INSIDE: • Pysanka workshops from Edmonton to Boston — page 9. • Two new books present Ukraine’s history — page 10. • Interview with writer Askold Melnyczuk — page 12. HE KRAINIAN EEKLY T PublishedU by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal non-profitW association Vol. LXXVI No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 $1/$2 in Ukraine Bush’s first visit to Ukraine aims Tymoshenko government to recognize country’s progress marks first 100 days in office by Illya M. Labunka On March 11 the United States for- by Illya M. Labunka Kyiv Press Bureau mally announced its support of Ukraine’s Kyiv Press Bureau desire to join NATO’s MAP and has been KYIV – President George W. Bush pushing hard for Ukraine’s successful KYIV – As she reached the milestone supports Ukraine’s aspirations to attain entry. of 100 days in office, Prime Minister its rightful place in Europe, particularly Speaking at a press conference on Yulia Tymoshenko continued to enjoy in trans-Atlantic institutions, according March 19 in Kyiv, U.S. Ambassador to strong popularity. On Thursday, March to the U.S. president’s national security Ukraine William Taylor reiterated the 27, the Ukrainian government leader adviser, Stephen Hadley, who spoke on U.S.’s absolute support of Ukraine’s marked the 100th day since she was March 26 in Washington as Mr. Bush aspirations to join the alliance’s MAP voted into power on December 18, 2007. prepares to make his first official state and expressed hope that other NATO Ever since she regained her position visit to Ukraine. member-countries would also extend as prime minister, the intrepid reformer President Bush will visit Kyiv on their support. has embarked on an ambitious crusade March 31-April 1 en route to the 26- Ambassador Taylor expressed his involving privatization, social spending, member NATO summit in Bucharest, belief that the Bucharest summit would anti-corruption efforts and energy sector Romania, in order to “recognize the make a decision in favor of Ukraine’s reform – all under the banner of her democratic changes undertaken by MAP, commenting that a positive deci- “Ukrainian Breakthrough” program. Ukrainians in their country from the sion would be a success for both Ukraine And, her popularity has not waned moment of the Orange Revolution of and NATO. At the same time, Mr. even though Ukraine experienced an average monthly increase of 2.8 percent 2004,” Mr. Hadley underscored. The Taylor underscored that joining the MAP in inflation. NATO summit convenes on April 2-4. does not guarantee NATO membership. Prime Minister Tymoshenko has Although some critics view President He stressed that a Membership Action received praise from some political ana- Bush’s upcoming visit to Ukraine in the Plan is only the beginning of the process lysts for fulfilling her parliamentary elec- last year of his presidency as somewhat and that the ultimate decision on mem- Web-Portal of the Ukrainian Government tion campaign pledges, which included of a courtesy call, “the visit by the U.S. bership is made later. Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko increased subsidies for social programs, head of state is nevertheless a clear Ambassador Taylor also pointed out higher pensions (an increase of 30 per- example of Mr. Bush’s commitment to that NATO would consider Ukraine’s full cent over last year), larger student noticeable in six months,” said the prime strengthening democracy in Eastern membership only after the Ukrainian stipends and a repayment program for minister. Europe and particularly in the region of people approve NATO membership via According to Ms. Tymoshenko, her the former Soviet Union,” said the millions of depositors who lost their referendum. He made it clear that no Soviet-era savings in 1991. government inherited an economy with a Volodymyr Fesenko, director of the country that is not a NATO member – At the same time, other experts have 17 percent rate of inflation from the pre- Penta Center for Political Research. including Russia – can have the right to accused the prime minister of engaging vious administration of Viktor During Mr. Bush’s visit the U.S. and veto Ukraine’s MAP. in a populist public relations campaign Yanukovych. “It is impossible in two Ukrainian presidents are scheduled to On March 26 President Yushchenko geared toward the presidential elections weeks’ time to reduce inflation which discuss, among other issues, future bilat- expressed hope that public opinion in in 2009 – all at the expense of the econo- has been increasing for the last year and eral cooperation based on the creation of Ukraine favoring NATO membership my. a half,” added Ms. Tymoshenko. a free-trade zone between Ukraine and would reach approximately 60 to 70 per- On March 20 Ms. Tymoshenko Although the current inflation crisis, the United States, as well as an eight- cent in two years’ time, during which a responded to fears of growing inflation more than any other issue, has recently point U.S.-Ukraine Action Plan for 2008- NATO information campaign is to be by stating that the government will need put the Tymoshenko government under 2009. implemented. approximately half a year to bring the scrutiny, most critics concur that the President Bush is scheduled to meet Nine of NATO’s newest members situation under control. “The results of unwelcome economic trend is a product with President Viktor Yushchenko and our anti-inflationary measures will be Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko on (Continued on page 22) (Continued on page 17) April 1 and plans to depart for Bucharest that evening. The fact that the president of the United States intends to visit Ukraine only underscores the significance of Russia’s threats to Ukraine, Georgia challenge U.S. and NATO Ukraine for long-term U.S. interests, by Vladimir Socor Kremlin political consultant Gleb rest of the country. commented Kostyantyn Gryshchenko, Eurasia Daily Monitor Pavlovsky warned on the program that On the same program Konstantin Ukraine’s former foreign affairs minister Ukraine shall be “destroyed, divided” if it Simonov, general director of the National and former ambassador to the U.S. Representatives of the Russian govern- pursues a MAP leading to NATO member- Energy Security Foundation, warned that In addition, Mr. Bush’s visit is an ment and the Kremlin are multiplying their ship. To deter Kyiv from pursuing a MAP, Ukraine’s economy would collapse with- excellent opportunity for Ukraine to threats to Ukraine, as well as to Georgia, Mr. Pavlovsky recommended that Russia out Russian gas. Consequently, “If they do refocus U.S. attention on a country that ahead of next week’s NATO summit, should raise the full range of complaints not see Russia as a political partner, they can once again be a key strategic player where Membership Action Plans (MAPs) regarding the Russian language and rights will not be getting any money from us” – in Europe, added Mr. Gryshchenko. for the two countries will be considered. of ethnic minorities in Ukraine and present that is, Russia would abruptly raise the “Unfortunately, for far too long all these Moscow realizes more clearly than some Ukraine with a “yes-or-no choice.” Should price of gas for avowedly political reasons. domestic squabbles were objectively NATO governments that this issue is a In a link-up from Brussels, the Russian viewed outside Ukraine as our inability defining one for the alliance at its April 2-4 Kyiv choose the “no,” Russia should “reconsider the [1997] framework treaty” envoy to NATO, Dmitry Rogozin threat- to establish a foreign policy strategy summit in Bucharest. ened that granting MAPs to Ukraine and based on national interests,” he Government-run Rossiya Television with Ukraine. This clearly implies de-rec- ognizing Ukraine’s territorial integrity, Georgia “would signify the break-up of explained. aired a quintessence of such threats against their national states.” He also warned the which is a centerpiece of that treaty. The main topic of discussion between Ukraine on its “National Interest” flagship alliance that it cannot tell Russia that it has With this, Mr. Pavlovsky is replaying the two heads of state will be Ukraine’s political roundtable on March 22. The par- no right to veto NATO decisions while at the themes he used during Ukraine’s 2004 intensified effort to receive a NATO ticipants, who were until recently posi- the same time requesting Russian assis- presidential election campaign, which his Membership Action Plan (MAP) – the tioned as hardliners in the Russian spec- tance in Afghanistan, where the NATO final phase in preparing potential mem- trum, are nowadays in the policy main- team of political consultants based on bers for joining the alliance. stream. threats to split eastern Ukraine from the (Continued on page 5) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13 ANALYSIS NEWSBRIEFSNEWSBRIEFS

NATO members stating the case 10 NATO members support Ukraine tion headed by Internal Minister Yurii Lutsenko left for Kosovo to study the cir- for Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs KYIV – Canada and nine of the cumstances of the Ukrainian peacekeep- newest NATO members from Central and er’s death. “We are very much worried Eastern Europe have signed an unofficial by Vladimir Socor impression that Germany claims a lead- by developments in Kosovo,” said note asking NATO Secretary-General ing role in opposing the MAPs. Oleksander Chalyi of the Presidential Eurasia Daily Monitor Jaap de Hoop Scheffer to offer Ukraine Berlin’s anti-MAP arguments are more Secretariat. (Ukrinform) and Georgia Membership Action Plans at The German government’s all-out, sophisticated and open to reasoned the alliance’s summit in Bucharest on U.N. leader extends condolences public campaign against Georgian and debate, compared with Moscow’s vitu- April 2-4, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service Ukrainian Membership Action Plans perations and threats. Nevertheless, the reported, citing the dpa news service. The KYIV – United Nations Secretary- (MAPs) risks splitting NATO ahead of political consequence of Berlin’s public countries – Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech General Ban Ki-moon said he was deeply the alliance’s April 2-4 Bucharest sum- campaign is to expose and widen a rift in Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, saddened to learn of the death of peace- mit. Germany alone has embarked on NATO, inevitably prompting the MAP Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia keeper Ihor Kinal of Ukraine, who died such a public crusade, in the avowed supporters to go public as well. – said that such a move would both rein- due to injuries received during violent expectation that other NATO countries President George W. Bush and other clashes in Mitrovica, Kosovo, on March would follow Berlin’s lead. force stability and security in Europe, U.S. leaders reaffirmed their support for and become the logical continuation of 17. He extended his condolences to the If so, such countries would in fact be Georgia’s MAP aspirations during family of the Ukrainian soldier and to the deferring not so much to Germany as to current policies of cooperation toward President Mikheil Saakashvili’s March Ukraine and Georgia, given the efforts government of Ukraine, according to the Russia. 19-20 visit to Washington. U.N. News Center. The secretary-general Real differences over the Georgian these countries have already made in “I believe that NATO would benefit reforming their military and political called on all parties to refrain from vio- and Ukrainian MAPs could have been from Georgian membership,” Mr. Bush lence and to engage in a constructive dia- resolved in the course of existing NATO institutions. Ukrainian President Viktor stated at the joint press conference in the Yushchenko and Prime Minister Yulia logue and work together to promote consultation processes, without public White House with Mr. Saakashvili security and stability in Kosovo. confrontation among allies. However, the Tymoshenko recently sent Mr. de Hoop (White House transcript, March 19), Scheffer their second request for Ukraine (Ukrinform) German government and Chancellor clearly implying that Georgia ought to be to be given a Membership Action Plan, Tugboat sinks near Hong Kong Angela Merkel personally short-circuited considered on its merits and in light of those consultation processes, which were and also asked Germany and France to NATO interests. The United States seems KYIV – The Ukrainian tugboat set to continue after the March 6 Brussels support Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic aspira- set to press for a political decision Naftohaz-67, with a crew of 24 meeting of ministers of foreign affairs of tions. Germany and France are the main regarding Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs Ukrainians and one Chinese, sank on NATO countries. Instead, Ms. Merkel European opponents of Ukraine’s inte- to be adopted at the Bucharest summit. March 22 near Hong Kong after colliding held talks two days later with Russian gration into NATO, claiming that there is Also on March 19, 10 NATO member- with the Chinese cargo ship Yao Hai, President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to insufficient support in the country for countries wrote to the alliance’s Ukrainian media reported. Six establish a common front against the NATO membership. The first formal Secretary-General, Jaap de Hoop Ukrainians and the Chinese, who were on Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs. request for granting Ukraine a Scheffer, urging that Georgia and the upper deck at the moment of the Furthermore, Berlin has become a Membership Action Plan was sent in Ukraine be granted MAPs at the upcom- mid-January and triggered a crisis in the crash, were pulled from the sea by res- most diligent compiler of anti-MAP argu- ing summit (BNS, March 20). Canada cuers. The remaining 18 crew members ments and their spigot in pre-summit Ukrainian Parliament that has lasted for and the countries that joined NATO in over a month. (RFE/RL Newsline) were missing. Rescuers towed the ship to conferences among allies, thus singular- the two enlargement rounds – three shallow waters in an effort to rescue the izing Germany in this regard also. Baltic states, Poland, the Czech Ukrainian peacekeeper dies in Kosovo 18 believed to be trapped inside it. As of Germany gives the impression of riding Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria Monday morning, March 24, all the nine KYIV – Ihor Kinal, a Ukrainian law- far out in front of this campaign. Berlin and Slovenia – co-signed the document. attempts to get inside the capsized boat, enforcement officer from the peacekeep- diplomats are hinting that some other The missing signature is Hungary’s, which lay at a depth of 57 meters, were ing unit of the Internal Affairs Ministry NATO countries would also follow the whose Socialist government (unlike unsuccessful because of strong currents serving in Kosovo died in a hospital on German lead publicly in due course. and poor visibility. The situation is being March 18. The officer was heavily Such hints unwittingly reinforce the (Continued on page 20) supervised by Ukraine’s Embassy to wounded on March 17 in armed clashes China. Naftogaz-67, which belongs to in Mitrovica. According to the latest Ukraine’s Chornomornaftogaz company, reports, a total of 20 Ukrainian peace- was built in 1991. In connection with the keeping police officers were injured and crash, the Foreign Affairs Ministry has It takes two Russian presidents are now hospitalized. The United Nations set up a special committee headed by is planning to hold an inquiry into the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs March 17 events in Kosovo, said U.S. Oleksander Kupchyshyn. Kyiv also to tango with the United States Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor. asked China to secure Ukraine’s partici- by Pavel K. Baev Rice and Defense Secretary Robert Gates Meanwhile, on the instructions of Eurasia Daily Monitor experienced the change of atmosphere in President Viktor Yushchenko a delega- (Continued on page 14) Moscow last week, meeting with Pushing his ballot into the ballot box President-Elect Medvedev and President during Russia’s shamelessly fixed presi- Vladimir Putin before having long negoti- dential elections on March 2 Dmitry ations with their Russian counterparts, THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY FOUNDED 1933 Medvedev announced that he was feeling Sergei Lavrov and Anatoly Serdyukov. It good because spring had arrived. At that did not matter much that the U.S. side An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., moment, the statement appeared perfectly brought no new suggestions regarding a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. 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It would make even more and-dismiss” order, issued to several sense to put efforts into drafting a legally noisy youth organizations, convinced binding and verifiable document that ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA most political weather watchers that would address the eroding strategic arms winds have indeed changed, so they have control regime as the cornerstone START Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3041 begun to discuss the deeper philosophical agreement expires in December 2009, and e-mail: [email protected] meaning and the practical implications of worrisome tests of anti-satellite weapon Maria Oscislawski, advertising manager (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 the new “thaw” (Gazeta.ru, March 17; systems expand. e-mail: [email protected] Polit.ru, March 14; Ekho Moskvy, March Moscow is now promising to prepare a Mariyka Pendzola, subscriptions (973) 292-9800, ext. 3042 23). e-mail: [email protected] U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza (Continued on page 20) No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 3 Russia to increase purchase prices for Central Asian gas: the implications by Vladimir Socor At first sight, Gazprom’s consent to for Central Asian gas, according to com- the position of mayor of the Hague after Eurasia Daily Monitor increase its purchase price for Central pany spokesman Sergei Kupriyanov. It only five months with Nabucco, accord- Asian gas should significantly reduce can now eliminate the middleman com- ing to Dutch reports. Moscow has decided to increase sig- that lucrative differential for Russia. This pany RosUkrEnergo, whose raison d’être The United States missed the chance – nificantly the price of gas it purchases effect seems far from certain, however. has been to profit from the wide price and the EU seemed oblivious to the from Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Average prices for gas in the EU are gap between Central Asian gas and chance altogether – during the last five Uzbekistan. As announced on March 11 expected to rise from some $280 in 2007 Russian gas. On March 13 Gazprom years to offer Central Asian countries and confirmed on March 13, Gazprom to at least $350 in 2008, mainly as a President Alexei Miller and Naftohaz more attractive commercial terms for has agreed with Turkmengaz, result of the rise in oil prices, to which Ukrainy President Oleh Dubyna agreed their gas than Russia offered them. Now KazMunayGaz and Uzbekgaz to raise gas prices are pegged. Thus, Gazprom to remove intermediaries and open with Russia’s price increase for Central that price in 2009 to levels nearer the should still be able to profit from the Ukraine’s industrial market – the coun- Asian gas, and the potential for this trend average price paid by European Union price differential between Central Asian try’s most lucrative – for Gazprom to to continue, any incentive for customers to Gazprom in 2008 (RIA- and European gas prices. operate directly there, further squeezing Turkmenistan and the other countries to Novosti, Interfax, March 11, 13). However, that once-yawning differen- Naftohaz (Interfax, March 13). join Western-backed projects can corre- While the detailed price-setting formu- tial has begun to narrow, because Central The European Union and the United spondingly diminish. la for Russian purchases of Central Asian Asian countries are now in a far stronger States will find it even more difficult to Russia’s growing intake of Central gas remains under discussion, that price position to bargain with Gazprom. With win over Turkmenistan for a trans- Asian gas can strengthen its dominance is anticipated in the range of $200 to Caspian pipeline, once Russia raises its in European energy markets, despite $230 per 1,000 cubic meters, depending Russia’s internal gas production stagnant, on the points of origin in the three coun- the main operating gas fields past their tries and the points of entry into Russia. peak, chronic underinvestment and long For Ukraine, the increase in prices for By comparison, Gazprom’s current con- delays in opening new fields, as well as tract price for Turkmenistan – whose rising internal consumption, Russia Central Asian gas means, at the very export to Russia and overall export seems set to experience gas shortfalls potential are the largest by far – is $150 both internally and for export. To cover least, another jump in the price of per 1,000 cubic meters during the first the looming gas deficit, Russia must half of 2008 and $180 for the second increase imports from and prices to Russian-delivered Turkmen gas, on which half. Central Asian countries. This trend has Thanks to its monopsony, Gazprom only begun with the price increase just Ukraine ’s economy is largely based. uses part of the Central Asian gas vol- announced for Central Asian gas. umes for Russia’s internal consumption, The implications of this incipient trend thereby freeing up equivalent volumes of can be momentous. purchase price for Turkmen gas signifi- Russia’s own stagnant production. By Russian gas for sale at higher prices to For Ukraine, it means at the very least cantly. With this trend now under way the same token, it can lend impetus to the European Union countries. Russia also another jump in the price of Russian- and set to continue, Ashgabat will find it formation of a Russian-led cartel of gas re-sells growing volumes of Central delivered Turkmen gas, on which financially advantageous and politically exporting countries. Moscow does not Asian gas in Europe as “Russian” gas. Ukraine’s economy is largely based. safe to deliver growing volumes of its intend to include the Central Asian coun- With both methods, Russia is pocketing Gazprom intends to enter the Ukrainian gas to Russia. Thus, it will go ahead with tries in the proposed cartel. Rather, it the differential. market directly, in view of rising prices the joint project to expand the capacities plans to use Russian control of Central of pipelines to Russia, such as the north- Asian gas to maximize Russia’s influ- bound Caspian littoral pipeline, which ence within the proposed cartel. pre-empts the proposed trans-Caspian With the adverse trends under way, westbound pipeline. many European Union officials experi- Bush to meet with Putin in Sochi This would mean, in turn, cutting off ence “a sense of failure” and even “near RFE/RL Newsline maintain good relations [with Putin] so the Western-backed Nabucco project despair” – albeit “behind closed doors” – he’ll listen to what I say.” from Turkmen and other Central Asian over the failure to develop a common WASHINGTON – U.S. President The visit will take place after NATO’s gas. Nabucco recently experienced energy policy in response to Russia’s George W. Bush announced in April 2-4 Bucharest summit, which Mr. defections from several countries down- strategic advances (Financial Times Washington on March 26 that he has Putin plans to attend for a meeting of the stream. Those defections are not yet irre- Deutschland, March 6). And U.S. accepted an invitation from President NATO-Russia Council. The Washington versible; but a perceived loss of chances Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s Vladimir Putin to go to Sochi “to discuss Post commented on March 27 that to access Turkmen gas – following recent promise, under Senate prodding, the [proposed U.S.-Russian] strategic “Bush’s decision to go [to Sochi] was Moscow’s price increase for that gas – to look for a high-level U.S. figure to agreement, a crucial part of which is mis- unusually spontaneous by presidential can render those defections irreversible. coordinate energy policy in Central Asia sile defense,” news agencies reported. standards. A president’s overseas trips are Against this backdrop, the EU’s recently – which was not done since 2001, while President Bush added that “we’re opti- booked weeks, even months in advance.” appointed Nabucco project coordinator, the pre-existing apparatus was discarded mistic we can reach an accord on some The daily noted that “Putin raised the Jozias van Aartsen, is now set to accept – seems too little and too late. very important matters.” He noted that “a idea of going to Sochi several weeks ago lot of people in Europe would heave a and brought it up again in a March 7 tele- deep sigh of relief if we’re able to reach phone conversation with Bush. But it was IN THE PRESS an accord on missile defense.” The presi- dent also said that he has been careful “to (Continued on page 20) NATO, Ukraine and Georgia “Where Europe Draws the Line,” and Ukraine has ranked below missile column by Jackson Diehl, The defense and Kosovo’s independence in U.S. Embassy in Belarus cuts staff Washington Post, March 24: Washington’s dealings with both Europe and Russia. “…like the first wave of post- “That leaves [U.S. President George W.] as bilateral relations deteriorate Communist democracies in Central Bush, who has called himself a ‘dissident Europe, Georgia and Ukraine are trying president’ in part because his sympathy for RFE/RL Newsline working at the U.S. Embassy in Miensk, to consolidate their liberal regimes, and democratic underdogs is often greater than according to Mr. Moore, who said the MIENSK – Jonathan Moore, deputy their independence, by joining NATO. that of his own administration. … U.S. views the Belarusian government’s chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Both have formally asked NATO to “The danger is that Bush’s mobiliza- demand that Embassy staff be reduced as Miensk, on March 24 told the Belarusian choose them for a Membership Action tion on behalf of the two democracies “groundless and inconsistent.” Foreign Ministry that the Embassy has cut Plan at a summit two weeks from now in will be too late and too underpowered. Nonetheless, he said the U.S. will abide its staff to the number that the Belarusian Bucharest. … Administration officials already have a by it and the number of diplomats in diplomatic mission in Washington has in “It’s a logical step that already has fallback position: that Georgia and Belarus would be reduced to 17 by the pursuance of Miensk’s request, Belapan allowed 10 European countries, from Ukraine be given some kind of temporiz- end of the day on March 27. reported. Poland to Romania, to adopt the institu- ing assurance by NATO but not a mem- Belarusian television on March 23 U.S.-Belarusian relations have deterio- tions and receive the protection of the bership plan. ‘It’s rubbish,’ the incorrigi- reported that a U.S. spy ring was smashed democratic West – arguably the greatest bly outspoken [Georgian President rated recently over economic sanctions in Belarus, but the report was immediately achievement in NATO’s history. But the Mikheil] Saakashvili said in a meeting at imposed by the U.S. Treasury Department denied by the Embassy. “We have no spies alliance and its leaders are weaker than The Post. ‘We can’t fool ourselves. We against Belarus’s largest petrochemical operating in Belarus,” Mr. Moore stated. they were a decade ago – and more sus- can’t fool our own people.’ company, Belnaftakhim. In November “The United States will with great ceptible to intimidation by [Russian “Most of all, NATO’s face-saving for- 2007 the department froze all assets under regret reduce the number of American President Vladimir] Putin. German mulas won’t fool Russia. However it U.S. jurisdiction belonging to staff at our Embassy in Miensk by almost Chancellor Angela Merkel, who grew up goes, the decision in Bucharest will send Belnaftakhim and its representatives, and half, at the insistence of the government of in Soviet-dominated East Germany, has a powerful signal to Putin about the barred Americans from doing business Belarus,” the U.S. State Department said taken a public stand against membership degree to which Western governments with the company, which it says is con- in a March 24 statement. “The unfortunate plans for Georgia and Ukraine. The are prepared to tolerate his attempts to trolled by President Alyaksandr actions by the Belarus authorities demon- French government of Nicolas Sarkozy is bully Ukraine and Georgia out of democ- Lukashenka. also resistant. Even the U.S. bureaucracy racy and back into subservience to the Around 30 diplomats are currently (Continued on page 22) has been lukewarm; support for Georgia Kremlin. …” 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13

