Inside: l Holodomor Awareness Tour visits Canadian schools – page 8 l “Painting the Valley: Works by Andrei Kushnir” – page 9 l Connecticut group aims to oust Trump campaign manager – page 11

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXIV No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 $2.00 Nadiya Savchenko marks Verkhovna Rada approves Lutsenko second birthday in Russian prison as Ukraine’s procurator general by Zenon Zawada KYIV – Ukraine’s Parliament voted on May 12 to approve the president’s nomina- tion of Yuriy Lutsenko as procurator gener- al. He will be expected to accomplish what his three post-Euro-Maidan predecessors failed to do: prosecute and convict corrupt key state officials, both past and present. Mr. Lutsenko’s election came after the Verkhovna Rada voted earlier that day to amend the law setting the qualifications for the country’s top prosecutor, namely, removing the requirements for a law degree and 10 years’ experience working as a prosecutor. An electronics engineer by trade who built his career in politics, Mr. Lutsenko lacks both requirements, which are widely viewed as essential for any top prosecutori- al post. Critics accused the president of Aleksandr Kosarev/UNIAN On May 11, Nadiya Savchenko turned 35 in a Russian prison. It was the second leading the effort to change the law in order Yuriy Lutsenko, the head of the Petro birthday Ms. Savchenko, a member of a volunteer brigade fighting Russian-backed to place a political ally into a key post that’s Poroshenko Bloc’s parliamentary faction, militants in Ukraine’s east, marked in Russian captivity since she was kidnapped and supposed to be independent. during the May 12 session at which he taken across the border to Russia. Ms. Savchenko’s birthday was the focus of gather- “Today we are passing a law on the proc- was approved as Ukraine’s fourth procu- rator general since the Euro-Maidan. ings in various cities. In Kyiv, lanterns were set aloft in order to, as Vira Savchenko urator general because that person has the said, light her sister’s way home. In Riga, the capital of Latvia, 35 blue and yellow trust of the president and he wants him world that the law is amended for one per- balloons, with birthday messages written on them, were released into the air to mark appointed but the law doesn’t allow for it,” son,” he added. Nadiya’s 35th birthday. In Paris, a group of Ukrainians got together to sing a rous- National Deputy Serhiy Leshchenko of the The votes to amend the qualifications ing “Mnohaya Lita” and posted video of this greeting to Nadiya on Facebook. Vira Petro Poroshenko Bloc said on May 11 dur- and approve Mr. Lutsenko’s candidacy Savchenko shared news of these public celebrations on her Facebook page. A cam- ing a political talk show. would not have been approved based on paign to mail Nadiya Savchenko birthday greetings was under way. In addition, her “Tomorrow we could change another the two factions that are supposed to form lawyer Mark Feygin was accepting birthday greetings on his Facebook page which he law for someone from the president’s the parliamentary majority. said he would share with Nadiya. The file photo above was posted on Facebook by entourage just because we want to. This is Euromaidan Press on May 11. savagery. It doesn’t exist in the normal (Continued on page 15) Roundtable discusses legacy and lessons of Chornobyl

by Adrian Karmazyn deals with a catastrophe versus the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation response of an open society. She drew a stark comparison between the Soviet cov- WASHINGTON – A roundtable discus- er-up of the nuclear accident at Chornobyl sion commemorating the 30th anniversary and the quick and comprehensive Japanese of the Chornobyl nuclear disaster was held and international response to the at the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation (USUF) on Fukushima power plant crisis. April 26. The panelists were Valeriy Chaly, Ms. McConnell stressed that the Soviet Ukraine’s ambassador to the U.S.; Mykola “playbook” of concealing and denying the Riabchuk, a prominent Ukrainian writer Chornobyl catastrophe and the scope of its and literary critic; and Nadia McConnell, destruction and human casualties is the USUF president. same tactic employed by the Kremlin today Ms. McConnell recalled the Soviet infor- regarding Russia’s engagement in a hybrid mation blackout about the catastrophe and war against Ukraine: how only a week after the explosion, while “I don’t think that we in the West have radiation continued to spew from the dam- learned any lessons about Chornobyl aged reactor, the May Day parade in Kyiv because again when anybody talks about Chornobyl... nobody really talks about the went on as planned with thousands of peo- cover-up, the understanding of the cover- ple of all ages exposed to Chornobyl’s up. The fact that this is a consistent play- radioactive cloud. book by the Kremlin and we see it today She said that, for her, the biggest lessons USUF with the war – denial... We don’t really dis- from the Chornobyl disaster pertain not to At a roundtable discussing the lessons of the Chornobyl disaster of 1986 (from left) are: cuss the real tragedy of Chornobyl.” the issue of nuclear safety (which, certainly, Nadia McConnell, president of the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation, Ambassador Valeriy Chaly, is important) but to how a totalitarian state Ukraine’s envoy to the U.S. and Mykola Riabchuk, a prominent Ukrainian writer. (Continued on page 14) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 No. 20

ANALYSIS

No deal on holding local elections latest economic forecast for Ukraine has it Virtual militarism grows eking out growth of 1.5 percent this year BERLIN – Talks involving the foreign after a deep economic contraction of nearly into real peril for Russia affairs ministers of Germany, Russia, 10 percent last year. (RFE/RL, based on Ukraine and France have produced no deal reporting by Reuters and TASS) by Pavel K. Baev case of Russia’s capacity for power projec- on holding local elections in the eastern Eurasia Daily Monitor tion. The reduction of its intensity to 20-25 areas that are controlled by Russia-backed 40.8 million displaced by conflict sorties a day does not reduce the official separatists. “These are questions of detail GENEVA – The number of people Tanks rumbled through Moscow over triumphalism over this “small and success- that might appear small, but they are uprooted within their own countries by the past week before rolling across Red ful” war (Rbc.ru, May 4). Each time U.S. important for creating the basis for local war and conflict rose last year to a record Square on May 9 in the traditional, extrava- Secretary of State John Kerry calls Russian elections in Ukraine,” German Foreign 40.8 million, a report published on May 10 gant military parade marking Victory Day. Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei Lavrov to Affairs Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier found. “This is the highest figure ever Unlike in 2015 (which marked the 70th negotiate another extension of the partial said after the May 11 meeting near Berlin. recorded and twice the number of refugees anniversary of the end of World War II), ceasefire, Moscow registers a new diplo- Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Minister Pavlo worldwide,” said Jan Egeland, head of the there were no notable foreign guests in matic victory (RIA Novosti, May 4). The Klimkin blamed Russia for rejecting a plan Norwegian Refugee Council, co-authors of attendance at this year’s showcase of political impression from the military victo- to let the Organization for Security and the report with the Geneva-based Internal Russia’s military might. But as Russia’s ry was supposed to be reinforced by the Cooperation in Europe oversee security for Displacement Monitoring Center. Some 8.6 economy sinks deeper into recession, the performance of the Mariinsky orchestra in the vote. Mr. Steinmeier also said that “sig- million newly displaced people were need to again put on a spectacular show the ruins of the newly liberated city of nificant progress” was made in the area of recorded in 2015, including 4.8 million in has become even greater than last year. Palmyra (Moscow Echo, May 6). What security, citing a plan to separate military the Middle East and North Africa. The propaganda campaign aimed at spoiled that plan for adding a cultural touch units along the front line and to create “Displacement... has snowballed since the boosting “patriotic” feelings has reached to the bombing campaign was the air strike demilitarized zones. Fighting between Arab Spring uprising in 2010 and the rise new heights, but it is difficult to reliably on a refugee camp in northern Syria, which Ukrainian government forces and separat- of the Islamic State,” said the report, with gauge its effectiveness. Recycling past glory some are characterizing as a war crime ists has killed more than 9,300 people since Yemen, Syria and Iraq accounting for more can produce only so much resonance in (Kommersant, May 7). Russia prevented April 2014. The conflict has flared up in than half of the total. Outside the Middle today’s population; so appropriating the the United Nations Security Council from recent weeks, with numerous cease-fire East, the countries with the highest num- Soviet Union’s heroic victory over Nazi condemning that atrocity, once again illu- violations reported. (RFE/RL, based on bers of people fleeing were Afghanistan, Germany as a means to assert the legitima- minating Moscow’s apparent indifference reporting by AP and Interfax) the Central African Republic, Colombia, the cy of the Vladimir Putin regime’s aggressive to the humanitarian catastrophe of the IMF sees ‘very encouraging’ signs Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, but ineffectual policies is growing a bit stale Syrian civil war (Newsru.com, May 7). South Sudan and Ukraine. The report also (Carnegie.ru, May 4). What distinguishes The Palmyrian concert, in which Sergei KYIV – Early signs coming from Roldugin performed on the cello, has said 19.2 million people were internally the celebrations this year is the propagan- Ukraine’s new government are “very displaced last year by disasters. India, da message that Russia is again surrounded brought into focus one peculiar feature of encouraging,” a top International Monetary the new Russian militarism: It is corrupt China and Nepal accounted for the highest by malevolent enemies and only military Fund official said on May 6. Mahmood numbers with 3.7 million, 3.6 million and might can deter their encroachments even at the highest level. Indeed, Mr. Pradhan, deputy head of the IMF’s Roldugin is personally implicated in the 2.6 million, respectively. (RFE/RL, based on (Moscow Echo, May 7). European department, delivered the fund’s reporting by Reuters and AFP) A great deal of false pretence under- transnational money-laundering schemes first public endorsement of the new gov- scores this glorification of militarism. revealed in the “Panama Papers,” and ernment in Kyiv following the departure of Sentsov, Kolchenko may be extradited Consequently, some authors argue that President Putin had to take him under his key Western-backed reformers last month. MOSCOW – Ukrainian film-maker Oleh instead of revealing its shallowness, it supreme protection in order to make sure The IMF suspended its $17.5 billion loan Sentsov and Crimean activist Oleksandr could just be shrugged off as a modern that no investigation could follow this program for Ukraine when Kyiv’s political Kolchenko, who have been imprisoned in form of carnival (Gazeta.ru, May 6). money (Moscow Echo, May 6). crisis broke out and Mr. Pradhan told Russia, signed documents for extradition However, quite real risks are associated Mr. Putin did order an investigation into reporters in London it may resume the pro- from that country to Ukraine early in April, with this loudly declared commitment to another case of corruption on a stupendous gram soon. “We think the signs of the new according to Mr. Kolchenko’s lawyer rebuff all hostile maneuvers. Russian offi- scale: the construction of the Vostochny government’s willingness to adhere to the Svetlana Sidorkina. The documents, which cials are furiously protesting against the cosmodrome, which was supposed to sym- program, to stay with the program, and were signed early in April, must have bolize Russia’s strategic “pivot” to the East their own adjustment efforts are very North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s already arrived at the Justice Ministry of but has instead come to exemplify a colos- encouraging,” he said. “We hope the pro- (NATO) exercises in the Baltic states and the Russian Federation, she told the sal waste of resources (Moscow Echo, May gram will be on track and most important- promising far-reaching “countermeasures” Moscow-based radio station Echo of ly, the adjustment policies already imple- (Newsru.com, May 4; Novaya Gazeta, May Moscow. However, the ministry has not yet assumes that, out of desperation over the mented which are paying dividends and 3). Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu assures confirmed that fact. Ms. Sidorkina guessed failure5). Japanese of this Prime“pivot,” Minister Mr. Putin Shinzō would Abenot are working, will continue.” The IMF is due that the four NATO battalions that could be that another two Ukrainian citizens, deployed in the Baltic theatre would face refuse an offer of economic cooperation in in Ukraine next week to formally review exchange for a compromise on the disputed two new Russian divisions, while a third progress. In another upbeat sign, the IMF’s (Continued on page 14) one will be stationed near the Donbas war South Kurile islands (Kommersant, May 7). zone (TASS, May 4). However, Mr. Abe has failed to factor in the More protestations are issued about the importance of turning some Kremlin court- iers into stake-holders in this deal by grant- small-scale exercise in Georgia, Noble ing them opportunities for enrichment. In FOUNDED 1933 Partner 2016, in which 650 troops from the The Ukrainian Weekly this way, Russian “crony capitalism” would United States and 150 troops from the effectively erase the state’s strategic con- An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., United Kingdom will train together with cerns (Rbc.ru, May 6). a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. 500 Georgian soldiers. In Moscow’s opin- The blossoming of corruption in a Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. ion, this exercise amounts to a major “prov- declining economy runs the risk of enrag- Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. ocation” aimed at destabilizing the situa- ing the dispossessed – and Vostochny (ISSN — 0273-9348) tion in the South Caucasus (Rbc.ru, May 6). inspired several protest actions. Therefore, It is remarkable that Russia is not stag- The Weekly: UNA: militarism is expected to deliver a patriotic ing any parallel exercises, but the urge to Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 unity to cover up such thievery. The cele- respond with guaranteed overkill is still bration of Victory Day provides the perfect Postmaster, send address changes to: dangerous. means for such mobilization, targeting any The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz Meanwhile, the military intervention in liberal dissent as “treachery” (Ezhednevny 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas Syria is being offered as the prime show- Zhurnal, May 6). P.O. Box 280 Even a minor offense against the main- Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] stream discourse, like sharing posts on Correction social media that claim Crimea belongs to The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com There were a number of errors in the Ukraine, is now treated as a crime of article “The Ukrainian Museum in New “extremism” that can result in a sentence of The Ukrainian Weekly, May 15, 2016, No. 20, Vol. LXXXIV York celebrates its 40th anniversary” by two years in a penal colony (Slon.ru, May Copyright © 2016 The Ukrainian Weekly Matthew Dubas (May 1). Xenia 6). The officially encouraged jingoism has Ferencevych was incorrectly listed as the inspired angry demands to ban an “unpa- museum’s director of communications triotic” video clip posted online by the rock ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA (she holds that title at The Storm King group Leningrad on April 30, which Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 School), when in fact she is a museum vol- received millions of views in its first week and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 unteer, and served as master of ceremo- (Moskovsky Komsomolets, May 6). The e-mail: [email protected] nies for the anniversary event. These message of Leningrad’s provocative song – Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 errors have been corrected in the online e-mail: [email protected] edition. (Continued on page 9) No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 3

