ukraine’s east to the support the separat- Internal Affairs Minister Arsen Avakov said European Union (EU) helped mediate 2014 and its moves in support of separat- ists. Despite daily evidence supporting the on Facebook that authorities were treating ists fighting government forces in eastern between Russia and Ukraine in October allegations, Moscow denies sending Russian the blast as a suspected terrorist act. Four Ukraine. A Bulgarian navy spokesman said 2014, Russia agreed to reduce the price it troops or weaponry into eastern Ukraine. people have been killed and 14 wounded in the training would include simulated anti- charges Ukraine for gas but Kyiv must pay (RFE/RL, based on reporting by Agence three apparent bombings since January 19 air and anti-submarine warfare exercises, France-Presse, the Associate Press and in Kharkiv, which lies northwest of the site of in advance for gas it receives from Gazprom. as well as simulated small boat attacks and Reuters) the conflict between government forces and Ukraine faced a cut-off at the end of basic ship handling maneuvers. (RFE/RL, February but made a $15 million prepay- based on reporting by Reuters, digi24.com) Car bomb explodes in Kharkiv Russian-backed rebels. Ukrainian authorities ment that at the time Mr. Kupriyanov said have blamed a series of bomb blasts in would give Ukraine an additional 24 hours Ukraine’s war focus of EU ministers KHARKIV – A senior special-police officer Kharkiv and the southern city of Odesa on of gas. The EU has been concerned about its loyal to Kyiv was injured along with his wife Russia and the rebels. (RFE/RL Ukrainian RIGA – European Union foreign ministers in a car-bomb blast in the eastern city of Service, with reporting by UNIAN) own supplies as 40 percent of the Russian met for a second day in the Latvian capital, gas the EU purchases is carried by pipelines Riga, on March 7 for talks focusing on the transiting Ukrainian territory. (RFE/RL, war in eastern Ukraine. The gathering of based on reporting by Interfax and Reuters) ministers from the EU’s 28 member states With heavy hearts and deep sorrow we announce NATO naval drills start in Black Sea came amid heightened tensions between the EU and Russia over Moscow’s support that our beloved mother BRUSSELS – Seven NATO members for separatists in Ukraine. Implementation started a naval exercise in the Black Sea on of the Minsk ceasefire agreements brokered SOPHIE SKOP Ділимося сумною вісткою що passed away on February 16, 2015. 20 грудня 2014 року в Гамільтоні, Онтаріо, на 93 році життя відійшла Funeral services were held on Tuesday, February 24, 2015, at у вічність наша найдорожча St. John the Baptizer Ukrainian Catholic Church, La Mesa (San Diego) CA. Maмa i Бабця Predeceased by her beloved husband Alexander, Sophie leaves her св. п. grieving daughters Vera (Bohdan Knianicky) and Nadia (Peter Shlichta.) Дарія Хризанта Горнич Вічна Їй пам’ять! (з дому Ціховляс) дружина покійного Романа (2009) In lieu of ‡ owers donations may be made to нар. 1 квітня 1922 року в Ярославі. Smoloskyp, P. O. Box 561, Ellicott City, MD 21041 Похоронні відправи відбулися 23 грудня 2014 року в Українській католицькій церкві св. Духа в Гамільтоні, Онтаріо, а відтак на цвинтарі св. Володимира в Oakville, Онтаріо, Канада. With deep sorrow we announce that У глибокому смутку залишені: on February 28, 2015, in Meadowbrook, PA, дочка - Марта Гуменюк з чоловіком Орестом син - д-р Адріян Горнич з дружиною Іриною OLGA FYLYPOWYCZ née LOZA (з дому Макогон) peacefully fell asleep in the Lord, having received the Holy внуки - Дам’ян з нареченою Найомі Eucharist and Last Rights. - Рената - Маркіян She was born on February 18, 1918 in Lviv (then part of the Austro-Hungarian Та ближча і дальша родина в Канаді, Америці і Бельгії. Empire) where she graduated from the Gymnasium of the Basilian Sisters; in the 1930’s was a secret member of the Plast Scouting movement which had Вічна Їй пам’ять! been outlawed by the Polish government; in 1938 participated in the march to restore the graves of the Sich Ri‡ emen on Makivka; in 1941, together with her late sister, Osypa, sheltered their Jewish co-worker, Ruzia Lekhman, saving her from the Holocaust; in 1944 was forced to ‡ ee under the threat of bolshevik bayonets; arrived in Chicago in 1955 where she was a longtime member of It is with deep sorrow we share the Catholic Action group at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral; despite with family and friends that on modest means, together with her late husband, generously supported Basilian Thursday March 5, 2015 passed religious and priests in Brazil and Poland, the Ukrainian Catholic University, and the acquisition of the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington, D.C.; was recognized into eternity our beloved mother, by the UUARC for continuous support of its “Grandfather and Grandmother” grandmother, and aunt. project; and at age 91, at the request of her granddaughter, sewed neckerchief prototypes for the uniforms of the revitalized Plast Scouting junior sorority #24 Anastasia Hrybowych named after Princess Olga of Kyivan Rus. Born October 20, 1930, in Peremyshl Ukraine. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on March 7, 2015, at Annunciation B.V.M. Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA Anastasia emigrated to the U.S. in 1949 and settled in Detroit, Michigan. followed by interment at Lawnview Cemetery, Fox Chase, PA Besides her family and friends, she loved Ukraine and was a supporter of its democracy and freedom. Olga was predeceased in 2003 by her husband of 60 years, Eugene. Surviving are: She is survived by: daughters - Melaniya Temnycky with husband Vlodko, daughter son - ANDREW FYLYPOVYCH with wife, CHRISTINE SHUST Sophia and son Nicholas granddaughters - ANDREA and ALEXANDRA - Natalia Hrybowych, nieces and nephews - ROXOLANA FYLYPOWYCZ HARASYMIW and family niece - Mary Kelley with husband Charles, son Ryan and TARAS FYLYPOWYCZ daughter Alison Dr. DARIA FYLYPOWYCZ MONTERO nephew - George Burke Dr. YAROSLAW ZALIPSKYJ with wife NADIA and family niece - Lesia Fodell with husband Tom, sons Patrick and MARTHA STADNYK with husband SLAVKO Nicholas, daughter Stephanie family in Germany and Ukraine nephew - Douglas Fejer with wife Beth, son Alex and daughter Lesia ВІЧНА ЇЙ ПАМ’ЯТЬ! grand nieces - Laura and Alyssa Fejer extended family in Ukraine and Poland In lieu of ‡ owers contributions may be made to: Ukrainian Catholic Education Foundation, 2247 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60622 Funeral services will be held on March 14, 2015, 2 pm. at St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Church in South Bound Brook, New Jersey. Family contact: Аndrew Fylypovych, 905 Manor Ave., Meadowbrook, PA Eternal Memory – Вічная пам’ять! 19046; [email protected] 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11

