ThehePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXXVI No. 1 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 $2.00 Ukrainian activist lawyer Dismantling of oligarchic economy stabbed to death in Kyiv main goal for 2018, say experts RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service by Mark Raczkiewycz gram for Ukraine, weren’t implemented. At issue is the establishment of an inde- KYIV – Ukraine’s foreign affairs minister KYIV – Ukraine can expect to see its pendent anti-corruption court – a body has called the killing of an activist attorney economy grow only modestly over the pre- that could administer justice in graft cases. in Kyiv “a challenge to the state” as the vious year by 2.9 percent, or to $113 bil- That’s something the existing judicial authorities, facing public outrage, opened lion, if declared, albeit muted, reforms con- branch historically has failed to do, includ- a murder investigation into the death of tinue, say three Kyiv-based policy centers ing after the 2014 Euromaidan popular Iryna Nozdrovska. and an economist in Washington. uprising that saw the Moscow-backed for- The Kyiv regional prosecutor’s office Despite Russia’s unprovoked war that mer President Viktor Yanukovych abandon and the National Police executive said on Kyiv has managed to contain, the country’s office and leave the state treasury dry and January 2 that they are closely monitoring biggest internal national security threat 100 civilian deaths in his wake. the investigation into what they called a remains corruption from within, they say. It Moscow illegally annexed Crimea in “murder” the day after Ms. Nozdrovska’s includes existing quasi-monopolies that the March of that year and invaded the two body was found floating in a river in Kyiv’s oligarch-economic machine has managed easternmost regions of Donetsk and Vyshhorod district. to preserve, and a disjointed judicial sys- Luhansk, severing 7 percent of Ukraine’s The lawyer was reported missing on tem that enables the takeover of businesses sovereign territory. December 29, 2017, after she helped to and land from their rightful owners, “Businessmen often complained that the make sure the man convicted of causing domestic or foreign. Prosecutor General’s Office and the Security If the current model for running the the death of her sister was not released Service of Ukraine (SBU) engage in aggres- country is kept in place for 2018 – or what sive corporate raiding,” added Mr. Aslund. from prison. The high-profile case was Iryna Nozdrovska in a photo from economists refer to as the lack of “structur- Indeed, the two biggest pro-business seen as a test of the Ukrainian justice sys- Facebook. al reform” – then the country will continue advocacy groups in Ukraine – the American tem’s ability to fairly prosecute people sible must be brought to justice.” to fall short of its much-touted potential. Chamber of Commerce and European with links to people in power. The demonstrators in Kyiv on January 2 “Domestic and foreign investors lost their Business Association – also complain of the Foreign Affairs Minister Pavlo Klimkin demanded that the murder investigation rising confidence in Ukraine,” Swedish econ- persistent practice of “raiding.” underscored the national significance of be conducted by Kyiv city investigators, omist Anders Aslund, a senior fellow at the When it comes to battling bribery and Ms. Nozdrovska’s death on January 2, call- saying they did not trust regional law Washington-based Atlantic Council, said on extortion, the newly created National Anti- ing it “a challenge to the state.” enforcement officers. They also demanded January 2, referring to the dashed hopes of Corruption Bureau has only about 800 This is “a test of our society’s ability to the resignation of Internal Affairs Minister the post-Euromaidan government. employees in comparison to the 15,000 protect female activists and to ensure jus- Arsen Avakov. “Investors began to realize that the complex that the static Prosecutor General’s Office tice as a whole,” Mr. Klimkin said in com- Regional police chief Dmytro Tsenov judicial reform that was under way would has under the leadership of Yurii Lutsenko, ments on Twitter on January 2 that came met with the protesters in front of the not cleanse the judicial system, and thus, reli- who never attended law school. as the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv expressed building of the Kyiv regional police head- able property rights would not materialize.” Thus, amid a threefold drop in the “shock” over the killing and hundreds of quarters and told them that a special team It’s also partially why Ukraine got only $1 national currency’s value to the U.S. dollar people rallied in Kyiv demanding a thor- of experts was set up to investigate Ms. billion of the envisioned $4 billion in 2017 since 2014, the nation is “angry,” said Iryna ough investigation. Nozdrovska’s death. from the Washington-based International Bekeshkina, a director of the Ilko Kucheriv In a blunt message on Twitter, the U.S. The lawyer was the target of threats for Monetary Fund’s economic bailout pro- Democratic Initiatives think tank. Embassy in Kyiv said it was “shocked and her efforts in the case of Dmytro gram. Significant “benchmarks” of the IMF, “That’s why the successive realization of saddened by the death of activist Iryna as the international bank refers to the con- the variant that ‘let it be what it will be,’ is #Nozdrovska” and said that “those respon- (Continued on page 6) ditions tied to the overall $17.5 billion pro- hardly possible this year,” she said in a col- umn written on the group’s website on December 31, 2017. Ms. Bekeshkina’s “baseline” scenario Anne Applebaum receives honorary doctorate at NaUKMA which underlines current trends foresees that Ukraine will “march in place” and main- Kyiv Mohyla Foundation tain the status quo in 2018. The reason: the presidential and parliamentary election KYIV – Anne Applebaum, journalist, historian and campaigns will start later this year, with both Pulitzer Prize-winning author, received an honorary taking place no later than March 31, 2019. doctorate at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla She noted that the oligarchic-economic Academy (known by the acronym NaUKMA) during machine lost its “main beneficiaries” after a ceremony on December 16, 2017, in a packed uni- the Euromaidan, yet has “come to its sens- versity auditorium filled by over 750 students. es” and has “reanimated” old schemes. Many of the students asked excellent questions “And as the situation on the military after Ms. Applebaum’s lecture based on her book, front has stabilized, it became increasingly “Red Famine: Stalin’s War on Ukraine” about the clear that the number one enemy was cor- genocidal Holodomor of 1932-1933. ruption,” she continued. Ms. Applebaum’s visit to Ukraine included a Although the Donbas war has been stat- NaUKMA fund-raising event at the Kyiv Art Arsenal, ic amid two truces that have never taken a press conference, a book presentation, and meet- hold between Kyiv and Moscow, 192 ings with media and civil society reformers, as well Ukrainian members of the armed forces died as members of the executive and legislative branch- last year, according to the Defense Ministry. es of the Ukrainian government. The author also Kyiv Mohyla Foundation That figure doesn’t include servicemen in had an extensive private meeting with Ukraine’s Dr. Andriy Meleshevych, president of the National University of Kyiv- the Security Service of Ukraine, the Border President Petro Poroshenko. Mohyla Academy, bestows an honorary doctorate on Anne Applebaum. (Continued on page 13) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 No. 1

ANALYSIS

Crimean peninsula as playground Mattis on weapons for Ukraine and Mr. Poroshenko discussed the danger- ous situation in the Donbas, and particular U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said attention was paid to Russia’s decision to for Russian-Ukrainian spy war that the U.S. role in Ukraine is not changing leave the Joint Center for Coordination and and Russia has no cause for concern about a order to disrupt the tourist season on the Control. The Presidential Administration by Ridvan Bari Urcosta U.S. decision last week to supply new weap- peninsula. According to the Federal also reported that further steps were coor- Eurasia Daily Monitor ons to Kyiv. “As long as no one wants to Security Service, one FSB agent and a sol- dinated to advance the initiative of deploy- invade Ukraine, hopefully it won’t have any A Russian court in occupied Sevastopol dier died in the operation to capture the ing a U.N. peacekeeping mission through- big impact. They’re defensive weapons,” Mr. back on November 16, 2017, sentenced alleged saboteurs and several Ukrainians out the occupied Donbas area, including Mattis said on December 29, 2017, in his Ukrainian former military expert Dmitry were arrested and were undergoing inter- the uncontrolled part of the Ukrainian- first remarks since the U.S. State Shtyblykov to five years imprisonment in a rogation. Ukrainian officials denied all such Russian state border. Minister Freeland Department announced approval of strict penal colony (Regnum, November allegations and accused the Kremlin of “enhanced defensive capabilities” for also informed the Ukrainian president 16). Mr. Shtyblykov worked at the think spreading disinformation (RBC, August 8, Ukraine on December 22. Moscow has about the close coordination of approaches tank Nomos, which, prior to the illegal 2016). with the United States, in particular during annexation of Crimea in 2014, operated in denounced the move, saying it “crossed a Several incidents also came to light in line” and was “clearly pushing [Ukraine] a meeting held with U.S. Secretary of State Sevastopol. 