NEWS ANALYSIS Ukraine seeks armed police mission of OSCE in Donetsk-Luhansk by Vladimir Socor Kyiv’s counter-message is that a proper posed elections, throughout this Russian- kanzlerin.de, Elysee.fr, April 15), mentioned Eurasia Daily Monitor security environment must first be put in controlled territory (see article below). Mr. neither an OSCE police mission nor Mr. place; namely, by an international armed Putin omitted the explicit link to the pro- Poroshenko’s plea for sanctions on Russia. Ukraine is asking for an international police mission. And this being the OSCE, it posed elections. And he committed an Their first omission reflects the impulse to armed police mission under Organization could take some time. indiscretion by disclosing a purported rush those elections, without the further for Security and Cooperation in Europe Russian President Vladimir Putin would phone call with the Ukrainian president. delays that a qualitatively new OSCE mission (OSCE) auspices, to be deployed in the accept a cosmetic and temporary OSCE police Kyiv had not “recently” announced any (or perhaps any serious safeguards) would secessionist Donetsk-Luhansk territory. mission in the Russian-controlled territory. In Poroshenko-Putin call; but neither did Kyiv entail. The second omission suggests Russia and its local proxies hold the monop- his annual phone-in dialogue with Russia’s deny Mr. Putin’s claim afterward. Possibly, obliquely what some Western diplomats oly on military presence and policing in that citizens on April 14, Mr. Putin claimed that he Mr. Putin exposed a direct channel to currently tell Kyiv directly (e.g., during the part of Ukraine. And Russia holds veto had “recently” discussed this matter with embarrass the Ukrainian president. recent Kyiv Security Forum): for European power in the OSCE itself. In these circum- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and sanctions on Russia to be renewed in July, stances, Kyiv’s call is a desperate one, but it’s telephone. Mr. Putin noted that Kyiv invokes French President François Hollande jointly Kyiv must concede on elections and a politi- also a smart move. It draws attention to the ceasefire violations as an excuse for stalling called Mr. Poroshenko the next day after Mr. cal status to Russia’s proxies. utter lack of security for the local elections the elections in Donetsk-Luhansk. Purporting Putin’s disclosure. Mr. Poroshenko explained Following Mr. Putin’s misinformation that the Minsk armistice requires Ukraine to to summarize Mr. Poroshenko’s proposal, to the two leaders, according to the Ukrainian and the Merkel-Hollande apparent demur- authorize in the Russian-controlled Donbas Mr. Putin magnanimously consented to a presidency’s account: “One can hardly con- ral, Kyiv officials made public their basic (Donetsk-Luhansk) region. “significant increase in the number of OSCE sider the possibility of holding local ‘elec- concept for an OSCE armed police mission. As Moscow’s nominees are set to “win,” personnel, including armed ones, as cease- tions’ [in the Russian-controlled territory] Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Minister Pavlo Kyiv is stalling on those elections. But Kyiv fire observers along the demarcation line.” without security in general, and without an Klimkin had first introduced this concept at is being warned that its stalling could pro- Russia will next discuss the proposed OSCE armed police mission in particular.” the Normandy group’s (Russia, Germany, vide cause for easing the European eco- change with “Western partners” at the The three interlocutors “exchanged views France, Ukraine) ministerial meeting in nomic sanctions on Russia come July. This OSCE (Kremlin.ru, Interfax, April 14, 15). about the prospects of introducing an OSCE Paris on March 4. Mr. Poroshenko referred could weaken the restraints on Russian However, Mr. Putin misrepresented Mr. police mission.” Mr. Poroshenko pleaded for the proposal to the OSCE’s German chair- hostile actions. Ukraine is the legal sover- Poroshenko’s proposal. It is not about add- continuing economic sanctions on Russia manship on April 2. Russia, as well as the eign in this territory, but is excluded from ing some armed ceasefire observers to the while Ukraine stalls those elections Donetsk-Luhansk “people’s republics,” policing it during the proposed elections unarmed ones along the demarcation line. (President.gov.ua, Ukrinform, April 15). however, turned it down immediately (and would be excluded definitively, once In fact, Kyiv proposes an armed police mis- Ms. Merkel’s and Mr. Hollande’s press the elections legitimize Russia’s nominees). sion to provide security during the pro- releases on that call, however (Bundes­ (Continued on page 13) Police mission in Ukraine’s east: An OSCE milestone? by Vladimir Socor Western compromises with Russia. also unclear. While the proposed police chance to rehabilitate the OSCE and dem- Eurasia Daily Monitor Indeed, when Ukraine first requested an mission would “provide security” and use onstrate its relevance by mandating a via- OSCE police mission in the Normandy arms if necessary, the SMM is not mandat- ble police mission in the Russian-controlled Ukraine wants the Organization for group’s ministerial meeting in March, Mr. ed to provide security. It is, instead, an territory, to operate independently of Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Steinmeier agreed that the OSCE would observer mission, unarmed and comprising Russia or the Donetsk-Luhansk authorities. to consider deploying an international, draft a concept for such a mission, with the personnel with civilian status on this mis- Alternatively, the German chairmanship armed police mission in the secessionist acceptance and inputs of the “parties to the sion (although some are former military or might use its influence to push for a hybrid Donetsk-Luhansk territory. The declared conflict,” i.e., Kyiv co-equally with Donetsk- police officers). mission, structurally hostage to Moscow rationale is to provide security for elections Luhansk. At that point in time, Mr. Russian President Vladimir Putin takes and Donetsk-Luhansk. The decision and its that might be staged in that territory under Steinmeier insisted on those elections to be the position that any OSCE armed police operationalization would take time in the Minsk armistice – elections that held “by June at the latest” (see Eurasia mission should supplement the SMM to either case. Neither of those two possible Ukraine deems illegitimate from the outset. Daily Monitor, March 11). monitor the ceasefire and be deployed decisions would add credibility to elections The implied rationale, however, is to pro- Since then, the OSCE has apparently along the demarcation line (not within the in the “people’s republics.” And the OSCE vide at least the modicum of an interna- insisted on linking the possibility of such a Russian-controlled territory); but this posi- would be further discredited if political tional armed presence in this territory, police mission strictly with the conduct of tion might change, as the discussions are influence prevails on its election observers where Russia and its local proxies hold the elections in Donetsk-Luhansk. Both mat- only in an early stage (Interfax, April 15; to validate those “elections,” if held. monopoly on military presence and polic- ters are being discussed in the Minsk see accompanying article). ing (see article above). Contact Group (Ukraine, Russia, Donetsk, The OSCE as an institution and its The articles above are reprinted from Kyiv’s idea presents the OSCE with the Luhansk, OSCE). The logic of the OSCE’s incumbent German chairmanship have not Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from chance of its lifetime, indeed with a new response to Kyiv seems to be, for now: “no yet clarified the order of their priorities in its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, lease on life for a moribund security actor. elections, no police mission.” In this spirit, this matter. Ukraine has offered them a www.jamestown.org. The OSCE has been involved for almost 25 Kyiv is being asked to agree with Donetsk- years in the “grey zones” of Europe’s East, Luhansk on the law on elections in that ter- laying claims to multiple roles in “early- ritory as a first step. Conditional on this, the warning, conflict-prevention, crisis-man- OSCE would then authorize the deploy- Quotable notes agement and post-conflict rehabilitation” ment of a police mission. And, rather than a (Auswartiges-amt.de, February 29). Yet, the police mission of the OSCE as such, Kyiv is “In full view of social media, Russia continues to arm, to train, to direct and to fight OSCE is hardly known for having sent early being asked to consider a trilateral mission alongside separatist forces in eastern Ukraine, while conducting unconventional, warnings of military aggression, or pre- with equal contingents of OSCE-mandated hybrid tactics of disinformation, deception and intelligence operations. ...Moscow’s venting a conflict, running a crisis-manage- police, Ukrainian police and Donetsk- actions – from holding a sham referendum and attempting to annex Crimea, to ment (i.e., peacekeeping) operation, or Luhansk “people’s militias,” as reported by deploying thousands of heavy weapons and troops across the international border, making a difference on post-conflict reha- Ukrainian representatives in the Minsk to supporting a reign of violence through the separatists that it controls – these bilitation anywhere in the OSCE’s areas of group (Segodnya, April 18). actions have threatened to set a new precedent on European soil whereby basic responsibility, including Georgia, Moldova This matter is only being discussed international principles are up for debate: That the borders and territorial integrity and now Ukraine. What better chance, informally at the OSCE’s headquarters in of a state cannot be changed by force. That it is the inherent right of citizens in a then, for the OSCE to prove its relevance at Vienna. democracy to make their country’s decisions and determine their country’s future. last by taking up Ukraine’s proposal for an Mandating such a mission would require That all members of the international community are bound by common rules and armed police mission in Ukraine’s east. the consensus of all 57 participant states, should face costs if they do not live up to the solemn commitments that they make. And what better chance for Germany’s which means it is subject to Russia’s veto. “These principles transcend Ukraine. They transcend Europe. They are the funda- Foreign Affairs Minister Frank-Walter An armed police mission – as Ukraine pro- mental rules that underpin the international order that together we have sought to Steinmeier, chairing the OSCE in 2016, who poses – would be unprecedented for the build, sustain and as necessary adapt. In challenging them, Russia seeks to unravel listed the OSCE’s four claims as security OSCE. The organization would have to our trans-Atlantic alliance, erode our unity, and pressure democracies into failure. ... actor, to advance the Ostpolitik concept of determine the mission’s manpower num- We stand together in our unwavering support for Ukraine – for its sovereignty, its “cooperative security” with Russia via the bers, types of arms and vehicles, the geog- territorial integrity, and its right as a free and democratic nation to pursue the path OSCE, in this case in Ukraine’s east. To raphy of the mission’s deployment, rules of set by its own citizens and them alone. The crisis in Ukraine was manufactured by “cooperative security” promoters in engagement, duration, financing, and the Russia and must be ended by Russia – by adhering to the full implementation of the Germany and elsewhere, the OSCE provides rules of personnel selection. Minsk agreements, upon which all sides agreed. Until then, we need to keep the sanc- a framework and model, and the conflict Whether the armed police mission tions in place and so keep the pressure on.” theaters in Europe’s East a testing ground. would constitute a new OSCE “field pres- – U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, in a speech on the U.S., Europe and Where the OSCE is in charge, Russia’s veto ence,” or an expansion of the OSCE’s exist- NATO delivered on May 5 in Warsaw. power inside the organization necessitates ing Special Monitoring Mission (SMM), is 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 No. 20 No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 5

THE UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FORUM UNA-sponsored Petrykivka Workshop attracts full house

by Yuriy Symczyk WHIPPANY, N.J. – The Ukrainian National Association (UNA) sponsored a Petrykivka Workshop on April 8 at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey (UACCNJ) as part of its series of fra- ternal events tailored to providing local communities an opportunity to congregate and learn more about what the UNA has to offer as a fraternal benefit society. The workshop was attended by about 50 partic- ipants – a full house. The event was organized in support of the Arts, Education and Culture Committee of the UACCNJ, which works to the benefit of the cultural center in organizing various events and fund-raisers throughout the year. The workshop’s suggested donation of Nataliya Symczyk $30 per person went towards future arts, cultural and educational events at the Participants of the Petrykivka workshop show off their artwork. UACCNJ. University of Art and is a specialist in batik demonstration on the Petrykivka style of been organizing such events for its mem- The evening’s instructor, Natalia art. Ms. Lyubytska provided a short intro- painting and its techniques. Every stroke of bership and local communities for 122 Lyubytska is a Ukrainian-born artist from duction on the history of the Ukrainian art the instructor’s brush was projected on a years. In addition to practicing fraternalism Lviv. She graduated from the Lviv form of Petrykivka, as well as a step-by-step large screen for all attendees to gradually and promoting Ukrainian culture, the UNA follow and imitate on their own canvases. has provided financial stability for tens of The evening’s five-course dinner of small thousands of families throughout its 122- plates paired with various wine selections year history by offering quality life insur- was arranged by Soyuzivka Manager ance and annuity products. Unlike other Nestor Paslawsky and prepared by insurance companies, UNA’s profits go back Soyuzivka’s head chef, Andrey Sonevytsky. to supporting its members, their families Each tasting was introduced by Soyuzivka’s and their communities. hostess, Marianna Hawryluk, and served by As was noted at the Petrykivka Soyuzivka’s observant and prompt wait Workshop, the UNA strongly believes in its staff, exemplifying true Soyuzivka hospitali- motto, “UNA and the Community: Partners ty. With every meticulously paired dish and for Life!” And with every new member, with glass of wine served at their seats, the eve- every new life insurance policy or annuity,

Roma Lisovich ning’s new artists were able to truly enjoy the UNA can grow stronger and do even Artist and Petrykivka instructor Natalia Nataliya Symczyk everything this special event had to offer. more for its members, their families and Lyubytska. A group of participants begins work. The Ukrainian National Association has their communities, it was underscored.