COMMUNITY CHRONICLE Short Hills rally for Savchenko Solidarity hunger strike in Toronto

SHORT HILLS, N.J. – The Short Hills Ladies Club and members of the New Jersey Regional Council of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America rallied in support of Nadiya Savchenko in front of Millburn Town Hall on March 8, International Women’s Day. They were heeding the call of the World Federation of Ukrainian The keynote speaker, Member of Parliament Chrystia Freeland, with organizers of Women’s Organizations – which links 27 NGOs in 17 countries on three continents – to the event in solidarity with Nadiya Savchenko: (first row, from left) Anna Kupreeva, demand the release of Ms. Savchenko from Russian detention. Luba Kelebay, Olya Grod, Renata Roman, Marijka Lalka-Wynnyckyj, Oksana – Roksolana Misilo Rewa, (second row) Lesia Danylak, Ms. Freeland, Marijka Stadnyk, Lydia Falcomer and Alexandra Chyczij. TORONTO – The World Federation of large group of assembled men, women and Ukrainian Women’s Organizations children about the IFAK training project announced that its call to stand in solidarity they are both involved with and provided with Nadiya Savchenko on March 8, insight into both the need and the benefit International Women’s Day, met with strong of this life-saving project for Ukrainian sol- support in Toronto. diers. An ad hoc committee quickly organized Donations equivalent to the cost of food an event at the UNF Trident Banquet Hall a person would have consumed on this day that featured Member of Parliament were made to the Patriot Defence Fund Chrystia Freeland as the keynote speaker. (www.patriotdefence.org) in support of Several videos about the inspiring life of Ukraine’s army. Organizers said $5,000 was Nadiya Savchenko were shown. raised for this World Congress of Bohdan Cherniawsky and Alexandra Ukrainians project led by Ukrainian Stadnyk of Patriot Defence spoke to the American physician Ulana Suprun.

DISTRICT COMMITTEE OF UNA BRANCHES of NORTHERN NEW JERSEY announces that its DISTRICT COMMITTEE MEETING will be held on Friday, March 27, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. at the UNA HOME OFFICE 2200 Route 10, Parsippany, NJ 07054 Obligated to attend the annual meeting as voting members are District Committee Oˆ cers, Convention Delegates and two delegates from the following Branches: 25, 27, 37, 42, 70, 76,133, 134, 142, 155, 171, 234, 269, 287, 353, 372 All UNA members are welcome as guests at the meeting. MEETING WILL BE ATTENDED BY members of the UNA Executive Committee FOR DISTRICT COMMITTEE Yuriy Symczyk, Northern New Jersey District Chairman

Subscribe to he krainian eekly Only $90 T U Please contact SubscriptionW Dept. $80 for UNA members [email protected] Tel.: 973-292-9800 ext. 3040 For an additional $5 get an online subscription as well Published by the Ukrainian National Association No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 15

third round of her first Grand Slam, having going to the beach and wake boarding. Jayce needs to work on his skating, but Svitolina a rising star defeated Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia. 10. Social Savvy: follow Elina on Twitter one will never question his desire to in women’s tennis The young Ukrainian is having fun play- and on Facebook. improve and do whatever it takes to make Nineteen-year-old Elina Svitolina reigned ing tennis and taking advantage of the the step to the NHL. supreme after the two-set contest in Baku, a opportunities to compete against some of Hawryluk a perfect t “We all know he’s going to put the work final that saw two of the WTA tour’s rising the better professional ladies on the tour. for Florida Panthers in because that is the type of kid he is,” said stars collide. The Ukrainian youngster She’s worked diligently to improve her The Florida Panthers asked Jayce Luce, very impressed by Hawryluk’s upbeat retained the maiden title she won at this game, has demonstrated an aggressive Hawryluk to keep a secret the weekend of demeanor. “At the under-18 tournament he same event in 2013 with a strong showing competitive streak and should continue to June 27-29, 2014. On Saturday morning of really stood out to us as the type of player against Bojana Jovanovski of Serbia. improve her ranking further by the end of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, the secret was that has that sandpaper with skill. He was a At the time ranked No. 37 in the world, the current year. revealed to the rest of the hockey world. On perfect fit for us.” Svitolina had lost only one set in Baku and Friday, Panthers General Manager Dale Tallon Early in 2014 Svitiolina was announced Up and down in 2013-2014 was clearly the stronger competitor from the as the latest ambassador for global sports- told the aspiring Ukrainian hockey player start of the match. She breezed through the wear brand Ellesse, whose president, Marco that he would be their selection if he was still The past year was a roller coaster for first set in a mere 22 minutes. The second set Ellerker, issued the following statement: around come the start of the second round. Hawryluk. He began the season with Team saw no breaks of serve as Jovanovski found “Ellesse has a rich heritage in tennis and as “They tell you that, but anything can Canada at the Ivan Hlinka Tournament. He some rhythm on serve and forced a tiebreak. we look to the future, we are delighted to be change. They honored their promise, and it played on a rebuilding WHL club, helping Svitolina jumped on the opportunity to take supporting such an exceptional young talent means a lot to me,” said Hawryluk in a draft Brandon into the playoffs and a first-round a 4-0 lead in the tiebreak and closed out the in Elina. Her determination and positive atti- day interview with the Winnipeg Sun. The upset of the Regina Pats. He experienced match 6-1, 7-6(2). tude to life embodies everything Ellesse half-Ukrainian (from father Terry) led the shortness of breath and collapsed in the According to WTATennis.com, Svitolina is stands for, and, of course, she looks fantastic Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL) with 24 goals dressing room after a first star performance the first teenager to win multiple WTA titles in our new designs!” and 64 points in 59 games last season. “It in game three. Hawryluk spent three days in since Anastasia Pavluchenkova of Russia. was unbelievable. I’ve got a lot of emotions the hospital, watching his team complete Svitolina is one of the brightest young Getting personal: 10 things going right now.” the sweep without him before returning for stars in women’s tennis today and has to know about Elina Svitolina If you got to your seat late Saturday the second round and a five-game loss to morning (your sports correspondent did), secured her position as the WTA’s highest 1. Vital stats: born in Odesa, Ukraine, on the eventual WHL champions, the you missed Hawryluk being called to the Edmonton Oil Kings. He would show no ill ranked teenager in the world. She made her September 12, 1994; lives in Kharkiv. top-100 debut in February 2013, and hit a podium with the second pick of the second effects, scoring in his first game back. He 2. Early years: started playing tennis at round, following Brandan Lemieux, son of ranking of No. 37 after the 2014 Family would finish the playoffs with five goals and age 4 due to her brother being a pro player. Claude Lemieux. A few minutes later when Circle Cup, where she registered an upset of 12 points in eight games. His busy campaign Her goal was to be better than her brother. he met the media, one couldn’t have wiped upcoming American Sloane Stephens. The concluded back with Team Canada where 3. Junior success: won Roland Garros the smile off Hawryluk’s face if one tried. rest of her 2014 included wins over he helped the squad to a bronze medal at girls’ title in 2010 at age 15. Hawryluk is a proud Manitoban who the U-18 World Championships. Roberta Vinci at the Open GDF Suez in Paris 4. Pro Success: won her first ITF event in was actually born in Yorkton, Saskatoon. He and WTA’s 2013 newcomer of the year, Kharkiv (2010), then won total of nine ITF is gifted with superior skills, but also plays Scouting report Eugenie Bouchard, at the Sony Open in tournaments over the next three years; big a tenacious game, a trait he developed from An undersized forward, he must be a Miami. At the Western and Southern breakthrough came in 2013 when she won playing with three older brothers. He strong skater to make it in the NHL. He has Svitolina recorded the first top-10 victory the Baku Cup for her first WTA title. should mesh well with new Panthers head good speed with good acceleration, which of her career, defeating Wimbledon cham- 5. Making history: by winning the Baku coach Gerald Gallant who played with a complements his grit and agility. His top pion Petra Kvitova in the second round. Cup, she became the first teenager to win a chip on his shoulder back in the day. assets are his core strength and balance – he Elina entered 2015 with a new career high WTA main tour title since February 2012. Florida’s scouting director Scott Luce is hard to knock off the puck, forechecks ranking of No. 28, which she maintained 6. Rankings Watch: reached career high praised Hawryluk’s pre-draft interview as hard, wins battles along the boards and plays after reaching the semifinals at the rank of No. 28 at end of 2014/ beginning of one of the best he’s witnessed in the last 10 a strong cycle game. He is strong enough to Brisbane International and the third round 2015. years. “He was phenomenal. He knew fight through checks, go to the net, battle for of the Australian Open. 7. Favorites: surface to play on is clay, about our team and he knew that he was a pucks in the corners and gain position in the Svitolina first drew attention when she food is Chinese, musician is Eminem. fit. It was great give-and-take,” said Luce in front of the net when battling defenders. won the 2010 Roland Garros girls’ event at 8. Idol Worship: favorite players are a June 28, 2014, interview with the Hawryluk doesn’t allow his size (5-foot-10, the young age of 15. At 18 she won her first Andre Agassi and Roger Federer; admires Winnipeg Sun. “He plays the game the way 190 pounds) to detract from his game. Baku Cup, making her the first teenager to Kim Clijsters’ groundstrokes and Serena he lives life. When you have that, it makes it win a WTA tournament since February Williams’ serve. easier for him to be an effective player Ihor Stelmach may be reached at 2012. In January 2013 she reached the 9. Off-Court: enjoys movies, reading, because he comes by that naturally.” [email protected]