2017. towards new bloodshed.” The United States Rex Tillerson on December 19, 2017. It was A year earlier, on November 9, 2016, he In February 2017, the FSB alleged a has not specified what new weapons it will also agreed to continue joint efforts to free was apprehended in that Black Sea port “diversionist” from the Crimean Tatar civil provide to Ukraine, but U.S. media reports the Ukrainian hostages in the Donbas and city, together with two other suspects – society group Asker tried to enter Crimea have said they could include Javelin anti- political prisoners illegally detained in Vladimir Dudtko and Alexey Bessarabov from the mainland (Krymr.com, February tank missiles, which Ukraine has urged the Russia and occupied Crimea. Mr. (the latter had also worked at Nomos) 21, 2017). Whereas, on June 30, two United States to supply. Mr. Mattis said pro- Poroshenko congratulated Canada on its (Krymr.com, November 10, 2016). All three Russian border guards were caught by the viding new weapons for Ukraine does not forthcoming chairmanship of the Group of men are former Ukrainian officers. Ukrainians in Kherson region and were signal any plan to expand the U.S. presence Seven and expressed confidence that the According to the Russian Federal Security imprisoned (Interfax, July 11, 2017). there, despite speculation that the move will issue of Ukraine would be among the prior- Service (FSB), these “subversive and terror- Strikingly, on October 3, two Ukrainian bor- force the United States to get more deeply ities on its agenda. (Ukrainian Canadian ist groups” of the Ukrainian Intelligence der guards were arrested on Russian terri- involved in the conflict with Russia-backed Congress Daily Briefing) Service “were aiming to commit acts of sab- tory near Ukraine’s Sumy region (north- separatists in eastern Ukraine that has Hundreds of captives exchanged otage on the military infrastructure facili- west of Kharkiv). Kyiv’s official position is killed more than 10,300 people since it ties and livelihood of the Crimean peninsu- that those border guards were abducted by broke out in 2014. “I don’t see an evolving European leaders hailed a long-awaited la” (Fsb.ru, November 10, 2016). Russia in order to exchange them for the U.S military role in Ukraine,” he said. “Right exchange of prisoners between Kyiv and The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense two Russian border guards arrested by now, we have some trainers there helping to Russia-backed separatists that enabled denied these allegations, labeling the Ukraine in Kherson (Racurs.ua, October 25, train their army to NATO standards, and hundreds of former captives to return to Russian charges “fake-omania.” The 2017). that has a lot to do with making certain it their homes for the New Year holiday. In Defense Ministry in Kyiv further asserted On August 12, 2017, Genadiy Lime­ serves the needs of the Ukrainian people, in the biggest exchange of prisoners since the that the Russian authorities were using a shenko, identified as an agent of the SBU, the way democracies’ armies do.” The secre- war in eastern Ukraine began in 2014, offi- database of former Ukrainian officers to was arrested by the FSB in Crimea and tary of defense said the number of U.S. mili- cials said 238 “separatists” held by the claim they were detaining spies and active- accused of trying to damage power lines in tary trainers in Ukraine has not changed in Ukrainian government were handed over duty Ukrainian military personnel on the the Sudak-Novy Svet area as well as pur- the last six months. “So the U.S. military role to separatist-controlled areas of the Crimean peninsula (Ukrinform.ua, portedly planning to start forest fires near- remains the same,” he said. (RFE/RL, based Luhansk and Donetsk regions on December November 24, 2017). by (TASS, August 15, 2017). That same on reporting by AP and TASS) 27, 2017, while 74 captured Ukrainian sol- The Russian-Ukrainian spy war in and month, an extraordinary case was reported Freeland meets with Poroshenko diers and civilians were released by the around Crimea dates all the way back to the in Sevastopol, where the local FSB head- separatists into government hands. initial annexation. Both sides have repeat- quarters (formerly housing the SBU) was Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs German Chancellor Angela Merkel and edly accused each other of conducting such besieged by Russian Special Forces and the Chrystia Freeland met with Ukraine’s French President Emmanuel Macron wel- provocative acts; but because of the secrecy National Guard. The incident was apparent- President Petro Poroshenko in Kyiv on comed the exchange as an “important and sensitivity surrounding intelligence ly not a training exercise (Sevastopol.su, December 21. The Presidential humanitarian gesture before the New Year operations, it is particularly difficult for August 14, 2017). Administration reported that Mr. Poroshenko and Orthodox Christmas.” The European independent analysts to judge the veracity In October 2017, another example sur- thanked Canada for the support in the leaders and the Organization for Security of any individual incident. Official allega- faced of apparent attempts by Ukraine to implementation of reforms and countering and Cooperation in Europe, which super- tions and counterclaims by the authorities infiltrate the Russian military stationed in Russian aggression. “Vivid evidence of such vised the exchange, urged the two sides to are often all one can go by. Moreover, the Crimea. Reportedly, two former Ukrainian assistance is the recent decision of Ottawa use momentum from the swap to work reported cases appear in the media sporad- nationals who decided to stay in Crimea to include Ukraine in the list of countries to toward a broader peace in the region. The ically and tend to be analyzed only in terms after the annexation and took Russian citi- which it is allowed to supply arms,” an of the human rights situation in Crimea. zenship were accused of spying for Kyiv administration release noted. Ms. Freeland (Continued on page 12) Nevertheless, it is possible to provide at and collecting information on the Black Sea least a partial list of the episodes reported Fleet (Novayagazeta.ru, October 2, 2017). on in the media over the past few years and Finally, on October 31, several natural gas try to draw some conclusions about the pipeline explosions occurred near the he krainian eekly FOUNDED 1933 ongoing intelligence and counter-intelli- coastal town of Alushta, and a number of T U W gence operations in Crimea. power lines were destroyed. The FSB has An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., Possibly the first reported case dates not excluded sabotage as the cause (Gazeta. a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. back to May 2014, when the FSB appre- ru, November 1, 2017). Interestingly, in Yearly subscription rate: $90; for UNA members — $80. hended four Ukrainians alleged to be mem- September 2016, Russia had established Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. bers of the far-right group Right Sector – anti-sabotage units in the 47thTerritorial (ISSN — 0273-9348) Oleh Sentsov, Gennadiy Afanasyev, Oleksiy Defense Division, based out of Sevastopol Chirniy and Oleksander Kolchenko. They The Weekly: UNA: (Voyennoye.rf, September 15, 2016). Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 were convicted of attempting to commit Based on these cases, Russian authori- “acts of sabotage and terrorism” (Fsb.ru, ties see a danger to Crimea coming from Postmaster, send address changes to: May 30, 2014), but Kyiv considers them various sabotage and diversionary groups, The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz political prisoners (Mfa.gov.ua, November including members of the Ukrainian mili- 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas 17, 2017). tary, representatives of Crimean Tatar orga- P.O. Box 280 A year later, in two minor incidents, the nizations, as well as members of Hizb ut- Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] FSB captured an agent of the Security Tahrir both in and outside of Crimea, Service of Ukraine (known as the SBU) and Ukrainians who still maintain their national The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com accused him of carrying out reconnaissance identity in occupied Crimea, not to mention of the Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol (RIA individuals who oppose or disapprove of The Ukrainian Weekly, January 7, 2018, No. 1, Vol. LXXXVI Novosti, May 19, 2015). Additionally, a mem- the official political line. Copyright © 2018 The Ukrainian Weekly ber of the Ukrainian Azov volunteer battal- The types of operations Moscow sees ion was arrested in Crimea for allegedly car- itself guarding against vary broadly. They rying out attacks on a mosque and planning include attempts to undermine the security ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA to blow up a local prosecutor’s office in of the Kerch bridge and Kerch Strait; bids to Simferopol (News.sevas.com, May 1, 2015). breach the security of military facilities in Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 and advertising manager fax: (973) 644-9510 In mid-2016, Russian authorities Crimea; as well as attempts to cross the e-mail: [email protected] claimed a Ukrainian “sabotage group” had Crimean border from the Ukrainian main- Subscription Department (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 tried to infiltrate Crimea and organize e-mail: [email protected] provocations and even terrorist attacks in (Continued on page 19) No. 1 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 3 U.S. ambassador visits children’s rehab center in Lviv by Oksana Lasiychuk LVIV – U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch visited the Dzherelo Children’s Rehabilitation Center in Lviv on November 23, 2017. She met with the children and young people of the center during a tour of the facility. Dzherelo has been serving children with disabilities in the Lviv Region since 1993. It serves 170 children daily and is the only center of its kind in Ukraine. According to Peace Corps Volunteer Christie Taylor, the ambassador “seemed to be impressed by our participants and staff. She spoke with Early Intervention and a few physical therapists while seeing what occurs in our pro- gram.” As Dzherelo posted on its Facebook page, “the children were glad to shake hands.” The ambassador saw a number of the departments at the center, including the younger