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WINDOW ON EURASIA The Ukrainian Weekly Celebrating The Ukrainian Museum Kremlin really thinking about occupying When The Ukrainian Museum opened its doors to the public on October 3, 1976, it marked both a historic first – it was the first Ukrainian museum in New York City – Baltic countries, says Russian researcher and the culmination of 50 years of work by the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America. The premiere exhibit, titled “An Introduction to Ukrainian Folk Art” by Paul Goble Regarding Mr. Ishchenko’s argument in offered visitors a representative sampling of the museum’s collection of folk artifacts: favor of Russia’s invasion and occupation woven and embroidered textiles; wood and metal crafted articles; and ceramics. Most commentators have dismissed as of the Baltic states, Mr. Sytin says that it As reported on the front page of The Ukrainian Weekly’s issue dated October 10, overblown suggestions that Moscow is pre- should be understood in terms of “the 1976, the UNWLA had spent five decades collecting, preserving and cataloguing his- paring to occupy Estonia, Latvia and close alliance between Russia Today and torical Ukrainian artifacts. With the opening of the museum, it now had a home for Lithuania because they are members of RISI” and “the traditional tactic of the its priceless collection. That home was located on Second Avenue between 12th and NATO and the EU and because such a Russian authorities,” who seek to structure 13th streets, on the fourth and fifth floors of the building purchased jointly by the Russian action would lead to a major mili- public opinion in advance of their actions. Ukrainian Congress Committee of America and the UNWLA. UNWLA President tary conflict between Moscow and the West. “Political experts and analysts throw Iwanna Rozankowsky noted at the opening ceremonies that the new museum ful- Among Russian commentators who out into society various ideas,” he argues, filled the great need for a facility in which to proudly display Ukrainian culture and have talked about a possible Russian mili- “the media push them forward and multi- added: “This museum should be a challenge to the Ukrainian community, to artistic tary thrust to occupy the Baltic countries is ply then and they, thus, as if directly from circles and scholarly organizations to work together to develop it to its full poten- Rostislav Ishchenko, whose April 16 article the textbook of the history of the CPSU tial.” The previous day, the museum’s dedication ceremonies were attended by rep- (newsbalt.ru/analytics/2015/04/iskup- [Communist Party of the Soviet Union], resentatives of some 40 community, women’s and youth organizations – a testament itelnyy-vykup/) attracted both widespread these ideas ‘seize the masses,’ and then the to the significance of this new institution and the community’s awareness of its ines- attention and ridicule as nothing more ruling circles only carry them out in real timable value. than a Russian effort at ideological intimi- politics in correspondence with ‘the will of In The Weekly’s October 3 issue, in an article written in advance of the museum’s dation. the people.’” opening, Motria Kushnir noted: “The UNWLA, aware of the formidable responsibility But as U.S.-based Russian commentator According to Mr. Sytin, his many years at involved, has set the highest possible goals for the museum. For the future they wish Kseniya Kirillova points out, “certain RISI taught him that when the media fea- to expand the scope of the museum to include high art and a historical collection. … experts are certain that Ishchenko’s article ture a large number of articles describing The UNWLA and the museum committee have placed a particular emphasis on the reflects perfectly well the point of view of in positive ways a particular foreign policy educational-research role The Ukrainian Museum is to play.” the Kremlin” and thus deserves to be taken action that means that, “in the Kremlin, Within a year of its opening thanks to the efforts of the UNWLA, the museum most seriously (nr2.com.ua/blogs/Ksenija_ they are really thinking about it and mak- became an independent entity with its own charter and board of trustees, the better Kirillova/Rossiya-gotovitsya-okkupirovat- ing calculations.” Given that Mr. Ishchenko’s to continue fulfilling its founding mission. strany-Baltii-96466.html). argument fits in the general line, this inter- In 2005, the dream of a great Ukrainian museum continued to come true. On Among those taking that view is pretation is even more likely. February 6 of that year, The Ukrainian Museum’s new state-of-the-art facility on East Aleksandr Sytin, a former researcher with That line, the former RISI staffer says, Sixth Street was blessed with about 500 people gathered for the ceremony. The new the influential Russian Institute of Strategic involves trying to elevate Russia’s status in $9 million building was a three-story brick-and-glass structure – a beautiful addition Studies (RISI). which was established with- the world to where it was in 1945 and to the Ukrainian Village section of lower Manhattan. “Finally, we’re going into our new in the Russian SVR and now is part of the “also to ‘save’ peoples at a minimum in home,” UNWLA President Iryna Kurowyckyj said, noting that the day was particularly Russian Presidential Administration. Eastern Europe and in an ideal one all meaningful for her organization, which had initiated the museum 28 years earlier According to Mr. Sytin, “all the signs of European peoples from ‘the noxious influ- with 800 artifacts. The inaugural exhibits at The Ukrainian Museum’s new facility the development of a military mobilization ence’ of the U.S. by exploiting contradic- encompassed both fine and folk art: “Alexander Archipenko: Vision and Continuity” scenario are present” in Russia, something tions between them and the weakness of and “The Tree of Life, the Sun, the Goddess: Symbolic Motifs in Ukrainian Folk Art.” that reflects “the deepening economic cri- the EU.” An array of outstanding exhibits followed, many of which have been appreciated sis, decline in the standard of living and the That is exactly the argument Mr. by our subscribers – either as visitors to the museum or as readers of informative radical rise in the number of unemployed.” Ishchenko made, Mr. Sytin says, adding that articles about the art or artifacts on display. Among our favorites are two of the most This is most obvious opposite Ukraine, but he is confident that this is the kind of thing recent: “The Ukrainian Diaspora: Women Artists, 1908-2015,” which presented over it also involves the Baltic countries. people in the Kremlin are thinking about 100 works by 44 artists; and “Sixty Years An Artist: A Retrospective Exhibition of but have not yet calculated the real costs of Works by Zenowij Onyshkewych,” which revealed the depth and breadth of this Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on what they are proposing because they unique artist’s work. Now on display are “Pysanka: The Ukrainian Easter Egg” and ethnic and religious questions in Eurasia hope that the threat of action will be “Jacques Hnizdovsky: Content and Style, Evolving Perspectives.” who has served in various capacities in the enough to force the West or at least Europe This year, The Ukrainian Museum is marking its 40th anniversary and celebrating U.S. State Department, the Central to compromise. four decades of exemplary work in presenting Ukraine and Ukrainians to the world Intelligence Agency and the International The entire West needs to understand, he around them. (A visit to the website www.ukrainianmuseum.org is ample evidence Broadcasting Bureau, as well as at the Voice concludes, that this is what Vladimir Putin of that.) A festive luncheon at the beautiful Tavern on the Green in New York’s of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio and his regime are about, that “the era of a Central Park served as the uplifting kick-off to the jubilee year, with promises of Liberty and the Carnegie Endowment for ‘good’ and agreeable Russia remains in the more celebratory events to come whose aim is not only to highlight the museum’s International Peace. The article above is past,” and that “the aggressiveness of the laudable achievements but also to raise funds so that The Ukrainian Museum can reprinted with permission from his blog current Kremlin is creating a danger much continue its excellent work for decades more. Mnohaya lita! called “Window on Eurasia” (http://windo- larger than that which came from ‘the evil woneurasia2.blogspot.com/). empire’ under the name of the USSR.”

Turning the pages back... YOUR E-MAIL MESSAGES May TO THE WEEKLY Nine years ago, on May 15, 2007, The Wall Street Journal’s Due to the quantity of messages The Ukrainian Weekly 15 Marc Champion wrote an assessment of Viktor Yanukovych’s receives at its address ([email protected]), we kindly political transformation. An editorial by The Ukrainian Weekly ask senders to have consideration for those on the 2007 noted this makeover and the observations of the media. receiving end. Mr. Champion wrote: “Victor Yanukovich [sic], prime minster 1. If you send us a message by e-mail, please expect that we will respond likewise. of this strategically important nation wedged between Russia Therefore, please do not block our responses or ask us to fill out request forms in order to and the West, has undergone one of the most extreme makeovers in global politics. Just become “approved senders.” (We simply haven’t got the time to fill out such requests.) two years ago, the Russian-back machine politician was a pariah in the West after he 2. Please include a specific subject in your subject line. For example, NYC festival article claimed victory in the 2004 presidential elections, which were marred by fraud and a bru- (not simply “article”). tal poisoning that left his opponent disfigured. …[Today] he has positioned himself as a champion of rule of law and democratic values, a visitor to Washington, Brussels and 3. If you send us information in attachment form, please do not label the attachment “The Davos, as well as Moscow. …He even polished his Ukrainian, which he now speaks in pub- Ukrainian Weekly,” “Ukrainian Weekly,” “The Weekly,” any other variation thereof, or “article.” Please use an appropriate label for your attachment that will distinguish it from others. (Do lic instead of his first language, Russian.” you know how many attachments we receive each week that are called “Ukrainian Weekly”?) Simon Bell of the London-based Sunday telegraph wrote, “The pro-Moscow leader who was prevented from becoming president of Ukraine by the ‘Orange Revolution’ is attempt- 4. Please do not ask us to visit sites online in order to download photos that go with your ing to reinvent himself as a Western-leaning conciliator who defends democracy.” stories. Please send good quality jpg files to us directly. (Please do not send us digital photos that are low resolution and therefore not suitable for reproduction – most photos taken at low The Weekly’s editorial asked, “How is it that these two newspapers (and others) have resolution are suitable for the web only.) discovered a ‘new and improved’ Viktor Yanukovcyh?” Ukrayinska Pravda published a series of articles two months earlier that pointed to spin-doctors, from the United States. 5. When e-mailing photos, please make sure the photos are labeled and that captions This same U.S. firm, led by Paul Manafort and his team, advised Mr. Yanukovych and the correspond to those labels (these may be numbers or names, but the photos and captions must match). Do not expect that photos will be downloaded in the order that you attached Party of Regions on its election campaign and worked to promote its leader, both in them in your e-mail message – that is why labels are key. Ukraine and abroad. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation. And do keep in touch! (Continued on page 9) No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 7

Kurchatov Atomic Energy Institute, which Europe and meeting with the top scientists resulted in a similar near mishap in 1985. of that era, including the 1903 co-Nobel The experiments were initially proposed Physics Prize winners Curie and Becquerel for the Irkutsk and Leningrad nuclear in Paris, to propose an international study power plants, but those locations refused of the radiography of the earth’s crust. and the experiment was transferred to Vernadsky wrote: “And now, before us, dis- Chornobyl. covered in the phenomenon of radioactivi- ty are the sources of atomic energy, which Legasov’s reports and suicide exceed by a million times all those sources In 1984, Academician Valery Legasov, of powers which human imagination who was first deputy director of the depicted to itself. What will happen when Chornobyl+30 Kurchatov Institute, published an economic we are able to obtain them in any quanti- analysis on the risks of nuclear energy. He ty?” It took 25 years to plan, design and build increase in cancers and possibly circulato- stated unequivocally that there was no risk By 1986, the USSR was already disinte- a fancy and very expensive movable sar- ry system diseases was noted, requiring from normal operations or from catastro- grating, hence Mikhail Gorbachev’s pro- cophagus for the Chornobyl nuclear power further evaluation because of the con- phes, such as earthquakes or a plane crash- gram of glasnost and perestroika. The plant’s reactor No. 4, officially termed the founding factors of smoking, alcohol, stress ing into a nuclear power plant. He didn’t USSR could probably have survived for “New Safe Confinement” (NSC). Sometime and unhealthy lifestyles of Ukrainians that account for the design flaws of this particu- another decade or so, before collapsing at the end of 2016, the NSC will be moved have caused average life expectancy to lar nuclear reactor model, or for the arro- chaotically. Chornobyl may have been a to cover the existing primitive concrete and decline steadily in Ukraine since the 1960s. gance of his Soviet scientist colleagues. perverse blessing in disguise, for it trig- steel sarcophagus that was hastily con- “Brave new Soviet world” In June, 1986, Legasov was a key mem- gered a political awakening that led to an structed, between May and November of ber of the government’s commission evolutionary political outcome, rather than 1986, in the aftermath of the explosion 30 In 1986, few people in Ukraine under- formed to investigate the causes of the transitioning to more chaotic failed state years ago at the Chornobyl plant. stood the power and danger of nuclear disaster and to plan the mitigation of its syndrome and civil war. All of a sudden, cit- Thousands worked frantically to contain energy. The Soviet system spewed out a consequences. In August 1986, he present- izens were openly questioning the actions the fire and radiation in that reactor, and barrage of propaganda touting the bright ed the report of the Soviet delegation at the of their officials and government. many paid dearly for their heroism in the future of nuclear energy. Only the scientists special meeting of the IAEA in Vienna, con- Dr. Shcherbak began Ukraine’s Green days and weeks after the explosion. working at Chornobyl understood, but they ceding certain human errors and violations Party, and many other quasi-political In 1992 Ukraine announced an interna- seemed oblivious to the dangers and arro- of protocol. movements joined. Their widespread cyni- tional competition to design a permanent gant about their technologies, their abili- On July 29, 1987, after a three-week trial cism and disgust could not be suppressed, containment facility. Of the 394 entries, ties and their place in this “brave new held in Chornobyl, the head of the nuclear and the public unrest that followed only the British design proposed a novel Soviet world.” Carelessness followed power station and two of his aides were removed whatever fig leaves remained hubris. sliding arch option that was ultimately sentenced to 10 years in a labor camp – the that covered the fiction of the Soviet sys- Dr. Shcherbak concluded that the Soviet selected. In 2007, a joint French-Italian maximum possible for the disaster. Three tem. The radioactive clouds of Chornobyl educational and administrative systems, consortium was selected to construct the other officials received shorter labor camp turned into the winds of democracy. mainly their emphasis on blind obedience NSC. It will cost close to $2.5 billion, mostly terms. No higher-ups in the chain of com- Just as in the “Great Patriotic War” and conformity to authority, were to blame, as aid and grants by the European Union mand were charged – i.e., those who insist- (World War II in Soviet parlance), Soviet along with the arrogance of the scientific and the Group of Seven. As a condition of ed on conducting the very risky experi- authorities indiscriminately threw tens of community. “We knew, with certainty, with funding, the G-7 required that the other ments. It was a cover-up. thousands of its citizens, with minimal arrogant certainty, that we were in control three nuclear reactors at Chornobyl be Even now, after 30 years have passed, protection and even less information into decommissioned. Still, there are 15 other of the power we were playing with. This was the day… we learned we were wrong,” nuclear physicists familiar with the disas- the breach of reactor No. 4 – first to put out reactor units operating in Ukraine today, ter disagree on what went wrong. The only the fires, then to build the sarcophagus to providing about 50 percent of its energy said Sergiy Parashyn, a Chornobyl engineer since 1977. area of agreement appears to be that some- contain the radiation. The people of needs, and several more are under consid- One didn’t need the Union of Concerned how, when the engineers attempted to Ukraine and Belarus bore the brunt of the eration. Scientists, formed in 1969 by several slow the nuclear reaction by inserting con- catastrophe, as they had during the second Immediately after the catastrophe, Dr. Western Nobel Laureates, to caution Soviet trol rods into the reactor core, the process world war. Nor was there much relief from Yuriy Shcherbak noted, in his book scientists about the inherent dangers of actually sped up. Soviet health authorities in mitigating the “Chornobyl – A Documentary Story” nuclear energy. Surely the small communi- On the second anniversary of the health effects of the hundreds of thousands (1989): “…now, every stove in the Polissia ty of nuclear scientists and engineers in Chornobyl disaster, April 27, 1988, Legasov, of victims suffering from radiation poison- region had been converted into a fourth lit- Chornobyl must have known about the 51, committed suicide by hanging himself ing. Despite perestroika, their health care tle reactor.” After Chornobyl, the normal comparable nuclear accident at the huge from the stairwell of his apartment. He system was in shambles and could not manner of staying warm in the winter, and nuclear complex in Kyshtym in 1958. alone did the honorable thing. Before his cope with the disaster. cooking meals, i.e. burning leaves and suicide, he left a recording revealing undis- Kyshtym is on the eastern side of the Ural Caring for Chornobyl’s victims wood in stoves, aggravated the dispersal of Mountains, not far from Chelyabinsk, closed facts about the catastrophe. Legasov radiation. Villagers now had to burn where a meteor exploded in 2013. claimed political pressure censored the During a trip to Ukraine in 1989, to sur- expensive coal to stay warm in the winter. Vague reports began appearing soon mention of Soviet nuclear secrecy in his vey the state of care for Chornobyl victims, For 5 million people in the surrounding after in the Western press, in 1958, of a report to the IAEA – a secrecy that forbade Dr. Zenon Matkiwsky noted that he was “… villages, the daily rhythms and routines of “catastrophic accident” causing radioactive even plant operators to have knowledge of, appalled to see the Soviet health care sys- life had changed immeasurably. They fallout over the Soviet Union and many or be informed about, previous accidents tem at least 70 years behind that of the couldn’t plant their vegetable gardens or neighboring states. But it was only in 1976 and known problems with reactor design. Western world. As chief of surgery in one gather their mushrooms, eat their chickens that Zhores Medvedeev made the details of The secretive and totalitarian system of the major health care systems in the or drink cow’s milk. In 1986, everything the disaster known to the world. Surely, the that was the USSR had not allowed its sci- United States, I was immediately struck by changed for them, for Ukraine and the nuclear scientists of Chornobyl and the entists to join the Union of Concerned the lack of essential medical supplies, med- USSR. The era of glasnost was just begin- prestigious Kurchatov Atomic Institute Scientists or to ponder these philosophical ications and diagnostic medical equip- ning to take shape. For Ukrainians, must have had some inklings of this acci- issues, and those of nuclear safety and ment. Most poignantly, we recall the par- Chornobyl, combined with glasnost, led to dent, and several other smaller events nuclear proliferation. But, such is the ents and children in the hospitals who a new democratic awakening and ultimate- throughout the USSR. At that time, nuclear nature of totalitarian regimes: it does not seemed to exist in a state of despair.” ly, to independence. scientists throughout the world were deep- allow its citizens to question “learned” aca- The Ukrainian diaspora throughout the Thirty years later, what were the costs ly concerned about safety issues and nucle- demicians and higher authorities. That’s world mobilized its resources to assist in and lessons of this catastrophe? A 2005 ar proliferation, and Soviet scientists rou- why Chornobyl happened, and why the whatever way they could. There were U.N. World Health Organization (WHO) tinely participated in conferences at the Aral Sea is now a lake. scores of individuals in the U.S., Canada report predicted that about 4,000 will die International Atomic Energy Agency and Europe, who provided significant tech- The power of the atom from long-term cancers caused by the radi- (IAEA) formed in 1956. nical, medical and financial aid during the ation, in addition to the 50 workers who Prypiat, not far from the Chornobyl But a century before Chornobyl, scien- critical early period. I can highlight only died immediately during the initial con- reactor, was a planned community, like tists were questioning the power of the the few efforts that I knew well. tainment. The predicted deaths will come Levittown, N.Y., and Columbia, Md. This atom. In 1886, Henri Becquerel and Marie First and foremost was the inspiration- from among the 600,000 people most con- community was to be the model for the Curie discovered a series of radioactive ele- al, dogged and highly effective humanitari- taminated by the accident – the 200,000 bright future of the Soviet Union. It was ments. A year later, in 1887, Volodymyr an work of Dr. Matkiwsky and his wife, clean-up workers, the 116,000 evacuated great to be living among the chosen elite, Vernadsky, a geochemist by training and Nadia. They organized and managed the from around the plant and the 270,000 working on exciting research on the future the first president of the Ukrainian Children of Chornobyl Relief and residents of the most radioactive areas in energy source of the USSR. On April 26, National Academy of Sciences (1918- Development Fund (CCRDF) beginning in Ukraine and Belarus. 1986, the scientists and engineers of 1921), mused about the unknown proper- 1990. Their rapid response and early aid For the millions who still live in the con- Prypiat undertook a series of experiments, ties of minerals yet to be discovered and was critical in alleviating the worst health taminated areas, their daily radiation dose, tinkering with reactor No. 4 to test its lim- exploited. “…will they not reveal to us a impacts, primarily among the children. which is higher than pre-Chornobyl back- its. whole series of new powers…and give us During the 20 plus years of their existence, ground levels, is considered to be within There was a trial of those accused of opportunities to apply them in new ways this ambitious and successful humanitari- acceptable limits. According to WHO, being responsible for the Chornobyl catas- and increase tenfold the power of man- an relief effort raised over $65 million and recent studies suggest a slight increase in trophe in July 1987. At the trial, it came out kind? Is it not possible to arouse unknown, organized a series of in-country programs the incidence of leukemia among emergen- that the experiment which resulted in the terrible powers in various substances…?” of direct medical aid to the victims of cy workers, but not in children or adult accident was part of a series of research By 1910, Vernadsky had his answer, residents of contaminated areas. A slight experiments devised by higher-ups at the after spending a year travelling through (Continued on page 12) 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 No. 20