Soccer included Ihor Kolomoisky (eight votes) and match 5-4 in penalty kicks to advance to March 21. Ukraine got a bye to the main Yaroslav Hryso (seven votes). the quarterfinals. Shakhtar plays against round, along with 21 other teams that had Portuguese club Benefica in the quarterfi- the highest coefficients based on the Futsal Munich on March 10 at Allianz Arena in Dynamo Kyiv lost 1-2 to French club nal on March 17 at Caixia Futebol Campus Euro 2014 and 2012 ,and Futsal World Cup Munich• Shakhtar during Donetsk the UEFAlost 0-7 Champions to Bayern Guingamp• During on the February UEFA Europa 19 at LeagueRoudourour play, in Seixal, Portugal. Other teams in the quar- 2012 (Ukraine ranked fifth, behind League knockout stage before the quarter- arena in Guingamp, France, in the first-leg terfinals include Italy’s Roma, England’s Portugal and ahead of Croatia). The tourna- finals. The match was off to a rocky start match, and Dynamo won 3-1 against Manchester City, Belgian club Anderlecht ment had 24 other teams that competed in when Olexandr Kucher received the fastest Guingamp on February 26 in the second- and Porto. England’s Chelsea defeated the preliminary round, in addition to the 21 red card in a UEFA Champions League leg match at Olympic Stadium in Kyiv. In the Atletico Madrid 2-0 on March 10 to secure in the main round, with a record-setting 45 match, at 2-minutes, 39 seconds (a new Round of 16, Dynamo plays Everton on its spot in the semifinal. countries competing. record) during the first half. Shakhtar was March 12 at Goodison Park in Liverpool, down 0-2 at the half and, playing with a England. Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk won 2-0 play against Italy on March 21 at Stadion Athletics 10-man squad, the pitmen were at the against Greek club Olympiacos on February Wetzlar• Ukraine’s in Wetzlar, U-17 Germany, men’s team as part is set of itsto mercy of one of Europe’s top clubs until the 19, and tied 2-2 on February 26 in the sec- UEFA U-17 Group 8 Elite Round matches en’s 400-meter race on March 5-8 at the final whistle. Shakhtar tied 0-0 with Bayern ond-leg match. Dnipro plays against Dutch with Germany (March 23) and Slovakia 33rd• Nataliya European Pyhyda wonAthletics gold in theIndoor wom- on February 17 in the first-leg match that club Ajax on March 12 at Olympic Stadium (March 26). Bulgaria hosts the tournament Championhsips at O2 Arena in Prague. was played at Arena Lviv. The quarterfinals in Kyiv. Second-leg matches are scheduled final that is set for May 6-22. Natalia Lupu won third place in the wom- are set to begin on April 14-15, with sec- for March 19. en’s 800-meter race. Alina Fyodorova won ond-leg matches on April 21-22. The final is play against Belgium on April 4 at first place in the women’s shotput with a set for June 6 in Berlin at Olympiastadion. of the UEFA U-19 Elite Round, with Bosnia Waldseestadion,• Ukraine’s women’s in Forst, U-19 Germany, team is as set part to distance of 15.09 meters. and• Ukraine’sHerzegovina U-19 (Maymen’s 14),team Montenegrois in Group 5 of its UEFA Group 5 Elite Round. Other new president of the Football Federation of (May 19) and Poland (May 16). Locations of teams in Group 5 include group host men’s high jump (2.26 meters) at the Ukraine• Andriy (FFU) Pavelko, on March 39, was 6 afterselected receiving as the matches are to be determined. Greece hosts Germany (April 6) and Scotland (April 9). Malmo• Andriy Games Protsenko at Malmo Arenawon silver on February in the 122 out of 137 votes by delegates during the final tournament on July 6-19. The final is set for Israel on July 15-27. 25 in Malmo, Sweden. Nataliya Pohrebnyak the XVII Extraordinary Congress of the FFU won silver in the women’s 60-meter race. in Kyiv. Pavelk, who will serve a four-year Donetsk won first place in Group H with 14 Futsal term as president of the FFU, brings experi- points,• In theahead UEFA of YouthPortuguese League, club Shakhtar Porto the women’s 60-meter hurdles at the IAAF ence as a well-known Ukrainian politician (nine points), Spain’s Athletic Club (nine Euro Cup is set to play against Belgium, Permit• Hanna Indoor Platitsyna Meeting won at third XL-Galan place in and lawmaker, having served as the chair- points) and Belarus’ FC BATE Borisov (one group• Ukraine, host inAzerbaijan Group 4 of andthe UEFA Denmark. Futsal Stockholm on February 19. Oksana man of the Football Federation of point). After a 1-1 draw with Greek club Ukraine’s opener will be against Denmark on Okuneva won third place in women’s high Dnipropetrovsk since 2001. Other candi- Olympiacos (Group A runner-up) on March 18; Ukraine will play against Belgium dates for the post of president of the FFU February 23 in Kyiv, Shakhtar won the on March 19 and against Azerbaijan on (Continued on page 17) 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11