Bohdan Yemets U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch visits young people with disabilities at the Dzherelo Children’s Rehabiliation Center in Lviv. groups and the workshops for older children and met ambulatory and also non-ambulatory children. On Giving Tuesday (November 28), Dzherelo started a month-long fund-raising campaign through the Global Giving website. The project closed December 31, 2017. Dzherelo sought support for its hydrotherapy pool and program. This will benefit 50 children with cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and autism who attend daily programs at Dzherelo. More information about Dzherelo is available on the center’s website: http://www.dzherelocentre.org.ua/

NEWS ANALYSIS RFE/RL reporters faced ‘relentless pressure’ in 2017

RFE/RL officials and persons in plainclothes while on assignment. RFE/RL journalists in 2017. The implications for RFE/RL Reporters with Schemes, RFE/RL’s investigative team in journalists of Russia’s December 5, 2017, designation of WASHINGTON – Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty Ukraine, have been roughed up on numerous occasions RFE/RL and several affiliated news services as “foreign (RFE/RL) journalists have been targeted in no fewer than and their equipment has been confiscated or broken. In agents” remain unclear. 38 incidents in at least 12 of the countries they cover in Pakistan, correspondents have been vilified, threatened, * * * 2017, in what the company has called “relentless pressure” and kidnapped by militant groups, state security agencies RFE/RL relies on its networks of local reporters to pro- on its journalistic mission. and criminal gangs. vide accurate news and information to 26 million people in “We report on local politics, social issues, corruption, Correspondents have been harassed and threatened 25 languages and 23 countries where media freedom is wars and extremist movements in places where both gov- with the loss of accreditation in connection with their restricted, or where a professional press has not fully ernments and non-state actors would prefer to control the reporting in Belarus, Russia’s Tatarstan region and developed. Its videos have been viewed over 1 billion times media,” said RFE/RL President Thomas Kent. “Our report- Tajikistan. Family members of reporters working for on Facebook and YouTube in 2017. RFE/RL is an editorial- ers take enormous risks because they believe their work Current Time TV and RFE/RL’s Iran, Uzbek, Turkmen, ly independent media company funded by a grant from the matters and that free societies need a free press.” Azerbaijani and Russian services have been threatened. U.S. Congress through the Broadcasting Board of The number of incidents represents an increase over Online attacks have further threatened the security of Governors. previous years and coincides with a recent report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) that says the record number of journalists jailed worldwide this year is indica- tive of “a global crisis in freedom of the press.” RFE/RL UWC calls on international officials reporters work in many of the countries where CPJ docu- mented imprisoned journalists, including Azerbaijan, Iran, to boycott FIFA World Cup in Russia Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Ukraine, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan. UWC to continue waging its aggressor actions,” noted the Among the most serious cases, RFE/RL contributor chair of the UWC International Sport Committee, Mykola Semena is serving a two-and-a-half-year suspend- TORONTO – The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) is Laryssa Barabash Temple. ed sentence following a conviction on “separatism” charges calling upon all high-ranking officials of governments “The Ukrainian World Congress calls upon its in Russia-annexed Crimea. On December 18, 2017, the and international organizations to boycott the games of 53-country network to actively urge high-ranking offi- peninsula’s Supreme Court let stand Mr. Semena’s convic- the 21st World Cup of the Fédération Internationale de cials of governments of their countries of residence and tion and sentence, but reduced a ban on his “public activi- Football Association (FIFA) scheduled to be played in the international organizations to refrain from attending ties” from three years to two. Russian Federation from June 14 to July 15, 2018. FIFA World Cup games in the Russian Federation in 2018 Blogger Stanislav Aseyev is being held virtually incom- In a December 20, 2017, release, the UWC said it is and thereby demonstrate solidarity with the Ukrainian municado by Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. unacceptable for high-ranking officials of governments people that continue to defend the territorial integrity of Contributor Saparmamed Nepeskuliev is serving the last and international organizations to attend any FIFA Ukraine and stop the advance of Russian aggression to year of a three-year sentence in Turkmenistan. Aziz World Cup soccer games in the Russian Federation when the West,” stated UWC President Eugene Czolij. Yusupov, the brother of an RFE/RL journalist based in it remains an aggressor state that illegally occupies * * * Prague, is serving a five-year sentence in Uzbekistan. Crimea and for the fourth year brutally ignores the inter- The Ukrainian World Congress is the international “Our colleagues and family members should be national order, persistently waging its armed activities in coordinating body for Ukrainian communities in the dias- released immediately and allowed to do their work,” said eastern Ukraine and grossly violating the human rights pora representing the interests of over 20 million Mr. Kent, adding that international rights groups have con- of Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars. Ukrainians. The UWC has a network of member organiza- demned each of the cases as politically motivated. “Attendance in any game of this FIFA World Cup by tions and ties with Ukrainians in 53 countries. Founded In most of the incidents documented in 2017, RFE/RL high-ranking officials of governments and international in 1967, the UWC was recognized in 2003 by the United journalists have been summoned or detained by authori- organizations will only serve to strengthen the imperial- Nations Economic and Social Council as a non-govern- ties for questioning, or faced warnings by law enforcement ist ambitions of the Russian Federation and encourage it mental organization with special consultative status. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 No. 1

A first in California: symposium commemorates the Holodomor

by Victoria Malko FRESNO, Calif. – Quoting the Book of Matthew, the Rev. Gregory Zubacz of the Ukrainian Catholic Mission Church in Fresno, Calif., read the following beatitude: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.” First in Ukrainian, then in English, the Rev. Zubacz stated, “Our hunger and thirst for the truth is why we have come together today, to demonstrate that the truth can never remain hidden, and to tell our story to the world. And by gathering here and doing so, we are plowing a field of justice in the world so that the seeds of true peace may grow for future generations to be Ven Saranin nourished with. Where once was sown a Participants of the symposium on the Holodomor at California State University, Fresno. bitter harvest may we now sow the seeds Laysa Soriano, a freshman, majoring in “Hunger for Truth: Illuminating the Hidden presented his talk on “Regional Dynamics of hope so that those who hunger and mass communication and journalism at History of the Holodomor, 1932-1933.” of Holodomor Losses in Ukraine and thirst for righteousness may be satisfied.” California State University, Fresno, admit- On Thursday, October 5, 2017, 70 partic- Comparative Analysis with 1932-1934 With his homily on the importance of ted that she was not prepared to witness ipants gathered for an opening ceremony; Famine Losses in Russia.” Using data from truth the Rev. Zubacz set the tone for the such powerful poetry. “Just like with the half of them were students from two uni- censuses, his team of demographers put first symposium on the Holodomor to be Ukrainian songs, it was both beautiful and versities, Fresno State and Fresno Pacific, the number of victims at 3.9 million direct held in California. powerful. I felt chills go down my spine as and two colleges, Fresno City College and deaths due to starvation. Ukrainians as a community share a com- he recited the poem. I was able to fully Clovis Community College. His sharpest critic, Prof. Volodymyr mon fate – the historical trauma of the grasp the famine not just from a scholarly, The next day, the screening of the first Serhiychuk, a historian from Taras Holodomor – the genocidal Famine of educational perspective, but on a more per- English-language motion picture “Bitter Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, 1932-1933. To heal this trauma, they sing sonal level,” said Ms. Soriano. Harvest” and discussion with the film who flew all the way from Ukraine to join songs and tell stories. At the symposium For over 80 years the genocidal famine director and producer George Mendeluk the debate with his North American col- opening, Ola Herasymenko-Oliynyk sang was hardly spoken or written about inside attracted nearly 300 members of the com- leagues, questioned the validity of the data two epic songs “Duma about the Year or outside Ukraine. The daughter of munity. Prior to the film screening, the film from the two Soviet censuses. In his lecture, 1933” and “Oh, Sorrow, Sorrow throughout Holodomor survivors, Luda Wussek, presi- director also met with a class of students “Holodomor of 1932-1933 as Ukrainian Ukraine,” accompanying herself on the ban- dent of Branch 111 of the Ukrainian majoring in mass communication and jour- Genocide: Legal Definition, the Number of dura. George Wyhinny gave a dramatic National Women’s League of America, has nalism at Fresno State. Among the audience Victims,” Prof. Serhiychuk said that the reading in English and Ukrainian of a poem made it her life’s