NEWS ANALYSIS Extraneous considerations stand in the way NATO Membership Action Plans: of Georgian, Ukrainian MAPs at summit a matter of “not if, but when”? by Vladimir Socor use some dialectical formulations to cir- by Vladimir Socor Foreign Affairs Bernard Kouchner Eurasia Daily Monitor cumvent NATO’s bedrock principle that Eurasia Daily Monitor regards Russia’s presidential transition as no outside country may intrude into a window of opportunity for the West to In on-the-record interventions and, NATO decision-making. Regarding the Ahead of NATO’s April 2-4 Bucharest forge a “common future” with Russia. especially, at off-the-record policy con- Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs, those summit, the alliance is preoccupied with “Unless we do so, the new world now ferences, German officials lay out a off-the-record German dialectics include: maintaining the principles on which it taking shape will leave us behind,” he whole collection of arguments against “Russia has no veto, but Russia’s views interacts with aspirant countries. The nebulously warned, urging a “more con- Membership Action Plans (MAPs) for must be taken into account”; “Russia is a core principles may be summed up as: structive dialogue with Moscow” (Le Georgia and Ukraine at the upcoming factor [in decision-making] and this is the open door, Membership Action Plans Figaro, March 19). The Quai d’Orsay NATO summit. undeniable”; “Russian concerns cannot on the road to that open door, merit- quietly resists the Georgian and Several West European governments be ignored if we want a real partnership based assessment of aspirant countries, Ukrainian MAPs; and (along with the share some of those arguments to some and no external inputs into allied deci- with Russia.” National Security Council) it has also degree or another. But those governments sions on membership or membership resisted a proposed visit by Georgian seldom, if ever, speak up on this issue A “voice,” though not a “veto” prospects. President Mikheil Saakashvili to French and have been notably cautious even in The alliance as a whole is alert to the This logic leads to dismantling the President Nicolas Sarkozy ahead of the off-the-record comments in the run-up to defenses that are built into NATO deci- risk of compromising those principles in the April 2-4 Bucharest summit. Within the event that Membership Action Plans NATO summit. sion-making processes against Russian The need to improve relations with the alliance, Germany alone seems open- blocking power. One first line of defense (MAPs) are denied to Georgia and ly to cast a Russian veto to the MAPs Ukraine in a manner perceived as defer- Russia, thus, seems to become an argu- seemed about to blur after the creation of ment for delaying the Georgian and ahead of the summit. the NATO-Russia Council, whereupon ring to Russia. Even Germany, the lead- Since early March Germany alone has some suggested allowing Russia a ing opponent of those MAPs within the been speaking up, relentlessly and sys- “voice,” though not a “veto,” in the alliance, seeks to avoid the appearance of tematically, against the Georgian and alliance’s debates. NATO, however, suc- rejecting those MAPs outright. Instead, Whether direct or Ukrainian MAPs. As a debating tactic, Berlin’s tactic is to call for postponing ceeded in maintaining the impermeability Berlin officials tend to conflate the pro- the consideration of the Georgian and of its decision-making processes. At indirect, the link- posed MAPs with actual membership in Ukrainian MAPs. present, the anti-MAP arguments risk the alliance. Thus, taking the floor to age of policy on blurring that line again, by seeking to Compromising alliance principles oppose the MAPs, German representa- insert Russia’s “view” as an allegedly tives often in fact argue that Georgia and Membership objective factor into NATO internal deci- While seemingly prepared to bear the Ukraine do not meet criteria for NATO sions. onus of blocking those MAPs de facto, Action Plans with membership. For another anti-MAP argument, Berlin does not wish to be seen as com- Blurring distinctions German and other officials claim that promising the alliance’s own principles. Russia policy is To defend its position and avert the risk the unresolved conflicts in Georgia This stance blurs the distinction of singularization, the German govern- plain to see. might drag NATO into an Article 5 situ- between the MAP and actual member- ment has taken to describing its position ation – that is, Georgia becoming ship. In so doing it implicitly questions on the Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs as involved in hostilities with Russia and the MAP’s entire rationale, which is to “not if, but when.” requesting an allied military response. Ukrainian MAPs. Whether empirically prepare NATO-aspirant countries for That stance might avoid an open rift at This, too, mixes up a MAP with actual substantiated or simply wishful, the win- future membership. And by blocking the the upcoming summit. “Not if, but membership; for only full membership, dow-of-opportunity argument is being Georgian and Ukrainian MAPs, Germany when” would help several European years down the road, could entitle invoked by Berlin and Paris, which have in practice blocks the path that can lead countries rally behind Germany’s posi- Georgia to Article 5 guarantees. During conducted their own special relations to those countries’ membership. tion of blocking the Georgian and those years ahead, European countries with President Vladimir Putin’s Russia For a key argument against a Georgian Ukrainian MAPs without closing the could use the European Union’s ample and Medvedev’s Gazprom. MAP, Berlin contends that Georgia is door. Postponing the consideration of Moscow takes a very different view of ineligible because of the unresolved con- potential for conflict resolution in the those MAPs could also be portrayed as European neighborhood and pave the the window of opportunity in the near flicts on that country’s territory. This not prejudging the aspirant countries’ term. It deems it the last opportunity for marks a complete reversal of Germany’s way for integrating that neighborhood, merits. as Georgian Parliament Chair Nino NATO to integrate Ukraine and Georgia, position in Russia’s favor. But it would be difficult to present before Russia grows stronger. Only one year ago Minister of Foreign Burjanadze and others have noted (Mze such a postponement as anything other According to Russia’s envoy to Affairs Frank-Walter Steinmeier declared TV, March 21). than deference to Russia. The German NATO, Dmitry Rogozin, the proposed while in Georgia: “Of course, it is in the government itself invokes relations with Concern about linkage MAPs indicate that NATO is “trying to interest of NATO and NATO members Russia as a major reason for postponing pick everything that is still easy to pick. that new NATO members do not bring Several Western European govern- consideration of the Georgian and They are in a hurry to do that while their conflicts into the alliance along with ments express concern about linkage Ukrainian MAPs. them. On the other hand, it does not between NATO membership prospects Russia has not yet demonstrated its full mean that we should view the lack of a and EU membership prospects for neigh- A “window of opportunity” strength and potential. They are trying to snatch Ukraine and Georgia while we are resolution [to the conflicts] as an obstacle borhood countries such as Ukraine and Off the record at policy conferences still unable to show our might to the full. to accession. If we do, then we will Georgia. NATO’s two enlargement and occasionally on the record also, They well understand that this might is enable third parties to drag out the rounds in Central Europe were closely German officials argue that the presiden- growing and are simply in a hurry to act process endlessly.” linked to the entry of those same coun- tial transition in the Kremlin opens a tries into the EU. At present, enlarge- before that takes place” (Russian Influence of “third countries” window of opportunity for improving the ment-fatigued Western European govern- West’s relations with Russia. That oppor- Television Channel 1, March 22). Furthermore, “Federal Minister ments such as the French and Dutch are tunity should not be risked through such “Not if, but when” is a formula for Steinmeier stressed that the question of loath to create the impression that irritants as offering MAPs to Georgia evading MAP decisions at the Bucharest NATO accession would have to be decid- Ukrainian or Georgian membership and Ukraine, the argument runs. To summit behind a paper-thin consensus ed by the alliance and Georgia alone. prospects for NATO could open EU avoid the impression of bending NATO among NATO allies. An open-ended Third countries must not have any influ- prospects for these countries. principles, this argument disclaims a “when” can lead to indefinite procrasti- ence on this” (www.auswaertiges- By the same token, several Western “direct linkage” of MAP policy with nation without political responsibility for amt.de/diplo/en/AAmt/BM- European countries wish for a more sym- Russia policy. such procrastination. The “not if” Reisen/2007/Kaukasus-Feb07; RFE/RL, metrical composition of NATO and the Whether direct or indirect, however, remains ambiguous as long as certain February 19, 2007). EU – that is, delaying the integration of the linkage is plain to see. governments introduce extraneous link- Thus, the German government or at new members into NATO until such time Along the same lines, Berlin suggests ages (“ifs”) to MAP. least the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was as the same countries can qualify for EU giving Russia’s incoming President Even so, “not if, but when” implies a saying a year ago that the unresolved integration. As the latter is more complex Dmitry Medvedev the chance to prove positive step forward from outright conflicts do not disqualify Georgia from and lengthier than the former, symmetry his intentions on internal and external blockage. But it requires far more clarity accession to membership (let alone a would mean keeping Ukraine and policies during a certain period of time. and commitment in order to lead to a MAP); and that linking conflict resolu- Georgia outside NATO’s door for a far Its duration is being variously suggested positive decision at the Bucharest sum- tion to NATO membership would unduly longer period of time than these countries as one year, or two to three years. This mit on the MAPs. This would entail give Russia blocking power on both would otherwise need to meet NATO cri- would vaguely describe the “when” ele- agreement on a short time-frame for counts. At present, however, Chancellor teria. ment in the “not if, but when.” revisiting the issue – for example, no Angela Merkel publicly takes the oppo- Thus, decisions on the MAPs are Meanwhile, the “if” element looms large later than NATO’s 60th anniversary sum- site view and sounds more intransigent being made hostage to extraneous con- because the German-led objections are mit in 2009; and a clear understanding than the Schroeder-era heirs in that min- siderations that risk trumping NATO’s meant to resist the two MAPs on sub- that the object of such rescheduling is istry. principle to consider aspirant countries stance, not just the timing. approval of MAPs, rather than mere con- Ahead of the summit, Berlin officials on their own merits. Similarly to Berlin, French Minister of sideration thereof. No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 5 FOR THE RECORD: Sen. Barack Obama on the NATO summit Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), candidate century missions that are vital to the secu- new democracies. …Responding to these and the citizens of those countries, after a for the Democratic Party’s nomination for rity of the United States and its allies. efforts with NATO membership at the period of open and democratic debate. But president, on March 3 released a state- NATO’s involvement provides capabili- upcoming summit would add to the they should receive our help and encour- ment on the NATO Summit in Bucharest, ties, legitimacy and coordination in alliance military capabilities while con- agement as they continue to develop ties Romania. Following are excerpts. Afghanistan that simply would not be tributing to stability in the Balkans, a to Atlantic and European institutions. available if NATO did not exist. region still suffering from the ethnic ten- “NATO enlargement is not directed “From April 2 to 4, 2008, leaders of the “Success in Afghanistan is vital to the sions left behind by the bloodshed of the against Russia. Russia has an important North Atlantic Treaty Organization, security of the United States, to all NATO 1990s. role to play in European and global affairs NATO, will meet at a summit in members, and to the people of “Ukraine and Georgia have also been and should see NATO as a partner, not as a Bucharest, Romania, to address issues Afghanistan. NATO’s leaders must there- developing their ties with NATO. Their threat. But we should oppose any efforts critical to American national security and fore send an unambiguous message that leaders have declared their readiness to by the Russian government to intimidate the future of the Euro-Atlantic community. every country in NATO will do whatever advance a NATO Membership Action its neighbors or control their foreign poli- NATO leaders must seize this opportunity needs to be done to destroy terrorist net- Plan, MAP, to prepare for the rights and cies. Russia cannot have a veto over to strengthen transatlantic ties, augment works in Afghanistan, to prevent the obligations of membership. They are alliance members’ contributions to com- Taliban from returning to power, and to working to consolidate democratic which countries join the alliance. Since mon missions and continue to build the bring greater security and well-being to reforms and to undertake new responsibil- the end of the Cold War, Republican and integrated, stable and prosperous Europe the Afghan people. … ities in their relationship with the alliance. Democratic administrations have support- that is a vital interest of the United States. “The summit must also address the I welcome the desire and actions of these ed the independence and sovereignty of all “A top priority for the summit must be question of the alliance expanding mem- countries to seek closer ties with NATO the states of Eastern Europe and the for- to reinforce NATO’s critical mission in bership. … and hope that NATO responds favorably mer Soviet Union, and we must continue Afghanistan. The contributions there of all “The three current candidates for to their request, consistent with its criteria to do so. President Putin’s recent threat to the NATO allies alongside more than a NATO membership – Albania, Croatia and for membership. Whether Ukraine and point missiles at Ukraine is simply not the dozen other countries bears testimony to the Republic of Macedonia – have each Georgia ultimately join NATO will be a way to promote the peaceful 21st century how the alliance can contribute to the 21st made great strides in consolidating their decision for the members of the alliance Europe we seek. …” Clinton foreign policy adviser follows up with CEEC representatives WASHINGTON – Representatives of “Russia aggressively uses its energy authoritarian. The Bush administration has concern about the impact that Kosovo’s the 19-member organizations of the Central resources as a weapon.” not placed enough focus on Russia,” he recent independence may have on and East European Coalition (CEEC) spoke He added that both the United States and said. “As a result, Russia continues to bully Vojvodina, such as the threat of a resur- on March 3 via conference call with Dr. the European Union should “tame neighboring countries and challenge U.S. gence of violence and discrimination to fur- Ron Asmus, foreign policy adviser to Sen. Gazprom,” and apply competitive open interests in the Central and East European ther alter the ethnic composition of the Hillary Clinton’s campaign. The discussion, market rules to Russian companies. The region. Russia’s violations of Baltic air province. Russia’s support of Belgrade has which was a follow-up to a meeting with Blue Stream and Nabucco projects will act space are a useful illustration of Russia’s already resulted in a more nationalistic Secretary Madeline K. Albright and Sen. as catalysts in making Russia “play by open aggressiveness.” Serbia and greater ethnic tensions. Dr. Clinton’s campaign national security direc- market rules,” and that “The oligarchic Dr. Asmus opined that the right policy Asmus responded by saying “the U.S. tor, Lee Feinstein, held the previous week structures of Russia’s energy system must towards Russia will include progress on made a mistake by taking its eyes off the in Washington, touched upon numerous undergo liberalization,” he stated. Ukraine’s and Georgia’s desire to join Balkans.” issues of concern to the member-organiza- Dr. Asmus said he believes that real NATO. He indicated that a “democratic and Paying tribute to the work of the CEEC, tions of the CEEC. U.S.-European Union cooperation will help secure Ukraine anchored in the West is the Dr. Asmus emphasized to its members that The questions posed to Dr. Asmus “chip away at the current energy prob- best thing for Russia.” He noted that Sen. Clinton and her team will continue to touched on issues such as energy security lems.” He stressed Sen. Clinton’s view of Ukraine’s and Georgia’s membership in in Europe and the United States, stability in the importance of more active U.S.-EU col- NATO should not be threatening to Russia. keep Central and Eastern Europe and the Baltics and the Caucasus, fostering of laboration in dealing with these ongoing He added that the United States must assist Russia in focus. Dr. Asmus expressed a U.S. ties with the Central and East energy security issues. former Soviet countries in their consolida- desire for continued dialogue with the com- European region, as well as the assessment Expressing frustration at the muted U.S. tion of democracy. munities, and the CEEC members present of Russia’s presidential elections and the reaction to the results of the Russian presi- Belarusian American Association repre- thanked Dr. Asmus for his candid discus- situation in Belarus. dential election, the CEEC asked what sentative Alice Kipel strongly recommend- sion. Dr. Asmus noted the importance of White House policy would be under a new ed that the new U.S. policy on Belarus The Central and East European diversifying energy supplies to Europe and administration. Dr. Asmus explained that should not be directed by what Moscow Coalition (CEEC) is composed of 19 the United States and equated the impor- new policies are needed to deal with wants, but by what the Belarusian people national membership organizations that tance of the Blue Stream and Nabucco Russia. “Washington’s Russian policy has want. represent more than 22 million Americans projects to the significance of the Baku- exhausted itself. Current policy is not Frank Koszorus, Jr., representing the who can trace their heritage to the countries Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline. Dr. Asmus said working as Russia is becoming more American Hungarian Federation, expressed of Central and Eastern Europe.