not long, however, before triumph turned to Exhibit showcases... tragedy. The policy that once promoted the arts ultimately proved to be a ruse, laying (Continued from page 11) the groundwork for Stalin’s planned exter- lyrical burlesque and gritty local variety mination of the Ukrainian elite that began in show. The avant-garde artists translated the 1930s and leading to what is now called these into a modernist idiom, exercising the “executed renaissance.” A novel based on biography formalist hyperbole, bright colors and vul- Almost a century has passed since the gate forms to create a lively and provoca- vibrancy of the avant-garde of the 1910s “And I Was There: A Novel Based on tive theater dynamic, a performative forum and 1920s afforded new hope for the the Life of a Ukrainian Immigrant,” by that was both cosmopolitan and distinc- future directions of Ukrainian art and cul- Martha Elliott. Virtualbookworm.com tively local. This third, folk-inspired, aspect ture. Ukraine’s current revolutionary strug- Publishing Inc., 2014. 482 pp. ISBN: 978-1- of the exhibition is illustrated by the singu- gle for independence makes the preserva- 62137-575-3, paperback, $19.95. larly rich works of Anatol Petrytsky, the tion of that legacy ever more precious. The The cover of “And I Was There,” the productions of Berezil, and similarly show- collaboration between The Ukrainian debut novel by Martha Elliott, describes the cased in the works of Matvii Drak, Marko Museum in New York and the Museum of work as “a novel based on the life of a Epshtein, Borys Kosarev, Oleksandr Theater, Music and Cinema Arts of Ukraine Ukrainian immigrant.” It is, in fact, a novel Khvostenko-Khvostov, Vasyl Krychevsky, in Kyiv in the presentation of this exhibition based on the real-life events in the life of Nisson Shyfrin, Valentyn Shkliaiev, Maia signals a strong belief in and commitment the author’s grandfather, Stepan Bemko. (Militsa) Symashkevych and Kost Yeleva, to a flourishing national culture in Ukraine. who designed for other theaters in Ukraine, Bemko was born in 1885 in the tiny vil- Exhibit catalogue lage of Vivsia in Galicia (Halychyna), left his including the Jewish theater of Odesa. A full-color illustrated, bilingual (English family at the age of 12, came to America in The bulk of the exhibit’s works focuses on and Ukrainian), 276-page, softcover cata- 1903 and died in 1978 at the age of 93 – a the designs of Vadym Meller, who won a gold logue accompanies “Staging the Ukrainian life full of struggles and changes, beginning medal for his scenography at the Avant-Garde of the 1910s and 1920s.” The with peasant life in “the heart of Ukrainian International Exposition of Modern publication features critical essays by con- nationalism” in what was then part of Industrial and Decorative Arts in Paris in 1925. The following year, his designs were sultative curators Prof. Mudrak and Ms. Austria-Hungary and transitioning through Rudenko, and includes contributions by the many changes in America through most exhibited as part of the “foreign” and “radical- ly modernistic” section of the International these acknowledged experts: Nicoletta of the 20th century. Theater Exposition in New York (The Little Misler, professor of Russian and East Two of Bemko’s brothers were able to Review, Winter 1926). Special emphasis will European art at the Istituto Universitario join him in America. As the Bemko family be placed on Meller’s designs for Berezil’s Orientale, Naples (University of Naples); grew, Stepan never tired of telling stories to productions of Upton Sinclair’s “Jimmie John E. Bowlt, professor, Department of his children, and later to his grandchildren family documents. It is these preserved Higgins” (1923), Georg Kaiser’s “Gas” (1923), Slavic Languages at the University of and great-grandchildren – not only fairy mementos, together with Bemko’s stories, Fernand Crommelynck’s “Golden Tripe” Southern California, Los Angeles, director tales and stories about brave Kozaks, but that form the basis of the book. (1926), and the revue, “Hello, from of the Institute of Modern Russian Culture, also about his life. His stories inspired the Often, when reading a “fictionalized Radiowave 477!” (1929). and specialist in the history of modern book’s title – many of them ended with, biography” or “story based on real events,” Russian art; Valentyna Chechyk, professor, “There was a big feast. And I was there.” the reader is left wondering what might be Historical background Department of Art History and Theory at From the time he first left home, Bemko true, and what is fiction. To answer such As revolution brought an end to the Kharkiv State Academy of Art and Design; corresponded with his parents. Although questions, Ms. Elliott has thoughtfully pro- Empire, and Ukraine declared independence Hanna Veselovska, professor, Department distance and circumstances, particularly vided a short afterword to the book, sum- for the first time in the 20th century, an intel- of Theater Theory and Criticism, Karpenko- those in Ukraine, slowed the exchange of marizing the actual known events in lectual avant-garde produced an energetic Karyi National University of Theater, letters, correspondence with his family in Bemko’s life. The story of Stepan Bemko’s (though ill-destined) cultural renaissance. Cinema and Television in Kyiv; Mayhill Ukraine continued throughout Bemko’s life is no doubt similar to the life story of Theater was central to this phenomenon. Fowler, Department of History, Stetson life, first with his parents and later with his many immigrants; at the same time, it is After years of interdiction and censorship, University, specializing in the cultural histo- sister. unique because “we were there.” the Ukrainian language was finally allowed to ry of Russia, Ukraine and Eastern Europe. Ms. Elliott’s mother – Stepan’s daughter “And I Was There” is currently available flourish on the stage, and translations of the The catalogue, priced at $49, is available Anastasia, in whose home Bemko lived through Amazon.com, $9.99 for e-book world’s most momentous dramaturgy – from in the museum shop and online at ukraini- during the author’s childhood and teenage (Kindle) and $19.95 for the paperback edi- classics such as Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex” and anmuseum.org. years – faithfully kept all his letters, along tion, as well as directly from the publisher Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” to contemporary * * * with photographs and other important at Virtualbookworm.com for $19.95. German drama – brought a new and unprec- “Staging the Ukrainian Avant-Garde of the edented theatrical experience to the public. 1910s and 1920s” is made possible by major The Soviet government instituted a policy support from Self Reliance New York Federal At the same time, the dangerous fall in of “Ukrainianization” in the 1920s as a way Credit Union and numerous private donors. Free rein... Russians’ real incomes and the clear rise in of recognizing, on the surface of things, the The Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 poverty are seemingly of little concern for USSR’s indigenously distinct peoples. This E. Sixth St. (between Second Avenue and (Continued from page 2) the Kremlin’s billionaire-courtiers (Gazeta. allowed the use of national languages and the Bowery); telephone, 212-228-0110; volunteers are still ineffective enough that ru, March 6). They tend to dismiss warn- the cultivation of native traditions for the e-mail, [email protected]; the Russian Ministry of Defense had to ings from such think tanks as the Gaidar purposes of defining “Soviet” identity along website,www.ukrainianmuseum.org. deploy whole battalions in order to achieve Economic Policy Institute that the country’s national lines. The Ukrainian theater pros- Admission to the exhibit is $8 for adults, success on the Debaltseve battlefield 19-percent contraction in investment activ- pered under these conditions, marking the $6 for seniors and students, free for chil- (Novaya Gazeta, March 2). ity (caused not by a shortage of capital but apogee of Ukrainian modernist art. It was dren age 12 and younger. Meanwhile, disregarding any ceasefire by prohibiting risk assessments) could agreements, the Russian propaganda translate into a 6.8-percent fall in GDP by machine keeps running its hate-filled cam- the end of 2015 (Slon.ru, March 6). Rather, we’ll judge Russia by its actions, not its paign under the watchful eyes and approv- the siloviki pay particularly close attention Victoria Nuland... words. The United States will start rolling to the European Union’s sanctions policy. back sanctions on Russia only when the ing nods of minders from the special ser- (Continued from page 6) vices. No commander-in-chief or general Consequently, Russia’s attempts to increas- Minsk agreements are fully implemented. staff commands this blend of local war and ingly coerce Ukraine by using gas exports In the coming days, not weeks or But the reverse is also true. We have global confrontation. And seemingly, each as a tool of political pressure was aban- months – here is what we need to see: a already begun consultations with our time Mr. Putin has tried to take control and doned last week after a firm warning signal complete cease-fire in all parts of eastern European partners on further sanctions ensure his orders were being properly exe- from Brussels (Rbc.ru, March 2). Ukraine; full, unfettered access to the whole pressure should Russia continue fueling cuted, it turned out that the only order that Mr. Putin is no more able to assert effec- conflict zone including all separatist-held the fire in the east or other parts of could be carried out was to prepare a new tive control over rogue elements within the territory, for OSCE monitors; and a full pull- Ukraine, fail to implement Minsk or grab offensive, which would be launched when- special services than his subordinates are back of all heavy weapons – Ukrainian, more land as we saw in Debaltseve. ever some local warlord/special agent able to turn Rosneft or Russian Railways Russian and separatist – as stipulated in Mr. Chairman, members of this commit- into modern, efficiently managed corpora- decided that the moment was right. the agreements, under OSCE monitoring tee, America’s investment in Ukraine is tions. The best he can hope for is to keep up Running the war as an assortment of spe- and verification. about far more than protecting the choice of the appearance of firm leadership: and pin- cial operations, Mr. Putin’s siloviki are con- If fully implemented, this will bring a single European country. It’s about pro- ning the blame for the elimination of a fronted with the fact that the Russian econo- greater peace and security in eastern tecting the rules-based system across brave dissident on Western-sponsored my cannot be run the same way – resulting Ukraine for the first time in almost a year. Europe and globally. It’s about saying “no” to Chechen rebels is a convenient means in their apparent confusion about the trajec- And with it, Ukraine will once again have borders changed by force, and to big coun- toward this end. Such a policy, however, tory of the recession. They continue their unfettered access to its own people in the tries intimidating their neighbors or cannot alter the reality of the ungovernabil- feuds over those business enterprises that east, and the opportunity for dialogue and demanding spheres of influence. It’s about ity of the siloviki-dominated Russian state, are still lucrative. Notably, Sakhalin’s gover- political normalization with them. That’s protecting our 25-year American invest- which oversees a degenerating crony capi- nor, Aleksandr Khoroshavin, who failed to what Minsk promises. Peace, then political ment in the prospect of a Europe whole, free talist economy. build a proper connection with one or normalization, then a return of the border. and at peace and the example that sets for another special services branch, has fallen The article above is reprinted from But first, there must be peace. nations and people around the world who victim to these rent-capturing attacks cam- Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from Russia’s commitments under the Minsk want more democratic, prosperous futures. ouflaged as the government’s struggle its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, agreements are crystal clear and again the I thank this committee for its bipartisan against corruption (Vedomosti, March 4). www.jamestown.org. choice is Russia’s. As the President has said, support and commitment. No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 17 Leader of Ukrainian citizens’ network to tour Canada TORONTO – Serhiy Kuzan , the leader of Ukrainian Canadians, under the auspices of one of the first self-defense units of Euro- ment and local units of the Ministry of the Free People network in Ukraine and a the International Council in Support of Maidan: the 14th Company, Euromaidan Defense, Ministry of Internal Affairs, and national activist in the civil society move- Ukraine (ICSU). The principal sponsor of the Self-Defense. the Security Service of Ukraine. ment, will be touring Canada and speaking tour is the BCU Foundation. The ICSU’s After Russia occupied Crimea by force Mr. Kuzan, 30, is an attorney by training. about “Ukraine’s citizen response to member organizations are founders of two and then attacked the Donbas region of He graduated with high honors from the Russia’s war in eastern Ukraine.” important humanitarian projects. The Ukraine, many members of Euro-Maidan Institute for Prosecutors at the prestigious The 11-city national tour in March and League of Ukrainian Canadians oversees the Self-Defense set out to defend Ukraine National Law University of Yaroslav the April includes: Toronto, March 22; Friends of Ukraine Defense Forces Fund, against Russian invaders and their surro- Wise in Kharkiv and worked as an assistant Vancouver, March 23; Calgary, March 24; providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine’s gates by forming and joining volunteer bat- prosecutor. As a law student he was active Edmonton, March 26; Winnipeg, March 28; defense personnel and their families. The talions, National Guard units or the special in the Kharkiv chapter of the Nationalist Ottawa, March 31; St. Catharine’s, April 2; League of Ukrainian Canadian Women oper- forces of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Youth Congress, a civically focused, demo- Etobicoke, April 4; Oshawa, April 6; ates the Guardian Angels Ukraine Project, With the state coffers looted by the former cratic, patriotic student organization. He London, April 7; and Hamilton, April 8. focusing on rehabilitation medicine to treat regime, and a new Ukrainian government continues to chair the organization, which During his visit to Ottawa, Mr. Kuzan will injured Ukrainian soldiers and victims of in the process of formation, Ukrainian citi- in 2011 was listed as one of the top 20 civic be hosted in Parliament by the Canada- the Euro-Maidan attacks. zens took it upon themselves to provide organizations in the country. He was among Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group Based in Kharkiv, Mr. Kuzan is a leader in their defense forces with the material sup- the founders of the Kharkiv affiliate of Our and will meet with government officials. the national volunteer network Free People port to carry on the fight to rid Ukraine of Ukraine, the lead political party of the Mr. Kuzan will discuss Ukraine’s citizen which provides direct support to Ukrainian the Russian military occupation. Orange Revolution, and in 2005-2006 he response to Russian aggression and civic sup- defense forces fighting the Russian army Free People is a network that brings served as its legal counsel. In 2013 he was port for Ukraine’s military, including his first- and its surrogates in the Donbas region of together volunteer groups throughout awarded a certificate of recognition by the hand experiences in eastern Ukraine’s war Ukraine. He and his fellow volunteers deliv- Ukraine to coordinate and pool resources Parliament of Ukraine for his civic endeav- zone. He will also share with the Canadian er supplies directly to soldiers on the front- in order to provide humanitarian assis- ors. In 2014 he was appointed as an adviser public the deep appreciation for the human- lines in the war zone. tance to the troops on the front lines and in to the Secretary of the National Defense itarian support provided to Ukraine’s mili- When the Yanukovych regime’s special the forward bases. Free People is registered and Security Council of Ukraine. tary personnel and injured soldiers. forces began launching attacks on the Euro- with the government of Ukraine and works For information about Mr. Kuzan’s tour, The tour is organized by the League of Maidan protesters, Free People established in cooperation with the national govern- readers may e-mail [email protected].