mission to keep the mem- were members of the Ukrainian communi- number of victims could be at least 7 mil- by Dmytro Pavlychko, which Mr. Wyhinny ory of the tragedy alive and to pass it on to ties from Sacramento, San Francisco and lion, if not more, based on newly unearthed himself translated, “Requiem for Those succeeding generations. Thus, the UNWLA Los Angeles. archival documents. The debates were Who Died of Hunger in 1921-1922, 1932- partnered with the Department of History Ukraine’s consul in San Francisco, quite heated and continued even after the 1933, 1946-1947.” Some of the listeners at California State University, Fresno, to Oleksander Krotenko, welcomed everyone closing of the sessions. could not restrain their tears. organize the symposium under the theme to the symposium and relayed the The highlight of the symposium was a Ukrainian government’s best wishes. Dr. keynote address, “Remembering the Oleh Weres spoke about his work with the Holodomor: Lemkin’s Words and Other OBITUARY U.S. Commission on the Ukraine Famine of Lessons for Peace,” by Dr. Douglas Irvin- which Dr. James E. Mace was executive Erickson of the George Mason University, director. Luba Poniatyszyn Keske, in her transmitted via Skype. He examined in fine opening remarks brought to the attention detail Raphael Lemkin’s theory of genocide, The Rev. Dr. John Kovalchuk, 78, of the audience the fact that the symposium and the case of genocide against the was the first of its kind in the state of Ukrainians in particular. He explained that, California. She spoke about the role of the although the Ukrainian case represents the retired leader of Ukrainian Baptists UNWLA in fighting the “conspiracy of highest stage of genocide, it does not fall silence” surrounding the man-made famine under the legal definition of the term. He by Alex Harbuziuk in Ukraine. Dr. Lubow Jowa added her reminded the audience about important les- TREVOSE, Pa. – The Rev. Dr. John mother’s story of surviving the Famine to sons for how to proceed if we want our com- Kovalchuk, a retired leader of Ukrainian the eyewitness testimonies collected by Ms. memoration and memorialization of the Baptists in the United States, died on Keske. atrocity to become a monument for peace. December 19, 2017, at the age of 78. The lecturers were dynamic and the Dr. Gennadi Poberezny of the Harvard He was born in Argentina on June 23, material fascinating, if tragic, and the Q&A Ukrainian Research Institute intro- 1939, and completed studies at the sessions were exhaustive. Dr. Lubomyr duced the Great Famine Project, a core part Ukrainian Bible Institute in South America. Luciuk of the Royal Military College of of the MAPA: Digital Atlas of Ukraine devel- He immigrated to Canada with his family in Canada started out the first session with his oped at Harvard. He demonstrated major 1974 and served for three years as assis- passionate “Reflections on the Great Famine interactive features of the Holodomor Atlas, tant pastor of the Ukrainian Baptist Church of 1932-1933 in Soviet Ukraine.” He spoke focusing on the new findings that came to in Winnipeg, Manitoba. of the major truth tellers and deniers. light in the process of its making. Then, Dr. Oleh Wolowyna of the Then he was called to become pastor of University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill the Ukrainian Evangelical Baptist Church in (Continued on page 11) Crum Lynne, Pa. In 1983 he was installed as pastor of the Second Ukrainian Baptist Church in Philadelphia. The Rev. Kovalchuk was elected presi- dent of the Ukrainian Evangelical Baptist The Rev. Dr. John Kovalchuk Convention in the U.S.A. twice to three-year terms (1999-2005). From 1995 to 2010, he Pastor Kovalchuk received a Doctor of served first as vice-president and then as Ministry degree from Odessa International president of the All-Ukrainian Evangelical Theological Seminary in June of 1999. Baptist Fellowship (diaspora). The Rev. Kovalchuk had been living for He became editor of The Messenger of the past few years in an assisted living facil- Truth (Pislanets Pravdy) magazine in 1998 ity with his wife near their son in the Dallas and then served as editor-in-chief for about area. They were married for 53 years. The two years until he suffered a stroke in Rev. Kovalchuk is survived by his wife, 2011. Zenia; a son, Moses; a daughter, Pearl; and In 1989, the Rev. Kovalchuk began work- five grandchildren. ing with the Greater Philadelphia Baptist A celebration of his life was held on Association, involved with ethnic groups. In December 28, 2017, at Levine Memorial 1996, he became director of ethnic minis- Chapel in Trevose, Pa. Interment was the tries with the Baptist Convention’s next day at Lawnview Cemetery in Pennsylvania/South Jersey district. Jenkintown, Pa. The book exhibit about the Holodomor at the Henry Madden Library at Fresno State. No. 1 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 5 Light of Justice award goes to investigative journalist by Mariya Chubata The award is intended to recognize Ukrainians who distinguish themselves for KYIV – Investigative journalist Natalie moral, spiritual and ethical leadership. Sedletska of the TV program “Schemes” Previous recipients of the award include was presented the Light of Justice award on former Ukrainian dissident Yevhen December 2, 2017, at the 10th gala dinner Sverstiuk; Mustafa Dzhemilev, former of the Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU). chairman of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar The award was established by the late people; and community activist Larissa Dr. Anastasia Shkilnyk, a Ukrainian Zalyvna. Canadian philanthropist, author and aca- Bishop Borys Gudziak, President of UCU, demic who named it after her father, a said as he presented the award: “Anastasia renowned lawyer and community and Shkilnyk was a very noble woman. I hope political activist during the liberation that you can acquaint yourself with her, movement of Ukraine in 1917-1920, Dr. and that this award, which she established Mykhailo Shkilnyk. in the name of her father, will encourage you to always gather that which is neces- sary today, tomorrow and the day after in our country, and in our journalism profes- sion.” In attendance this year was the family representative of Dr. Shilnyk, former jour- Oleksandr Laskin nalist Michael Bociurkiw. The recipient was At the Kyiv gala to benefit the Ukrainian Catholic University. chosen by a committee of professionals and UCU representatives based on feedback on tions to society are often underestimated by the Ukrainian First TV channel a shortlist provided to prominent individu- or not appreciated.” (Ukraine’s public broadcaster). als in Ukrainian business and society. “This high reward is an important sign of In 2016, she received the Oleksandr Mr. Bociurkiw commented: “At a time support and a source of further inspiration Kryvenko Award, the most prestigious when journalists are under assault both in the work for me. The corruption system award in Ukrainian journalism. She was here in Ukraine and overseas, it is squeezes out ‘dissenters.’ Therefore, I would also on the list of young Ukrainian leaders, immensely important to honor the bravery like to dedicate this award to all colleagues “Top 30 Under 30,” compiled by the and persistence of media professionals and like-minded people who continue to Ukrainian English-language outlet Kyiv such as Natalie Sedletska. Time and time struggle and do not give up despite the tre- Post. again she has demonstrated, through her mendous pressure,” Ms. Sedletska stated. In 2015 Ms. Sedletska went undercover probing investigative journalism, that even The honoree is a leading Ukrainian jour- as part of a British Channel 4 television the most powerful figures in Ukrainian nalist with vast experience in investigations documentary, “From Russia With Cash,” society are not immune from critical scruti- of the corruption schemes of Ukrainian about corrupt deals behind London’s prop- ny. Corruption is endemic in Ukraine, and public officials. In summer 2014, she found- erty boom. She is part of the famous Natalie has exposed many hidden schemes ed the investigative TV program called Yanukovych leaks project, which was – often at great risk to herself. I believe she “Schemes. Corruption in Detail” with the awarded the Global Shining Light Award in is a shining example of ethical and moral support of Radio Free Europe/Radio Norway in 2015 and The M100 Sanssouci Natalia Sedletska leadership in a profession whose contribu- Liberty. Since then it is regularly broadcast Media Award in Potsdam in 2014. Contact us: * 888-538-2833 Premier NiNeN

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WINDOW ON EURASIA The Ukrainian Weekly Finally… lethal weapons for Ukraine FBI investigation of Trump administration In our last issue of 2017, we reported on the front page that the U.S. State Department had approved an export license for Ukraine to buy certain types of light ‘deprives Putin of exit strategy on Ukraine’ weapons and small arms from U.S. manufacturers. That decision, announced to the by Paul Goble based on his view that world politics is public on December 20 (and to Congress a week earlier) came several months after about making deals – a position by the way the State Department and the Pentagon had proposed to the White House that the The appointment of Robert Mueller as with which Vladimir Putin entirely agrees U.S. help Ukraine defend itself by providing lethal weapons. Two days later came special investigator of Russian interference – without sacrificing his position at home. updated news that the administration of President Donald Trump had approved a in the 2016 election may well prove to be And thus, despite his obvious desire to plan to provide lethal defensive weapons, including the Javelin anti-tank missiles the most significant event for the future of make a deal with the Kremlin, the Mueller that Ukraine had long sought. Russian-American relations because it investigation “forces Trump to demon- State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said on December 22 that the “deprives Russia of a chance for an effec- strate