United States on anti-Iran sanctions. It ters pledge to launch public education announced that obtaining a MAP at the Russia’s threats... seems to indicate that Moscow is trying to activities regarding NATO and allocate Bucharest summit is the joint goal of the (Continued from page 1) induce Israel to use its influence in sufficient funding for this. entire state leadership (UNIAN, ICTV, operation faces a “fiasco for the entire Washington for not giving cause to such Mr. Yushchenko and Ms. Tymoshenko March 21). alliance.” Granting the MAPs would be grave consequences in U.S.-Russia rela- write that the authorities’ pursuit of MAP The United States publicly backs that “madness” and a matter for “adventurers” tions. is not a political tactic, but a strategic goal. course of independent and free Ukraine. On March 19 U.S. Ambassador William at NATO, Mr. Rogozin warned. In using While some NATO governments blink, Ukraine’s leaders are standing up to these While the opposition in a democratic soci- Taylor declared to a news conference in such epithets Mr. Rogozin must be aware pressures. On March 17 President Viktor ety has the right to dispute this strategy, the Kyiv that no country outside NATO can of NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Yushchenko and Prime Minister Yulia president and the prime minister express veto the approval of a MAP. Mr. Taylor Scheffer’s indirect public signals that he Tymoshenko co-signed a set of letters to confidence that the moderate opposition suggested that this issue needs to be supports the MAPs and opposes any indi- Mr. de Hoop Scheffer, German Chancellor (i.e., the Party of the Regions) would revert resolved this year, ahead of Ukraine’s 2009 rect Russian veto (Rossiya Television, Angela Merkel and French President to the pursuit of national interests and sup- presidential election campaign (UNIAN, March 22). Nicolas Sarkozy (www.president.gov.ua, port a NATO MAP. This latter expectation March 19). Mr. Rogozin and other Russian govern- March 17). The German government is the is not misplaced, considering that the first U.S. President George W. Bush is ment officials have in recent weeks multi- principal opponent to the MAPs, while the Yanukovych government in 2003-2004 scheduled to visit Kyiv on March 31-April plied threats to permanently deprive French government is tacitly resistant, during Leonid Kuchma’s presidency had 1, en route to the Bucharest summit. Many Georgia of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, if although Mr. Sarkozy’s personal stance supported the goal of Ukraine’s integration expect Mr. Bush to express full support in NATO approves a MAP for Georgia. Last remains unclear. with NATO. The March 17 set of letters Kyiv for a Ukrainian MAP. However, it month, Russian President Vladimir Putin The Yushchenko-Tymoshenko letters is a follow-up to the Ukrainian top leaders’ also seems possible that a Bush visit would threatened to target missiles at Ukraine if it express the hope that MAP approval at the mid-January request to Mr. de Hoop become merely a consolation prize for joins NATO. Now the threats to Ukraine’s upcoming NATO summit would confirm Scheffer for MAP approval at the upcom- postponing the MAP in deference to territorial integrity signify an escalation of the irreversibility of Ukraine’s Western ori- ing Bucharest summit. Russia, with Berlin perhaps earning in the this campaign. entation. The Ukrainian leaders “respect- On March 21 a special session of process a title to Moscow’s appreciation. Visiting Israel, Russian Minister of fully” address the view of those NATO Ukraine’s National Security and Defense By resorting to threats in order to derail Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov warned that governments that note a lack of consensus Council (NSDC) adopted a decision on the Ukrainian and Georgian MAPs, Russia putting Ukraine and Georgia on a track to in Ukrainian society about NATO mem- coordination among all branches of the is targeting not only these aspirant coun- NATO through MAPs would result in the bership prospects for the country. authorities to implement MAP goals, if a tries. Through such threats and the accom- “gravest consequences” to U.S.-Russia However, they note, the MAP goal is MAP program is approved at the NATO panying wedge-drawing among European relations (Interfax, March 20; AP, March enshrined in the coalition agreement (of summit. As part of that decision, the NATO countries, Russia is, in fact, target- 21). This phrasing seems tailored for the Our Ukraine – People’s Self-Defense bloc authorities are to prepare a more effective ing the alliance itself, its policies and the Israeli audience by raising the prospect that and the Yulia Tymoshenko Bloc) and the effort through the mass media to inform integrity of NATO’s decision-making Russia might not cooperate with the coalition government’s program. Their let- the public about NATO. The NSDC processes. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13

COMMENTARY THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY Our partnership The great memory purge It seems that, from time to time, we need to write an editorial – more akin to a let- by Adrian Karatnycky Putin’s articulation of a new Russian state ter from the editor – addressed to our readers and the community activists who are ideology reflects similar ambiguities. He Today [March 5] marks 55 years since our potential correspondents. This is one of those times. has asserted his support for democracy and the death of Joseph Stalin. But in Russia, the market even as he has imposed restric- If you are a regular reader of The Ukrainian Weekly, you have noticed that his terrible legacy will receive scant atten- certain groups or communities regularly have information published about them. tions on political space and regained state tion and will not be subject to repudiation control over major industries. His mixed You may wonder: What is their secret? Why do they get published? And why by those at the apex of power. This is isn’t there information about (fill in the blank)? signals about Russia’s history go hand in because, under Vladimir Putin, official hand with his mixed signals about its role in The answer is really quite simple. These groups or communities generally send assessments of Stalin and the Soviet past information to our newspaper. Yep. That’s all there is to it. That’s why, for example, the world today – which lurch from aspira- have become rooted in amorality and stud- tions to integrate into the advanced industri- you will regularly see information about the Ukrainian Medical Association of North ied ambivalence, not the unequivocal con- America, or why Philadelphia appears to be a particularly active community. al world to harsh condemnations of the demnations that characterized the Yeltsin West. UMANA has seen the value of using our newspaper to present its information to years. As Mr. Putin prepares to hand the Ukrainians of North America; the Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center in Russian presidency – though not the full * * * Philadelphia has found it worthwhile to share information about its activities and suc- reins of power – to his protégé Dmitry As confusing as Mr. Putin’s ambivalent cesses with other communities and fellow Ukrainians who may learn from its work. Medvedev, there are few signs this legacy assessments of Stalin and the Soviet system The Ukrainian Weekly can best be viewed as a network that connects our will be reversed. may be, the roots of his thinking are readily community members far and wide, that lets readers in, say, the Boston area, Indeed, Mr. Putin has used his eight apparent. As a former KGB operative, he is know what their fellow Ukrainians are up to in Edmonton and vice versa. We years as president to reclaim much of the unapologetically proud of the historical role pride ourselves on our role as an intermediary in uniting disparate and distant Soviet past that Russia’s leaders jettisoned played by the Soviet security services. And elements of our community. In fact, we like to think of The Ukrainian Weekly as after the fall of communism. He has pub- his view of Stalin is likely influenced by his being in partnership with our community. licly promoted the image of Stalin as an paternal grandfather’s service as a cook for Why a partnership? Because for decades this paper has worked with our commu- effective, if dictatorial, leader responsible Stalin and Lenin. nity activists by providing a forum for their ideas and opinions, serving as a venue for the defeat of the Nazis. In this way, the More surprising is that Mr. Putin’s pro- where various concerns and causes could be addressed, and galvanizing community departing Russian president publicly nouncements are closely in line with the action on issues of the day. Here in Parsippany, N.J., our staff of two editors (we have restored the myths of the Brezhnev era – views of ordinary Russians. In a May 2007 a third editor in Kyiv), works with community activists’ submissions and suggestions rather than the view of many contemporary poll by the respected Levada Center in order to better present information for the benefit of all our readers. We field historians that Stalin’s alliance with Hitler research group, 54 percent of Russians said countless e-mail messages and phone calls in the course of preparing each week’s was immoral and that the Soviet Union was Stalin did “more right than wrong.” And issue of this newspaper. dangerously unprepared for the eventual half of those polled deemed Stalin a “wise Strangely, there are certain segments of our community that do not take Nazi invasion. leader.” advantage of The Weekly. At times, Mr. Putin can find appropriate- This moral muddle has suited the post- Here’s a perfect example. The Ukrainian National Women’s League of ly harsh words for Stalin’s crimes. Last America, which publishes a bilingual monthly magazine for its members called November, at a Stalin-era killing field on Nashe Zhyttia, or Our Life, devoted its most recent issue to the 40th anniversary the outskirts of Moscow, Mr. Putin spoke of of its scholarship program that has been helping needy Ukrainian students in those “who were executed, sent to camps, Vladimir Putin’s Ukraine, Poland, South America and elsewhere. Unfortunately, our readers know shot and tortured...in the thousands and mil- next to nothing about it. An article from the UNWLA about the 40th anniversary lions of people. We need to do a great deal moral ambiva- of this truly praiseworthy program would be welcome on our pages, and many to ensure this is never forgotten.” outside the organizational structure of the UNWLA would be enlightened and, Yet despite the many millions who died lence has been dare we say, moved to support its work. in Stalin’s purges, death camps and forced deeply comforting Another example is the major cities where our community is strong that have famines, Mr. Putin insists the carnage was apparently decided to keep their news to themselves! Such an insular approach to “less than [in] some countries.” And he and highly popu- community life benefits no one. We rarely receive news from, say, Chicago, asserted flatly that Stalin’s crimes were which we are certain must have a lot to report and to share with fellow lesser than those committed by the U.S. lar, for it has Ukrainians. So, to Chicagoans – and community activists in other cities – we when it dropped atomic bombs on say: send us your materials. Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and conducted allowed Russians As we look ahead to The Weekly’s 75th anniversary in October of this year, bombing campaigns in Vietnam. Moreover, to escape the obli- we strongly believe it’s time to renew and strengthen our partnership with the Mr. Putin has refused to cooperate with community we serve. How about it? Ukraine in the commemoration of the gation of making Stalin-induced forced Famine of 1932- 1933, and his propagandists assert that – judgements about despite more than 5 million dead on Ukrainian soil – the Terror-Famine did not their own lives April Turning the pages back... have genocide as its aim. Mr. Putin’s approach to the Russian and past. Revolution has been equally contradicto- 9 ry. In November 2005 his government Eight years ago, Karla Roberts, an artist who resided in the approved a new monument to Feliks Soviet zeitgeist. The collapse of Soviet rule 2000 Ukrainian neighborhood of New York City, erected a temporary Dzerzhinsky, founder of the Bolshevik created a paradoxical and complex world memorial sculpture titled “Winter Provisions” in Tompkins secret police, the Cheka. Yet even as the populated by people, including Mr. Putin, Square Park (on the eastern edge of the Ukrainian neighbor- Kremlin officially honored the leader of who had been compliant, if ambivalent, hood, near Avenue A and St. Marks Place), which recognized the security force that in 1918 executed cogs in a repressive system. For them, a the victims of the Holodomor. The sculpture was on display from January through Russia’s royal family, it was arranging painful acknowledgment of collaboration Eastertime of 2000. the return from Denmark of the remains with evil is a difficult psychological step. The sculpture, which incorporated seeds as bird feed, created a metaphor for the lost of Russia’s Dowager Empress Maria So Mr. Putin’s moral ambivalence has been human lives and the stolen grain. The structure, inspired by the architecture of grain silos Feodorovna, the mother of the very tsar deeply comforting and highly popular, for it and wooden churches in Ukraine, took the form of a birdfeeder and was made of steel whom Dzerzhinsky’s charges had exe- has allowed Russians to escape the obliga- and glass with three posts of varied height that supported a small bird sanctuary. cuted. tion of making judgements about their own In addition, symbolic images borrowed from pysanky, or Ukrainian Easter eggs, Then there’s Mr. Putin’s view of the lives and past. included: rakes, meaning a plentiful harvest; ladders, symbolizing transition of life; and recent Soviet past. He laments the Soviet With one leg anchored in the repressive birds, representing spring, good harvest and the warding off of evil. Union’s collapse as “the greatest geopoliti- Soviet past and another in the brave new An inscription on the base, which appeared in both Ukrainian and English, read: “In cal catastrophe of the [20th] century.” He world of market capitalism, Mr. Putin has the memory of the more than 5 million souls who were victims of the Great Famine, win- has dropped a post-Soviet national anthem straddled two worlds, refusing to commit to ter 1932-1933, Ukraine.” and restored the music of the Soviet hymn either. Yet by telling Russians they could Ms. Roberts, who earned her MFA degree from the School of the Art Institute of in its place, with a new text that echoes the have Solzhenitsyn and Stalin, the tsars and Chicago, came upon the theme of the Famine in 1997, while residing in Chicago’s Communist past. Yet he has also lavished their killers, Andrei Sakharov and his Ukrainian village neighborhood and conversing with people in the community. A grant praise on Andrei Sakharov, one of the most oppressors, Mr. Putin has not so much from the Society for Environmental Graphic Design helped her to research and produce outspoken critics of the USSR, as “a vision- appropriated the past as emptied it of any the work. ary” who showed “a road for the nation to meaning. After speaking with several Ukrainians as part of her research, Ms. Roberts said, “I follow.” In the short term, Mr. Putin’s efforts to know this to be a very imbedded part of their history that has personally touched many.” This isn’t just about symbolism. Mr. shape Russian views of the past appear “As a resident of Seventh Street [in Manhattan], I appreciate their conservation of their durable. Russians, awash in petrodollar own culture and [the] ethnic diversity they contribute to the city of New York,” she Adrian Karatnycky is a senior scholar prosperity, are today unlikely to stray from added. at the Atlantic Council of the U.S. The his amoral path. But until they do, they will A card issued by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation noted: article above appeared in the Wall Street be unable to reject the siren song of “guided “During the winter of 1932-1933, Stalin commenced the collectivization of agricultural Journal Europe and in the Wall Street democracy,” the morally ambivalent and Journal Online on March 5. It is reprint- politically ambiguous construct that under- (Continued on page 17) ed here with the author’s permission. pins Russia’s authoritarian restoration. No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 7

DoubleDouble ExposurExposuree Faces and Places by Khristina Lew by Myron B. Kuropas Changing of the guards A tram and a Ukrainian billfold A March 14-16 CNN/Opinion Ukraine relations is one of the most Having accumulated enough frequent build a fitting memorial and monastery if Research Corp. poll shows that 42 per- important issues to her in voting for pres- flyer miles, Lesia and I traveled to she granted him victory over the cent of Americans surveyed said the ident. “McCain has said he disagrees Portugal and Spain during Northern Castilians. An enormous equestrian stat- economy is the most important issue to with Russia using energy for political Illinois University’s spring break. ue of Nuno Alvares Pereira, the king’s them when deciding how to vote for pres- leverage with Ukraine. He supports It was Lent and the primary purpose of victorious commander, stands before the ident. Twenty-one percent said the war in NATO enlargement, and I think he’ll our journey was to visit Fatima, where south façade. Iraq is important; 18 percent said health stand up to Russia.” the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to Our visit to Fatima is beyond words. care; 7 percent cited illegal immigration. Ms. Olexy, a registered Republican three Portuguese shepherd children in Fatima is where the Blessed Mother In a completely unscientific survey I from New York City, is also concerned 1917. More about that in a minute. appeared during a five-month period to conducted on March 13-17, 67 percent of about the security of our borders, govern- While in Lisbon, we boarded Tram Francisco and Jacinta Marta, and their the Ukrainian Americans with whom I ment spending and taxes. No. 28, a streetcar that trundled up and cousin Lucia de Jesus dos Santos in spoke said they were looking for a presi- So is Roman Kochanowsky, 42, global down the hills of the picturesque old city. 1917. Our Blessed Mother told the chil- dent who would change the course of sales manager for NetApp. “I’m deathly I had my wallet on me. It was a beautiful dren she was the “Lady of the Rosary,” U.S. foreign policy. The economy came afraid of big government. If the leather billfold presented to me by and asked that a chapel be built on the in fourth or fifth place, after national Democrats get in, it will be disastrous. Bohdan Watral, CEO of Selfreliance site which is now a huge complex hous- security, environmental issues and taxes. I’m selfish, but I’ll pay more taxes, and I Ukrainian American Federal Credit ing a basilica (where the three visionaries My pool of respondents is composed think I’ve paid enough taxes.” Mr. Union in Chicago. It was embossed with are interred), numerous chapels, a pas- entirely of children of Ukrainians who Kochanowsky, a registered Republican the Selfreliance logo, making it a toral center and a courtyard that is report- immigrated to the United States in the from Glen Rock, N.J., is aggrieved by Ukrainian wallet. Gypsies were on the edly larger than the plaza in fronting St. 1950s. They are 30- and 40-somethings, the alternative minimum tax. “I can pay tram. You can guess the rest. A gypsy Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Lesia and I Republicans and Democrats, with small the tax and complain about it, but there now has my Ukrainian wallet, along with attended mass at the basilica along with children and mortgages. How is it that will be people who can’t.” my driver’s license, a credit card, other Catholics. We were among the 4 the average American doesn’t consider A full-blooded American you say? Medicare card, etc., but, fortunately, no million people who visit Fatima annually. the U.S.’s standing on the international Nope, Mr. Kochanowsky is also con- money. Ha! Lesia and I had hoped to run In the beginning, few people believed stage? Does where we come from shape cerned about Russia, “a superpower into some Ukrainians – thousands now the children’s accounts of the visions so who we are? going in the wrong direction.” “The live in Lisbon – but no luck. Ukrainians the Blessed Virgin promised a miracle to “The No. 1 issue for me is that the Republicans are disastrous with foreign work where gypsies won’t. confirm their stories. On October 13, U.S. regain respect in the world. After policy, but they have a consistent image. We waited in line at the Lisbon tourist 1917, with some 70,000 witnesses pres- 9/11 we had the opportunity to get the The Democrats are just all over the place. police office to file our report. Our ent, the sun whirled on itself and seemed world behind us, and, sadly, we blew it. It will be interesting to see what kind of Portuguese police officer was multilin- to be falling to earth. Atheist and agnos- We could have had true leadership, and relationship the new president will have gual – German, Spanish, French, fluent tic journalists later attested to the mira- instead we took the ‘our way or the high- with Putin, or whoever is leading English – and very charming, courteous cle. The Blessed Virgin entrusted the way’ approach and that’s not how the Russia... which is Putin,” he said. and understanding. He succeeded in put- three young shepherds with three secrets, world works,” said Oleh Luba, 43, an You can dress us up as environmental- ting us at ease with his sense of humor. the third of which was the assassination aerospace engineer from Audubon, Pa. ists, doctors and salesmen, but we are He also cancelled our credit card for us of a pope. Pope John Paul II credited Our “Clearly we need change. Even still the children of political immigrants, and filed a complete report. Lady of Fatima with saving his life fol- though [John] McCain is a moderate, it’s and we care – or at least are in tune – Although my wallet was of no use to lowing the 1981 assassination attempt on time to look at the others – [Barack] with our ancestral homeland. the pickpocket – what good is an the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima. He later Obama and [Hillary] Clinton – both of As Americans, however, we also care American Medicare card to a Portuguese placed the bullet extracted from his body whom would make good leaders,” said about the environment, the economy, gypsy – his action elicited feelings in me in the crown of the statue of Our Lady of Mr. Luba, a registered Democrat. heath care and education. “Clearly we’re of anger, of being violated and of stupidi- Fatima. Alex Gnoy, 39, a physician from heading into a recession,” said Ms. ty for being so careless. Lesia told me to Our weeklong break ended in Madrid, Warren, N.J., agrees. “We are hated Bihun-Van Vleet. “We’ve got huge debt. pray for the gypsy. I did. But first I a stunning, relaxing city with friendly around the world. Either Hillary or We need to be honest about fiscal blessed him with every English and people willing to help elderly tourists. Obama would change that,” he said. Dr. responsibility, but not to the detriment of Ukrainian expletive I could dredge up. Madrid has an enormous, well-main- Gnoy is a registered Republican. education, especially for those who don’t Our trip to Fatima, about 70 miles tained and efficient subway system. With “I am looking for a leader who is confi- have as much.” from Lisbon, made up for everything. It city and subway maps, we were able to dent and knowledgeable in foreign policy. “I’m concerned about our national was an all-day trip with three stops along get about quite nicely, thank you. A We need someone who knows what security, but the way I frame it is differ- the way. The first was the quaint Madrid “must” for us was the Museo del they’re doing – there is no room for error,” ent from how the current administration medieval town of Obidos, which boasted Prado, which houses countless paintings said Ulana Bihun-Van Vleet, 35, a natural frames it,” said Ms. Huta. “I believe in a Moorish castle and a fortified surround- by Velasquez, El Greco, Goya and resources analyst for the U.S. Government having energy independence, health care, ing wall. It was was taken by the Moors Rubens. Religious themes and portraits Accounting Office in Denver. a [strong] economy.” in the eighth century and re-conquered of Spanish royalty predominate. Warm, by the first king of Portugal in 1148. “We have a war in Iraq. We are so Change is a common thread in discus- sunny weather allowed us to tour the city Our next town was Nazare, a fishing focused on Iraq, Iran, China – I am look- sions about America’s future. Mr. Luba on an open-air, double-decker bus. We village on the Atlantic where tradition ing for someone who can call a spade a outlines the pros and cons of the plan to return as soon as we rack up more has it that an image of the Virgin Mary spade. I want someone who is knowledge- Democratic contenders (he has not voted frequent-flyer miles. was brought from Nazareth to the town able about the former Soviet space. This for a Bush or Republicans since the first During our sojourn, we suffered the (hence the name) by a monk in the fourth past administration has put so much faith Bush’s “Chicken Kiev” speech): pangs of a sinking dollar, but we never century. Hidden from the Moors for 469 in [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, and “Clinton claims she represents change, felt the “hatred of Americans” that our years, the statue is now housed in the we’ve seen in the last few months that you but she’s divisive. She’ll bring in a lot of media is always reminding us pervades Nossa Sen Nazare Church. Legend says can’t do that,” said Ms. Bihun-Van Vleet, people from years ago who want to settle Europe because of George W. Bush. As a that a nobleman chasing after a deer in a a registered Democrat. “It’s now coming a score. Obama may be the only candi- matter of fact, we have never experi- to the fore that it’s not a smart strategy to date who can come with a clean sheet of fog was saved from going over a cliff by the Virgin. Later, it is confirmed, Vasco enced animus in any of our foreign trav- focus on one part of the world.” paper approach. I’m a registered els during the past eight years. How can Leda Huta, 37, executive director of Democrat, but I consider myself moder- de Gama came to Nazare to thank the Blessed Virgin following his safe sea that be? the Endangered Species Coalition, also ate. I could vote for McCain but think a And finally, if you run into a gypsy points to the U.S.’s “problematic rela- McCain-Obama election would be a voyage to India. The third stop was Batalha, home of a with a Ukrainian billfold the next time tions with Russia,” but says there are good one,” he said. you’re in Portugal, run. Run fast! “not huge differences on how the candi- Would he vote for Hillary? “No. We magnificant Gothic church – on par with dates view Ukraine. I think they all rec- need someone who is not polarizing. We Notre Dame, Chartres and Salisbury. It Myron Kuropas’s e-mail address is ognize how important relations are with need someone who will bring independ- was built in 1388 after King Joao made a vow to the Blessed Virgin that he would [email protected]. Ukraine.” Ms. Huta is more concerned ence to the job,” Mr. Luba said. with how science has been ignored on “Change is what we need after what’s every issue, and in the case of Ukraine been going on in the past eight years,” would like to see the United States said Dr. Gnoy. The registered Republican The Ukrainian Weekly welcomes letters to the editor and commentaries “encourage Ukraine to update energy indicated that either Clinton or Obama on a variety of topics of concern to the Ukrainian American and systems with the mindset of renewable would be able to bring about that change, Ukrainian Canadian communities. Opinions expressed by columnists, energies.” Ms. Huta, of Silver Spring, but said, “If Hillary is the candidate, I commentators and letter-writers are their own and do not necessarily Md., is a registered Democrat. won’t vote for her.” Tamara Olexy, 42, executive director Hillary, Barack, John or, gulp, Ralph... reflect the opinions of either The Weekly editorial staff or its publisher, of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of Did I hear someone say Yulia the Ukrainian National Association. America, acknowledges that U.S.- Tymoshenko? 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13