garchs in November 2013 to appeal to Mr. “Russia’s participation in the highly likely referendums to “give this process ‘political The plot to seize... Putin to adopt a constitutional amendment disintegration of the Ukrainian state will not legitimacy’ and ‘moral justification,’” the on the status of Orthodoxy. only give new impetus to the Kremlin’s inte- document says. (Continued from page 1) RISI’s leadership discounted the inde- gration projects but will also enable our Political analyst Andrei Piontkovsky says Reviving the Russian empire pendence of all the former Soviet states and country to preserve, as mentioned earlier, Mr. Putin’s decision to annex Crimea was argued that their sovereignty “does not control over the gas-transport system of part of a larger strategy in response to the In addition to the documentary, the lib- deserve serious attention.” Ukraine,” the paper states. “At the same time, political crisis in Ukraine. eral newspaper Novaya Gazeta has pub- “The overwhelming majority of it will fundamentally change the geopolitical “[Putin’s] goal was to block the European lished a strategy memo on Ukraine that Ukrainians remember our common history layout of central and eastern Europe, return- vector of Ukrainian development,” Mr. was purportedly drafted under the auspic- and the Great Patriotic War, and dream of ing to Russia one of its main roles.” Piontkovsky told Voice of America on March es of Russian oligarch Konstantin the rebirth of a common Imperial/Soviet 10. “He thought he achieved the goal by bul- Malofeyev and discussed in the Kremlin in state structure,” ran RISI’s analytical take, Fomenting tensions lying and bribing Yanukovych in November February 2014, before Ukrainian President according to Mr. Sytin. He says the think The document also cites the need to 2013... But everything changed with the Viktor Yanukovych fled from Kyiv. The tank was arguing throughout 2013 that maintain the integrity of Russia’s military- anti-criminal Maidan revolution, which cul- newspaper vouches for the document’s Western security agencies were undermin- industrial complex, some of which is locat- minated with the events of February 20-23. authenticity, although Mr. Malofeyev denies ing Russian interests in Ukraine and that it ed in eastern Ukraine, in order to “acceler- Then he understood that it was necessary to any connection and has threatened to sue. was essential to bring Crimea into the ate rearmament.” It also cites the desirabili- destroy the Ukrainian state.” Also, in January, Russian researcher Russian Federation. ty of reducing Russia’s dependence on “That is, the goal of annexing Crimea was Aleksandr Sytin published an insider The purported Malofeyev strategy docu- Central Asia migrant workers by replacing not an end in itself,” Mr. Piontkovsky adds, account of the workings of the Russian ment also indicates that Russia was devel- them with Slavs from Ukraine as a reason “but the most effective tool for weakening Institute for Strategic Research (RISI), an oping plans for pursuing economic and to incorporate eastern Ukraine and Crimea and, in the long run, destroying the influential presidential think tank that pro- geopolitical goals in Ukraine. The docu- into Russia. Ukrainian state.” vides strategy memos to the Kremlin. ment advocates the incorporation into The authors of the document do not Mr. Sytin argues that, since 2009, RISI Russia of Crimea and large parts of eastern bring forward the need to protect ethnic Copyright 2015, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted has become increasingly interested in the Ukraine, particularly the Kharkiv Oblast. It Russians as a motive for aggression in with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ revival of the Russian empire and bolster- argues that if Russia loses control over the Ukraine. Instead, it advocates fomenting Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, ing the role of the Russian Orthodox natural-gas transport network in Ukraine, tensions and creating pro-Russian groups Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see Church. According to Mr. Sytin, RISI joined it would bring “enormous harm to the and demonstrations complaining of perse- http://www.rferl.org/content/ukraine-rus- forces with Mr. Malofeyev and other oli- economy of our country.” cution. Such movements should organize sia-putin-plot-seize-crimea/26894212.html).