Holodomor National Holodomor National Awareness Tour Awareness Tour now visiting schools and communities Fact Sheet The Holodomor National Awareness TORONTO – The Holodomor Mobile Tour is a project to raise awareness of Classroom (HMC) is officially on the road, the Holodomor, the genocidal famine spreading awareness about the man-made carried out in 1932-1933 by the Soviet Famine of 1932-1933 in which millions of Union led by Joseph Stalin, which Ukrainians were starved to death. resulted in the deaths of millions of The HMC visited six Ontario high schools Ukrainians. and three Ukrainian Saturday schools in The centerpiece is the Holodomor March and April, reaching more than 650 Mobile Classroom (HMC), a 40-foot RV students with up to four lessons per day customized to educate and engage stu- being given in the HMC. dents and the public about the Mark Melnyk, the department head of Holodomor. In this state-of-the-art history for the York Region District School learning space, visitors will: learn Board, called it “one of the coolest, most about the Holodomor through digital immersive learning experiences we have media; appreciate how history shapes been fortunate to share with our students,” our world today; become inspired by adding that “its use of state-of-the-art tech- personal stories of Holodomor survi- nology is captivating for a generation of vors; and leave empowered to protect students that are often hard to impress.” Canadian values of freedom and The HMC has visited Weston Collegiate in democracy. Toronto, Markville Secondary in Markham, Students participate in a 60-minute, North Park Secondary in Brampton, North Holodomor National Awareness Tour Albion Collegiate in Toronto, Bishop Students of O’Gorman High School in Timmins, Ontario, learn about the Holodomor facilitator-led educational experience Alexander Carter Catholic Secondary School inside the mobile classroom. featuring audio-visual presentations on a 28-foot video wall and comple- in Sudbury, and O’Gorman High School in The HMC is the centerpiece of the An hour-long interactive lesson for the mentary learning activities on tablets. Timmins. Ukrainian Saturday school stu- Holodomor National Awareness Tour, a proj- HMC was developed by Valentina Kuryliw, Lessons underscore the importance of dents at the Yuri Lypa, Hryhorij Skovoroda ect of the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, director of education for HREC, who has multiculturalism, human rights and and Tsiopa Palijiw schools have also benefit- developed in partnership with the more than 30 years of experience teaching the rule of law, as well as the concept ed from visits of the HMC. In addition, Holodomor Research and Education history. Students learn to investigate sourc- of genocide. Ontario Ministry of Education staff in Consortium (HREC), the Ukrainian Canadian es and analyze artifacts such as documents, The HMC will travel to small towns Toronto have had an opportunity to experi- Research and Documentation Center and the photos, newspaper articles, letters and sur- and large cities, visiting schools and ence the HMC. Ukrainian Canadian Congress. The project is vivor accounts through material loaded on The bus makes for a striking sight as it funded through a $1.5 million grant from individual iPads and displayed on a 28-foot community centers, and participate in rolls down the highway and pulls up at high the Canadian federal government, video wall. The HMC experience under- special events across the country. schools. The words “Holodomor – The $750,000 from the Ontario provincial gov- scores the consequences of hate, oppres- About the Holodomor Mobile Ukrainian Genocide” are emblazoned ernment, as well as a contribution from the sion and discrimination, and the impor- Classroom: across its 40-foot length on a background government of Manitoba and private dona- tance of tolerance, human rights and the of blue sky and wheat fields. tions. rule of law. visitors at a time. The HMC can accommodate up to 33 vis- • The HMC accommodates up to 34- itors at a time. It is also visiting community sons that build students’ critical think- and public gatherings such as festivals and ing• skills The HMCand encourage features interactive social respon les- fairs. About 420 members of the general sibility. public have boarded the HMC at events - such as the unveiling of the Holodomor mitted $750,000 to bring the Memorial in Washington, the Toronto and Holodomor• The Province learning of Ontario experience has com to Ottawa ribbon-cutting of the Holodomor publicly funded schools throughout National Awareness Tour project at Queen’s the province. Park and Parliament Hill, and at the Holodomor Commemoration Ceremony at pledged a three-year grant valued at St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in $1.5• Themillion government to ensure ofaccess Canada for stuhas- Mississauga, Ontario. The HMC will take dents and all Canadians across the part in the Ukrainian pavilion (St. Mary’s country. Ukrainian Church, 3625 Cawthra Road, Mississauga) during the Carassauga Canadian governor general’s traveling Festival in Mississauga at the end of May exhibit• The “It’s HMC an isHonor,” modeled focused on theon and will visit Ottawa and Oshawa before a Canada’s national honors and the swing to Dauphin in Manitoba and Western Canadians who receive them. Canadian provinces this summer. To arrange a visit of the HMC, readers Ukrainian Festival parade in may contact the Holodomor National September• The HMC 2015 debuted and traveled in the Toronto to the Awareness Tour at 416-966-9800, holodo- Holodomor Memorial dedication in [email protected] or via the tour Washington in November of that year. The Holodomor Mobile Classroom’s message on the back of the specially equipped vehicle. website, www.holodomortour.ca.

III Conference of Ukrainian Journalists of North America Soyuzivka, Kerhonkson, NY, USA • May 20-22, 2016 Sponsored by Self Reliance New York Federal Credit Union

CONFERENCE PROGRAM

Saturday, May 21 Sunday, May 22 8:45 AM Opening remarks: “Looking Ahead 2:00 PM “Getting the Ukraine Story Out” – 9:00 AM “Ukrainska Mova” – to the 25th Anniversary of Ukraine’s M. Bociurkiw, D. Dieguts , via Skype: S. Genyk-Berezowsky Independence” by S. Bandera, sponsored by Ukrainian 10:30 AM “Babyn Yar’s 75th Anniversary Ukraine’s Ambassador to Canada Selfreliance Federal Credit Union Commemoration, Andriy Shevchenko 3:30 PM “Two-Way Street: Ukraine-Diaspora” – September 25-29, 2016” – 9:00 AM “Status of Media in Ukraine” – M. Gongadze, D. Dieguts N. Feduschak M. Gongadze, H. Homonaj 5:00 PM “Internet Resources and Social Media 12:00 Lunch, Open Session, 11:00 AM “Hromada Status and Future” – Bridges” – A. Holovatyj via Skype General Brainstorming, Media Sponsors: A. Lozynskyj (U.S.), W. Kish (Canada), Sponsored by Selfreliance Ukrainian Future Targets sponsored by Self Reliance (NJ) American Federal Credit Union 2:00 PM Administrative Issues, The Ukrainian Weekly, Svoboda, Federal Credit Union 7:00 PM Dinner with keynote speaker: Elections New Pathway, Ukrainian News, 1:00 PM Lunch with presentation: N. Feduschak, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S. 4:00 PM III Conference Adjournment Ukrainian Jewish Encounter Valeriy Chaly KONTAKT Ukrainian TV Network No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 9

Greg Staley Andrei Kushnir, “Port Republic, South Branch,” by Andrei Kushnir (10 by 14 inches, Jim Zell oil on canvas). “Shenandoah Near Tumbling Run” by Andrei Kushnir (14 by 18 inches, oil on canvas). “Painting the Valley: Works by Andrei Kushnir” on view in Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

Washington – More than 70 plein-air River. While painting these iconic vistas, he paintings by Washington artist Andrei befriended valley residents who shared Kushnir are the focus of a new exhibition in their favorite sights to see, places to eat and the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley things to do. These interactions introduced (MSV) in Winchester, Va. “Painting the Mr. Kushnir to new destinations and Valley: Works by Andrei Kushnir” is on expanded the scope of his project. The view in the museum’s Shenandoah Valley resulting paintings depict a broad sampling Gallery through September 11. of the Shenandoah Valley’s communities, The exhibition is the result of a decade- roads, farmlands, forests, mountains and long project by Mr. Kushnir to explore the waterways. natural and cultural landscapes of the In addition to the new exhibition, Mr. Shenandoah Valley. Since beginning the Kushnir’s plein-air paintings of the valley project in 2004, Mr. Kushnir has completed will be featured in a 400-page book, “Oh, 263 Valley scenes and logged thousands of Shenandoah: Paintings of the Historic miles traveling and painting from Harpers Valley and River,” to be published by George Ferry, W.Va., to the town of Buchanan, Va. F. Thompson Publishing this summer. According to MSV Executive Director A regional cultural center, the MSV is Dana Hand Evans, “Painting the Valley” is located at 901 Amherst Street in the first in a new series of solo exhibitions Winchester, Va. The MSV complex includes at the MSV to feature the work of living exhibition galleries, the Glen Burnie House, contemporary artists. and seven acres of gardens. Admission is Mr. Kushnir’s Shenandoah Valley paint- $10 or $8 for seniors and youth ages 13 to ings depict popular landmarks, as well as Rick Foster 18. General admission is always free to places treasured by local residents but little- At the exhibit at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley (from left) are: Corwyn youth ages 12 and under and to MSV known to the rest of the world. His first Garman, exhibitions director, MSV; George F. Thompson, publisher; artist Andrei Members. Additional information is avail- paintings of the region featured Skyline Kushnir; Jeffrey Everett, author; and Warren Hofstra, author and dean, Department able at www.theMSV.org or by calling 540- Drive and the South Fork of the Shenandoah of History, Shenandoah University. 662-1473, ext. 235.

negotiate in good faith? Do they play fair? Turning... Does Mr. Yanukovych keep his word? Do his words really mean anything at all? Recent (Continued from page 6) developments in Ukraine lead us to answer “…Are we seeing a case of a true make- in the negative.” over, or is it simply that Mr. Yanukovych’s Today, it should be noted, Mr. Manafort is advisers have taught him how to handle working on an image makeover for presi- himself? Is it Mr. Yanukovych who is enjoy- dential candidate Donald Trump. ing success as his rating have improved, or is it his spin-masters who are the success Source: “Yanukovych’s makeover,” The story? …Do Mr. Yanukovych and his team Ukrainian Weekly, May 27, 2007.