constantly growing harshness U.S. had decided to provide “enhanced defensive capabilities” to help Ukraine build tive ‘exit strategy’ from its Ukrainian toward the Kremlin, even while he does its military long-term and deter further aggression. “U.S. assistance is entirely defen- adventure,” according to Russian historian not cease his contacts [with Putin] via sive in nature, and as we have always said, Ukraine is a sovereign country and has a Vladimir Pastukhov. intermediaries.” President Trump’s mes- right to defend itself,” she underscored. “Russia never was ready for and did not sage to Moscow is “wait,” but the Kremlin’s A longtime supporter of Ukraine, Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), commented: in fact want to ‘fall into’ a global conflict ability to do so is nearly at an end. “President Trump’s reported decision to provide Javelin anti-tank munitions to with the U.S. and the entire Western As a result, instead of heading into a Ukraine marks another significant step in the right direction and sends a strong signal world” because neither its economy nor its new term with the problems of his last one that the United States will stand by its allies and partners as they fight to defend their military are capable of withstanding such a behind him, “[Vladimir]Putin has been sovereignty and territorial integrity. This decision is years overdue. … Providing clash for very long, the St. Antony’s College forced to move toward a global confronta- Ukraine the capabilities it needs to deter and defend against further Russian aggres- (Oxford University) historian argues (polit. tion with the U.S., by inertia involving him- sion will contribute to creating more stable security conditions that are necessary for ru/article/2018/01/01/worldpolitics/). self in ever new adventures and becoming a peaceful resolution of this conflict. …providing defensive lethal assistance to Such a confrontation in fact “threatens a universal spoiler for the West” and its Ukraine is not opposed to a peace in Ukraine – it is essential to achieving it.” Russia with the very same outcome that it efforts. President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine wrote on Facebook: “American weapons did the late USSR,” Mr. Pastukhov continues. Russia has gotten involved in places in the hands of Ukrainian soldiers are not for offensive [purposes], but for a decisive The Kremlin in fact understood that when beyond its capacity to sustain its initial rebuff of the aggressor, protection of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians, as well as for it began its Ukrainian adventure, but it effective self-defense.” Similarly, Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S. Valeriy Chaly moves, Mr. Pastukhov says. “The Soviet believed the West and especially the U.S. Union could play these games for quite a posted: “Weakness encourages an aggressor. Force helps deter him and push him were “inclined to ‘a big deal’ ” about toward peace.” long time, but Russia – weakened by three spheres of influence as the Molotov- decades of inaction and corruption which Even Popular Mechanics commented on the decision, calling it “an audacious geo- Ribbentrop Pact or the Helsinki Final Act political step” and writing on January 2: “The Javelin is one of the deadliest anti-tank has left it in a state of paralysis – isn’t capa- did. ble of doing so.” missiles ever designed and will bolster Ukraine’s defenses in its military showdown Such a deal has been the idée fixe of the with Russia. The sale is aimed squarely at Russia’s large and powerful tank fleet.” This will not lead to a good end for Kremlin for several years, the historian After detailing the Javelin’s specs, the magazine noted: “Javelin missiles will offset either Mr. Trump or Mr. Putin. And it also says, and it finally decided “in this risky Russia’s tank advantage. Highly mobile and concealable in forested and built-up means that the immediate future at least game” to put all its bets on a change of areas, Javelin will present a serious challenge to Russian forces.” becomes “unpredictable in principle” as administration in Washington and on the Russia’s reaction was predictable: the U.S. decision will escalate the war and lead to the two try to cope with a situation neither election of Donald Trump as president. “As new bloodshed; it is a signal that the U.S. will support a military solution to the wants to be in. Many international events things have now become clear, [Moscow] Donbas war; etc. “The United States has crossed a line by announcing its intention to won’t appear to be about this but will bet on ‘a zero.’” supply lethal weapons to Ukraine,” Russian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei affect their relationship at least indirectly. The Mueller investigation has put Mr. Ryabkov said on December 23. He warned: “U.S. weapons are capable of leading to Among the most likely points of conflict Trump “in a very difficult position,” Mr. new casualties in our neighboring country, and we cannot remain indifferent to that.” will be places where tensions are already Pastukhov writes. He can’t move in the Well, Russia has hardly been indifferent to the war in Ukraine’s east. The U.S. has high, Mr. Pastukhov continues, the Middle direction with Russia he would like to, one long said Moscow is providing arms and troops for the so-called separatists. In fact, East, Korea and, “with less likelihood,” back in June 2015 the U.S. ambassador to the U.N., Samantha Power, referred to Ukraine. Europe too may become a flash- “combined Russian-separatist forces,” and in April 2016 Daniel B. Baer, U.S. ambas- Paul Goble is a long-time specialist on point because of tensions over Brexit and sador to the OSCE Permanent Council, explained that the U.S. uses the wording ethnic and religious questions in Eurasia the issue of dominance within the EU. “Russia-backed separatists” to indicate “the accurate relationship” or “Russian-led who has served in various capacities in the “For several years,” the scholar says, separatist fighters,” again, “to express accurately the connection between Russia and U.S. State Department, the Central “Russia has actively sowed the wind in the fighters on the ground.” Intelligence Agency and the International world politics, shaking up whatever it U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis explained that the U.S. role in Ukraine is not Broadcasting Bureau, as well as at the Voice could in order to make any crisis more changing and Russia has no cause for concern. “As long as no one wants to invade of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio problematic for the West.” But now “the Ukraine, hopefully it won’t have any big impact. They’re defensive weapons,” Mr. Liberty and the Carnegie Endowment for time is coming when it will ‘reap the whirl- Mattis was quoted by RFE/RL as saying on December 29. Following up on those International Peace. The article above is wind.’” Just where this will start is uncer- remarks, Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Minister Pavlo Klimkin on January 3 assured the reprinted with permission from his blog tain, but it will be the defining feature of world that the U.S.-supplied lethal weapons have “purely defensive purposes” and called “Window on Eurasia” (http://windo- Mr. Putin’s life after his latest “decorative” would be used only if the militants provoked government forces. woneurasia2.blogspot.com/). election. Most importantly, however, the provision of these weapons is a potential game- changer that raises the cost of Russia’s aggression and, as The Washington Post sug- gested, might lead Vladimir Putin “to consider cutting his losses in Donetsk and According to Mr. Nayyem, the threat was Luhansk.” The Post also called it “a worthy application of the ‘peace through Ukrainian activist... “You will end up badly.” strength’ principle of President Ronald Reagan.” (Continued from page 1) AFP reported that the Kharkiv Human Rights Protection Group in a statement Rossoshansky, who was convicted of caus- said Ms. Nozdrovska had received threats ing the death of her sister, Svitlana during the trial “from Rossoshansky him- Sapatanyska, in 2015 when he hit her self, and from his mates.” Jan. Turning the pages back... while driving his car. On January 3, the National Police office Judges rejected an appeal by Mr. of the Kyiv region said the activist attorney Two years ago, on January 11, 2015, more than 40 global lead- Rossoshansky, the nephew of a Kyiv region had died of multiple stab wounds. 11 ers, along with more than a million people in Paris (more than 3 judge, to overturn under an amnesty his “There were stab wounds on the body, million people across France), took part in the March of Unity. seven-year prison term on December 27, on her neck, and on her chin… It was a vio- 2015 President Petro Poroshenko represented Ukraine in an act of sol- 2017, thanks in large part to efforts by Ms. lent death,” said Nikolai Zhukovich of the idarity to pay tribute to the murdered journalists of Charlie Nozdrovska to raise public awareness police press service. Hebdo in Paris and four people who were killed at Hyper Cacher, about the case. a Jewish supermarket, on January 7. Ms. Nozdrovska and others mentioned With reporting by AFP The violence was the result of Charlie Hebdo publishing a cartoon image of the prophet that the young man’s “drug-addict mates” Copyright 2017 and 2018, RFE/RL Inc. Mohammed. had come to the court to take him home Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Also attending the march were Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany, President ahead of his expected release. She thanked Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Francois Hollande of France, Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom, Prime the judges for what she called “one of the Ave. NW, Washington DC 20036; www.rferl. Minister Mariano Rajoy of Spain, King Abdullah II and Queen Rania of Jordan, EU President extremely rare just court rulings.” org (see https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine- Donald Tusk of Poland, Prime Minister Victor Orban of Hungary, Prime Minister Ahmet Ukrainian lawmaker Mustafa Nayyem lawyer-death-rally-/28951185.html and Davutoglu of Turkey, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei Lavrov, officials wrote on Facebook on January 1 that Mr. https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-lawyer- Rossoshansky’s father had threatened Ms. murder-nozdrovska-stab-wounds/28953 (Continued on page 13) Nozdrovska at the December 27 hearing. 