(Interfax reported on March 11 that running target for mixed men’s juniors and Is a Savchenko... another of Ms. Savchenko’s lawyers, Nikolai Sportsline bronze in 10-meter running target men’s Polozov, says she has threatened to resume juniors. Kizyma, Volodymyr Strutskyi and (Continued from page 15) (Continued from page 4) her hunger strike on March 16 if she is Dmytro Melnyk won gold in the 10-meter U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations denied access to Ukrainian doctors.) jump (1.89 meters). running target men’s junior team event and Samantha Power expressed grave concern Under the terms of the Minsk 2 ceasefire silver in the 10-meter running target mixed agreement signed last month, Russia is about Ms. Savchenko’s state of health, calling women’s high jump (1.84 meters) at the men’s junior team event. Polina Konarieva, obligated to release all Ukrainian prisoners, Olena Yakusheva and Viktoriya Savosta her “gaunt-looking” and criticizing a Russian IAAF• Iryna Permit Kovalenko Indoor wonMeeting third atplace the in New the which Kyiv says should include Ms. won bronze in the 10-meter women’s air court’s rejection of her appeal on March 4. Balance Indoor Grand Prix on February 7 in Savchenko. pistol team event. Ukraine finished in fifth Also on March 5, Ukrainian President Roxbury, Mass. Petro Poroshenko sent a letter to Russian But with Moscow appearing deeply place in the medal standings with six med- leader Vladimir Putin asking specifically for uncompromising on any of the Minsk con- als – gold, silver and bronze medals in both men’s long jump (7.42 meters) at the Ms. Savchenko’s release. A day later, Putin ditions, Ms. Savchenko’s release would be individual and team events. International• Vasyl Ivanytskyy Combined won Events silver Meeting in the spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed a viewed by many as a surprising capitula- Indoor Championships on February 6-7 in reply had been sent to Kyiv, but refused to tion – particularly given what experts said Gymastics Tallinn, Estonia. reveal its contents. is a profound disregard for hunger strikes. By then, Ms. Savchenko – who had “Collective conscience does not exist in March 7 won first place in the AT&T repeatedly vowed that she was prepared to modern ruling bureaucracy,” Russian politi- men’s high jump (2.33 meters) at the American• Oleh Vernyayev,Cup in Arlington, 21, of Texas, Donetsk with on a die for her cause – had reportedly aban- cian and economist Mikhail Delyagin wrote, Banskobystricka• Andriy Protsenko Iatka Indoor won silver tournament in the score of 90.597 points. In parallel bars at doned her hunger strike. “For a member of the ‘cattle’ to threaten sui- on February 4 in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia. the event, he scored 15.900 points for first Mr. Feigin tweeted on March 5 that she cide is not something unacceptable for the place. In the other events he scored: 14.766 had begun drinking broth, and the Russian bureaucracy; to the contrary, it’s a realization 60-meter race at the Russian Winter IAAF (fifth place), floor routine; 14.366 (fourth tabloid Moskovsky Komsomolets printed of the bureaucracy’s own secret desire to min- Permit• Olesya Indoor Povkh Meeting won gold in in Moscowthe women’s on place), pommel horse; 15.266 (second the text of a handwritten letter from Ms. imize the number of inconvenient people.” February 1. Hanna Platitsyna won silver in place), rings; 15.233 (fourth place), vault; Savchenko in which she explained her deci- the women’s 60-meter hurdles. and 15.066 (third place), high bar. Copyright 2015, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted sion to change “strategy.” Shooting Vernyayev is the 2014 World Champion “I’m drinking broth in order to live – and with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ and 2014 European Champion in parallel to fly,” said Ms. Savchenko, one of the first Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, - bars. Having won the three World Cup women to graduate from Ukraine’s presti- Washington DC 20036; www.rferl.org (see en’s 10-meter air pistol event at the tournaments in 2014, Vernyayev won in gious Kharkiv Air Force Academy. “And if I http://www.rferl.org/content/ukraine- European• Olena Kostevyck Shooting won Championship gold in the wom on November in Stuttgart, Germany; in die, then I will die healthy. And if I fight, nadia-savchenko-deal-new-video-emerg- March 2-8 in Arnhem, the Netherlands. December in Glasgow, Scotland; and in then I will be strong... We will live!” es/26894177.html). Ihor Kizyma won silver in the 10-meter March in Arlington, Texas. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11