The options, however, are growing progres- Virtual... sively limited as money begins to run out – while remaining in high demand by (Continued from page 2) Russia’s corrupt state-owned enterprises about the joy of acting on the urge to break and embezzlement networks. Mr. Putin free from a joyless life – apparently reso- cannot be sure that the forthcoming parlia- nates deeper than the drums of state pro- mentary elections, tightly managed as they paganda (Snob.ru, May 3). are, might not unleash an avalanche of As the tanks and missiles depart from heretofore hidden mass discontent, as they Moscow, the paroxysm of self-glorification did in late 2011. He has only a few weeks to also dissipates, leaving behind the inevita- invent a new cause to rally the masses in ble hangover and the “Now what?” ques- support of more of the same, but his subor- tion. Last year, the answer was ultimately dinates seem to be out of ideas. found in launching the military interven- tion in Syria. But this time around, the The article above is reprinted from escape from this adventure – even if it goes Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from smoothly, which would take a lot of luck – its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, needs to be outshined by a new “victory.” www.jamestown.org. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 No. 20

July 8, 9, 10 www.soyuzivka.com Also performingperforming FRIDAY Dumka Chorus - New York • Hurt Udych Evening Gala and many more acts to be announced benefit to Ukrainian Village Exhibit • Film Festival Support Varenyky Eating Contest • Delicious Food Dancing, Music, Song Ukraine Oksana Mukha Vasyl Popadiuk

MC Serhiy “Foma” Roma Pryma Bohachevsky Ukrainian Dance Workshop Fomenko MC Lydia Kulbida No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 11

ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL Connecticut Coalition launches drive to oust Trump’s campaign manager

by Borys Krupa and Lana Babij Connecticut Ukrainian Coalition NEW BRITAIN, Conn. – On Saturday, April 23, on the eve of the Connecticut presidential primary, Ukrainian American activists gathered near the entrance of Central Connecticut State University to denounce New Britain native Paul J. Manafort Jr., who was recently hired as Republican front- runner’s Donald Trump’s campaign manager. The protesters urged Mr. Trump to fire Mr. Manafort in light of his sordid track record as image-maker and influ- ence peddler for tyrants and war criminals. The protesters focused their dissent on Mr. Manafort’s role as the former adviser and campaign strategist for Viktor Yanukovych, the disgraced former president of Ukraine, widely seen as a Roksolana Luchkan pro-Russian puppet of Vladimir Putin. Borys Krupa and Bohdan Pokora express their disap- Protesters from New Britain and surrounding towns “It’s well known that Manafort worked for Yanukovych proval of Paul Manafort Jr. at the April 23 protest in gather to protest Donald Trump’s appointment of Paul from 2005 up until the very end of the Maidan uprising in New Britain, Conn. Manafort Jr. as his campaign manager. 2014,” said Borys Krupa, one of the spokespersons for the group. Holding a sign that read “Manafort’s client killed “We see Manafort as a Trojan horse for Putin,” said Ferdinand Marcos, Angola’s infamous warlord Jonas 104 heroes in cold blood,” Mr. Krupa said, “Manafort needs Roksolana Luchkan of Wethersfield. “We have to keep him Savimbi and the Pakistani spy service ISI that paid Mr. to be seen as a truly dangerous influence. This is a man that from poisoning America’s political process. He is shaping Manafort through a Kashmiri front organization while it worked for Yanukovych and in the interests of Vladimir Trump’s campaign message and his policies in a way that launched terrorist attacks on India. Putin. It’s very disturbing to think that he would now be favors Russia and undermines not only Ukraine’s indepen- Mr. Burkovskiy noted: “Manafort has no moral values. influencing the campaign strategy and the foreign policy dence, but the security of Europe and the entire world.” He has advised many corrupt politicians – from Viktor agenda of the front-runner for the Republican Party.” Ms. Luchkan served as an election observer during the Yanukovych, to the former Bahamian Prime Minister On the day before the protest, Mr. Manafort attended the 2004 presidential election in Ukraine when Mr. Lynden Pindling accused of protecting drug traffickers, to meeting of the Republican National Committee in South Yanukovych’s Party of Regions used a variety of tactics to Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos. So it is obvious: Carolina, where he reassured GOP leaders that “the Donald falsify results and intimidate voters. Eventually that elec- Manafort is just after money. He doesn’t care whom he Trump you’ve seen in the primaries will not be the Trump tion was overturned during what came to be known as the works for.” you see in the general elections.” Orange Revolution. However, in 2005 Mr. Yanukovych, with The protesters distributed flyers and press releases as “This guy Manafort is a master manipulator,” said Sofia the help of Mr. Manafort, re-entered the political arena and they picketed near the university where they sought to Dumanska, an activist from Newington. “We’re already eventually was elected president in 2010. Within months inform the public about the collaboration of Messrs. worried about a number of statements that Trump has of his election, Mr. Yanukovych began a campaign of Yanukovych and Manafort and to expose Mr. Yanukovych’s made in praise of Putin.” harassment and intimidation designed to quell dissent and many acts of treason against Ukraine. Yuri Burkovskiy added: “At a time when Ukraine desper- curb civil liberties. As the protest continued at the busy intersection, repre- ately needs the unified support of Western nations to resist Recent media reports have commented on Mr. sentatives from the Polish, Bosnian and Turkish communi- Russian aggression, Trump is suggesting that NATO is an Manafort’s involvement with a wide-ranging rogue’s gal- outdated institution that should be dismantled.” lery of political pariahs, including former Filipino dictator (Continued on page 14) 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 No. 20

Bilingual book of Ukrainian sermons presented at La Salle University by Alex Nalencz for culture and scholarship. As the profes- sors note, the paths interwoven into Father PHILADELPHIA – The Department of Kmit’s sermons often take myriad unex- Foreign Languages and the master’s pro- pected turns with dramatic results. gram in Central and Eastern European Ultimately, his message is rather straight- Studies at La Salle University on April 5 forward: love God, love your country, and sponsored a book launch of a 440-page love your fellow man. bilingual (English-Ukrainian) volume The program was opened by the chair of authored by a Ukrainian priest, Jurij Kmit the Foreign Language Department, Dr. (1872-1946), titled “Seeds of Wisdom. Victoria Ketz. Sermons for Sundays and Holy Days.” Her remarks were followed by a Power­ More than 70 people, students, faculty Point presentation featuring the historical and administrators, attended this event. background of the Boyko region of Ukraine The sermons were translated into English by Prof. Nicholas Rudnytzky and a lengthy by Profs. Leonid Rudnytzky and Nicholas commentary on the process of translation Rudnytzky, who also wrote the introduc- of Father Kmit’s sermons by Prof. Leonid tion to the book. It is illustrated by artist Rudnytzky. George Hura, the grandson of Father Kmit. Mr. Hura offered a moving personal The bilingual introduction, titled “Jurij statement about his grandfather and Kmit: Priest, Patriot, Man of Letters,” offers thanked La Salle University for the well- a brief biography of Father Kmit and ana- organized book launch. lyzes his literary and homiletic works, his A question and answer period by students At the book launch of “Seeds of Wisdom. Sermons for Sundays and Holy Days” (from profound faith and patriotism, and his love and faculty concluded the day’s program. left) are: Prof. Nicholas Rudnytzky, George Hura and Prof. Leonid Rudnytzky. The book is intended for a broad audi- ence: young families, graduates of religious and secular schools, priests, teachers, pro- fessors and all who care about the national and spiritual upbringing of the next genera- tion. Biographical notes and memories by Mr. Hura serve as an opportunity to proper- ly acknowledge the value of Father Kmit’s pastoral and social work, which set a brick at the beginning of the 20th century in the foundation of Ukraine’s independence. The publication is distributed by the St. Sophia Religious Association of Ukrainian Catholics, based in Elkins Park, Pa.

Chornobyl+30 (Continued from page 7) Chornobyl and set up clinics for dispensing medical assistance. Dr. Ihor Masnyk was director of the Chornobyl Research Project of the U.S. National Cancer Institute. He played a very important behind-the-scenes role in devel- oping post-Chornobyl medical surveys and studies, and providing numerous grants to researchers in the United States and Ukrainian research institutions. Dr. Masnyk designed, funded and managed a broad and innovative U.S.-Ukraine partnership that devised and implemented a series of very important long-term studies on the health impacts of Chornobyl radiation. One of the medical scientists who worked closely with Dr. Masnyk during that period was Dr. Daniel Hryhorczuk, of the University of Illinois. Dr Hryhorczuk is now professor of environmental health and epidemiology, and until recently was director of the Great Lakes Center of the School of Public Health. He first became involved in Chornobyl studies in 1992, with colleagues in Ukraine, investigating thyroid cancer in the most highly contami- nated areas. Through his pioneering work, he obtained a 20-year grant from the Fogarty International Center at the U.S. National Institutes of Health to undertake studies on Chornobyl victims. The immediate humanitarian assistance of the CCRDF, and the vitally important fol- low-up medical studies conceived by Drs. Masnyk and Hryhorczuk, and many of their associates and colleagues, helped to mini- mize a great deal of the worst possible health outcomes of Chornobyl. There were scores of other humanitarians and scien- tists who assisted the victims of Chornobyl, greatly reducing the projected initial dire health consequences of this radiation disaster. No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 13