NEWS AND VIEWS UMANA membership highest ever as branch activity surges by Maria Hrycelak pected but welcome trend: there is a defi- nite increase in applicants from the sec- CHICAGO – The Ukrainian Medical ond and third generations of Ukrainian Association of North America (UMANA) Americans. These are sons and daughters, reported a record 514 active colleagues and in some cases grandchildren, of post- registered in the United States and World War II immigrants and original Canada at the end of 2007, confirming founders of UMANA in the 1950s. If this the sense of enthusiasm and renewal felt trend continues, the re-supply of candi- among members of the organization. dates is assured for many years in the UMANA has experienced six consecutive future. years of growth in all categories of mem- Effective branch activity is a sign of bership, and all indications point to con- health and vigor in the association, and tinued expansion in the future. many UMANA branches are now experi- UMANA President Dr. Ariadna Holynskyj, launching her term of office encing a period of intense member with a successful Scientific Convention involvement. Following are examples of and Assembly of Delegates in the sum- that activity. mer of 2007 at the Ukrainian National • Illinois Branch: UMANA Illinois Association’s Soyuzivka heritage center, held a symposium on the “Diagnosis and Marta Fedoriw said she feels that, “The activity and par- Management of Breast Masses” Sunday, UMANA’s Pennsylvania Branch officers at a lecture by Dr. Borys Mychalczak: ticipation of members is crucial to December 2, 2007, at the Alhambra (from left) Dr. Orest Hawryluk (treasurer), Dr. Ihor Fedoriw (president), UMANA’s existence. I hope this conven- Palace Restaurant in Chicago’s trendy Myriam Mychalczak, Dr. Mychalczak, Dr. Jaroslaw Zalipsky, Dr. Ihor Zalipsky tion plays a role in activating our con- restaurant row on West Randolph Street. (secretary) and Dr. Oksana Baltarowich-Hud (vice-president). stituents.” Branch President Dr. Roman Saldan wel- Dr. Andrew Iwach, editor of comed over 70 members and guests to the UMANA’s newsletter, believes that the chapter’s first major meeting of the new invigorating effect of regular communica- 2007-2009 term. The participants heard tion and sharing of information, both in Dr. Olga Ivanov (general surgery) and Dr. print as well as in electronic format, Theresa Kuritza (radiology) summarize “plays a major role in activating and the state of the art in treating neoplasms maintaining interest among members.” of the breast. He added, “E-mail and the Internet are The branch also held its annual tradi- instantaneous, leading to quick and effec- tional debutante ball on January 19 at the tive exchange of views and broadcasting prestigious Ritz-Carlton Hotel. This of ideas.” annual event is dedicated not only to the President-elect Dr. Wayne Tymchak debutantes, but also raised donations said he is sure that participation by totaling nearly $13,000 to benefit the not- Canadian colleagues is increasing due to for-profit UMANA Foundation in its mis- expansion of collaborative efforts, from sion to support medical scholarships and hosting the association’s website, education projects worldwide. www.umana.org, through the University • New York Metro Branch: UMANA of Alberta’s Ukrainian Internet Portal, to New York Metro rekindled its activity George Hrycelak involvement in the scientific presenta- during the Assembly of Delegates and Recipients of certificates of merit (from left) are: Drs. Boris Leheta, Lydia tions at the 2007 conference and the Scientific Conference held at Soyuzivka Baltarowich, Pavlo Dzul and Stephan Loginsky, with the outgoing president of upcoming conference in 2009. last year, with a business meeting and UMANA’s Michigan chapter, Dr. Bohdan Pichurko. Analysis of the data reveals one unex- election of new officers on June 23, 2007. New officers include President Dr. Borys Pennsylvania held an informational lec- Mychalczak, President-elect Dr. Viktor ture for its members November 30, 2007, Gribenko, Vice-President Dr. Leo at the Gallery, Ukrainian Educational and Wolansky, Secretary Lyudmila Lachac, Cultural Center in Jenkintown, Pa. and Treasurer Dr. Ihor Magun. President Dr. Ihor Fedoriw welcomed Dr. Discussions included closer interaction Mychalczak, who spoke on the death of with community institutions, including Alexander Litvinenko. the Ukrainian American Cultural Center • Maryland Branch: UMANA of New Jersey (UACCNJ) and the Maryland-D.C. Metro President Dr. Ukrainian Institute of America in Roxolana Horbowyj reported progress on Manhattan. the branch’s community outreach pro- On December 2, 2007, the branch, gram to provide Automatic External along with the Arts, Culture and Defibrillators (AEDs) to several local Education Committee of the UACCNJ, parishes in the Washington area. Drs. co-sponsored a presentation by Dr. Borys Daniel Shmorhun and Yuri R. Mychalczak, on “The Death of Deychakiwsky, both practicing cardiolo- Alexander Litvinenko: Understanding the gists, have selected models best meeting Health Effects of Polonium 210 the needs in a church-related setting, and Exposure” at the cultural center in Dr. Deychakiwsky has arranged to obtain Whippany, New Jersey. the units. Drs. Daniel Shmorhun, Victor George Hrycelak • Michigan Branch: UMANA Wowk, Lydia Martynec and UMANA Illinois Branch President Dr. Roman Saldan greets symposium speakers Michigan held its general meeting Deychakiwsky are working with the Dr. Theresa Kuritza (left) and Dr. Olga Ivanov (right). November 17, 2007, at the Ukrainian parishes to develop and implement an Cultural Center in Troy. At the general AED life-saving program at each site.

meeting, outgoing President Dr. Bohdan • Toronto Branch: UMANA Toronto

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Association, $55 for all others. Please indicate your UNA branch num- 9 ber when renewing your subscription. streets of Kyiv at that time. further information about activities and • Pennsylvania Branch: UMANA membership. No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 9 Pysanky showcased at University of Alberta International House EMONDTON, Alberta – Members of included students from Egypt, Saudi the Kule Center for Ukrainian and Arabia, England, Scotland, Estonia, Iran, Canadian Folklore on March 20 show- Panama, Mexico, Columbia, China, cased Ukrainian culture to students from Japan, India, Pakistan, Turkey, around the world by running a pysanka Kazakhstan, the United States, Russia, workshop for the University of Alberta Ukraine and, of course, Canada. International House. Interestingly, the students from Ukraine The team was lead by Natalie had not learned how to write pysanky in Kononenko and Peter Holloway, with their home country and were learning student assistants Svitlana Kukharenko, this ritual craft as part of their cultural Yanina Vihovska and Greg Holloway. program in Canada. The University of Alberta attracts stu- The workshop began with the students dents from around the world. Its out- watching Slavko Nowytski’s film about standing programs in nanotechnology, the pysanka. Prof. Kononenko then computer science, medical science, its talked about Ukrainian traditions and the strength in the humanities, plus its practi- technical aspects of writing a pysanka, cal programs in areas such as forestry, while Mr. Holloway showed a three- food science, print-making and museum dimensional digital program which he studies make this the destination of wrote to demonstrate some of the more choice for more than 2,700 students from complicated points of pysanka-writing. 128 countries. Each student then made his or her own The newly constructed International pysanka under the direction of the Kule House is a residential complex that pro- Center students and staff. Students learn to make Ukrainian pysanky at the University of Alberta International House. vides inexpensive housing right on cam- The results were beautiful and student pus for students from abroad. comments reflected their satisfaction. International House also hosts cultural One student said, “You Ukrainians activities and the coordinator of these have interesting traditions! I like them.” An open invitation activities is Amanda Gabster. Another said to a member of the This year’s pysanka workshop was International House staff that the pysanka part of the International House cultural workshop was the best event held all to local community activists program and it was arranged at Ms. year. Gabster’s initiative. It was the first Many students said that they were Ukrainian event to be held at going to purchase their own pysanka sup- Would you like fellow Ukrainians to know about events in your International House. plies so that they could continue the tra- community? Would you like to become one of The Ukrainian More than 30 people attended. They dition of the pysanka. Weekly’s correspondents? Then what are you waiting for?

The Ukrainian Weekly welcomes submissions from local communi- Boston College’s Ukrainian Student Society ty activists. You may reach The Weekly by phone, (973) 292-9800; fax, (973) 644-9510; e-mail, [email protected]; or mail, 2200 sponsors second annual pysanka workshop Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. by Peter T. Woloschuk ment research analyst for EIRIS, an ethi- cal investment research company based NEWTON, Mass. – Boston College in Boston. students spent three and a half hours on Commenting on the workshop, she Tuesday evening, March 18, learning the said, “It was interesting to watch how intricate art of pysanka writing or refin- some of the students, both Ukrainian and ing their skills at the second annual non-Ukrainian, stuck to traditional pat- pysanka workshop sponsored by the uni- terns and attempted to reproduce them as versity’s Ukrainian Student Society in faithfully as possible, while others, once conjunction with the Slavic and Eastern they had learned the basic techniques, got languages department and the fine arts creative and began to write designs of department. their own.” The workshop was conducted by Erin Lytwyn, secretary of the Sonia Kowal Wildash, a noted pysanka Ukrainian Student Society, said “Getting artists, or “pysankarka,” a Boston native together with friends and writing who spent her formative years at a board- pysanky is actually my favorite part of ing school in England while her parents Easter.” worked in newly independent Ukraine. Christopher Rusyniak, the group’s She attended the University of Edinburgh treasurer, said, “It’s nice to get together majoring in zoology. Ms. Kowal Wildash with other Ukrainian students and contin- works as a socially responsible invest- ue our traditions.”

Students at work during the pysanka workshop at Boston College. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13

BOOK NOTES Yekelchyk chronicles birth of Ukraine as a modern nation “Ukraine: Birth of a Modern Nation,” by Yekelchyk prepares the reader for how However, there is a sense of optimism Serhy Yekelchyk, New York: Oxford things began in Ukraine and transitions to from the author that the Orange University Press, 2007. ISBN: 978-0- how things are now. Revolution is what Ukraine and 1953-0546-3. Paperback, 320 pp., $19.95. Mr. Yekelchyk informs the reader of the Ukrainians needed to shake off the old rise of “imperial bureaucrats” and “nation- practices inherent in the Soviet regime and Since Ukraine’s Orange Revolution in builders,” profiling the Austro-Hungarian claim what was rightfully theirs. The revo- 2004-2005, which drew thousands to and Russian empires, the transformation lution fostered the development of civil protest the presidential electoral fraud by of “Little Russians” into Ukrainians, and society and it is now up to the citizens of Viktor Yanukovych, the country has been the shift in identity from Ruthenians to Ukraine, according to the author – not the a test case of post-Communist democracy, Ukrainians. politicians – to decide the direction that as Serhy Yekelchyk’s book explains. The author’s description of the Soviet the country will take. Ukraine’s complex past, with its juxta- period reveals to the reader what Ukraine Dr. Yekelchyk is associate professor of position between the West and Russia, has overcome via the Orange Revolution. history and Slavic studies at the University strong cultural regionalism, and the legacy Independent Ukraine still has much to do of the Soviet regime are all factors that in way of reforms, but the author writes of of Victoria in British Columbia, specializ- lead the reader to begin to understand Ukraine under Leonid Kravchuk and ing in culture and identities in Russia and Ukraine today. Leonid Kuchma, and compares those trou- Eastern Europe, Stalinism and 20th centu- This book, according to the publisher, bled times with ongoing problems, such as ry Ukraine. is the first Western survey of Ukrainian gas crises and other such struggles. Readers may obtain copies by contact- history to include coverage of the Orange The author reassures the reader that ing the publisher at www.oup.com/us; Revolution and its aftermath. In addition Ukraine became independent not by a telephone, 800-451-7556; or e-mail, cust- to a timeline of Ukrainian history, tracing Ukrainian revolution, but by the collapse [email protected]. The book is also avail- periods of ancient civilizations to the rise of the Soviet Union, which resulted in 13 able at www.amazon.ca, and www.ama- of Kyivan Rus’, to the Kozak period, Mr. years of stagnation and crony capitalism. zon.com.

Magocsi’s illustrated history of Ukraine emphasizes its multicultural nature “Ukraine: An Illustrated History,” by each chapter of the book. An Illustrated History” presents “a con- Paul Robert Magocsi. Toronto-London: The text of the book is constructed cise and easy to read historical survey” University of Toronto Press, 2007. ISBN: around the maps. Thus, Prof. Magocsi of Ukraine – territorially the second 978-0-8020-8701-0. Hardcover, 336 pp., suggests, “the book may function for largest country in Europe - from its earli- $75. some readers as a brief introductory his- est times to the present. tory, while for others it may be used as a Prof. Magocsi, a publicity release “Ukraine: An Illustrated History” by historical atlas to supplement and assist notes, “emphasizes the multicultural Paul Robert Magocsi features more than readers of other publications about nature of Ukraine throughout its history” 300 historic photographs, line drawings, Ukraine.” and deals with “all the other peoples who portraits and reproductions of books and According to its publisher, the live or who have lived within the borders art work, as well as 46 maps – one for University of Toronto Press, “Ukraine: of present-day Ukraine: Russians, Poles, Jews, Crimean Tatars, Germans (includ- ing Mennonites) and Greeks, among oth- ers.” Also covered are the Rusyns of western Ukrainian and neighboring lands. The opening chapters of the book cover Ukraine’s physical geography, and its political and human geography. The historical narrative then picks up with chapters devoted to “Greeks and Scythians,” “Khazars” and “The Original Homeland of the Slavs.” In the next 300 or so pages the author school and university students could use covers, among other topics, Kyivan Rus’ in their classes. Prof. Magocsi has ful- (rendered therein as Kievan Rus’), filled that need with this well-written, Galicia-Volhynia, the Polish-Lithuanian generally balanced and informative sur- Commonwealth, the Zaporozhian vey of Ukrainian history,” comments his- Kozaks (Cossacks), the “Period of torian Prof. Serhii Plokhii of Harvard Ruin,” 1657-1686, the Hetmanate, University. Ukraine under Polish, Russian and Dr. Magocsi is a professor of history Austro-Hungarian rule, Ukraine during and political science at the University of World War I, the interwar years, Soviet Toronto, and a fellow of the Royal Ukraine, Carpatho-Ukraine, World War Society of Canada, the Canadian II, Soviet Ukraine after the second world Academies of Arts, Humanities and sci- war, and independent Ukraine – conclud- ences. ing with a brief reference to the Orange The book is available online at Revolution and the inauguration of www.utpress.utoronto.ca; or from: President Viktor Yushchenko. Customer Order Department, University “There is a strong need in the of Toronto Press, 5201 Dufferin St., English-speaking world for a short histo- North York, Ontario, M3H 5T8; tele- ry of Ukraine – something that visitors phone, 416-667-7791; fax, 416-667- could take along on a trip, or that high 7832.