Through April 30 Pysanka exhibit, The Ukrainian Museum, March 21 Benefit concert, “Songs for Peace,” with Anastasiya New York 212-228-0110 or www.ukrainianmuseum.org Seattle Prykhodko, University of Washington, Kane Hall, https://www.facebook.com/events/773873439367117 March 15 Benefit concert for Ukraine, featuring the Ukrainian Rochester, NY Bandurist Chorus, Rochester Ukrainian Federal Credit March 21 Pysanka workshop, Ukrainian Heritage Studies Center Union, Rochester Hochstein School of Music, Lehighton, PA at Manor College, Ukrainian Homestead, 215-235-3709 585-544-9518 or www.rufcu.org or www.ukrhomestead.com March 15 Poetry reading by Serhiy Zhadan with Frank Sherlock, March 21 Genealogy workshop, “Nashi Predky – Our Ancestors Philadelphia Vox Populi Gallery, [email protected] Somerset, NJ Genealogy Spring Workshop,” Family History Group, March 15 Benefit concert, “Songs for Peace,” with Anastasiya Ukrainian Historical and Educational Center of New San Francisco Prykhodko, Nova Ukraine, Neck of the Woods, Jersey, Ukrainian Cultural Center, www.ukrhec.org or www.novaukraine.org 732-356-0132

March 15 Taras Shevchenko concert, featuring the Prometheus March 21 Ukrainian Easter Festival, St. Mary Ukrainian Orthodox Jenkintown, PA Ukrainian Male Chorus of Philadelphia and the Dumka New Britain, CT Church, 860-229-3383 or 860-677-2138 Ukrainian Chorus of New York, Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center, www.ueccphila.org March 21 Lecture by Tetiana Shestopalova, “’Poetry as Self- New York Making’ in Yuri Sherekh’s Critics (An Attempt in March 17 Conference, “Current Challenges to Euro-Atlantic Explication of Literary Dialogue with Bohdan Rubchak).” Washington Security: Strategies for Cooperation and Joint Shevchenko Scientific Society, 212-254-5130 Solutions,” Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, Ronald Reagan Building and International March 21 Taras Shevchenko event, “Shevchenko: Prophet of Freedom Trade Center, 202-691-4188 Washington – Cultural Exploration into an Iconic Ukrainian Figure,” National Monument to Taras Shevchenko, Bier Baron March 20 Benefit concert, “Songs for Peace,” with Anastasiya Tavern, www.facebook.com/events/686066991503257 Los Angeles Prykhodko, Ukrainian Cultural Center Los Angeles, www.paypal.com March 22 Centennial Art exhibit and sale, “Jacques Hnizdovsky: March 20 Film screening with Lada Roslycky, “Tortured Ukraine,” Whippany, NJ Flora and Fauna,” Ukrainian National Women’s League Ottawa Ukrainian National Foundation – Ottawa-Gatineau branch, of America Branch 75, Ukrainian American Cultural [email protected] Center of New Jersey, uaccnj.org

March 20-22 Lenten retreat, “Fellowship of the Holy Spirit,” League of March 22 Pysanka worskshop, Ukrainian American Cultural Center Sloatsburg, NY Ukrainian Catholics, St. Mary’s Villa Retreat Center, Houston, TX of Houston, AvantGarden, www.uacch.net 201-843-3960 or [email protected]