512.html). No. 1 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 7 FOR THE RECORD PERSPECTIVES U.S. senators and representatives react to authorization of lethal weapons for Ukraine by Andrew Fedynsky Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio), co-founder tion in northern New Jersey, released the fol- and chairman of the Senate Ukraine Caucus lowing statement. Notre Dame’s Prof. McAdams and a member of the Senate Foreign As an original sponsor of the Ukraine Relations Committee, issued the following Freedom Support Act, which authorized “Call me Jim.” That’s how Prof. James The book perforce is academic and there- statement. the administration to sell defensive lethal McAdams responded when my wife and I fore not for everyone but, as the Princeton Providing lethal weapons to Ukraine will arms to Ukraine, I know this decision was introduced ourselves as Michael’s parents. University Press indicates, “essential read- send a clear message that America stands long overdue. Ukrainian forces will start to At the time, our son was a freshman at the ing for anyone seeking to understand world with the Ukrainian people in their nearly receive the support needed to push back University of Notre Dame, taking “Jim’s” communism and the captivating idea that four year struggle to secure a democratic, against specific threats from ongoing class on comparative politics. gave it life.” That’s me and, I know, many prosperous and independent future for Russian aggression. Dr. McAdams, a friendly bearded man, is who read this column. “Vanguard of the Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. With news reports of increased aggres- a world-class scholar who reaches thou- Revolution” provides global context to tens This decision – while long overdue – will sion by Russian backed forces in Ukraine, I sands through his publications as well as an of millions of family tragedies – political reverse the Obama administration’s de know our ally in Ukraine will see this as a inspiring educator with popular classes of murders, famine and for those lucky enough, immigration to humane societies in facto arms embargo against Ukraine and welcomed first step. However, I hope it is not 60-plus, seminars of 10 to 20 and a counsel- or and mentor who meets with students America and elsewhere. It’s written in a will finally allow Ukraine to access the tools the last. We cannot give our allies in Ukraine one-on-one in his office, located a short clear, comfortable, accessible style. it needs to defend itself. As co-founder and false hope by signaling our support in their walk from Notre Dame’s iconic Golden Since 1992, Dr. McAdams has been at co-chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus and fight with our left hand and trying to cozy Dome and legendary football stadium. Notre Dame where he’s director of the author of several provisions authorizing up to the leader of Russia with our right. Now 63, Prof. McAdams is one of the Nanovic Institute for European Studies. * * * expanded U.S. military assistance – includ- world’s paramount experts on communism Arguably the world’s premier Catholic uni- ing lethal aid – and establishing the Ukraine Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission and a senior and most recently author of a ground-break- versity (my prejudice), Notre Dame and its Security Assistance Initiative, I hope that Nanovic Institute have a partnership with the member of the Senate Armed Services ing book, “Vanguard of the Revolution: The this decision opens the door to the full Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU) in Lviv, Committee, issued the following statement. Global Idea of the Communist Party,” pub- implementation of the bipartisan legisla- lished by Princeton University Press, which the only such university in the former Soviet tion Congress has already passed to help The president’s decision is a good first describes it as “the first comprehensive Union. Both our son, Michael, and daughter, the Ukrainians defend themselves against step to give the Ukrainian people the political history of the communist party…” Olesia, graduated from Notre Dame and Russian aggression. means to defend themselves. The best way Our son got a sneak preview when he was a attended UCU’s summer institute. So did ND * * * to stop Russian aggression is to deter it. I sophomore and taking another of Prof. grad Michael Stecyk and no doubt others. Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-N.J.), a member of am hopeful that approval will also be given McAdams’ classes, this one on global com- I saw Prof. McAdams in September 2017, the Congressional Ukraine Caucus who rep- to future sales of anti-tank weapons and munism, which became the basis for the when I drove to Notre Dame for a Nanovic resents a large Ukrainian American popula- other heavy arms. book I just finished reading. Institute lecture featuring Myroslav Jim McAdams’ interest in communism Marynovych, a charter member of the goes back at least to 1973 during the Ukrainian Helsinki Group in the 1970s, height of the Cold War, when he was a stu- decade-long political prisoner in the Soviet dent at the Free University in West Berlin. Gulag and now vice-rector of the Ukrainian Ukrainian World Congress He relates how, protected by an American Catholic University. Jim expressed surprise passport, he’d go to East Berlin on a regu- that I would drive four hours from Cleveland lar basis and was struck by the contrast for the event. Why wouldn’t I? I replied. I offers Christmas greetings between the two sectors. That mirrored drive through much heavier traffic and far The following greeting was released by donors who, throughout five decades and my own experience six years earlier when I more hassle for a Fighting Irish football the UWC on December 20, 2017. particularly in this anniversary year, have was at the University of Innsbruck for my game. As for Mr. Marynovych, I first met him enabled the UWC to independently amplify sophomore year abroad. Passing through at a continents-wide distance in the 1970s As 2017 comes to a close, the Ukrainian the voice of the Ukrainian people in the Check Point Charlie I too saw the appalling through his writings for the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) looks back upon a international community and safeguard divide between prosperity, freedom and Helsinki Group, which I translated for year in which it marked a significant mile- the human and national rights of all fun on one side of the wall and privation, Smoloskyp. Forty years later, my wife and I stone in its history and successfully broad- Ukrainians wherever they may live. With fear and dreariness on the other. welcomed him in our home in Cleveland ened its reach to a wide spectrum of every year, the UWC has become stronger, That’s what inspired Jim McAdams in his when he was on a fund-raising tour for UCU. Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine alike more effectual and more influential. We academic career: “Once I had become famil- A couple of years later, in 2014, we met with with the message that in unity lies our kindly ask that you consider the UWC for iar with one communist country, I couldn’t him in Lviv. I have enormous respect for Mr. strength. your year-end giving in support of building resist the temptation to visit all of them!” Marynovych and I’m thrilled that my alma Our commemorations included events a strong, bold, united and inspiring Prof. McAdams said. “Everywhere I went, mater provided a forum for this distin- in 26 countries, including Ukraine, and Ukrainian nation. whether to Cuba, Poland, or China, I found guished man. And he’s not alone – earlier in offered the opportunity to meet with On the occasion of one of the greatest intriguing similarities and differences among May 2017, my wife and I attended a Nanovic members of our community from all walks Christian holy days – Christmas – the UWC their regimes.” He even visited North Korea: Institute lecture by Bishop Borys Gudziak, of life and to learn more about their work extends sincere greetings to the heads of “The word ‘bizarre’ does not begin to cap- former rector of the Ukrainian Catholic and commitment to both building their Ukrainian Churches and representatives of ture the fervor you experience,” he said. University and now its president. communities and assisting the people of other faiths, the president, prime minister, And so, Dr. McAdams developed a With a steady schedule of events, the ND-UCU partnership is not just a paper rela- Ukraine in building their democratic, chairperson of the Parliament, and the course followed by a book. “One of my tionship. The lectures we attended last year reformed European state. Armed Forces of Ukraine, presidents of goals in writing ‘Vanguard of the enjoyed an impressive audience – students, We also met with the people of Ukraine, Ukrainian World Congress member orga- Revolution’ was to account for some of faculty and visitors. They were not just one- some of whom had lost their children or nizations and Ukrainians around the these differences,” he noted. world. “Vanguard of the Revolution” is a terrific time events. What’s more meaningful is the parents in the oft-forgotten war being semester-long Visiting Professor Program waged on the territory of Ukraine, who As the UWC embarks on its next 50 read. It starts by recounting social ideals years, we reaffirm with inspiration our going back to the French Revolution, then the Nanovic Institute sponsors, with more shared with us their hopes, their dreams th than a dozen UCU professors since 2006; belief in the limitless potential of the moves to early-19 century British socialism and their belief in a brighter Ukrainian most recently, Dr. Sophia Opatska from