(SMM), an unarmed civilian mission moni- Ukraine seeks... toring the ceasefire, is regularly threatened, intimidated and denied access by the (Continued from page 3) Donetsk-Luhansk “people’s militias” (them- May and June 2016 at THE UKRAINIAN MUSEUM during the Minsk Contact Group’s April 6 selves fronting for Russia). SMM personnel Note: All programs subject to change. Call 212-228-0110 to confirm dates and times. meeting, the latest held to date. are instructed to leave the scene immedi- For minimally credible elections to be ately when the first warning shot is fired. LECTURELECTURE The OSCE’s Office for Democratic held, an international police force must Sunday, May 22, 2 p.m. ensure public order and safety during the Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is Lecture “Jacques Hnizdovsky in Context” by Prof. Jaroslaw Leshko presented in pre-election campaign and the balloting. known to be concerned that its election conjunction with the Museum’s exhibition Jacques Hnizdovsky: Content and Style. Kyiv suggests that the OSCE should mandate observers would face similar challenges, if Evolving Perspectives, which will be on display through August 7, 2016. Hnizdovsky an armed police mission. The mission would dispatched to observe “elections” there. ranks among that generation’s most distinguished and accomplished figures, and protect candidates and voters, as well as Risks to life and limb and the lack of securi- he designed the Museum’s logo for its debut in 1976. Admission (includes gallery access and light reception) $15; member, seniors – $10; Students – $5. international observers, from intimidation ty make it difficult to recruit SMM and and violence during the pre-election cam- ODIHR personnel for unprotected civilian LECTURECONCERTS paign, guard polling stations and the ballot missions in this territory. Kyiv’s case for an Saturday, May 21, 7 p.m. boxes, and would be authorized to patrol international armed police mission is hard Concert “Bandura Beyond Borders” presented by The Ukrainian Museum and Bandura and move freely throughout the territory. to refute on that level. Downtown, featuring four bandurists from Canada: Borys Ostapienko, Oleksander According to Ukraine’s representative Politically, Kyiv’s proposal for an OSCE Petlura, Ivan Dusanowskyj, Orest Chornomaz. Admission (includes gallery access and armed police mission is a last-ditch attempt light reception) $15; member, seniors – $10; Students – $5. Doors open at 6 pm. Tickets within the Minsk Contact Group, Roman online or at the door. Bezsmertnyi, such a police mission should to deny Russia a full monopoly on force in be involved in both election-related phases this legally Ukrainian territory. The West Saturday, June 4, 7 p.m. that are currently under discussion. In the has practically conceded that monopoly to Concert with Metropolitan Opera star Stefan Szkafarowsky, bass, organized by The Ukrainian Museum and UNWLA Branch 113 in celebration of the Museum’s 40th first phase, an OSCE-authorized interna- Russia in all of the other “frozen” conflicts. Anniversary. Szkafarowsky will perform compositions by M. Lysenko, Cole Porter, Rossini, tional team would visit this territory to cer- Kyiv regards the discussions about elec- I. Sonevytsky, Verdi, and others. Accompanist: Christine Karpevych, piano. Admission: $25. tions in this territory as a chance to bargain tify whether the prerequisites to holding LECTURE free and fair elections exist. The elections for an international armed police mission. WORKSHOP themselves would be the next, main phase. Admittedly this is a poor substitute for a United Nations peacekeeping contingent or Saturday, May 21, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Kyiv’s representatives, moreover, argue Baking Traditional Wedding Breads that the proposed armed police mission a European Union mission, which Ukraine This workshop offers hands-on training in baking and decorating a korovai (tradi- would remain necessary in the post-elec- has requested and been denied since 2014. tional Ukrainian wedding bread). Participants will also learn to adorn a hiltse, the tion period also (if elections are ultimately Diplomatically, insistence on organizing colorful wedding tree. Open to adults and students over 16 years of age. held) (Segodnya, April 18). an OSCE armed police mission – complex Fee: Adults – $25; students over 16 & seniors – $20; members – 10% discount Kyiv argues that elections as prescribed and time-consuming – can be seen as a tactic Instructors: Bohdanna Slyz, Lubow Wolynetz, Larysa Zielyk on Kyiv’s part to delay “elections” in the by the Minsk armistice (conforming with FILM – Ukrainian LECTUREMuseum Film Festival (UMFF) international standards, monitored by the Russian-controlled territory. Western diplo- OSCE’s specialized election-observation macy, unable to hold Russia to its responsi- Sunday, May 15, 4 p.m. – UMFF agency) would be vitiated from the outset if bilities under the Minsk armistice (vaguely Living Fire (Zhyva vatra), 2014, Ukraine, documentary by Ostap Kostiuk. Ukr. w/ held in the lawless environment of those formulated for Russia), has turned around to Eng. subtitles, 77 min. An artistic portrayal of the life of Ukrainian shepherds in the Carpathian Mountains, and the fate of traditional crafts in a changing, modern world. two “people’s republics” and policed by hold Ukraine to its Minsk “obligations” Admission: $10. their “people’s militias.” (clearly formulated for Ukraine). Moreover, the OSCE’s German chairmanship seems pre- Thursday, May 19, 7 p.m. On an elementary practical level, Kyiv Haytarma, 2013, Ukraine, historical drama directed by Akhtem Seitablaiev. Crimean Tatar/ argues that no international civilian pres- pared to risk ODIHR’s reputation through a Rus. w/Eng. subtitles, 90 min. Winner of several international awards, Haytarma is about ence could properly function in the seces- passing mark for Donetsk-Luhansk elections, the forced deportation of the Crimean Tatars by Soviet authorities in 1944. Based on a true sionist territory without armed protection. if these are held. In such circumstances, Kyiv story, Haytarma portrays Crimean Tatar test pilot Amet-khan Sultan’s efforts to protect his The OSCE’s Special Monitoring Mission is naturally playing for time. people. Introduction by Ayla Bakkalli, U.S. Representative of the Mejlis and U.S. member of the World Congress of Crimean Tatars. Light reception after the screening. Admission is $15; $10 for members and seniors; $5 for students. Thursday, June 2, 7 p.m. – UMFF Mezhyhiria, 2013, Ukraine, documentary by Volodymyr Tykhyy. Ukr./Rus. w/Eng. subtitles, 53 min. Before the Euromaidan, investigative journalists Serhiy Leshchenko and Mustafa Nayyem, both of whom are now MPs in Ukraine’s parliament, and others, LECTURE track the trail of ownership of the Mezhyhiria compound, once a public park and former State House, which mysteriously became a private area for Viktor Yanukovych, Sunday then the President of Ukraine. Admission: $10. Friday, June 3, 7 p.m. – UMFF May 22, 2016 Short documentary films: (1) “Romani dream,” 2014, series directed by Roman Bondarchuk. They want to be model Ukrainian citizens: Diana, Ukr. w/Eng. subtitles, 4 2 p.m. min.; Myroslav, Ukr. w/Eng. subtitles, 6 min.; Denys, Ukr. w/Eng. subtitles, 5 min.; Renata, Romani/Rus. w/Eng. subtitles, 7 min. (2) Mova, 2016, directed by Serhiy Lysenko. Ukr. w/ Eng. subtitles, 16 min. Lysenko takes us to the East and South of Ukraine, where activists organize free Ukrainian language courses. (3) Serhiy Lysenko’s filmsRotation (Rotatsiia), JACQUES 2014, Ukraine, 6 min., Ukr. w/Eng. subtitles; The Southern Border (Pivdennyi kordon), 2014, Ukraine, 14 min., Ukr. w/Eng. subtitles. Admission: $10. HNIZDOVSKY Sunday, June 5, 4:30 p.m. – UMFF Ivan the Powerful (Ivan Syla), 2013, Ukraine, feature film by Viktor Andriyenko. Ukr. w/ IN CONTEXT Eng. subtitles, 89 min. Based on a true story, the film’s main character, Ivan Firtsak, was a with Ukrainian circus performer, who was recognized as the strongest man on the planet. Ivan went through many trials with dignity, he steeled his heart and became an invincible giant of strength and spirit. Perfect film for families with children! Light reception after the Prof. screening. Admission is $15; $10 for members, seniors, students and children. Friday, June 10, 7 p.m. Jaroslaw Mamai, 2003, Ukraine, feature film by Oles’ Sanin. Ukr. w/Eng. subtitles, 80 min. Based on ancient Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar folklore, this is a Ukrainian version of Romeo Leshko and Juliet. Viewers will have a sneak preview of the Museum’s new exhibition Orest Skop: Guest Curator, Cossack Mamai. Admission is $15; $10 for members and seniors; $5 for students. Professor Emeritus Saturday, June 18, 7:00 p.m. – UMFF of Art, The Tribe (Plemya), 2015, Ukraine, award-winning drama by Myroslav Shlaboshpytskiy. JACQUES HNIZDOVSKY Smith College Silent, no subtitles, 126 min. A unique feature of The Tribe is that it is filmed without Content and Style a spoken word – only in sign language, without the benefit of subtitles, intertitles, or voiceovers. A deaf mute boy joins a boarding school for similar children. Confronted Evolving Perspectives by the violent and criminal antics of some of the other boys and girls, he struggles On display through August 7, 2016 to conform and join the ‘tribe’. Warning: this film contains explicit sex scenes and Admission (includes violence. It is not rated in the U.S., however only adults age 18+ will be permitted (ID The exhibition is organized gallery access, light is required!). We strongly recommend that viewers read online reviews before deciding as part of the year-long celebration of the to attend. Admission is $15; $10 for members and seniors. 40th Anniversary of The Ukrainian Museum reception): $15; $10 members and seniors; The Ukrainian Museum’s logo was designed $5 students The Museum’s programs are supported, The Ukrainian Museum’s traditional by Jacques Hnizdovsky in part, by the New York State Council on arts programs are supported, in part, the Arts with the support of Governor by public funds from the New York Andrew Cuomo and the New York State City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership Legislature. with the City Council. THE UKRAINIAN MUSEUM 222 East 6th Street The Ukrainian Museum Programs include access to 222 East 6th Street New York, NY 10003 Museum hours: Museum galleries! New York, NY 10003 212-228-0110 Wednesday–Sunday Museum hours: www.ukrainianmuseum.org 11:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Tel: 212.228.0110 Fax: 212.228.1947 [email protected] Wednesday – Sunday www.ukrainianmuseum.org 11:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 No. 20

across the Kerch Strait located between Ms. Gaidar, 33, who is a regional lawmaker, fill out a small questionnaire about rela- NEWSBRIEFS Russia and Crimea. Crimea continued to has been serving as acting deputy governor tives, friends or acquaintances who partici- buy electricity from Kyiv after Russia forci- of the Odesa region, supervising social pated in the war. Each flower is somebody’s (Continued from page 2) bly annexed the peninsula in March 2014. issues since July 2015. She is the daughter fate. “From the posts on the site we can see Hennadiy Afanasyev and Yuriy Soloshenko, But Crimea was plunged into darkness in of the late Yegor Gaidar, a reformist Russian that Ukrainians often mention missing per- who are also imprisoned in Russia, had November, when unidentified individuals prime minister under President Boris sons. People either do not know how their already signed their extradition documents. blew up power lines linking the peninsula Yeltsin in the 1990s. She is a vocal critic of relatives ended up or know that they died, Messrs. Sentsov and Kolchenko were sen- to the Ukrainian grid. Kyiv denied responsi- Mr. Yeltsin’s successor, Vladimir Putin. Mr. but do not know where to find their graves. tenced in August 2015 by a Russian court bility for the sabotage. (RFE/RL, based on Saakashvili, who served as Georgia’s presi- This situation is very typical. Gestalt of to 20 and 10 years in prison, respectively. reporting by AP, Reuters, TASS and dent from 2004 to 2013, has headed the World War II remains unclosed for many They were accused of creating an extremist Interfax) Odesa region since May 2015. (RFE/RL, people. That is why there is a need for a organization and plotting terrorist acts in based on reporting by UNIAN and TASS) place of commemorating their relatives, Crimea. Both suspects refused to admit Ukraine recovers 17 stolen paintings even if it is a virtual platform. We are Poppies on a virtual ‘Field of Memory’ their guilt. The Memorial human rights KYIV – Ukraine says it has recovered 17 pleased that the site ‘Field of Memory’ center designated them as prisoners of paintings that were stolen from an Italian KYIV – About 4,000 poppies appeared helps keep every memory of the heroic conscience. Mr. Afanasyev, who was museum last year. President Petro on a virtual “Field of Memory” created by Ukrainians,” said Oksana Kryachko, digital involved in the Sentsov-Kolchenko case, Poroshenko congratulated border officials PlusOne in cooperation with the Ukraine communications manager at Ukraine Crisis was sentenced to seven years in Russia. He in a ceremony on May 11 showcasing the Crisis Media Center. On flowersofmemory. Media Center. “Field of Memory” is an is now serving his sentence in a correction- artworks, which have an estimated value of org anyone can plant a “Poppy of Memory” opportunity for everyone to commemorate al facility in the Russian town of Syktyvkar. more than $18 million. “This brilliant oper- to remember their relatives who suffered in The former director of Ukraine’s Poltava- ation reminds the world about the efficient World War II. To do this, visitors log in and (Continued on page 15) based Znamya defense plant, Mr. struggle of Ukraine against smuggling and Soloshenko was accused for Ukraine and corruption,” Mr. Poroshenko said. His office was sentenced by a Russian court in said the artworks were found about one cal ramifications for the closed Soviet sys- October 2015 to six years in a penal colony. and a half kilometers from the Moldovan Roundtable... tem, said Mr. Riabchuk. “This silencing of As reported earlier, captive Ukrainian pilot the disaster largely contributed to the border. It also said Ukrainian authorities (Continued from page 1) Nadiya Savchenko, who on March 22 was would now invite Italian experts to authen- opening of the Soviet system, because peo- sentenced to 22 years in prison in Russia, ticate the paintings, which include works Ms. McConnell also noted that pledging ple both within the elite and within society, has filled out all the documents needed for by Rubens, Tintoretto and Pisanello. Armed conferences that have been convened to people who favored this opening, they had her extradition to Ukraine. (Ukraine Today) gunmen stole the paintings from assist the victims of Chornobyl as well as an additional argument, to say ‘see what Castelvecchio Museum in the northern the victims of Russia’s war against Ukraine happens in a closed society.’ A closed soci- A fourth electricity line to Crimea Italian city of Verona in November. Italian have never met their goals. ety is dangerous for its own citizens, for its MOSCOW – Russia has launched a fourth and Moldovan nationals have been For Ambassador Chaly, the Chornobyl own people. So I think it was a very impor- and final line supplying electricity from the detained as suspects. (RFE/RL, based on disaster had a deep personal dimension. tant argument within the reformist camp to Russian mainland to annexed Crimea. reporting by Reuters and DPA) His father was a Chornobyl “liquidator”– push forward this idea of opening, of glas- President Vladimir Putin oversaw the May the designation given to thousands who nost.” Glasnost became a topic in the after- Gaidar resigns as acting deputy governor 11 launch of the new line, saying in a video were involved in the rescue, containment math of the disaster, Mr. Riabchuk added. In link from the Black Sea resort of Sochi, “We ODESA – The acting deputy governor of and clean-up operations surrounding the Ukraine “it disclosed the very cynicism of managed to break through the energy Ukraine’s Odesa Oblast, Maria Gaidar, has nuclear power plant – and was also the imperial center, how harmful this domi- blockade of Crimea within a brief period of left the post to become an adviser to involved in establishing a museum devoted nance of Moscow was.” time.” The line brings Russia’s electricity Governor Mikheil Saakashvili. Ms. Gaidar’s to Chornobyl. Mr. Riabchuk, who resided in Kyiv at the supply to Crimea to 800 megawatts a day, assistant, Viktoria Sybir, said on May 10 Ambassador Chaly said that Chornobyl time, recalled how he learned about the which Energy Minister Aleksandr Novak that Ms. Gaidar resigned after a new law is a symbol of the old Soviet style of gover- Chornobyl catastrophe from his father, who said will fully meet Crimea’s needs. The barring a regional lawmaker being simulta- nance and is an important reminder of the was living in Lviv. His father heard about energy bridge is a series of undersea cables neously a civil servant took effect on May 1. failed Soviet culture of security lapses and the Polish government’s rapid response to suppression of news and information, as a Chornobyl on Polish radio, and more and well as a general lack of respect for human more Ukrainians soon came to learn about life. the seriousness with which neighboring According to Mr. Chaly, Ukraine’s experi- countries were trying to mitigate the ence with this nuclear tragedy has made it impact of Chornobyl’s radiation. This a constructive contributor to nuclear non- showed that the Polish government, unlike TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL WALTER HONCHARYK (973) 292-9800 x3040 proliferation efforts, including giving up its the Ukrainian government, cared about its or e-mail [email protected] nuclear arsenal and cooperating with the people, noted Mr. Riabchuk, while the International Atomic Energy Agency Ukrainian government – “they were just SERVICES PROFESSIONALS (IAEA). Ominously, there are concerns that puppets of Moscow.” Russia may deploy nuclear weapons on the And whatever nationality you were, Crimean peninsula, which it annexed from those living in Ukraine all suffered from the Ukraine in 2014. policies of Moscow – all were in the same Ukraine still relies on nuclear power for boat and this consolidated people. “I think generating a large portion of its electricity, the real drive for independence was initiat- and it needs additional international sup- ed by this event,” commented Mr. Riabchuk. port for completing the Chornobyl contain- He went on to say that it also contributed to ment structure and dealing with other the emergence of non-governmental orga- aspects of the aftermath of the disaster, nizations (NGOs) and the environmental explained Ambassador Chaly. movement, and that many other important In his presentation, Mr. Riabchuk changes in people’s mentality occurred reminded the audience that liquidators afterwards. were being sent to quell the disaster with- He concluded his presentation by under- HELP WANTED out any gear to protect them from lethal scoring that people realized the system and doses of radiation. They were being sent to imperial rule were a disaster for all and Family in New York seeks live-in their deaths, as the Soviet system did not something should be changed. “I think it Ukrainian speaking nanny for twin care about human lives. was the beginning of the end of the Soviet girls, 7 months old. Long-term The Chornobyl disaster had huge politi- Union,” stated Mr. Riabchuk. position. Experience with small children and references required. Contact: [email protected] Paul Manafort Drive, named after Connecticut... Manafort’s father, the former mayor of New Britain. (Continued from page 11) OPPORTUNITIES SERVICES The Connecticut Ukrainian Coalition has ties joined the crowd, expressing support now launched a petition drive, urging Mr. EARN EXTRA INCOME! for Mr. Manafort’s ouster. They expressed Trump to fire Mr. Manafort and to repudi- concern about Russia’s continuing aggres- ate his earlier statements praising Mr. The Ukrainian Weekly is looking sion in Ukraine, and its support of the bru- Putin. The group also hopes to persuade for advertising sales agents. tal regime of Bashar al-Assad in Syria and the Town Council of New Britain to have a For additional information contact Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, Slobodan Milosevic’s campaign of genocide street named in honor of the Heavenly The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. against Bosnians. Brigade to honor those who were mur- There was symbolic significance in the dered on the orders of Mr. Manafort’s for- location chosen for the protest. Activists mer client. Run your advertisement here, converged on the busy intersection To obtain copies of the “Dismiss between Route 9 (Taras Shevchenko Manafort Petition,” readers may contact in The Ukrainian Weekly’s CLASSIFIEDS section. Expressway) and State Routes 175 and [email protected]. No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 15