March 20- Art exhibit, “Icon Art: Visions of a World Unseen,” Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events April 12 featuring works by 18 artists from Ukraine, Ukrainian advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions New York Institute of America, www.ukrainianinstitute.org or from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors 212-288-8660 and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. No. 11 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 19 UKELODEON FOR THE NEXT GENERATION Students touch modern Ukrainian history by Daria Kozak-Tymets NEW YORK – On Saturday, February 28, high school students of the Selfreliance School of Ukrainian Studies in New York City had a his- toric meeting with Andriy Parubiy, fi rst vice-chairman of the Verkhovna Rada and former secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine. The students anxiously awaited the arrival of a living legend of the Maidan. Hearing the story of the modern-day struggle for Ukrainian freedom, the formation of a Ukrai- nian army and the Revolution of Dignity from the lips of an actual freedom fi ghter and leader of the Euro-Maidan was an unparalleled experience for the young audience. Verkhovna Rada First Vice-Chairman Andriy Parubiy (center) with students of the Selfreliance School of Ukrainian Mr. Parubiy’s warm, fatherly ap- Studies in New York City. proach only enhanced the exchange. Mr. Parubiy emphasized the vital generation of Ukrainian patriots, full otic young people who grew up in ready and willing to fi ght for change. importance and infl uence of youth of love and loyalty to their country. youth organizations were always on As a memento of his visit, Mr. Parubiy organizations in cultivating a new He reminded the group that patri- the vanguard of Ukrainian history, gave the school a fl ag from the Maidan. Father and daughter collaborate Mishanyna With March comes warmer weather, and with warmer weather on children’s storybook come flowers. Find the names of these spring flowers in the by Anya H. Szul Mishanyna grid.

DERWOOD, Md. – An illustrated ANEMONE HYDRANGEA LILY children’s book published via the Amazon website features two fi ction- CROCUS IRIS PANSY al chipmunk characters who live in DAFFODIL JONQUIL SNOWDROPS Beach Lake, Pa., a summer vacation FORSYTHIA LENTEN ROSE TRILLIUM destination for Ukrainian families. HYACINTH LILAC TULIP The book, “Chipmunk Champs Buddy & Swifty,” is available in paperback and for Kindle download at www.amazon.com/Chipmunk- Champs-Buddy-Swifty-Szul/ dp/1508558825. The two enthusiastic, friendly chipmunks show the benefi ts of Cover of the children’s book “Chip- working as a team and getting along. munk Champs Buddy & Swifty.” The story is based on true events, said Andy C. Szul, who collabo- teamwork was obvious – and just rated with his 3-year-old daughter absolutely adorable.” Victoria on the writing and illustra- Barkley Lake is located in the tions. “From start to fi nish, it took Beach Lake area in the Pocono us about six months to storyboard Mountains, about 60 miles west of and then draft, edit, revise and draw the Soyuzivka Heritage Center in these two furry critters as best we Kerhonkson, N.Y. could,” he said. Victoria provided “It’s something special when you creative input and also helped with can work closely with your child on the book’s art. a project like this, and then get to “Last summer at Barkley Lake live it during the summer months at we started sketching these two little a place as gorgeous as Beach Lake,” animals as they scurried near the said Mr. Szul. bungalow’s front porch and climbed The book’s profi ts will be donated to a hammock to get to a hanging two charity organizations: the Wound- bird feeder,” Mr. Szul said. “Their ed Warrior Project and Saving Moses. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2015 No. 11

PREVIEW OF EVENTS

Friday, March 20-Sunday, April 12 society’s building, 63 Fourth Ave. (between Ninth and 10th streets) at 5 p.m. For addi- NEW YORK: The Ukrainian Institute of tional information call 212-254-5130. America invites the public to a group exhi- bition of 18 artists from Ukraine “Iconart: Wednesday, March 25 Visions of a World Unseen.” Independently working in different media, the artists NEW YORK: The Ukrainian Institute of focus on spiritual and religious concerns America presents the screening of the doc- within the contemporary cultural context umentary “Crimea Unveiled” by Olga in which they live. The exhibit will take Morkova, followed by a talk about the cur- place at the Ukrainian Institute of America, rent situation of the Tatars in occupied 2 E. 79th St. Exhibit hours are noon to 6 Crimea presented by Ayla Bakkalli, the U.S. p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. General representative of the Crimean Tatar Mejlis. admission is $8; seniors, $6; students, $4; The 20-minute documentary is in Ukrainian free for members. For more information with English subtitles. The event will take visit www.ukrainianinstitute.org. place at 7 p.m. at the Ukrainian Institute of America, 2 E. 79th St. Admission is free; Saturday, March 21 RSVP required. For more information visit SOMERSET, N.J.: The Family History Group www.ukrainianinstitute.org. of the Ukrainian Historical and Educational Saturday, March 28-Sunday, April 12 Center of New Jersey presents its Nashi Predky – Our Ancestors Genealogy Spring NEW YORK: The Ukrainian Institute of Workshop. There will be lectures by America presents “Mystical Power of the Michael Buryk and Aleksandra Kacprzak Pysanka” – a Ukrainian Easter egg exhibit on the history of Ukrainians in the U.S. and by Sofika Zielyk. Pysanka-decorating is one tracing Galician-Lemko roots using of the most interesting expressions of resources in the Polish State Archives. The Ukrainian folk art. This tradition reaches event is at 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Registration back to antiquity, when the egg was per- and breakfast are at 8:30 a.m. Venue: ceived as the source of life, the sun and the Ukrainian Cultural Center, 135 Davidson universe. The exhibit will take place at the Ave., Somerset, NJ 08873. Cost is $35 Ukrainian Institute of America, 2 E. 79th St. (early bird registration is $30 until March Exhibit hours are noon to 6 p.m., Tuesday 10). Register online at www.ukrhec.org/ through Sunday. General admission is $8; family-history-group/nashi-predky- seniors, $6; and students, $4; free for 2015-workshop or call 732-356-0132. members. For more information visit Seating is limited. www.ukrainianinstitute.org.

NEW YORK: The Shevchenko Scientific Tuesday, March 31 Society invites all to a lecture “ ‘Poetry as NEW YORK: The Ukrainian Institute of Self-Making’ in Yuri Sherekh’s Critics (An America announces the continuation of its Attempt in Explication of Literary Dialogue Ukrainian language course. We have class- with Bohdan Rubchak)” by Prof. Tetiana es for both beginners and people with Shestopalova. Prof. Shestopalova teaches advanced knowledge. The courses last for at Taras Shevchenko Luhansk National 10 weeks and cost $350. To enroll, e-mail University and is a 2014-2015 Fulbright [email protected] or call 212- scholar. The lecture will take place at the 288-8660.