Notice to publishers and authors

It is The Ukrainian Weekly’s policy to run news items and/or reviews of newly pub- lished books, booklets and reprints, as well as records and premiere issues of period- icals only after receipt by the editorial offices of a copy of the material in question. News items sent without a copy of the new release will not be published. Send new releases and information (where publication may be purchased, cost, etc.) to: Editorial Staff, The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 11 28th annual conference in New York honors Shevchenko NEW YORK – The Shevchenko other intellectuals who through their Scientific Society (NTSh), jointly with organization “Young Poland” stood close the Ukrainian Academy of Arts and to the European democratic-revolution- Sciences in the U.S. (UVAN), the ary processes of the mid-19th century. Harvard Ukrainian Research Institute According to Dr. Znayenko, the key to (HURI) and the American Association of understanding Shevchenko lies not only Ukrainian Studies (AAUS), hosted the in the analysis of his poetry, but also in 28th annual scholarly conference dedi- the appreciation of the European and cated to Taras Shevchenko at the NTSh pan-Slavic context provided by the revo- headquarters on March 8. lutionary movements sweeping the conti- The program was organized and nent in his time. Indeed, Shevchenko’s chaired by Prof. Vasyl Makhno, resident philosophical conception of the world poet at NTSh, who welcomed the audi- developed in this atmosphere of the ren- ence, singling out members of Ukraine’s aissance that was shared by the Poles and diplomatic corps. Ukrainians in the mid-19th century, said Opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Znayenko. Dr. Anna Procyk, the learned secretary of “Shevchenko and Drahomanov: The UVAN, and a professor of history at the Question of Reception” was the title of City University of New York. Dr. Procyk the lecture by Dr. George Grabowicz traced the significance of Shevchenko’s (HURI), Dmytro Cyzevskyj Professor of genius throughout modern Ukrainian his- Ukrainian Literature at Harvard tory from the perspective of the University. This was the third in a series Ukrainian struggle for nationhood. of lectures by Dr. Grabowicz dealing Shevchenko’s influence first surfaced with the interpretation of Shevchenko by in the mid-19th century, when it inspired prominent Ukrainian literary figures – the activity of the Ss. Cyril and the first two being on the reception by Vasyl Lopukh Methodius Brotherhood in Kyiv, of Yevhen Malaniuk, presented at last At the Shevchenko Scientific Society (from left): Vasyl Makhno, Anna Procyk, which Shevchenko was a member. year’s Shevchenko conference at NTSh, Orest Popovych, George Grabowicz and Myroslava Znayenko. Subsequently, the poet’s ideas helped and by Ivan Franko. unite Ukrainians in their political strug- Dr. Grabowicz compared the under- Sadly, to this day there is no publica- so that people of all generations every- gle in the years 1917-1918, which culmi- standing of Shevchenko by Mykhailo tion of the complete works of where can find in his poetry the ideas and nated in the declaration of Ukraine’s Drahomanov with the views of other lit- Drahomanov, concluded Dr. Grabowicz. the wisdom appropriate to their own time independence in 1918. erary experts who either preceded or fol- After a lengthy discussion, elicited by and situation. The power of Shevchenko’s testament lowed him, such as Mykola Kostomarov, questions and comments from the capaci- Dr. Popovych quoted Ivan Dzyuba, the survived Soviet genocidal policies Panteleimon Kulish, Ivan Franko, ty audience, the conference concluded well-known Ukrainian literary figure, against the Ukrainian nation in the 1930s, Dmytro Dontsov, Yevhen Malaniuk, as with closing remarks by Dr. Orest former dissident and Soviet prisoner, as so that his words could serve to unite the well as the Soviet school of critics. Each Popovych, the president of NTSh. Dr. saying that Shevchenko is a phenomenon Ukrainian dissidents of the 1960s and of the critics is able to see some things Popovych first thanked the speakers and so huge and inexhaustible that we shall 1970s in their resistance to the Soviet very clearly, while completely overlook- Prof. Makhno for treating the audience to never be able to achieve a complete regime, said Dr. Procyk. ing other things, said Dr. Grabowicz. a program of the highest scholarly level. understanding of him. Academician In conclusion, Dr. Procyk called upon In Drahomanov’s view, Shevchenko’s He then commented on the seemingly Dzyuba has just published a book “Taras the Ukrainian community, the press, the ideas had transcended Ukraine, and he inexhaustible theme of Shevchenko, Shevchenko: Life and Works.” The book, government of Ukraine and its diplomat- emphasized the poet’s secular, European, which derives from the poet’s genius, which was published in Kyiv, was spon- ic corps not to forget to solemnly mark international and universal values. These transcending time, space and nationality, sored by NTSh. the 90th anniversary of the proclamation and other original views of Drahomanov of Ukraine’s independence in 1918. on the subject of Shevchenko led some to “Early Shevchenko and ‘Young accuse Drahomanov of a lack of Poland’ ” was the title of the lecture by Ukrainian patriotism. However, just the UNA SENIORS’ CONFERENCE Dr. Myroslava Znayenko (AAUS), a pro- opposite is true, according to the lecturer: Sunday, June 8-13, 2008 fessor in the department of classical and it is Drahomanov whom we should thank modern languages and literatures at for having united into one nation the SOYUZIVKA Rutgers University in Newark, N.J. Dr. Ukrainians, who were divided then Save this date for the Seniors’ Week Znayenko spoke about Shevchenko’s between the Russian and the Austro- Make your reservations for the UNA Seniors’ Conference which will be held at relations with the Polish writers and Hungarian empires. SOYUZIVKA cultural centre, beginning Sunday, June 8th, starting with wine and cheese through Friday, June 13th, 2008 including brunch. Registration: Sunday & Monday morning. All inclusive 5 nights, all meals, banquet, taxes and gratuities THE DISTRICT COMMITTEE OF UNA BRANCHES OF NEW YORK, N.Y., included, entertainment and special speakers. We encourage participants to wear announces that its Ukrainian embroidery during the banquet and to bring artifacts to be auctioned off during our evening auction for the benefit of the Seniors’ Club. ANNUAL DISTRICT MEETING will be held on UNA members Friday, April 4, 2008 Single occupancy $425 – double $355 pp at 6:00 pm at Per night – Single $100 – Double $82 pp UCCA National Office Non UNA members 203 Second Avenue (between 12th and 13th Streets), 2nd Floor Single occupancy $475- double $373 pp New York City Per night – Single $110 – Double $90 pp

The evening will feature a film showing of "The Helm of Destiny", BANQUET & ENTERTAINMENT only $35 pp a documentary about the UNA and its history. (narrated by Jack Palance, produced and directed by Slavko Nowytski) Call SOYUZIVKA Tel: 845-626-5641 – Register early. Limited space available. Light hors d'eouvres and refreshments will be served! Contact local senior clubs and organize a bus from your area. The following branch members and their guests are invited to attend: For further information please call Oksana Trytjak Tel: 973 292-9800 X 3071 5, 8, 16, 86, 130, 184, 194, 267, 325, 327, 450, 489 Senior Citizens’ Week is: All members of the community are welcome! FUN, AFFORDABLE AND INTERESTING - Do you have any questions about the UNA? This is the perfect opportunity to WE WELCOME GUESTS! COME ONE, COME ALL! learn more about UNA's rich history as well as what UNA can do for you.

Space is limited. Please RSVP to Maya Lew at (212) 689-8894 or [email protected]

Meeting will be attended by: Christina Kozak - UNA National Secretary Oksana Trytjak - UNA National Organizer Maya Lew - District Chairman Members of the General Assembly New York District Committee New York District Branch Secretaries 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13 INTERVIEW: Ukrainian American writer, Askold Melnyczuk Askold Melnyczuk, one of the leading able position of participating in this fiction writers in the United States, is duplicitous project. He knew he was author of “What Is Told,” “Ambassador sending many of his countrymen back to of the Dead” and the just published novel certain death and he tried explaining this “The House of Widows” (Graywolf to his superiors, to no avail. One of the Press). According to Jhumpa Lahiri, chapters of “The House of Widows” uses “Brisk, lyrical writing and a winning a sentence from his book as an epigraph: narrator make “The House of Widows” “Was I completely unable to stop this ter- irresistible. A son’s quest to understand rible traffic in human lives? At first it his father’s suicide, and so to excavate a seemed so...” family history extinguished by the exigen- Luckyj’s passage occupies no more cies of the new world, make it exception- than a paragraph or two in his memoir, al.” but it stayed with me. I tried imagining Mr. Melnyczuk is interviewed below by how this must have felt for a kid of no Alexander J. Motyl, professor at Rutgers more than 19 or 20, whose own father University and author of several academ- had already been arrested by the Soviets, ic books and two novels. how helpless he must have felt. Anyway, years after reading this I began working on a book about a man Your latest novel, “The House of who has a similar experience and who Widows,” has just appeared and eventually commits suicide as a result of received terrific reviews. Tell us how all that’s set in motion by his early you came to write it. betrayal. The chapter, written from the “The House of Widows” has twin Ukrainian-British soldier’s point of view, roots. The kernel of the novel came to me came to me in one afternoon’s work – Laura Paz while reading the (Ukrainian) literary unusually for me as I tend to rewrite end- Askold Melnyczuk critic Yuri Luckyj’s memoir, “At the lessly and fall into the category of the Crossroads.” In one paragraph he speaks writer as word-squeezer. But then I con- Caribbean woman who said she was in “mitigating circumstances.” We have about serving as a translator for the sole myself that that phrase was coined working with American soldiers sta- our own lives to attend to, our own daily British military as they interrogated by my literary hero, Gustave Flaubert. tioned in Stuttgart who were either battles to struggle through. How much Soviet prisoners of war, as well as desert- That part of the novel which considers deserters or trying to get conscientious risk should a whistle-blower assume? ers from the Soviet army, in the sex trade is, and not just by the way, objector status to keep them from being What kind of risk were we talking about Braunschweig, Germany. The soldiers intended as a reflection on the implica- sent to fight in Iraq. She said there were anyway? largely cooperated with the British tions of an unfettered free market in some 8,000 young American men and In this context I remembered the because they thought they’d be allowed which humans have long been treated as women around the world trying this gam- phrase “the good Germans,” which to repatriate to the west. Instead, after commodities. bit. I hadn’t heard about the phenome- has enough currency to serve as the getting what information they could from The other moral thread of the story non. title of a popular film and is an ironic them, the British returned the soldiers to appeared years later, while I was travel- Back in the States I asked the great reference to the average citizen’s quiet the Soviet army. Many of them were sub- ing through Germany and Austria on a American historian Howard Zinn about it complicity in his government’s crimi- sequently executed or exiled. book tour for the translation of my first and he said he’d heard such stories but nal behavior. Are we, American citi- And Luckyj, who had by chance novel. In Stuttgart, after a (rather poorly didn’t have any reliable headcount. Body zens, suddenly in that position our- wound up in England at the start of the attended) reading, several of us went out counts aren’t the only thing our military selves? war, found himself in the morally intoler- for dinner. Present was a young avoids. This was a little while after the Abu Ghraib scandal broke; after some of So many other questions follow from the atrocities committed by our soldiers this. For example, isn’t “criminality” a in Fallujah had come to light. relative concept defined by social institu- Again I began wondering about the tions, courts and governments? Or was implications of this – not about commit- there a deeper, more reliable moral ting the atrocities themselves, or about ground for asking this question? Here we deserting, which raise rather different skirt dangerously close to metaphysics... moral questions – but about what it How does a novelist answer these meant to know, to be given definitive moral questions? information, about war crimes. What responsibility did the average, A novelist’s way of examining such only moderately engaged citizen have? questions is by observing the behavior of Where did his first allegiance and his characters, by learning from them responsibility lie? Should a citizen con- how they act in the particular circum- spire with his government in covering up stances in which they find themselves the truth of wartime atrocities? What trapped. Fiction, the novelist John good would it do to let the world at large Gardner observed, is an ancient mode of know about them? Whom might it help? thought. Storytelling isn’t simply a way Whom might it harm? of passing the time – it’s another way of What answers did you come up trying to understand the human meaning with? of time itself. I was, as I said, interested in the posi- In addition to morality, all your tion of the more-or-less average citizen novels explore history and identity – and not of the active perpetrator of the and especially Ukrainian history and atrocity because that was the position I identity. It’s hard to avoid concluding feel many of ourselves find ourselves in. that these issues are of deep emotional We’ve read and heard stories about and spiritual importance to you. actions we’d never be able to sanction History and identity are endlessly under normal circumstances. Don’t we interesting. Another way to think about have a moral imperative to do what we them is as cause and effect. A child is can to let others know about them? born into circumstances it did not create. Here I imagined what it might have It is given a name by a mother and a been like to know about the Holodomor father who both have their own past bear- or the Holocaust while they were under ing down on them. They live in a country way. Didn’t any honest woman or man that’s at peace or at war. They grow up possessing privileged information about amid great wealth, or poverty, or some- these crimes against humanity have an where in between. At the same time they absolute obligation to act on them? If you have something in them that doesn’t see someone being murdered on the seem to depend on external matters, on street in your neighborhood, aren’t you causes and conditions. What is that? obliged to do something? What, in our The clash or meeting or dance global village, are the boundaries of our between that inner self and external cir- neighborhood? cumstances creates what we call charac- Those are exceptionally demanding ter. History and identity define a part of moral claims. the self – but all of us recognize we share I know. Of course, we are all steeped (Continued on page 13) No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 13

ry, and some of my best friends are poets. Interview... But I found that in my poetry I wasn’t BOOK NOTES (Continued from page 12) able to find a way to get at certain ques- a humanity that transcends any humanely tions and certain material that kept gnaw- created boundaries. ing at me – fiction offered a release into a Melnyczuk’s latest novel My own identity included the terms larger realm of imaginative possibility. “Ukraine,” “the Famine,” “the Yet I value poetry immensely for its abil- Holocaust,” and all the abundance, beau- ity to get at essentials, for the way it spans generations, continents ty and yes, ugliness, of New Jersey in the probes the implications and possibilities second half of the 20th century bleeding of language itself. “The House of Widows,” by Askold into the 21st. Each term in the above sen- As a rule we use language loosely; we Melnyczuk. St. Paul, Minn.: Graywolf tence can be combined in a thousand dif- take it for granted. In many ways, of Press, 2008. ISBN: 978-1-55597-491-6. ferent ways – writing fiction allows me course we should and we must. E. M. Paperback, 256 pp., $16. to perform chemistry experiments using Forster describes how surprised a friend them as ingredients. of his was to discover that she had been “The House of Widows” is Ukrainian speaking “prose” her whole life. In fact, American writer Askold Melnyczuk’s lat- What did you conclude from these all of us speak prose; very few of us est novel, released just this month. experiments? speak poetry, anymore. Described by its publisher, Graywolf What I’ve found is in many ways How did growing up Ukrainian Press, as “a novel of intrigue played out obvious: that the elements interact differ- influence your writing? across decades, continents and genera- ently in every individual; that there is tions,” the book is subtitled “An Oral enough overlap in some cases for people Both my mother and father are great History.” to accept certain group affiliations; and readers. While my father prefers to The narrator of the story is James Pak, a that there are enough differences so that immerse himself in history, politics or young American civil servant and historian economics, my mother still, at 87, reads no generalization about any group can be who is based in Vienna. Pak decides to deeply and widely in what was once absolutely true and consistent. investigate the suicide 16 years earlier of called belles-lettres. From childhood she Where a sociologist or even a historian his father, whose roots are in Ukraine. The fed me a diet that included among its sta- might be eager to identify and stress investigation leads Pak to England, Austria ples not only all the Ukrainian classics – common tendencies and broad cate- and Ukraine, as he uncovers information Taras Shevchenko, Ivan Franko, Lesia gories, the fiction writer, like the poet, and truths that span World War II, the post- Ukrainka, Olha Kobylianska, etc. – but chooses instead to stake his claim to truth war period and the present day. also the great Europeans: Rilke, on specificities. Creating my characters, I During his search for the truth, Pak Lagerloff, Hamsun, Mann, Hesse, Gide, know they don’t stand for or represent inherits three objects: a letter written in a Rolland, Zweig. I was 10 when she gave anyone but themselves. language he cannot read, his father’s mili- masterpiece ‘Women in Love.’ Not an easy me Rilke’s “Stories of God,” a book You know, I grew up in the States at a tary papers and a large glass jar – all of book to grapple with, but the reader’s inspired by his travels across Ukraine time when certain generalizations about which conceal secrets. struggle will yield rewards.” (which he, of course, called Russia). Mr. Melnyczuk is an associate profes- Ukrainians were commonplace both in Thomas Gaughan, writing in Booklist I loved reading (and memorizing poet- sor at the University of Massachusetts in the media and the classroom. They left (March 1), opined: “Melnyczuk is a writer ry) from childhood on. When I was 6 I Boston and teaches in the Graduate me as furious as generalizations about of great power, lyricism and assurance, and recited Shevchenko’s “Poslaniye” before he has created a large cast of compellingly Writing Seminars at Bennington College African Americans or Hispanics – more, 200 patient auditors at the Ukrainian complex characters, as well as vivid por- in Vermont. He has taught at Harvard and maybe, because I naturally felt implicat- National Home in Elizabeth, N.J. Never traits of London, Vienna and Ukraine.” The Boston universities, and holds an M.A. ed in the often ugly broad stereotypes. mind that I didn’t understand a word – book, he commented, is “hard to put down from the writing program at Boston U. On the other hand, if readers are to find not a word – of what I was saying. The and harder to forget.” He is the author of two previous novels, them interesting or believable as charac- roar of the crowd made it seem worth- Kirkus Reviews (January 15) noted: “ In “What Is Told” (1994), a New York Times ters, they will need to see something of while. The habit stuck. And in high its brooding focus on the break-up of a cor- Notable Book, and “Ambassador of the themselves in these fictive beings. school literature became a lifeline, offer- rupt old world infecting the one that suc- Dead,” which was among the Los Angeles Characters earn our sympathy when we ing a secret company of kindred spirits ceeds it, Melnyczuk’s hallucinatory tale Times Best Books of 2002. can see something of ourselves in them, when none were to be found in one’s achieves some of the fierce, distracting “The House of Widows” is available no matter where we come from. immediate neighborhood. power of D.H. Lawrence’s nerve-grating from www.graywolfpress.org. These days, I confess, I love reading I still remember the morning – it was 4 history at least as much as, or maybe a.m., July 1972 – when I finished reading more than, fiction. Well-written history Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s “A Hundred so often reminds me that there are more Years of Solitude.” I put the book down things between heaven and earth than are on my desk, went out into the quivering dreamed of in our philosophies and that predawn stillness, looked up at the stars our imaginations have to work overtime and saw them as if for the first time. A Ukrainian Summer to begin to approach the complexity of Literature re-enchanted the world for me. “reality.” It reminded me of what most children Appears May 4, 2008, in The Ukrainian Weekly How do you write your novels: with know, and adolescents too often forget— a clear outline in mind when you that we live in a world steeped in mys- begin, or with a general sense of plot tery, and that anyone who claims to Travel to Ukraine and learn about your heritage... and direction and character? understand it is posing, deceiving both Focus on Ukrainian studies, and earn college credit... himself and the rest of us. Socrates’ main An image, an idea, and/or a character claim to fame was the willingness to plant themselves, spring up, usually with- Or relax and enjoy the activities admit that he knew nothing. Gaugin’s out invitation. Most wither after a scrib- most famous painting is aptly titled: bled page or two. Occasionally a seed at the ever-popular Soyuzivka... “Where do we come from? What are we? finds fertile ground and gradually grows Where are we going?” Art is possible into a story; the gestation process can because there will never be a definitive How will you enjoy your Ukrainian summer? take years. Did you know that an amaryl- answer to these questions. lis seed is the size of a dime and that it Read our special section for information from those in the takes seven years for it to become that fat Which writers influenced you most? know on great destinations and unique activities! bulb sold in supermarkets across the So many writers enlarged both my country, ready at last, to bloom? sense of the world and my awareness of EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING DEADLINE: APRIL 14 Scenes gather slowly; I revise and art’s possibilities. A short list of prede- SUBMIT ARTICLES ON UPCOMING SUMMER CAMPS, COURSES, revise. I once spent three years writing cessors might include: Saul Bellow, WORKSHOPS AND OTHER EVENTS (NOT MORE THAN 250 WORDS, 20,000 pages of drafts for a novel that Gregor von Rezzori, Ernest Hemingway, never came together. But that is part of Rilke, Hamsun, and Alain-Fournier. TYPED AND DOUBLE-SPACED) PLUS PHOTOS. the job description. Then, every so often, At the same time, one’s contempo- TAKE ADVANTAGE OF A FREE ONE-LINE LISTING IN OUR SUMMER a story or a chapter (or a poem) comes raries and peers can become catalysts in EVENTS CALENDAR (INDICATE DATE, TYPE OF EVENT AND PLACE). quickly and I grab them with a prayer of one’s development, and I was very fortu- thanks. nate to have come to Boston at a time SEND EDITORIAL COPY TO: My wife Alexandra Johnson, a far when the city was enjoying something of THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY finer writer than I (fortunately she writes a renaissance. I profited enormously 2200 ROUTE 10, P.O. BOX 280, non-fiction), reads everything I write. I from the company of friends like Sven PARSIPPANY, NJ 07054 shudder to imagine what horrors I’d send Birkerts, Tom Sleigh, Derek Walcott, out into the world if it weren’t for her Seamus Heaney, Tom Bahr, Ha Jin, Jason OR E-MAIL IT TO: [email protected] generously critical gaze. I shudder any- Shinder and others – in many cases they way. showed me just how high the bar stood; FOR ADVERTISING RATES & INFORMATION: You began writing as a poet, didn’t their example was an inspiration to keep CALL 973-292-9800 (EXT. 3040) OR E-MAIL: [email protected] you? pushing at the limits of what one could do. They were courage-teachers, too. Yes, like so many fiction writers, I began as a poet. I still read a lot of poet- (Continued on page 21) THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13 NEWSBRIEFS... murder plot. (Ukrinform) Police break up Tatar protest CLACLASSSSIFIEDIFIEDSS (Continued from page 2) pation in the investigation of the crash. SYMFEROPOL – On March 19 court TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL MARIA OSCISLAWSKI, (973) 292-9800 x 3040 Transport and Communications Minister officials supported by special police or e-mail: [email protected] Yosyp Vinskyi told a news briefing on removed the tent camp set up by some 30 March 24 that Ukraine will claim dam- Crimean Tatars on March 11 outside the ages for the accident of the Naftohaz-67 Crimean parliament building, lenta.ru SERVICES PROFESSIONALS if the Chinese party’s guilt is proven. and RFE/RL’s Tatar-Bashkir Service (RFE/RL Newsline, Ukrinform) reported. No one was injured during the police action. The Crimean Tatars were Rescuers recover two bodies demanding, as they have done for over a LAW OFFICES OF KYIV – Rescuers searching for 18 decade, that the republic’s authorities ZENON B. MASNYJ, ESQ. missing Ukrainian seamen who were on allocate them land to build homes; they board a tugboat that sank near Hong have threatened to disrupt the tourist sea- Kong late on March 25 found the bodies son in Crimea this summer if that In the East Village since 1983 of two of them, RFE/RL’s Ukrainian demand is not met. (RFE/RL Newsline) Service reported. The Ukrainian tugboat Russia on U.S. missile defense Serious personal injury, real estate Naftohaz-67 sank on March 22 after col- for personal and business use, rep- liding with a Chinese ship. The rescuers MOSCOW – Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei Lavrov of Russia said in an inter- resentation of small and mid-size have not been able to get inside the tug- view published in the daily Izvestia on WEST ARKA businesses, securities arbitration, boat, which is in water 35 meters deep, and are awaiting the arrival of a crane March 20 that the United States recently 2282 Bloor St. W., Toronto, Ont., Canada M6S 1N9 divorce, wills and probate. that will be able to lift the ship to the sur- offered Russia “confidence-building Fine Gifts face. (RFE/RL Newsline) measures” that will enable Russian moni- Authentic Ukrainian Handicrafts (By Appointment Only) tors and monitoring equipment to deter- Art, Books, CDs, Ceramics Andrew R. CHORNY Rada annuls law on state purchasing mine that the proposed missile-defense Embroidered Goods and Supplies Manager 157 SECOND AVENUE system is not directed against Russia. Mr. Gold Jewelery, Icons, Magazines KYIV – The 450-seat Verkhovna Rada NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10003 Lavrov added that “we have managed to Newspapers, Pysankas and Supplies on March 20 annulled by 440 votes the All Services to Ukraine, Mail-orders (212) 477-3002 law on state purchasing, RFE/RL’s make Americans acknowledge that our Ukrainian Service reported. “The concerns are not unfounded. ...In such Tel.: (416) 762-8751 Fax: (416) 767-6839 Parliament has fulfilled its historic mis- [military systems], what matters is the e-mail: [email protected] www.westarka.com sion – it freed the state from legislative potential and not just the intentions.” He corruption,” Parliament Chairman did not say whether the proposal is Arseniy Yatsenyuk said. The Parliament enough to end Russian opposition to mis- FIRST QUALITY obliged the Cabinet of Ministers to pre- sile defense. Under the U.S. proposals UKRAINIAN TRADITIONAL-STYLE pare within two weeks a new draft on brought to Moscow by Secretary of State state purchasing and temporarily secure Condoleezza Rice and Defense Secretary MONUMENTS the procedure of such purchases during Robert Gates last week, Russia reported- SERVING NY/NJ/CT REGION CEMETERIES this period. Mr. Yatsenyuk said that ly will be able to use monitoring equip- OBLAST President Viktor Yushchenko is ready to ment and occasional visits by monitoring sign the annulment immediately. Mr. officials at the proposed radar site in the MEMORIALS Czech Republic and at the interceptor P.O. BOX 746 Yushchenko earlier mentioned the lack of HOUSING the transparency among the main short- base in Poland. Germany’s Frankfurter Chester, NY 10918 Allgemeine Zeitung reported on March 845-469-4247 comings of the law on state purchasing. (RFE/RL Newsline) 20 that Czech Prime Minister Mirek BILINGUAL HOME APPOINTMENTS Topolanek suggested recently that the Long-term gas contracts ordered U.S. proposal is acceptable to Prague LvivRentals.com because it does not involve a permanent MERCHANDISE KYIV – President Viktor Yushchenko from $59 per night Russian military presence on Czech terri- said on March 25 that he has ordered the tory. The daily also cited remarks by government to hold talks with Russian Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk to the Ukrainian Book Store gas monopoly Gazprom by March 31 on effect that the proposal is worthwhile if it the conclusion of long-term contracts Largest selection of Ukrainian books, dance OPPORTUNITIES makes Russia feel more secure. Critics supplies, Easter egg supplies, music, icons, regarding gas supplies to Ukraine and charge that Moscow knows that missile greeting cards, giftwear and much more. gas transit across Ukrainian territory, defense is no threat, but uses the issue to RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service reported. 10215-97st bully its neighbors, try to split NATO and Mr. Yushchenko also said that Ukraine Edmonton, AB T5J 2N9 EARN EXTRA INCOME! obtain concessions from Washington on owes $2 billion to Gazprom for gas that other issues. (RFE/RL Newsline) Toll free: 1-866-422-4255 The Ukrainian Weekly is looking has been delivered since January 1, and www.ukrainianbookstore.com for advertising sales agents. that the government has failed to clarify Expert says relations are deteriorating For additional information contact how it intends to repay this debt. Maria Oscislawski, Advertising Ukrainian gas operator Naftohaz MOSCOW – Sergei Rogov, who heads Apon Video the U.S. and Canada Institute of the P.O. Box 3082 Manager, The Ukrainian Weekly, Ukrayiny and Gazprom earlier this month signed an agreement on direct gas Russian Academy of Sciences, was quot- Long Island City, NY 11103 (973) 292-9800, ext 3040. ed by the daily Novye Izvestia on March Tel./Fax: (718) 721-5599 supplies starting from March 1. According to the agreement, Gazprom 13 as saying that U.S.-Russian relations New Apon Videos will supply Naftohaz by December 31 “are continuing to deteriorate” and that with at least 49.8 billion cubic meters of the United States “wrote us off” in the Favorite Songs of 1950-1960 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY gas at $179.50 per 1,000 cubic meters. 1990s as a major partner. Mr. Rogov 7826 – DVD $25; VHS $20; P/H $5 each (RFE/RL Newsline) argued that part of the reason for the Series II: Roxolana, Wife of Khali ATTENTION, MEMBERS OF THE recent downturn is that Washington has Rukh wants Chornovil case reopened 7817 – DVD $25; VHS $20 + $5 shipping UKRAINIAN NATIONAL ASSOCIATION! interjected an ideological element into 7818 – DVD + VHS VIDEO 8 + $5 shipping the relationship by criticizing the state of KYIV – The People’s Movement of 7819 – DVD + VHS VIDEO 9 + $5 shipping Do you enjoy your subscription to democracy in Russia. Mr. Rogov noted Ukraine (Rukh) is demanding a new The Ukrainian Weekly? that the United States’ foreign policy pri- Series I: Roxolana, the Slave investigation of Vyacheslav Chornovil’s 7811-7816 – DVD + VHS VIDEO 6 Why not share that enjoyment with a friend? ority is not Russia but Iraq. Regarding death, Rukh leader Borys Tarasyuk told a the upcoming U.S. presidential election, Easter Hailky from Halychyna press conference on March 24. Rukh will 7805 – VHS $20 + $5 shipping ORDER A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION he suggested that “trying to guess who TO THE WEEKLY not allow the case to be closed until will be better for Russia” – meaning a 16 Anniversary of Independence of Ukraine Chornovil’s murderers face a court and 2016 – DVD + VHS $25/$20 + $5 shipping at the member’s rate of $45 per year. Democrat or Republican – “is certainly a imprisonment, he said, adding that he mistake. It seems that the next U.S. To subscribe, write to The Ukrainian had already sent the relevant appeals to administration will take a firmer stand Weekly, Subscription Department, the procurator general, internal affairs with regard to Moscow, in any event.” 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, minister and chief of the Security Service Mr. Rogov suggested that U.S. Sen. Parsippany, NJ 07054; of Ukraine. Rukh does not believe the Barack Obama (D-Ill.) “recognizes the or call (973) 292-9800. conclusion of the Procurator General’s necessity of a dialogue with Russia more WANT IMPACT? Office that Chornovil died as a result of a than other candidates do.” Mr. Rogov car crash. Chornovil died on March 25, also noted that either Sen. Obama or U.S. Run your advertisement here, 1999, just a few months ahead of the in The Ukrainian Weekly’s Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) would be Run your advertisement here, presidential election. His car ran into a better from Moscow’s point of view on CLASSIFIEDS section. truck near Boryspil, outside of Kyiv. His in The Ukrainian Weekly’s issues such as missile defense. He argued advisor and assistant Yevhen Pavlov also that U.S. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), by CLASSIFIEDS section. died in the crash. Chornovil’s allies believe his death resulted from a political (Continued on page 15) No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 15