of security.” The president underscored that years since the disaster. “Chornobyl will according to the Organization for Security NEWSBRIEFS his goal “is to return, through political-dip- continue to have an important place on the and Cooperation in Europe. (RFE/RL’s lomatic means, all of the Donbas, and then agenda of OSCE activities in Eastern Current Time TV) (Continued from page 14) Crimea.” (Ukrainian Canadian Congress) Europe,” he said. “Chornobyl has demon- people who 71 years ago were forced to strated how important it is for the interna- Focus on detecting forged travel documents Mejlis calls on EU to strengthen sanctions fight for their freedom and life, and for the tional community to cooperate in address- CHERKASY, Ukraine – Two six-day train- future as well. The military, volunteers, OTTAWA – Refat Chubarov, head of the ing the risks and consequences of devastat- ing courses for Ukrainian border control members of the liberation movement, doc- Mejlis, the representative assembly of the ing disasters. We have taken concrete steps officers aimed at increasing their opera- tors, ordinary townspeople and peasants, Crimean Tatar People, called on the coun- in translating relevant political commit- tional awareness to recognize original, children and adults – all were affected by tries of the European Union to strengthen ments into action on the ground – the 2005 forged and false documents, and in using World War II, organizers of the “Field of sanctions against Russia, including an oil Ministerial Declaration on the 20th anni- forensic equipment to identify document Memory” noted. (Ukraine Crisis Media embargo and removal of Russia from the versary of the disaster and 2007 Ministerial forgery, were held in Cherkasy on May 2-7 Center) SWIFT international bank transfer pay- Declaration on Environment and Security.” and May 9-15 at Ukraine’s Border The OSCE continues its work of addressing Poroshenko speaks on Day of Remembrance ments system, Radio Svoboda reported. Mr. Management College. Participating were 47 Chubarov stated, “Against the backdrop of radiation risks and recently started a new border control officers and 12 national KYIV – Speaking on May 8, the Day of increasing repressions against Crimean project to reduce the risks of wildfires in trainers. The courses were conducted by Remembrance and Reconciliation, Tatars, our task is to persuade the interna- contaminated areas in Belarus and Ukraine. Ukrainian national officers under the Ukraine’s President Petro Poroshenko stat- tional community to implement tougher Funded by Germany’s 2016 OSCE chair- supervision of Austrian document experts. ed, “Long-awaited peace in Europe was sanctions against Russia.” On May 12, the manship and Austria, this project is being As a follow-up to the train-the-trainer established on May 8, 1945, after six years European Parliament was expected to hold implemented under the Environment and course conducted earlier this year, these of war. Last year, Ukraine joined European debates and consider a resolution on the Security Initiative (ENVSEC) by the OSCE in training courses aimed to provide in-depth countries in their celebration of the Day of violations of the rights of Crimean Tatars, collaboration with the United Nations knowledge about the manufacturing pro- Remembrance and Reconciliation. ...Today, Radio Svoboda reported. On April 26, the Environment Program (UNEP) and with cess of forged travel documents, as well as in eastern Europe, violations of the norms authorities in Russian-occupied Crimea the support of the Global Fire Monitoring the latest trends in counterfeiting methods of international law, unprecedented from banned the Mejlis. (Ukrainian Canadian Center. ENVSEC is a partnership initiative and means of identifying them. These two the times of Hitler and Stalin, are taking Congress) bringing together the OSCE, the UNEP, the courses are the final installments in a series place. A predatory and voracious empire U.N. Development Program, U.N. Economic of six courses and aim to build on the exist- OSCE assists sustainable development again ignores state borders. ...Ukraine is Commission for Europe and the Regional ing skills of Ukrainian officers in detecting resisting again.” He added: “Every Ukrainian MINSK – The engagement of the Environmental Center for Central and forged travel documents by disseminating can be proud of the fact that we have creat- Organization for Security and Cooperation Eastern Europe. The ENVSEC Initiative knowledge on document security features ed a modern army in two years. ...As the in Europe in the environmental sphere con- attaches particular importance to the chal- and the various frameworks of visa commander-in-chief, I must take into tributes to sustainable development – map- lenges of Chornobyl and their implications regimes. The courses are organized by the account all factors: military, international, ping of radiation risks, wildfire containment for security. (OSCE) Transnational Threats Department of the economic and other. That is why we are and cooperation between Aarhus Centers – Donetsk parade may violate peace deal Secretariat of the Organization for Security focusing on political-diplomatic means to in areas affected by the Chornobyl nuclear and Cooperation in Europe, in cooperation return Ukrainian sovereignty to the tempo- tragedy, Coordinator of OSCE Economic and KYIV – A May 9 Victory Day parade in with the International Criminal rarily occupied territories. ...Any step Environmental Activities Yurdakul Donetsk by Russia-backed separatists fea- Investigative Training Assistance Program towards a political settlement must be pre- Yigitguden said on April 25 at an interna- turing tanks, artillery and rocket systems (ICITAP) of the U.S. Department of Justice. ceded with tangible progress on questions tional conference in Minsk marking 30 may violate the Minsk peace agreement, (OSCE)

law by registering his own bill canceling leg- the Poroshenko Bloc, 90 percent of the Poroshenko Bloc parliamentary faction Verkhovna Rada... islation on the basis that procedure was vio- People’s Front, all of the Renaissance group since November 2014, as pointed out by lated, but the Internet connection necessary and 89 percent of the Will of the People. National Deputy Yegor Soboliev from the (Continued from page 1) to register the bill happened to be cut off in Three deputies from the Russian-oriented parliamentary tribune. Only 90 percent of Poroshenko Bloc the chamber where legislation is registered. Opposition Bloc also voted in favor of his “I don’t understand at all how the leader national deputies and 94 percent of Within hours of signing the law, Mr. nomination. of the president’s parliamentary faction can People’s Front deputies supported the Poroshenko appeared in Parliament to offer With the extreme efforts to get Mr. lead the main independent body in oversee- amended job qualifications, whereas 100 his verbal endorsement of Mr. Lutsenko’s Lutsenko approved – which besides chang- ing the enforcement of the state’s laws,” Mr. percent support is needed from both fac- nomination as procurator general. ing the law also involved canceling a Leshchenko observed. tions in order to pass any measures. He said Mr. Lutsenko would not be guid- planned presidential working visit to Mr. Lutsenko himself had admitted him- Together the two factions have 225 depu- ed by revenge and the desire to settle scores London and calling deputies to Parliament self that his independence as procurator ties registered as of May 12 (226 votes con- – a likely reference to his predecessor Viktor from abroad – Mr. Poroshenko revealed just general would be restricted. Towards the stitute a majority in the Rada). Shokin, who dismissed David Sakvarelidze how important it is for him to maintain con- end of April, Mr. Lutsenko began indicating Instead, the Presidential Administration as one of his final acts, and Mr. Shokin’s dep- trol of this key government body, observers to the press that he wasn’t interested in tak- had to recruit the support of two deputies’ uties, who pursued a criminal investigation said. ing the post, which he described as becom- groups (parliamentary voting blocs that are against Vitaliy Kasko after his departure in “Each deputy’s vote was worth its weight ing a “decorative procurator general” con- smaller than factions): Renaissance, which what’s widely viewed as political persecu- in gold, and in one day they scrambled to sidering the limited authority he would is aligned with billionaire Igor Kolomoisky, tion. pass all the necessary legislation,” said Petro have. and Will of the People, which is aligned with As procurator general, Mr. Shokin drew Oleshchuk, an assistant professor of politi- He pointed to the emergence in April of oligarchs of the natural gas business, criticism from U.S. officials for resisting anti- cal science at Taras Shevchenko National the Qualifications Disciplinary Commission according to Mr. Leshchenko, who referred corruption efforts and even persecuting University in Kyiv. and Prosecutors Council, bodies that have to this as an “oligarch conspiracy.” those reformers who led them, particularly Besides political control, the president is the final authority in determining all the key He alleged that an inspection conducted Deputy Procurators General Sakvarelidze banking on Mr. Lutsenko’s ability to conduct appointments in the Procurator General’s on May 11 – by the Procurator General’s and Kasko, both of whom were supported an initial set of anti-corruption reforms that Office. Office and the Security Service of Ukraine, by the U.S. government yet are no longer are necessary to secure Western financial Meanwhile, the legislation changing the which are both controlled by the president employed as prosecutors. aid, including a $1.7 billion IMF loan and $1 position’s requirements also included the – of the headquarters of Ukrhazvydobu- At the same time, Mr. Shokin’s resistance billion in U.S. loan guarantees. creation of a State Investigations Bureau, vannia, a state-owned gas extraction firm, to reforms and prosecution of corruption is Although selecting an effective and inde- which has the authority to investigate crimi- was performed at the behest of the deputies widely believed to be the direct will of Mr. pendent procurator general is a key require- nal allegations filed against the highest offi- of Will of the People as their reward for Poroshenko, as alleged by Mr. Sakvarelidze. ment of Western institutions for further cials of the state. The caveat is that these their recent votes in Parliament. Mr. Lutsenko took to the Rada tribune to financial support, Mr. Poroshenko didn’t investigations can occur only with the proc- These deputies have been itching to dismiss the morning’s controversial vote to consult with his Western counterparts on urator general’s consent. regain control of the state firm ever since change the job requirements, pointing out whether Mr. Lutsenko was an adequate “Even in this dubious legislative frame- their managers were removed last year, Mr. that it was prosecutors with a law degree nomination, the Concorde Capital invest- work, the newly appointed procurator gen- Leshchenko alleged, adding that their sup- and extensive experience who had wrongly ment bank reported, citing its sources in the eral has the possibility to return the office to port for Mr. Lutsenko already foretells his imprisoned him under the presidential Rada. the path of reform with his own decisions. stance towards oligarchs breaking the law. administration of Viktor Yanukovych. That Mr. Lutsenko will be loyal to the But as experience has shown, the political With the availability of such votes at the He declared his intent to prosecute president’s will – just as his predecessors will for that is greatly lacking,” Mr. Kasko May 12 session, Mr. Lutsenko’s approval everyone equally before the law and said he were – isn’t doubted by anyone, considering wrote on his Facebook page the day of the occurred at lightning speed. had no plans to target anyone in particular, that he has served as the head of the Verkhovna Rada’s vote. Following the morning vote amending insisting that he had “no lists in his head” the job qualifications for the procurator and that no revenge would occur. general, the law was immediately signed Among his promises was that the by Parliament Chair Andriy Parubiy, fol- Procurator General’s Office would conduct a LIKE lowed by President Poroshenko, demon- public trial in absentia of the “Yanukovych strating just how quickly the president gang.” He vowed not to use prosecutorial could get legislation enacted into law if the investigations to target or enhance business The Ukrainian Weekly will is present. interests. on Facebook! Mr. Leshchenko said he even attempted Mr. Lutsenko’s nomination received 264 https://www.facebook.com/TheUkrainianWeekly to pre-empt Mr. Parubiy from signing the votes, including 92 percent of the votes of 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 No. 20

COMMUNITY CHRONICLE 30th anniversary of Chornobyl tragedy marked during Earth Day event by Vira Bodnaruk OSPREY, Fla. – The 30th anniversary of the Chornobyl disaster was commemorat- ed during the 2016 observances of Earth Day at Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey, Fla., on April 23. Members of southwest Florida’s Ukrainian community Nellia Lechman, Areta Baranows­ kyj, Oksana Lew, and Vira and Bohdan Bodnaruk prepared and manned an exhibit of informative literature about the Chornobyl tragedy that happened on April 26, 1986, in Ukraine. Available to visitors were fact sheets about Chornobyl and the present situation in Ukraine (most notably the fighting in the Donbas region). Since many families visit Earth Day with their children, there were candies from Ukraine for them. The Community Committee of Southwest Florida organized a commemoration of the 30th anniversary of Chornobyl tragedy on Tuesday, April 26, at St. Andrew’s Religious Bohdan Bodnaruk and Cultural Center in North Port, Fla. At 5 Committee members man the information table during Earth Day” at Oscar Scherer State Park. p.m. there was a requiem service for the victims of Chornobyl officiated by clergy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, the Revs. John Fatenko and Oleh Saciuk, and from the Ukrainian Catholic Church, the Rev. Vasyl Petriv. After the memorial service everyone was invited to St. Andrew’s “Oseredok” for a short program about Chornobyl. The president of Community Committee, Vira Bodnaruk, briefly related the events that took place at Chornobyl and the terrible aftermath for liquidators of the explosion and the children and adults left uninformed about the dangers of the radiation that was emitted. She noted that thousands have since died as a result; many suffer even today from cancer. Some 2.5 million people were affected by this tragedy. Radiation lev- els at Chornobyl zone are still very high and make the area uninhabitable for humans. But animals and plants seem to thrive, since there is no human interference there. The PBS film “Radioactive Wolves, Chornobyl’s Nuclear Wilderness” was shown next, followed by a short trailer, “Epiphany at Chornobyl,” made by Irene Zabytko. At the conclusion of the program every- one was invited to view an exhibit of publi- cations about Chornobyl. The commemoration was organized by a committee that comprised Ms. Lechman, Lesia Popel, Roma Guran, Daria Tomashosky, Anna Macielinski, Klara Szpiczka, Bohdanna Bilowchtuchuk, Lidia Bilous, Katia Steciuk, Roman Rondiak and Eugene Tomashoski.