the Ukrainian people and look forward to fur- followed, of course, with Karl Marx, Friedrich future. UCU School of Business. ther working with Ukrainians worldwide Engels, the “Communist Manifesto” and a When we began commemorations of So here’s to you, Jim. Prof. James in overcoming the challenges and develop- half century later to the Bolsheviks in Russia. the UWC’s 50th anniversary in February of McAdams, having witnessed communism ing our spiritual homeland of Ukraine as Dr. McAdams recounts the well-known his- 2017 we set as our goal to raise the level of and studied it his entire career, has written an independent, territorially whole, demo- tory of Vladimir Lenin unleashing boundless international awareness of both the UWC a magnificent book on its history and cratic, fully reformed European state. cruelty and mass murder (“Red Terror”) to and the global Ukrainian diaspora, and the turn ideology into a ruling structure. He impact. He’s also contributed enormously significance of their role in furthering the With the celebration of the birth of toward helping Ukraine mitigate the evil Jesus Christ, let us say a prayer for the then takes his study into the global arena, interests of Ukraine and its people. With showing how communism evolved into a consequences of that ideology. Thank you. Ukrainian people, the defenders of the help of our network in 53 countries political/economic/social vehicle for ruth- For my readers, I urge you to use that gift Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and the and our partners in Ukraine I believe that less men like Joseph Stalin, Mao Zedong and card you got for Christmas or to simply political prisoners who remain unlawfully we have not only strengthened the founda- Fidel Castro to exploit an idealistic (and spring for the cost of “Vanguard of the detained far from family and friends. May tion of the UWC, but expanded the “friends unrealistic) philosophy to mobilize peoples Revolution: The Global Idea of the the newborn Christ bestow upon Ukraine of Ukraine” network that, together with in times of unrest and war, transforming Communist Party” on Amazon.com. (I and its people His blessings for a peaceful, the 20-million-strong Ukrainian diaspora societies and creating life-long positions of bought my copy at Kramerbooks in joyous, successful and prosperous future. will continue to ensure that Ukraine will privilege for themselves, their families and Washington.) Reading it, you’ll be rewarded. develop and prosper in accordance with Christ is Born! Let us praise Him! friends. Dr. McAdams’ book has a happy the aspirations of its people. Eugene Czolij ending, chronicling the effective demise of Andrew Fedynsky’s e-mail address is We are grateful to all of the generous President global communism. [email protected]. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 No. 1 No. 1 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 9 Conferences, roundtables, forums examine 50 years of the Ukrainian World Congress

UWC TORONTO – The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) held the final in a series of international conferences titled “UWC at 50 and Beyond: The Roadmap,” in Toronto on November 10-11, 2017. The conference summed up half a century of UWC activity and developed priorities for the future. Participating in the conference, held at The Old Mill, were religious and state high- ranking officials and diplomatic representa- tives from Ukraine and Canada, politicians, members of the leadership and representa- tives of UWC member organizations from Australia, Brazil, Great Britain, Greece, Estonia, Canada, the Russian Federation, the United States, Hungary and Switzerland. UWC Also present were leaders of UWC partner organizations: the International Institute for Participants of the Toronto conference “UWC at 50 and Beyond: The Roadmap” gathered for a group photo to mark the occasion. Education, Culture and Diaspora Relations addressed topics related to creating a ber of the Canadian Parliament, James of Ukraine” network ever larger; defining of Lviv Polytechnic National University and worldwide “friends of Ukraine” network, Bezan, who is vice-chair of the Standing ways to make the Ukrainian diaspora insti- the Atlantic Council. keeping the Ukrainian global community Committee on National Defense, who pre- tutionally ever stronger; pondering the The program coordinator and confer- effectively organized, engaging international sented on the topic “Why a Free, Stable and means to increase the presence of institutes ence chair was Dr. Volodymyr Zaryckyj, mass media on the subject of Ukraine, pro- Prosperous Ukraine Matters to the Euro- of Ukrainian studies at the world’s premier who chairs the UWC International Scholarly tecting human rights of Ukrainians globally, Atlantic Community.” universities; contemplating the means to Council. promoting academic study of Ukraine Concluding remarks on the conference’s expand and strengthen global informational The keynote speech by UWC President beyond its borders, assisting Ukrainians first day were delivered by Canadian Sen. efforts; seeking ways to increase the weight Eugene Czolij was on the topic “The around the world, teaching Ukrainians to Raynell Andreychuk, chair of the Ukraine- of human rights protection efforts; search- Ukrainian World Congress and the Ukrainian appreciate and cultivate their heritage, and NATO Parliamentary Council of the NATO ing for ways to expand the scope of UWC’s Diaspora in Furthering the Interests of the promoting the financial sustainability of the Parliamentary Assembly, who spoke about humanitarian and social services work; Ukrainian People: Achievements and global Ukrainian community. “Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine: A learning Ukrainian in a digital age; and Perspectives.” The moderator of the session was Way Forward with Assistance of the Global imagining state of the art cooperative and During Plenary Session I, which reflected Andrew Futey, UWC vice-president and Ukrainian Community.” financial endeavors. on the high points of the Ukrainian diaspora president of the Ukrainian Congress The conference’s second day began with The moderator was Alexandra Chyczij, during the last two generations, speakers Committee of America (UCCA). opening remarks by MP Borys vice-president of the Ukrainian Canadian Presentations were made by Michael Wrzesnewskyj, a member of the Standing Congress (UCC). Presentations were deliv- Moravski, UWC vice-president and former Committee on Foreign Affairs and ered by Glen Howard, president of the president of the Australian Federation of International Development, speaking on the Jamestown Foundation; Paul Grod, UWC Ukrainian Organizations; Yuri Shymko, for- topic “Why a Free, Stable and Prosperous vice-president and UCC president; Marko mer UWC president; Stephan Bandera, Ukraine Matters to Canada.” Stech, director of press and publications, managing director of Forum TV Canada; As that day coincided with Remembrance Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies; Andrij Dobriansky, the UCCA’s director of Day in Canada, participants joined a ceremo- Herman Pirchner, president of the American external relations, who read a presentation ny honoring the men and women who have Foreign Policy Council; David Kramer, for- prepared by Irena Jarosewich, former edi- sacrificed their lives fighting for peace and a mer U.S. assistant secretary of state for tor-in-chief of the weekly newspaper brighter future, including during recent democracy, human rights and labor; Andrij Svoboda; Lubomyr Hajda, associate direc- years in Ukraine. The ceremony was presid- Waskowycz, president of Caritas Ukraine; tor of the Harvard Ukrainian Research ed by Capt. Andre Sochaniwsky (retired), Ulana Plawuszczak Pidzamecky, member of Institute; Michael Bociurkiw, global affairs president of the Ukrainian War Veterans the UNF National Ridna Shkola Initiatives analyst and former OSCE information offi- Association of Canada. Committee; Ariel Cohen, senior fellow, cer; and Iryna Kluchkovskyi, director of the Plenary Session II addressed “A Vision for Atlantic Council; and Viktor Kryvenko, International Institute for Education, the Ukrainian Diaspora for the Next Two national deputy of Ukraine. Culture and Diaspora Relations. Generations.” Participants heard presenta- Canadian Sen. Raynell Andreychuk. A featured speaker that day was a mem- tions on divining ways to make the “friends (Continued on page 18)

Ukrainian World Congress president concludes working visit to Ukraine

UWC the level of corruption and advance the progressive chang- es in Ukraine’s health care and education systems, and TORONTO – Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) address the concerns of some countries regarding the law President Eugene Czolij fulfilled a working visit to Kyiv on of Ukraine “On Education.” November 29-December 1, 2017, during which he dis- Another common issue was the joint commemoration in cussed current Ukrainian issues and continued coopera- 2018 in Ukraine and throughout the Ukrainian diaspora of tion with high-ranking religious and state leaders of the 85th anniversary of the Holodomor of 1932-1933. Ukraine, representatives of the international community, Separately with both the ambassador of Hungary to diplomats of various states and representatives of Ukrainian civil society. Cultural Association Zakarpattia, National Deputy of He devoted particular attention during meetings with UkraineUkraine, Vasyl Ernő Brenzovych, Keskeny, and Mr. the Czolij head discussed of the ArticleHungarian 7 of governing authorities to the coordination of further efforts the education law dealing with regional and minority lan- by Ukraine and the Ukrainian diaspora led by the UWC in guages. combating the hybrid war of the Russian Federation and The UWC president was accompanied to his meetings by the defense of the territorial integrity of Ukraine. Discussed the director of the UWC Mission in Ukraine, Serhiy was the need for the international community to strength- Kasyanchuk, and the director of the UWC Mission to en sanctions against the Russian Federation until it fully International