view with the Financial Times (England) democrat, Mr. Medvedev replied that “I problems during 2007 in Russia in partic- NEWSBRIEFS... and Vedomosti (Russia) of March 25 that am a supporter of the values of democra- ular, as well as in other countries where (Continued from page 14) “we are not happy about the situation cy in the form that humanity has devel- power is concentrated in the hands of a contrast, might “revert to dependence on around Georgia and Ukraine. We consid- oped them over the last centuries. Let the few. The report noted that Russia’s lead- brute force.” (RFE/RL Newsline) er it extremely troublesome for the exist- degree of [adherence to democracy], or ership under President Vladimir Putin is ing structure of European security.” He liberalness, or conservativeness of one not accountable to the Russian people Primakov on relations with U.S. argued that “no state can be pleased official or politician or another be deter- and that a subservient legislature has about having representatives of a military mined by others.” Asked about the possi- transferred many of its powers to the MOSCOW – Russia’s former Prime bloc to which it does not belong coming bility of turf wars within the security president. According to Jonathan Farrar, Minister Yevgeny Primakov, who was close to its borders.” Echoing recent services, Mr. Medvedev said that “the an acting assistant secretary of state, who one of the Soviet Union’s top Middle remarks by President Vladimir Putin, Mr. security services were not created in presented the report along with Secretary East experts and the first director of Medvedev said that “this is something order to fight against each other but to of State Condoleezza Rice, Russia is Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service that is even more difficult to explain follow their constitutional task to defend characterized by “centralization of power (SVR), told a press conference in Tomsk when the vast majority of citizens of one the social order. At the same time, in any on March 13 that “relations with the in the executive branch, a compliant State of the states, for example of Ukraine, are state the security services do compete Duma, corruption and selectivity in United States are a priority for us.” He categorically against joining NATO, against each other. This is the guarantee called on Washington to understand that enforcement of the law, onerous [NGO] while the government of this state fol- that [a wide variety of] information on registration requirements, harassment of Russia is “an equal player in the interna- lows a different policy. ...At the very the situation in the country will be put on tional arena and in global politics” and some NGOs and media restrictions, least in such situations, it is usual to hold the leader’s table.” He noted that “I have which continued to erode the govern- argued that “what the United States is no information that the Russian security a referendum.” (RFE/RL Newsline) ment’s accountability to its citizens.” doing today against Russia and our services are competing for wealth. But if (RFE/RL Newsline) national interests does not mean that it Medvedev stresses rule of law… I were to get information that representa- wants ‘hot’ confrontation with Russia. MOSCOW – President-elect Dmitry tives of any law enforcement structure Russia criticizes U.S. rights report Unfortunately, many such things are Medvedev said in an interview published are involved in competing or fighting for being done, but I don’t think the United MOSCOW – The Russian Foreign in Britain’s Financial Times and the material wealth, then such people will be States really fears Russia as a potential Ministry issued a statement on March 12 Russian daily Vedomosti on March 25 immediately fired and charged with enemy.” Mr. Primakov said that in which it sharply criticized the U.S. that he is a “lawyer to [his] bones.” He crimes. In our country everything should Washington seeks to “put us in what they State Department’s annual report on told the British interviewers that Russia be controlled by the law and by the corre- see as our proper place, which is a sec- should develop the rule of law by assert- sponding structures that exist to oversee human rights, published on March 11, ondary place.” He argued that such an ing “the law’s supremacy over executive the implementation of laws.” (RFE/RL mid.ru reported. The statement charged approach won’t work. “With its potential, power and individual actions,” and by Newsline) that the report used a condescending tone its capabilities, and its energy sufficiency, making sure that citizens understand the to present “a hackneyed collection of Russia has been and will be one of the World’s tallest man notes kindness importance of “observing the law.” He claims regarding Russia, such as depar- most active players in the world arena. added that Russia needs an “effective” KYIV – President Viktor Yushchenko ture from the principles of democratic And the world will only benefit from and independent judiciary. Mr. will present a car specially adapted for government, the harassment of dis- this,” he stated. (RFE/RL Newsline) Medvedev said that “a modern head of the world’s tallest person, Leonid senters, and restrictions on freedom of Belarusian president slams U.S. state should conduct an absolutely objec- Stadnyk of Ukraine, Presidential Press speech and of the press. Many passages tive and balanced, and as far as possible Secretary Iryna Vannikova told a news are copied from previous reports.” The MIENSK – President Alyaksandr effective, economic policy, based on the briefing on March 24. She said Mr. ministry charged that the U.S. document Lukashenka said on March 18 that the priorities of market values and property Stadnyk had recently approached the “abounds in groundless accusations, United States is stirring up tensions with rights.” He said a possible presidential president with the relevant request. In quotes from unverified and obviously regard to Belarus by its economic sanc- pardon for imprisoned oligarch Mikhail turn, Mr. Yushchenko instructed the biased sources, mistakes and the jug- tions against the country’s largest petro- Khodorkovsky is “a matter for the Auto-ZAZ-Daewoo Corp. to adapt the gling of facts, particularly in regard to chemical company, Belnaftakhim, courts.” Mr. Medvedev noted the long- passenger compartment and the driver’s [unspecified] recent events.” Moscow Belapan reported. “In violation of its standing “trust” that exists between him- seat of a Chevrolet minivan for Stadnyk. accused Washington of hypocrisy and commitments under a December 1994 self and President Vladimir Putin. He Ms. Vannikova noted that the 36-year-old “double standards,” and of avoiding memorandum on security guarantees in added that he learned from Mr. Putin Mr. Stadnyk is 2.54 meters tall. The mention of its own failings. It argued connection with Belarus’s accession to how to make decisions based on rigorous Zhytomyr region resident is recognized that the United States “essentially legal- the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, the and thorough analysis, adding that “this by the Guinness Book of World Records. ized torture, applies capital punishment U.S. introduced and then expanded sanc- is something for many people to learn He recently told the Associated Press that to minors, denies responsibility for war tions against the enterprises of from... Putin.” Asked about the future his extraordinary height had forced him crimes and massive human rights abuses Belnaftakhim, thereby revealing its cyni- division of power between himself and to quit a job he loved and that he has to in Iraq and Afghanistan, and refuses to cal attitude toward international law,” Mr. Mr. Putin, who is expected to become stoop as he moves about his house. He join a series of human rights treaties... Lukashenka said. He also said that the prime minister, Mr. Medvedev replied also underscored the kindness of [while] disregarding systemic problems United States violated its commitment that “the point is not who says the final strangers, noting that people from all within its own country.” The Russian not to apply measures of economic com- word, but what the political and legal over Ukraine and around the world have statement added that “we did not expect pulsion in exchange for the withdrawal of system of the Russian Federation looks sent him oversized clothing and a huge from the State Department’s latest opus nuclear weapons from Belarus. “We did like. This system sets out quite clearly bicycle, and provided his home in an objective assessment of the human that and signed that memorandum,” Mr. the respective areas of competence of the Podoliantsi with running water. rights situation in Russia. After all, the Lukashenka said. “The U.S., Russia and two main levels of power, that of the (Ukrinform, Associated Press) United States has long regarded human other states then pledged that owing to presidency and the executive.” He noted Ukraine to demand compensation rights as a foreign policy tool.” (RFE/RL this humane act, they would treat our that “it is the Constitution itself that pre- Newsline) country accordingly, support it by every determines the answer to the question of KYIV – The State Commission for possible means and in no way apply any who takes decisions on what issues. It is Manmade, Environmental Security and Putin lobbies for Russian firms in Iraq measures [against Belarus] in the eco- the president who sets out the main Emergency Situations met with First Vice MOSCOW – President Vladimir Putin nomic and other spheres. Little time has directions of domestic and foreign poli- Prime Minister Oleksander Turchynov to passed and what do we see in reality? cy. He’s the commander-in-chief, he consider mitigation of the consequences said in a message to Iraqi Prime Minister And what has Belnaftakhim to do with it? makes key decisions on forming the of the November 11, 2007, shipwrecks Nuri al-Maliki on March 24 that Russian What has democratization to do with it?” executive. He’s the guarantor of rights due to storms in the Kerch Strait. During “companies are ready to increase their However, Mr. Lukashenka admitted that and freedoms of Russian citizens.” Mr. consideration of the issue of transbound- contribution to the restoration and mod- the sanctions are not fatal to Belarus. Medvedev noted that “the government ary man-made environmental threats and ernization of the economic infrastructure “We lived before, live now under their has its own very extensive area of com- reduction of their influence on the territo- of Iraq, primarily in the energy, oil and so-called sanctions, and will continue to petence. It is the government which ry of Ukraine, the commission ordered gas sectors, where we have accumulated live,” he added. In November 2007 the implements all economic activities, that an appeal be drafted to the Russian rich experience and made good arrange- U.S. Treasury Department froze all assets adopting the most important decisions in Federation to claim from Russian ship- ments,” Russian and international media under U.S. jurisdiction belonging to the economy. ... In other words, it’s all owners compensation of losses of over reported. He stressed that he hopes that Belnaftakhim and its representatives, and simple. Russia is a presidential republic $1 billion (U.S.) and damage caused to “the positive approach of Russian busi- barred Americans from doing business with a strong executive authority.” land resources of the Crimean peninsula ness to the development of cooperation with the company, which it says is con- (RFE/RL Newsline) for 88.3 million hrv. As a result of the will receive proper support from the Iraqi trolled by Mr. Lukashenka. On March 7, November 11, 2007, shipwreck of leadership.” In particular, LUKoil wants Miensk recalled its ambassador to the …describes views on democracy Russia’s Volgoneft-139 tanker in the to develop the West Qurna II field, for United States, Mikhail Khvastou, for MOSCOW – In an interview with the southern part of the Kerch Strait, some which it once had a $3.7 billion contract consultations and urged U.S. Ambassador Financial Times on March 25, President- 1,300 tons of boiler oil leaked into the dating from 1997 under the previous Karen Stewart to temporarily leave elect Dmitry Medvedev discussed his sea, along with 6,800 tons of technical regime. Mr. Putin also referred to Belarus, which she did on March 12. On own daily use of the Internet to obtain sulfur from the sunken dry cargo ships Russian plans to help modernize the oil March 17 the Belarusian Foreign news from many different sources, Volnogorsk, Nakhichevan and Kovel. pipeline from Kirkuk to the port of Ministry also “recommended” the U.S. adding that “I am confident that our (Ukrinform) Banias in Syria. He noted that Russia is Embassy cut its staff. (RFE/RL expanding its diplomatic presence in media have a very good future.” He Rights report notes problems in Russia Newsline) noted that Russia does not have a long Iraq. Moscow recently reached an agree- ment with Baghdad to write off most of Medvedev slams NATO expansion tradition of a free media, but argued that WASHINGTON – The U.S. State the legal framework governing the media Department on March 11 issued its annu- its Soviet-era debt, but reportedly has not MOSCOW – Referring to possible fur- and the financial resources needed to al report on human rights in more than received the business contracts from Iraq ther NATO enlargement, President-elect fund complex modern media enterprises 190 countries around the world, RFE/RL for which it clearly hopes. (RFE/RL Dmitry Medvedev stressed in an inter- are emerging. Asked whether he is a reported. The study stressed persistent Newsline) 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13 No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 17