Preview... (Continued from page 20) Sunday, June 19 HORSHAM, Pa.: The popular Father’s Day Ukrainian Fest will commence at 1 p.m., at “Tryzubivka” (Ukrainian American Sports Center, County Line and Lower State roads). A 2 p.m. stage show will feature the Voloshky School of Ukrainian Dance, Chervoni Maky School of Ukrainian Dance, Karpaty Orchestra and sing- ers, Sophia Pitula, Anya Melnychuk and Dianna Savchyn. A zabava-dance to the tunes of the orchestra will follow. There will be plentiful Ukrainian homemade foods and baked goods, picnic fare and cool refreshments. Enjoy the U.S. Adult Soccer Association’s Region One U.S. Open Cup and U.S. Amateur Cup (U.S. national cham- pionship quarterfinals) throughout the after- noon. There is free admission and parking to all venues. For information call 267-664-3857 or e-mail [email protected] . Website: www.try- zub.org; Facebook: Tryzub UkrainianClub. No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 17 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 No. 20

CANCELLATION May 20-22, USCAK golf tournament, May 21 Film screening, “The Babushkas of Chornobyl,” Ukrainian NOTICE [email protected] Chicago Institute of Modern Art, www.uima-chicago.org or 773-227-5522

May 19 Wine and cheese social, Ukrainian National Federation – May 21 Agapius Honcharenko 100th anniversary commemoration, Ottawa Ottawa-Gatineau, 613-596-8188 or [email protected] Hayward, CA “Celebrating a Life,” Ukrainian American Coordinating Council, Garin Regional Park, Park Ukraine, Carlos Bee Park, May 19 Film screening, “Haytarma” by Akhtem Seitablaiev, The 650-281-6927 or [email protected] New York Ukrainian Museum, 212-228-0110 or www.ukrainianmuseum.org May 21 Panel discussion with Iryna Kovel, Greg Butterfield and Brice May 20 Concert, featuring Dakha Brakha, Schimmel Center, New York Gagnon, “Left Forum 2016 – The Situation in Ukraine,” United New York www.schimmel.pace.edu or 212-346-1715 National Antiwar Coalition, City University of New York, May 20 Accordion-fest sing-along, Ukrainian American Cultural [email protected] or 212-817-2003 Whippany, NJ Center of New Jersey, www.uaccnj.org May 21 Film screening of “Earth” by Oleksandr Dovzhenko, with May 20 Literary evening with Joseph Mikolayash, featuring New York Dakha Brakha performing new music for the film, Chicago works by Ivan Franko, Ukrainian National Museum, Schimmel Center at Pace University, 212-346-1715 or 312-421-8020 or www.ukrainiannationalmuseum.org http://schimmelcenter.org/events/dakhabrakha

May 20 Concert, violinist Vasyl Popadiuk and Vadim Krasnooky from May 22 Concert with pianist Dmytro Sukhovienko, The Mississauga, ON Mad Heads, Crystal Grand Banquet Hall, 905-277-2800 Alexandria, VA Washington Group Cultural Fund Music Series, The Lyceum, [email protected] May 21 Book launch with Nicholas Dupliak, “With Ukraine in New York Our Hearts: Recollections of Ukrainian Studies May 22 Concert, “The New Adventures of Pinocchio,” American Graduates from the Szczecin Teachers College,” Palatine, IL Ukrainian Youth Association Palatine branch, Iskra Shevchenko Scientific Society, 212-254-5130 Ukrainian School of Dance, Lake Zurich Performing Arts Center, [email protected] May 20-22 Ukrainian Festival, St. George Ukrainian Catholic New York Church, www.facebook.com/stgeorgesukrainianfestival May 22 Film screening with director Holly Morris, “The Babushkas Jenkintown, PA of Chernobyl,” Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center of May 20-22 Conference, Ukrainian Journalists of North America, Philadelphia, www.ueccphila.org or 215-663-1166 Kerhonkson, NY Soyuzivka Heritage Center, [email protected] DATE CHANGE The Ukrainian Festival of the Ukrainian American Cultural May 21 Concert, “Bandura Beyond Borders,” Bandura Center of New Jersey in Whippany will take place on New York Downtown and The Ukrainian Museum, 212-228-0110 October 1, not on September 24, as originally announced. or www.ukrainianmuseum.org

May 21 Workshop, “Baking Traditional Wedding Breads,” with Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events New York Bohdanna Slysz, Lubow Wolynetz and Larysa Zielyk, advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions The Ukrainian Museum, 212-228-0110 or from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors www.ukrainianmuseum.org and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected].

JACQUES HNIZDOVSKY PRINTS DRAWINGS PAINTINGS William Greenbaum Fine Prints has been in business now for more than 50 years. We currently have 50 signed prints by Mr. Hnizdovsky for sale and we are seeking to purchase more of his prints as well as his drawings and paintings.

ALL PRINTS NOW ILLUSTRATED ONLINE AT: www.greenbaumprints.com Please email us at [email protected] or phone us at 508-284-7036. William Greenbaum Fine Prints 98 South Street Rockport, MA 01966 Open By Appointment Member: International Fine Print Dealers Association No. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 19 UKELODEON For The Next Generation Youths enjoy “vechirka” at Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey

by Oksana Stanko WHIPPANY, N.J. – On April 16, here at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey, a “vechirka” (dance) was held for the youth of the metropolitan area. The vechirka was planned by the Plast girl scouts of the Newark, N.J., branch, with the sponsorship of the Plast sorority Ti, Shcho Hrebli Rvut. It was the second annual teen dance sponsored by the sorority. About 50 young people from vari- ous organizations, including Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization, the Ukrainian American Youth As- sociation, the Iskra Ukrainian Dance

Academy and the Barvinok Ukrai- Natalia Dzeva Brandafi nian Dance Ensemble, as well as Members of the Barvinok Ukrainian Dance Ensemble and students of the School of Ukrainian Studies, both based the Schools of Ukrainian Studies in in South Bound Brook, N.J., pose for a photo during the “vechirka.” Whippany and South Bound Brook, Parents were invited to the N.J. attended the event. center’s Social Club, Hoverlia, for The entertainment was provided appetizers and conversation with by DJ Mark Mulyk, assisted by Matt friends. Yuen, who played great music that Proceeds from the event were ear- included the ever-popular Kolo- marked to defray the cost of sending miyka which brought everyone out aid packages to the children of Plast onto the dance floor. members injured or killed while The teens also enjoyed pizza and a fighting in the anti-terrorist opera- tricky tray event during the vechirka. tion (ATO) in the Ukraine’s east. Washington Plast scouts visit Ukrainian wounded warriors

Oksana Stanko Oksana Stanko Teens from the Ukrainian community based in Whippany, N.J., at the Ukrai- nian American Cultural Center of New Jersey, where the dance was held.

Yuri Deychakiwsky BETHESDA, Md. – On Holy Saturday according to the Julian calen- dar, April 30, Washington-area Plast scouts visited Ukrainian wounded warriors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. They presented them with an Easter basket and shared a traditional blessed egg. Standing (from left) are: Adrian Wowk, Vadym Maznichen- ko, Andre Wowk, Dr. Victor Wowk; sitting is Oleksandr Kosolapov Oksana Stanko 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2016 No. 20

PREVIEW OF EVENTS

Sunday, May 15 NEW YORK: The concert “Bandura Beyond Borders,” present- Lysenko’s films “Rotation” (Rotatsiia) and “The Southern ed by The Ukrainian Museum and Bandura Downtown, and Border” (Pivdennyi Kordon). Ukrainian Museum Film Festival NEW YORK: The film “Living Fire” (Zhyva Vatra), a documenta- featuring four bandurists from Canada, Borys Ostapienko, admission is $10. The Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 E. ry directed by Ostap Kostiuk (2015, Ukrainian with English Oleksander Petlura, Ivan Dusanowskyj, Orest Chornomaz, will Sixth St.; telephone, 212-228-0110; website, www.ukrainian- subtitles, 77 minutes) will be screened at 7 p.m. The snow is starting to melt and spring has announced its arrival. Three take place at 7 p.m. Admission (includes gallery access and museum.org. light reception) is $15; museum members and seniors, $10; Carpathian shepherds, just like their fathers and grandfathers Friday, June 3-Sunday, June 19 before them, set off with their flock into the mountains on a students, $5. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets may be purchased lonely journey lasting several months. The film is an artistic online or at the door. The Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 NEW YORK: Yara Arts Group’s new theater piece, “Dark Night portrayal of the fate of traditional crafts in a changing, modern E. Sixth St.; telephone, 212-228-0110; website, www.ukraini- Bright Stars,” is set in 1858 when the Ukrainian poet Taras world. Ukrainian Museum Film Festival admission is $10. The anmuseum.org. Shevchenko, set free after 10 years’ imprisonment, meets the great African American actor Ira Aldridge and draws his por- Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 E. Sixth St.; telephone, Sunday, May 22 212-228-0110; website, www.ukrainianmuseum.org. trait. The theater piece is by Virlana Tkacz, Jeremy Tardy and NEW YORK: A lecture on “Jacques Hnizdovsky in Context” by Yara Arts Group with Sean Eden, Maria Pleskevich, Jeremy Thursday, May 19 Prof. Jaroslaw Leshko will be presented at 2 p.m. in conjunction Tardy, Barak and Shona Tucker, and music by Julian Kytasty. NEW YORK: “Haytarma,” a historical drama directed by with The Ukrainian Museum’s exhibition “Jacques Hnizdovsky: Performances are on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 Akhtem Seitablaiev (2013, Crimean Tatar/Russian with Content and Style. Evolving Perspectives,” which will be on dis- p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at La MaMa Experimental Theater, English subtitles, 90 minutes) will be screened at 7 p.m. The play through August 7. Hnizdovsky ranks among that genera- 74 E. Fourth St. Admission is $18; $13 for seniors and students. winner of several international awards, the film is about the tion’s most distinguished and accomplished figures, and he For tickets call 646-430-5374 or visit lamama.org/dark_night/. designed the museum’s logo for its debut in 1976. Admission forced deportation of the Crimean Tatars by Soviet authorities Saturday, June 4 in 1944. Based on a true story, “Haytarma” portrays Crimean (includes gallery access and light reception) is $15; members Tatar test pilot Amet-khan Sultan’s efforts to protect his people. and seniors, $10; students, $5. The Ukrainian Museum is locat- NEW YORK: Concert with Metropolitan Opera star Stefan The film will be introduced by Ayla Bakkalli, U.S. representative ed at 222 E. Sixth St.; telephone, 212-228-0110; website, www. Szkafarowsky, bass, will be presented at 7 p.m. in a program of the Mejlis and U.S. member of the World Congress of ukrainianmuseum.org. organized by The Ukrainian Museum and Ukrainian National Women’s League of America Branch 113 in celebration of the Crimean Tatars. There will be a light reception after the screen- Thursday, June 2 ing. Admission is $15; $10 for members and seniors; $5 for stu- museum’s 40th Anniversary. Mr. Szkafarowsky will perform dents. The Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 E. Sixth St.; tele- NEW YORK: The film “Mezhyhiria” a documentary by compositions by Lysenko, Porter, Rossini, Sonevytsky, Verdi phone, 212-228-0110; website, www.ukrainianmuseum.org. Volodymyr Tykhyy (2013, Ukrainian/Russian with English and others. Piano accompanist: Christine Karpevych. subtitles, 53 minutes) will be shown at 7 p.m. Before the Euro- Admission is $25. The Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 E. Saturday, May 21 Maidan, investigative journalists Serhiy Leshchenko and Sixth St.; telephone, 212-228-0110; website, www.ukrainian- NEW YORK: The Shevchenko Scientific Society invites all to a Mustafa Nayyem, both now national deputies in Ukraine’s museum.org. book launch of “With Ukraine in Our Hearts: Recollections of Parliament, and others, track the trail of ownership of the Sunday, June 5 Ukrainian Studies Graduates from the Szczecin Teachers Mezhyhiria compound, once a public park and former State College” (Clifton, N.J., 2015). The book will be presented by House, which mysteriously became a private reserve for Viktor NEW YORK: Film: “Ivan the Powerful” (Ivan Syla), a feature Nicholas Dupliak. The event will take place at the society’s Yanukovych, then the president of Ukraine. Ukrainian Museum film by Viktor Andriyenko (2013, Ukrainian with English subti- building, 63 Fourth Ave. (between Ninth and 10th streets) at 5 Film Festival admission is $10. The Ukrainian Museum is locat- tles, 89 minutes) will be screened at 4:30 p.m. Based on a true p.m. For additional information call 212-254-5130. ed at 222 E. Sixth St.; telephone, 212-228-0110; website, www. story, the film’s main character, Ivan Firtsak, was a Ukrainian ukrainianmuseum.org. circus performer who was recognized as the strongest man on the planet. Ivan went through many trials with dignity, he NEW YORK: “Workshop: Baking Traditional Wedding Breads” Friday, June 3 offers hands-on training in baking and decorating a “korovai” steeled his heart and became an invincible giant of strength and adorning the colorful wedding tree (hiltse). The workshop, NEW YORK: At 7 p.m. The Ukrainian Museum will present and spirit. A perfect film for children! There will be a light scheduled for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., is open to adults and students short documentary films: (1) “Romani Dream,” a series of reception after the screening. Ukrainian Museum Film Festival over age 16. Registration in advance is required; call 212-228- shorts directed by Roman Bondarchuk, featuring four people admission is $15; $10 for members, seniors, students and chil- 0110 to reserve a seat. Workshop fee: adults, $25; students who want to be model Ukrainian citizens: “Diana,” “Myroslav,” dren. The Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 E. Sixth St.; tele- over 16 and seniors, $20; museum members receive a 10 per- “Denys” and “Renata”; (2) “Mova,”directed by Serhiy Lysenko, phone, 212-228-0110; website, www.ukrainianmuseum.org. cent discount. The Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 E. Sixth which takes viewers to the east and south of Ukraine, where St.; website, www.ukrainianmuseum.org. activists organize free Ukrainian language courses; and (3) Mr. (Continued on page 16)