favorable view of Ms. Tymoshenko, Tymoshenko... while 33 percent of those polled in south- (Continued from page 1) ern Ukraine admitted their support for of the previous government’s policies. the prime minister. According to the In assessing a number of Prime same poll, 18 percent of those who sup- Minister Tymoshenko’s achievements, port the Party of the Regions (PRU) also Volodymyr Fesenko, director of the expressed a positive opinion of Prime Kyiv-based Penta Center for Political Minister Tymoshenko. Research, singled out compensation for According to a recent survey conduct- depreciated Soviet-era savings as one of ed by the sociological research company the more significant initiatives of her GfK, if presidential elections were held government. “This was a super-success- in mid-March, Ms. Tymoshenko would ful endeavor of Tymoshenko’s govern- get approximately 22 percent of the vote, ment, which brought her political capital Mr. Yanukovych would collect 17.7 per- in the form of higher ratings,” said Mr. cent and President Yushchenko would Fesenko. Approximately 3.8 million resi- obtain only 6.7 percent of the electorate’s dents thus far have received $700 million support. The survey noted that, for the of the overall promised compensation first time in her political career, Ms. package of $4 billion. Tymoshenko placed well ahead of her The political analyst also said he con- rivals in the ratings. siders Prime Minister Tymoshenko’s par- However, according to Mr. Fesenko, ticipation in the natural gas pricing nego- Ms. Tymoshenko’s ratings are still higher tiations with Russia as a major success, and increasing in western and central since she managed to defend a number of Ukraine. The prime minister’s sharp rise Ukraine’s interests, while forcing in popularity occurred immediately fol- Oleksander Prokopenko/UNIAN Gazprom to yield on some issues for the lowing the parliamentary elections, said Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko meets with Ukrainian citizens in January to first time. At the same time, Mr. Fesenko Mr. Fesenko. “The people reacted to explain her government’s program of compensation for lost Soviet-era savings. stressed that the gas wars are not neces- Tymoshenko’s victory in the elections, as sarily over, since no long-term agree- well as her success in forming the coali- “One hundred days of the government bloc’s chances at the next presidential, ments were signed and the price of gas tion. People like winners and decisive, can be considered a so-called honeymoon, parliamentary and municipal elections. may increase. focused leaders,” he added. which has now ended and may actually On the other hand, Mr. Vydrin expressed The fact that Prime Minister Following yet another increase in her cause disillusionment,” commented Mr. concern that the current government did Tymoshenko managed to adopt the state popularity as a result of the compensa- Fesenko. In order to avoid this, the gov- not develop a clear economic strategy or budget within 10 days of her election can tion program, Ms. Tymoshenko’s ratings ernment needs to focus on daily policies a plan for improving the country’s over- also be considered a major triumph, remain high, “although the popularity and not PR tactics, say political experts. all infrastructure. may be tapering off somewhat,” Mr. according to Mr. Fesenko. Many consider the Tymoshenko govern- Nevertheless, according to observers, Fesenko noted. ment a short-lived phenomenon and, to In addition, Ms. Tymoshenko takes Ms. Tymoshenko’s first 100 days in Despite numerous successes, the counter such assessments, the government personal credit for February’s GDP office in her second term as prime minis- (gross domestic product) growth of 5.8 Tymoshenko government has also suf- needs to focus on long-term planning, Mr. ter will be remembered for instilling a percent in comparison to the February fered some setbacks. Among these are Fesenko explained. 2007 rate of 4.9 percent. She cited good Ms. Tymoshenko’s inability to keep at Offering his views on the first 100 sense of momentum and aggressive lead- news in various sectors of the economy. least one election campaign promise: days of Prime Minister Tymoshenko’s ership throughout the country. The key to Manufacturing of heavy machinery, for cancelation of mandatory military service government, Dmytro Vydrin, a political Ms. Tymoshenko’s immediate success example, has increased by 35 percent by January 2008 in exchange for contrac- analyst, said that, on the one hand, Ms. now rests on whether the prime minister during the prime minister’s first 100 tual service. According to Cabinet mem- Tymoshenko’s government did an excel- will be able to stem the tide of inflation days in office. And, the population’s bers, the prime minister’s plans to intro- lent job in increasing its leader’s and her and if so, in what manner. overall revenue (income plus other duce a professional army by 2008 ran sources of personal capital) increased by into a roadblock when the president 11 percent from the same period in voiced his disapproval over what he con- World Federation of Ukrainian Medical Associations January 2007. sidered a premature move. When comparing Prime Minister Undaunted, Ms. Tymoshenko chalked (WFUMA) Tymoshenko’s 2005 government with her up another major victory as her “Contraband Stop” campaign aimed at current Cabinet of Ministers, it’s clear invites all Ukrainian physicians to participate in the proceed- that the ministers of the first Tymoshenko stamping out corruption and smuggling, government were keen on demonstrating in cooperation with the State Customs ings of the XII Congress of WFUMA to be held in the city of their political will, as opposed to focus- Service, increased the state budget by Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, on September 25-28, 2008. ing on governmental policy programs, $2.5 billion in the months of January and according to Vasyl Yurchyshyn, director February. This amounted to $1.2 billion of economic programs at the Razumkov more than had originally been anticipated Scientific Program Center of Political and Economic for the period. 1. Physician self-governance Research. In response to criticism by certain 2. Healthy lifestyles “In 2005 it was Yushchenko’s govern- economists that the government’s opera- ment with Tymoshenko at the helm, tions are resulting in an increase in the 3. The structure of health care delivery while today it’s strictly Tymoshenko’s country’s trade deficit, Ms. Tymoshenko 4. Societal diseases: HIV/AIDS, alcoholism, government,” said Mr. Fesenko, of the said that the increase in the trade deficit tuberculosis, drug addictions, and sexually Penta Center. was the result of the legalization of exist- transmitted diseases Ms. Tymoshenko’s current Cabinet of ing imports and the reduction in the size 5. Developing innovations and bio-medical Ministers is considered more monolithic of fictitious exports that enabled and professional in nature, since it was exporters to claim value-added tax (VAT) achievements formed under different coalition-oriented refunds of up to $900 million. 6. Dentistry in Ukraine agreements, according to political On March 18 Prime Minister experts. Tymoshenko kept another campaign Further information about the Congress The success and importance of the lost promise when she managed to secure a and details for abstract submission savings compensation program cannot be parliamentary vote to schedule pre-term are at www.sfult.org.ua overemphasized, because it has broad- mayoral and municipal council elections ened Ms. Tymoshenko’s appeal, particu- for the city of Kyiv. For all intents and For travel arrangements and hotel reservatons please contact: larly in the east and south of Ukraine, purposes, Ms. Tymoshenko succeeded in said Mr. Fesenko. According to a ousting the allegedly corrupt mayor of Marijka Helbig February poll conducted by the Kyiv, Leonid Chernovetskyi, and his Scope Travel, Inc. Razumkov Center, 19 percent of those entire administration. Pre-term elections 101 S. Centre St. polled in eastern Ukraine expressed a are now scheduled for late May. South Orange, NJ 07079 973-378-8998 / 877-357-0436 lands, claiming these as Soviet property. Fax: 973-821-4855 Turning the pages... Reports vary that from 3 million to 12 mil- [email protected] (Continued from page 6) lion Ukrainians starved to death during the Office Hours: M/T/W 9AM-3PM regions in the Soviet Union to make the winter. Although millions starved, any nation more homogenous. As part of his existence of a famine was denied by the Welcome to Ivano-Frankivsk! plan, he oppressed the Ukrainian people, Soviet government, and only recently, dis- systematically eradicating their individual covered by the public at large.” freedoms of culture, religion and language. WFUMA Executive Board Because their land was one of the largest Source: “Sculptural memorial recalls [email protected] and most fertile in the Soviet Union, Stain victims of genocidal famine,” The [email protected] confiscated all wheat, animals and farm- Ukrainian Weekly, April 9, 2000 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13 No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 19

Ukrainian pro sports update: Tennis by Ihor Stelmach

Mouratoglou and built a personal Her best performance at a Grand Slam Ukraine’s Julia Vakulenko on her way resume. In December 2006, Vakulenko, event was in the 2005 Wimbledon tour- now 23 and ranked 120th in the world of nament, when she partnered up with in the world of international tennis women’s tennis, announced her short- Australia’s Paul Hanley in mixed dou- term goal after enrolling at the bles. The duo reached the finals, losing in Julia Vakulenko, a professional female Julia was uprooted for the first time as Mouratoglou Academy: “I want to partic- straight sets to Mahesh Bhupathi and tennis player from Ukraine, is on her she moved with her mother to Belgrade. ipate in the Masters at the end of 2007.” Mary Pierce, 6-4, 6-2. way. Finally. After she experienced She had to quickly learn to adapt to Mouratoglou was caught off guard by In 2006 Perebiynis paired with fellow parental separation and relocation at a her new surroundings. This was especial- this bold declaration. Ukrainian Yuliana Fedak for the qualify- young age, a second relocation in her ly critical in terms of her development in The once again aspiring tennis player ing event of the Wimbledon women’s early teen years, then a pair of mental school and in the sport of tennis. She and the famed tennis coach came to a doubles. The Ukrainian ladies successful- breakdowns as a very young adult, this is adapted well, learning the Serbian lan- temporary compromise agreement on ly qualified, then played through all the great news. guage, which helped in her tennis train- Vakulenko’s training. He agreed to train way into the semifinals, where they were Her pro tennis career began to take off ing. She rapidly rose through the ranks of her for 15 days so he could get a good bested by Paola Suarez and Virginia in the latter half of the 2006 season. Yugoslavian youth tennis and became idea of her tennis potential. After the ini- Ruano Pascual. Vakulenko reached the third round of the one of their top hopefuls. She proceeded tial 15-day period, Mouratoglou would While Perebiynis enjoyed a solid jun- 2006 French Open – a solid accomplish- to achieve a first in her adopted home- take her on as a further student only if he ior career and is presently a respected ment for the up-and-comer. In land: at the age of 13, Vakulenko became felt she could become a top-10 player. A doubles player, the main WTA singles Wimbeldon in 2006 she was forced to the Yugoslavian champion in the under - month went by, and the coach was con- tour has brought her little in the way of pull out during the first round due to an 14, -16 and -18 categories. Overall, in vinced. success. After reaching the third round in injury. The groundwork was being set for her age category, she was ranked No. 3 in Beginning the 2007 season ranked both the French Open and Wimbledon in the next season. all of Europe. 120th, the new and improved Julia 2004, earning her a rapid rise in the rank- May 2007 saw Vakulenko earn a slot Desiring to maximize her daughter’s Vakulenko had nowhere to go but up in ings early in her career, her professional in woman’s tennis history as she went tennis development, Vakulenko’s mother the rankings. Down went Clijsters, fortunes took a tumble after she suffered down in the sport’s annals as the noted realized that Yugoslavia could no longer Mauresmo, Safina and a host of others. a viral infection in mid-2005. Her singles star Kim Clijsters’ very last opponent of offer the proper training or facilities for At the end of January of this current year, ranking took a nosedive out of the top her prodigy to fully succeed in her cho- her professional career. On May 3, 2007, Vakulenko had risen to an overall world 200 after the illness caused her to miss sen sport. It was time to relocate a second in Warsaw, Poland, in the second round ranking of No. 31. over six months of competition. time – this time to Barcelona, Spain. of the J&S Cup, Vakulenko ousted Perebiynis re-entered the top 100, jump- Clijsters in two sets, 7-6 (3), 6-3. This On-court success did not stop in Ukrainian Tennis Profile: ing more than 30 spots to No. 97, in upset victory earned the young Ukrainian Spain. Once moved in and comfortable in October of 2007, when she qualified for player a new nickname: “Kimmie her again new surroundings, Vakulenko Tatiana Perebiynis the Kremlin Cup. Killer.” continued her advancement. At the age of Although Tatiana Perebiynis has not Perebiynis, 5-foot-8, 130-pounds, 25 Only one week after the Clijsters tri- 14 she entered two professional tourna- won a Women’s Tennis Association tour years old, is a native of Kharkiv, umph, Vakulenko continued her winning ments, each offering $10,000 in prize singles title, she has won several WTA Ukraine, and still calls that city home. ways by bouncing the world’s No. 3 money, and maintained her positive tour doubles titles. Her most notable dou- Her father, Yuriy, is a retired engineer, ranked Amelie Mauresmo at the celebrat- course. She reached the finals of the first bles titles are her two wins at the J&S while mother, Alla Likova, is a bank ed Qatar Telecom German Open in tournament, then won the second. Cup in Warsaw, Poland, first partnering economist. Tatiana is an only child. She Berlin, Germany. The 2-6, 6-1, 6-2 From that point in her life and career, with Barbora Stycova in 2005, then Vera (career best) win over Mauresmo pro- until the year 2004, very little of any sig- Pushevina in 2007. (Continued on page 22) pelled Vakulenko to then defeat the nificance transpired. Life in Barcelona ranked Dinara Safina 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 to was fine, Vakulenko progressed through earn a semifinal match-up with star-in- the school system, and she played lots of the-making Ana Ivanovic. With the tennis. She applied for professional status momentum definitely building, it was on in 1998. Over the course of about six to the last big tournament of the year. years, Vakulenko continued to improve In late August 2007, in the first round and found herself ranked No. 70 in 2004. of the U.S. Open, Vakulenko defeated the Then the bottom fell out. ninth-seeded Daniela Hantuchova 6-4, 3- Around the mid-point of 2004, 6, 6-1. She proceeded to serve and volley Vakulenko succumbed to a nervous her game all the way to the fourth round breakdown. Her entire world collapsed – an amazing achievement for someone around her and details to this day are not with so little major tournament experi- available. It has been documented that ence – before falling to Agnes Szavay. she suffered from a series of serious per- Vakulenko’s 2007 WTA year ended sonal problems. Her original nervous with still more success at the season’s breakdown lasted some six months. final major event. At the Bell Challenge During this period she hardly picked up in Quebec City, Quebec, she reached the her racquet to play competitive tennis. first WTA final of her young pro career. Vakulenko’s personal problems per- She overcame opponents Rossana De los sisted. The year 2005 saw a reversal of Rios, French-Canadian favorite fortunes as the troubled young lady suf- Stephanie Dubois, Olga Govortsova and fered a second breakdown. For the better the surprising Julie Ditty on the way to part of another year the pursuit of tennis the event’s final match. In the end she tournament play was put on hold. Again, lost to three-time Grand Slam champion not much is known, beyond her absence Lindsay Davenport 6-4, 6-1, who was in the tennis world. Over much time back playing in only her third tour event there was eventual improvement; instead since giving birth to her first child. of rushing back into her sport, Vakulenko Vakulenko, a 6-foot, 152-pound 24- first rehabilitated herself mentally, in no year-old, plays right with a two-handed hurry to play tennis. backhand. Heading into 2008, her career What ensued was a very long break earnings were approaching $600,000. from the physicality of the sport. She officially turned professional in Seemingly over her mental anguish, 1998, at the age of 15, and had amassed Vakulenko took a break from tennis. well over 200 singles wins in her 10-year Near the end of 2006 she had her break- career. through. She decided to turn the page and Vakulenko was born on July 10, 1983, to stop focusing on past events, to move in Yalta, Ukraine, and immediately was on and live for the future. Her past per- given a tennis racquet (mini version) as sonal problems were no longer obstacles one of her first toys. At a very young age preventing Vakulenko from reaching she was taught how to hold the raquet, future goals. how to swing and how to hit a tennis On the heels of this powerful internal- ball. ization came another life-and career- She was 7 when her parents separated, altering decision: a move to Paris, and a short time later her mother got France, to attend the renowned involved with another man. The man was Mouratoglou Academy in an effort to from Yugoslavia and the smitten mother maximize her professional potential. followed him to his native country. Little At the academy Vakulenko met Patrick 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13

Eurasian Affairs Daniel Fried also took utmost attention, and the price slide last Bush to meet... part. It takes two... week set off quite a few alarm bells (RBC, (Continued from page 3) The newspaper suggested that (Continued from page 2) March 18). The official economic assess- not until [March 26] that Bush decided to Washington and Moscow might be response to the “important and helpful” ments remain unanimously upbeat, and take him up on the offer. ‘This is a big preparing a major trade-off on missile proposals outlined in a letter from Finance Minister Alexei Kudrin even deal,’ said one surprised administration defense. President George W. Bush to President revised the government’s forecast for official. ‘This is a leap.’ ” The daily quoted Aleksandr Putin, who has only six weeks left as GDP growth from 6.5 percent to 7.0 per- Observers in both countries suggested Konovalov, who heads Russia’s Institute Russian commander-in-chief (RIA- cent (Gazeta.ru, March 22). He did not recently that Messrs. Bush and Putin of Strategic Estimates, as saying that Novosti, March 18). Instead of wasting mention inflation, however, and here the might like to reach an agreement on mis- such a deal is possible. He suggested that this time, Mr. Putin would certainly prefer forecast would have to be revised far more sile defense and some other strategic “a compromise may come down to the to achieve a breakthrough of sorts that significantly; Prime Minister Viktor issues before they both leave office. following. The Americans do not bring would transform his “legacy,” which is Zubkov saved President Putin the embar- In related developments, the Russian their killer missiles to Poland and agree now strongly colored by his antagonistic rassment of admitting that the attempts at daily Vremya Novostei reported on to joint control over the U.S.-Russian Munich speech in February 2007. He also controlling prices had demonstrably failed March 27 that a “Russian delegation integrated radar framework. Russia, in has to clear the path for Mr. Medvedev, (Vremya novostei, March 21). headed by Deputy Foreign Minister return, agrees to joint design, develop- who definitely does not need to assume a The irresponsible generosity of the Sergei Kislyak began the second round of ment and use of strategic and tactical confrontational stance vis-à-vis the electoral season is pushing consumer consultations” on missile defense and missile-defense systems, and integrates United States, but would have limited prices up and generating demands for other strategic issues in Washington on its southern radars into them.” clout to change the course. more “compensations,” while many March 26. On the U.S. side was an expert Mr. Konovalov added that a “merger Military experts, meanwhile, continue “socially oriented” plans are still awaiting group headed by Undersecretary of State of all elements of Russian and U.S. mis- to condemn the “threat” from the yet-to- execution. Economists are warning about for International Security and sile-defense systems into a single com- be-deployed U.S. anti-ballistic missile unhealthy financial trends and unrealistic Nonproliferation John Rood; Assistant plex will solve all problems and allay all system, while Gen. Yuri Baluyevsky, the public expectations, but it is highly unlike- Secretary of State for European and suspicions.” chief of the General Staff and the chief ly that, as prime minister, Mr. Putin would critic of Washington’s “aggressive inten- tighten economic policy by curtailing his tion,” is nowhere in sight (Nezavisimoe own promises (Vedomosti, March 21). Voennoe Obozrenie, Grani.ru, March 21). Herein lies the fundamental problem Mr. Putin’s diplomatic dance is not that undercuts both the feeble liberaliza- restricted to arms control, but also tion in the domestic “thaw” and the extends toward the Middle East, where ambivalent “détente” in relations with the many still see Russia as a “counterbal- United States and Europe. The legitimacy ance” to the United States. Eschewing of the thoroughly corrupt bureaucratic this role, Moscow made an important regime in Russia is now entirely depend- move earlier this month by voting for ent upon its ability to deliver tangible United Nations Security Council prosperity, and any change of economic Resolution 1803 that signified a symbolic fortunes – which is increasingly probable tightening of sanctions against Iran for – would plunge it into a crisis that could refusing to suspend its uranium enrich- easily become unmanageable. ment program. Last week, Foreign The two-headed power construct of Minister Lavrov traveled to the Middle “Putinism with Medvedev’s face” appears East seeking to play a useful role in the barely functional, even in the rare situa- peace process by restoring a modicum of tion when discontent could be pacified unity in the Palestinian authority through and loyalty could be secured by the sim- a dialogue between Hamas and Fatah ple method of disbursing money. It will (RIA-Novosti, March 21). inevitably be tested by a more normal It is possible that Russia’s more con- political environment of competing structive approach is based on a re-evalu- demands and limited means. ation of the U.S. predicament in Iraq five Whatever Mr. Medvedev’s moderate years after the invasion. Few in Moscow inclinations and Mr. Putin’s ideas about would subscribe to the notion that “the his legacy, the logic of the regime will surge is working,” yet oil production has drive it to put a new squeeze on domestic returned to pre-war levels (Gazeta, March “extremists” and to mobilize the “patriot- 19). ic” forces against external “enemies.” It The situation in world oil markets is is still possible to enjoy the “thaw” while certainly monitored in Moscow with it lasts.

ence to its own principles and proce- NATO members... dures. They urge that Georgia and (Continued from page 2) Ukraine should each be granted a MAP Socialists in the governments of co-sig- based upon their merits and performance, natory countries) conducts a Hungarian as well as taking their distinct situations into account. Thus, inviting the two mini-version of Ostpolitik with Russia. countries to participate in MAPs at the The document argues that it is in Bucharest summit would be essential to NATO’s interest and to the benefit of advancing the goal of creating a Europe Euro-Atlantic security and stability to whole and free (“Non-Paper on Granting integrate Georgia and Ukraine further. It Membership Action Plans to Georgia and recalls that each round of enlargement Ukraine at the NATO Summit in has, despite initial doubts, strengthened Bucharest,” March 19). the alliance. Furthermore, a negative For its part, Russia seeks to become a response to Georgia and Ukraine would part of NATO’s internal debate and generate doubts about NATO’s continua- NATO decisions through wedge-driving tion of its open door policy, would among NATO members. Moscow insinu- deprive Ukraine and Georgia of a chance ates that the Georgian and Ukrainian to choose their place in the European MAPs are essentially a U.S. project that security architecture, and would leave the would spoil European member-countries’ impression that outside factors were able relations with Russia. It tries to disparage to exert influence on the alliance’s deci- the pro-MAP countries as mere “new- sion-making. comers” to the alliance – a tactic Referring to their own experience with designed to foster a sense of grievance in MAPs, the signatory countries under- Paris and Berlin over the erosion of their score the value of this tool in promoting influence. And it depicts the 10 coun- internal reforms in the aspirant countries tries’ appeal as a Washington-directed and stimulating them to improve rela- move to divide Germany and France tions with neighboring countries. from other countries in the alliance, Furthermore, reforms in Georgia and according to Russian envoy Dmitry Ukraine at present compare favorably Rogozin’s reaction on instructions from with the situation in which current MAP Moscow (Interfax, March 20). countries were at the beginning of their The ultimate decision on Georgian and first MAP cycles. Ukrainian MAPs will almost certainly Consequently, the 10 countries argue, not be taken before the end of the NATO the MAP debate is testing NATO’s adher- summit in Bucharest. No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 21

became a showcase not only for my own ing). ture’s on solid ground, and is now deeply Interview... translations of Mykola Rudenko and Ivan At that conference I met not only embroiled in a vigorous conversation (Continued from page 13) Drach and Vasyl Barka but also those of those Ukrainian writers whose work I’d with the rest of Europe, and the world. translated, such as Drach and Rudenko What led you to found Agni – one of Michael Naydan and Virlana Tkacz and Now if only these writers were to find (on whose behalf I’d written letters for the most prominent literary journals Wanda Phipps, and later Jim Brasfield’s the support both in Ukraine and among Amnesty International – I bet Agni was in the United States? translation of Oleh Lysheha made its the Ukrainian émigré community appearance in our pages, along with the only underground newspaper in enjoyed by, say, German or Irish writers, Agni was founded as an underground Halyna Hryn’s translation of Oksana America to run an editorial about the well, then we’d have more to talk about. newspaper in Cranford, N.J. by a group Zabuzhko. Helsinki human rights group and Are you in touch with these writers? of grumpy, pissed-off and bewildered It was working with Agni that brought Rudenko), but also important émigré adolescents. My father loaned us $35 for Ed Hogan to the Ukrainian Research writers like Bohdan Boychuk, Bohdan I’ve stayed in close touch with a mimeograph machine and we began Institute at Harvard where he discovered Rubchak and Yuriy Tarnawsky. Zabuzhko, have intermittent contact with running off our little “samizdat” venture. a new literature that inspired him to pub- Moreover, I met the new generation of Andrukhovych, recently came to know It’s funny, my father was both strict and lish the ground-breaking anthology writers, and they were hugely exciting. Marjana Savka – I’ve no doubt the con- conservative, but he was a deep believer “From Three Worlds.” You could tell at once they were onto versations will continue – unless one of in freedom of speech, and so he support- By the way, there’s a nice irony in that something big. The 20-something us becomes a Trappist... ed the venture despite the trouble it got the journal now occupies the offices of Oksana Zabuzhko was brash, illuminat- More recently, in 2003, I attended a us into with school authorities. I will the defunct Partisan Review, once one of ing, even intimidating; Yurko conference in Kyiv on American litera- always be grateful to him for that, along America’s leading literary-political mag- Andrukhovych was quieter, more inward, ture organized by Dr. Tamara Denisova. but you could tell that they, along with with so many other things. azines and which was founded to serve as Walking into a classroom in Shevchenko Petro Midyanka and Sashko Irvanets and When I went to college I took the a mouthpiece for Trotskyites. Who State University and listening to young name of that newspaper and slapped it knows who’ll one day occupy Agni’s Viktor Neborak and others, were break- ing new ground in their culture. (some remarkably so!) scholars deliver- onto a literary journal I printed up offices? The world turns... ing papers – in English! –on Jamaica myself. From 1972 on, I took the journal You sensed the borders of the mother- How did you get involved with the Kincaid and William Styron and others with me wherever I went. In 1979 I left land would not contain them, their spirits writing scene in Ukraine? was deeply moving. They underscored the States to travel in Europe and the were already reaching out to places they’d never been. And now they’re nur- something that’s often overlooked when journal was kept alive by Sharon Dunn. In 1990 I received, out of the blue as it Ukrainian writers complain they’re Later I took it up again and stayed with it were, an invitation to attend a poetry turing a new generation of writers and artists to continue the conversation, this slighted in the West, and that is that cul- until 2001, when I left Boston University conference in Kyiv called “Zolotyi ture is a conversation, not a monologue. to teach at the University of Homin.” That was an axial year in time on the world stage. Massachusetts. By then I had fully tasted Ukraine’s history – I happened to be Who are your current favorites? What’s your next project? there when the statue of Lenin was torn the pleasures of editing. Along the way I’ve been moved and impressed by the My current project is a memoir, which down from in front of the Opera House the journal acquired a reputation – and it poetry of Marjana Savka, Serhii Zhadan includes an account of my time living at in Lviv. In fact, my first day in Lviv I provided an enormously useful lens for (through the Tkacz-Phipps translation) the Studite Monastery outside Rome ... viewing the contemporary literary world went to look at the Opera House, where and Vasyl Makhno. Recently I was blown and maybe a few words about Plast both here and abroad. my mother used to go when she was a away by the emotional force of Mariana [Ukrainian Scouting Organization], too. student at Ivan Franko University, before Agni was also remarkable for pub- Sadovska’s singing. It’s clear the cul- But maybe not. the war aborted so many lives, when sud- lishing so many Ukrainian writers. denly I saw hordes of people pouring into That’s right. My position as editor also the square. Before I knew it I was gave me a ready venue for publishing pressed flat against the door of the the- Tired of searching and surfing? Ukrainian literature in translation during ater, listening to, mirabile dictu, a speech a time when many American intellectuals by Father Andrij Chirovskyj, whom I had The Ukrainian Weekly: your one reliable source claimed no such thing existed. But it’s last seen at Plast camp some 20 years for all the news harder to argue with facts on the ground before (the rest of my Plast adventures than with words in thin air. So Agni belong in the memoir I’m currently writ- about Ukraine and Ukrainians. 22 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13

tions between Russia and the West at the The Ukrainian Institute of America Bush’s first visit... same time as the U.S. makes plans to (Continued from page 1) deploy a missile-defense system in the is pleased to announce a from Central and Eastern Europe, along Czech Republic and Poland. with Canada, expressed their support for Russian President-elect Dmitry both Ukraine’s and Georgia’s efforts to Medvedev warned on March 25 that Ukraine’s moves toward NATO were attain MAPs at the Bucharest summit. “extremely troublesome for the existing CONVERSATION In a March 19 joint statement to NATO structure of European security.” Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop President Yushchenko fired back by Scheffer, Bulgaria, Romania, the Czech with dismissing such claims as “myths,” Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and adding, “These are attempts to leave the Baltic states urged NATO leaders to Ukraine in a position in which it would George G. Grabowicz and Frank E. Sysyn offer Ukraine a MAP, arguing that such a be unable to protect its security against move would reinforce stability and secu- threats. This is not acceptable. We are a rity in Europe. sovereign nation.” Host: Alexander J. Motyl Two days earlier, President NATO enlargement to the east is seen Yushchenko and Prime Minister as an important legacy for the Bush Tymoshenko sent Mr. de Hoop Scheffer administration, which insists that the yet another letter stating that they expect alliance must not be pushed off course by Ukraine to be offered a NATO MAP and Russia’s intransigence. Friday, April 11, 2008, 7:00-9:00 pm expressing their commitment to NATO After their meeting in Kyiv, Presidents integration. Ukrainian Institute of America Bush and Yushchenko both plan to attend A number of Western European NATO NATO’s Bucharest summit in order to 2 East 79th Steet, New York City members, chief among them Germany make their pitch for Ukraine’s accession and France, have recently expressed to the MAP. reservations about granting Ukraine a Also expected at the summit is MAP. German Chancellor Angela Russia’s outgoing president, Vladimir Professor Grabowicz is Dmytro Cyzevs’kyi Professor of Ukrainian Merkel apparently does not wish to pro- Putin, who will meet with President Bush Literature at Harvard University and editor of Krytyka. voke Russia, fearing that a MAP for in Sochi, Russia, after the Bucharest Ukraine and Georgia would worsen rela- meeting. Dr. Sysyn is Director of the Peter Jacyk Centre for Ukrainian Research, Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies, University of tions against Belnaftakhim and some per- Alberta. U.S. Embassy in Belarus... sons “undermining democratic processes (Continued from page 3) and institutions in Belarus” do not violate Alexander J. Motyl is professor of political science at Rutgers strate that Belarus has taken a path of con- obligations that the United States took by signing the Helsinki Final Act. “Our University, Newark. frontation and isolation rather than a path of engagement and democratic reform. We actions are fully consistent with our OSCE obligations and commitments and are would like a different relationship with taken in support of the Belarusian peo- Belarus, but that can only happen when ple,” Mr. Scott said. “Commitments the government of Belarus shows commit- The conversation will be followed with a wine-and-cheese reception. undertaken in the human dimension of the ment to respect for human rights and fun- OSCE are matters of direct and legitimate damental freedoms,” the statement added. Admission: $10 general; $5 students. concern of all participating states and do Previously, on March 7, Miensk not belong exclusively to the internal recalled its ambassador to the United affairs of the state concerned.” States, Mikhail Khvastou, for consulta- Mr. Scott added that the United States tions and urged U.S. Ambassador Karen is “particularly baffled by the charge that Stewart to temporarily leave Belarus, our action is designed to further some ille- To The Weekly Contributors: which she did on March 12. gitimate interest or infringe upon the sov- U.S. State Department deputy ereignty of the government of Belarus.” We greatly appreciate the materials – feature articles, news stories, press clippings, letters spokesman Tom Casey said on March 17 to the editor, etc. – we receive from our readers. In order to facilitate preparation of The that Washington does not expect Miensk Russian PM cites U.S. pressure Ukrainian Weekly, we ask that the guidelines listed below be followed. to sever bilateral diplomatic relations and In related news, Russian Prime shut down the U.S. Embassy in Belarus. 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The deputy head of the U.S. mission to of positive steps on the part of the MAILING ADDRESS: The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, the Organization for Security and Belarusian government, including toward Parsippany, NJ 07054. Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Kyle gradually carrying out market-oriented E-MAIL SUBMISSIONS: Materials may be sent to The Weekly also via e-mail to the Scott, said in Vienna that the U.S. sanc- reforms,” he said. address [email protected]. Please call or send query via e-mail before electronically sending anything other than Word documents. This applies especially to photos, as they must be scanned according to our specifications in order to be properly reproduced in our newspaper. winning the event. She loves the royal Any questions? Call 973-292-9800. Ukraine’s Vakulenko... atmosphere and intense competition at (Continued from page 19) Wimbledon. is coached by her husband, Dimitriy Tatiana enjoys listening to all types of “Dima” Zadorozhniy. The two have been music, and she dabbles in playing the married almost two and a half years. guitar. Her favorite hobbies include Mission Statement Among her most memorable tennis bowling, fishing and dancing. Her moments are the aforementioned 2005 favorite city in the world, outside of The Ukrainian National Association exists: doubles team success with Hanley and hometown Kharkiv, is Sydney, Australia. ■ to promote the principles of fraternalism; her juniors exploits at Wimbledon in She got as far as the second round in this ■ to preserve the Ukrainian, Ukrainian American and 2000. She reached the Wimbledon junior year’s Australian Open. Her most recent Ukrainian Canadian heritage and culture; and girls’ singles, then went even further in published ranking in singles was No. 93 the juniors doubles final that same year, in the world. ■ to provide quality financial services and products to its members. As a fraternal insurance society, the Ukrainian National Association reinvests Need a back issue? its earnings for the benefit of its members and the Ukrainian community. If you’d like to obtain a back issue of The Ukrainian Weekly, send $2 per copy (first-class postage included) to: Administration, The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. No. 13 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 23 OUT AND ABOUT

April 6 Concert, Roma Pryma Bohachevsky New April 13 Concert, featuring Taras Chubai, New York York School of Ukrainian Dance, St. George Philadelphia Ukrainian League of Philadelphia, Ukrainian Catholic Church, 718-435-0190 [email protected]

April 6 Easter bazaar, Levada Choir, St. Nicholas April 13 Concert of classical works, featuring Toronto Ukrainian Catholic Church, 905-212-9708 Chicago Natalya Shkoda, Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, uima-chicago.org April 7 Lecture by Steven Seegel, “Cartography and Cambridge, MA Ukrainian Geopolitics: The Krawciw April 14 Lecture by Simone Attillo Bellezza, “The Ucrainica Map Collection and the European Cambridge, MA National Question and Agrarian Reform in Mapping of Ukraine,” Harvard University, Nazi-Occupied Ukraine: The Case of 617-495-4053 Generalbezirk Dnjepropetrowsk, 1941-1944,” 617-495-4053 April 8 Lecture by Taras Chubai, “Svitlo and Washington Spovid – Light and Confession,” Ronald April 14 Lecture by Magdalena Dembirska, “History, Reagan Building and International Washington Diversity and State Community-Building – Trade Center, 202-691-4000 Integrating Collective Memories in Poland and Ukraine,” Ronald Reagan Building and April 10 Holodomor Conference, “The Ukrainian International Trade Center, 202-691-4000 Newark, NJ Famine-Genocide: Reflections after 75 Years,” Rutgers University – Newark, April 14 Lecture by Tars Kuzio, “Ukraine Since the 973-353-1260 or 973-353-5345 or Toronto 2007 Elections: Political Machines, Gender http://cghr.newark.rutgers.edu/ Issues, Squabbling Hetmans and Political Hobbits,” St. Vladimir Institute, April 10 Book reading by Askold Melnyczuk, “The 416-923-3318 New York House of Widows,” KGB Bar, 212-505-3360

April 11 Concert, featuring Oleh Skrypka, Whippany, NJ Chornomorska Sitch, Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey, Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to [email protected] events advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion April 11-12 Film screening, “Folk!” by Roxy Toporowych of the editors and as space allows; photos will be considered. Please note: Cleveland, OH and Jeremy McCarter, Ukrainian Museum- items will be printed a maximum of two times each. Please send e-mail to Archives, 216-781-4329 [email protected].

April 12 “An Evening of Music – Prairie Style,” Winnipeg, MB Garrick Concert Center, 204-452-4041 or 204-453-4041

April 13 Concert, featuring violinist Solomiya Alexandria, VA Soroka, The Washington Group Cultural Fund, The Lyceum, 301-229-2615 or 703-838-4994

April 13 Film screening, “Orange Revolution” by Arlington, VA Steve York, The Rosslyn Spectrum, 703-241-1817 or 703-276-6701

PREVIEW OF EVENTS (Continued from page 24) the music circuit in the southwest. She has gested donation of $20; free for students. performed extensively in Ukraine, Latvia, Seating is unreserved. For event informa- Lithuania, the Czech Republic and the tion call 301-229-2615. United States. Dr. Shkoda has won numer- ous awards in the areas of performance, CHICAGO: The Ukrainian Institute of composition and musical criticism. She Modern Art will host pianist Natalya will perform works by Villa-Lobos, Shkoda in recital in the newly renovated Scarlatti and Brahms, as well as Ukrainian galleries of the institute. A native of composer Viktor Kosenko’s “Etudes in the Kharkiv, Ukraine, Dr. Shkoda is one of the Form of Old Dances.” Tickets are $15. For most dynamic young artists appearing on further information call the UIMA, 773- 227-5522, or e-mail uima-chicago.org.

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Any questions? Call The Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext. 3049. 24 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 2008 No. 13

PREVIEW OF EVENTS Soyuzivka’s Datebook Saturday, April 5 exhibit “Visualizing Ukraine: A Western Cartographic Perspective,” with a cata- NEW YORK: The Shevchenko Scientific May 10 – Private evening affair June 30 - July 4 – Exploration Day logue presentation and reception, held in Society invites all to a round table on the Camp session 2 the Winsor Map Room of Pusey Library at topic “Ukrainian Humanities: What Has May 11 – Mother’s Day brunch 5:30-7 p.m. The Barker Center is located July 10 - 13 – Soyuzivka Cultural Been the Contribution of the Diaspora?” at 12 Quincy St., Cambridge, MA 02138; Participating in the discussion will be: Drs. May 24 – Memorial Day weekend Festival Weekend and the Pusey Library is located in Larissa Onyshkevych, Bohdan Rubchak, Harvard Yard. For more information con- Official Soyuzivka Reopening Frank Sysyn, Volodymyr Morenets and Kino-Q film Festival July 13 -18 – Heritage Camp tact HURI at 617-495-4053 or log on to Martha Bohachevsky-Chomiak. The pro- http://www.huri.harvard.edu/calendar.htm. Friday – Matthew Dubas session 1 gram will take place at the society’s build- Saturday – Zabava with Hrim ing, 63 Fourth Ave. (between Ninth and Sunday, April 13 Sunday – music by Walter July 13 - 19 – Discovery / Cultural 10th streets) at 5 p.m. For additional infor- ALEXANDRIA, Va.: The Washington Mosiurak and friend Camp mation call 212-254-5130. Group Cultural Fund Sunday Music Monday, April 7 Series, under the patronage of the May 31 – New Ukrainian Wave July 20 - 25 – Heritage Camp Embassy of Ukraine, resumes its 2008 Convention session 2 CAMBRIDGE, Mass.: The Harvard season with “Musical Themes and Dreams Ukrainian Research Institute is pleased to from Eastern Europe.” Renowned violinist June 2 - 5 – Stamford Diocese July 20 - 26 – Sitch Sports Camp announce a special lecture and exhibit Solomia Soroka will explore Eastern opening of the Bohdan and Neonila clergy retreat days session 1 European rhythms, traditions and sounds Krawciw Ucrainica Map Collection. The through works by Hubay, Bartok, Kreisler, lecture, “Cartography and Ukrainian Skoryk and her newest discovery, June 7 – Wedding July 20 - August 2 – Roma Pryma Geopolitics: The Krawciw Ucrainica Map Hungarian American-born composer Bohachevsky Dance Camp session Collection and the European Mapping of Arthur Hartmann. The concert will be held June 8 - 13 – Seniors’ Week 1; recital Saturday, August 2 Ukraine,” will be given by Steven Seegel, at The Lyceum, 201 South Washington St., assistant professor, department of history, at 3 p.m., with a reception immediately June 14 – Wedding July 27 – August 2 – Sitch Sports Worcester State College, and held in the following the performance. There is a sug- Camp session 2 Thompson Room (Room 110) of Barker June 15 – Father’s Day luncheon Center at 4-5:30 p.m. The lecture will be (Continued on page 23) and cultural program July 27 - 31 – Adoptive Ukrainian followed by the official opening of the Children and Parents Heritage June 21 – Wedding Camp session co-sponsored by PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES: Ukrainian Embassy June 22 - 29 – Tabir Ptashat session 1 Preview of Events is a listing of Ukrainian community events open to the public. August 3 – 16 – Roma Pryma It is a service provided at minimal cost ($20 per submission) by The Ukrainian June 23 - 27 – Exploration Day Bohachevsky Dance Camp session 2 Weekly to the Ukrainian community. Camp session 1 August 9 – Miss Soyuzivka To have an event listed in Preview of Events please send information, in English, June 22 - July 3 – Tennis Camp Weekend and traditional events written in Preview format, i.e., in a brief paragraph that includes the date, place, type of event, sponsor, admission, full names of persons and/or organizations involved, and a phone number to be published for readers who may require addi- June 28 - 29 – USCAK Tennis August 16 – Roma Pryma tional information. Items should be no more than 100 words long. Tournament Bohachevsky Dance Camp session 2 recital Information should be sent to: Preview of Events, The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 June 29 - July 12 – Roma Pryma Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054; fax, 973-644-9510; e-mail, Bohachevsky Dance Workshop August 17 - 23 – Joseph’s School of [email protected]. Dance (Ballroom Dance Camp) June 29 - July 6 – Tabir Ptashat session 2 August 25 – September 1 – Labor Day Week and traditional events

To book a room or event call: (845) 626-5641, ext. 140 216 Foordmore Road P.O. Box 529 Kerhonkson, NY 12446 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.Soyuzivka.com

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