Organizations in Brussels, Maryna Iaroshevych. complies with the Minsk agreements and de-occupies Among those with whom the UWC president met were: Crimea, and to deploy a United Nations peacekeeping mis- Patriarch Filaret of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kyiv sion to eastern Ukraine and an OSCE monitoring mission to Patriarchate; Blonde Piet, acting leader of the political sec- illegally occupied Crimea. tion, Delegation of the European Union to Ukraine; Enberg Also discussed was the need to urge European countries UWC Martin, representative of the secretary general of the Council to adopt a Magnitsky law that would contribute to lessen- Ukrainian World Congress President Eugene Czolij of Europe in charge of the coordination of cooperation pro- ing human rights violations. Highlighted was the impor- (left) with Ukraine’s Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak. grams in Ukraine; Pavlo Klimkin, foreign affairs minister of tance of providing Ukraine with an investment package Ukraine; Andriy Parubiy, chair of the Verkhovna Rada; Jan similar to the Marshall Plan to overcome the devastation Mr. Czolij also had the opportunity to discuss the pro- Pieklo, ambassador of Poland to Ukraine; Roman Waschuk caused by Russian military aggression and to assist cesses of European and Euro-Atlantic integration, as well Roman, ambassador of Canada to Ukraine; and Marie Ukraine with its economic growth and continued reforms. as reforms in various spheres, including efforts to reduce Yovanovitch, ambassador of the United States to Ukraine. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 No. 1 No. 1 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 11

up,” noted Anayeli Hernandez Rojas. She A first in California... had heard only about the Holocaust and the Armenian genocide. “I can recall learning (Continued from page 4) something about Joseph Stalin taking food Valentina Kuryliw of the Holodomor from his people, but that is it,” added Ms. Research and Education Consortium at the Rojas. University of Alberta’s Canadian Institute of Jordan Cordova, a freshman in the Ukrainian Studies conducted a master class Department of Criminology, was shocked for college and university faculty titled about the amount of evidence countries “Teaching the Holodomor in the 21st knew about the genocide but tried to hide Century: Teaching Critical and Historical it, “Countries, such as Britain and the Thinking Skills.” She has been developing United States, knew about the famine, but this innovative methodology for teaching hid it because they didn’t want to hurt rela- the Holodomor for more than a decade in tions with the Soviet Union. There was no Canada, where the topic is mandatory in recognition, and it was simply covered up. school curricula in five provinces. It is sad that countries care more about The climax of the symposium was the Ven Saranin their political relations rather than 4 mil- screening of “Bitter Harvest,” presented to Director/producer George Mendeluk with organizers and audience members after the lion people dying. It is also sad to see coun- the audience by its director and producer, screening of “Bitter Harvest” at Fresno State. tries call what happened not a genocide but Mr. Mendeluk. The auditorium was filled to just a tragedy… The Ukraine genocide capacity. The director reached everyone ed by the House of Ukraine in San Diego, different methodological approaches to the Kniazicky family and the Rev. Alexander determining the number of victims of the needs to be talked about and not covered with his description of growing up listening up anymore in the 21st century.” to his family’s stories of how they survived Limonchenko, whose family also was a vic- Holodomor. tim of the Holodomor, the family of Irko Second, the symposium has acquainted To Justine Sasia, a business major, hear- the Holodomor and the terrible pain of ing about the Holodomor for the first time those times. After the film, there was an Prokopovich, Lucy Holzel, Ms. Keske, college and university faculty with an inno- was “absolutely mind-blowing.” “How could endless stream of questions which the Lubomyr Soluk and Adrian Kuzich, as well vative methodology for teaching this sub- someone induce a famine to starve their director answered with ease, intelligence as the members of the Ukrainian Art Center ject as part of the curriculum. own people? Even worse than that, how and humor. Dr. Mary Husain, director of the of Los Angeles (President Daria Finally, the symposium has raised come none of this is taught in our education CineCulture Film Series, fought many drag- Chaikovsky). awareness among the public about the ter- system?... These questions can be pondered ons to bring Mr. Mendeluk to campus to Ukrainian community organizations rible tragedy of the Ukrainian people and for hours; however, one thing that definitely meet with students and Fresno community, from California pulled their resources the consequences of this tragedy. needs to be changed is that the Ukrainian most of whom had never heard of this trag- together to acquaint the American public Ms. Soriano, a journalism student at Genocide should be incorporated into the edy in Ukraine. not only with history but also with some of Fresno State, noted that “terrible events standard United States kindergarten The Organizing Committee members, the elements of Ukrainian culture. Opera should not just be remembered with a cou- through 12th grade curriculum.” The stu- Ms. Wussek, Olenka Krupa, Ms. Keske, Olga singer Ms. Tscherepenko sang “The Candle” ple of sentences in a thick history textbook. dent expressed hope that in the future peo- Starow and Victoria Malko of the Ukrainian after the screening of the documentary We need to remember things with stories, ple will learn about this genocide and recog- National Women’s League of America “Genocide Revealed,” and Ivanna Taratula- we have to record accounts from many per- nize it as such. “The knowledge of this past Branch 111 and the Steel Film LLC team of Filipenko added the final touch by singing spectives, we need to preserve the cultural event will help future generations recognize Iryna Korotun, Andriy Korotun and Ven “The Spring of 1933” after the screening of significance of all events. This is why I the early signs and prevent something this Saranin all donated their time and effort to the motion picture “Bitter Harvest.” enjoyed attending the symposium, it was horrible from happening again.” make the symposium a success. In addition, there was a display of post- not purely educational, but also personally ers graciously loaned by Ms. Keske, chroni- The symposium was made possible with moving.” Dr. Victoria Malko is coordinator of the cling the Holodomor. The posters were the support of the dean of the College of “That I had never heard about the Holodomor Education Program, Department designed by the International Foundation Social Sciences, Michelle DenBeste, who Holodomor in my entire life just goes to of History, California State University, Fresno Ukraine 3000, chaired by Kateryna recognized the importance of public dis- show how far people have gone to cover it ([email protected]). cussions about the Holodomor. Generous Yushchenko. There was also a display of community sponsors included the head- books about the Holodomor from the quarters of the Ukrainian National Fresno State’s Henry Madden Library col- Women’s League of America in New York lection and a private exhibit of rare first (President Marianna Zajac), the Ukrainian editions collected by Dr. Jowa. Both exhibits Culture Center of Los Angeles (President adorned the lecture auditorium, richly dec- Paul Budilo), the Ukrainian Genocide orated with embroidered ritual cloths Famine Foundation-U.S.A. (President (rushnyky) in red and black, the symbols of Nicholas Kotcherha), the Ukrainian love and sorrow. Heritage Club of Northern California (Dr. * * * Jowa, president), the Ukrainian American Have the organizers of the symposium Coordinating Council (Vice-President Maria accomplished their goals? Tscherepenko), the Millstones of History First of all, the symposium helped to (Ms. Malko, executive director) and Steel clarify the concept of genocide and its Film LLC (Ms. Korotun, producer). application to the Ukrainian case and Charitable contributions were also provid- reopened a scholarly debate on validity of 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 No. 1

said would be exchanged did not arrive at NEWSBRIEFS the exchange point on December 27 because they had been released from cus- (Continued from page 2) tody earlier. She also said that about 10 to “exchange is not only a humanitarian act, 15 of the 306 chose not to return to sepa- but also a helpful step in confidence-build- ratist-controlled areas. The leader of sepa- ing,” said Austrian Foreign Minister Karin ratists in the Donetsk region, Aleksandr Kneissi, the organization’s chairman. From Zakharchenko, said the swap is only the the exchange location, the freed Ukrainian first stage of possible further moves to soldiers flew by helicopter to Kharkiv, a exchange captives. He said more lists of government-controlled regional capital fur- prisoners were being compiled. (RFE/RL’s ther northwest. They were then flown by Ukrainian Service, with reporting by plane to Kyiv. “I’m out of hell. I survived,” Hromadske TV, Interfax, UNIAN, AFP, said former captive Yevhen Chudentsov, Reuters and AP) who said he was taken prisoner in Poroshenko seeks return of other captives February 2015 while serving with a Ukrainian volunteer battalion. Mr. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko Chudentsov, whose front teeth were said he has ordered his government to knocked out, said he was beaten and “immediately” resume talks with Moscow threatened while in separatist custody and on the release of Ukrainian citizens from was initially sentenced to death by the sep- Russian custody following a prisoner swap aratists, who later changed that to 30 years between Kyiv and Russia-backed separat- in prison. The mother of Ukrainian prison- ists. Visiting the Odesa region on December er Oleksandr Oliynyk said her son called 28, 2017, Mr. Poroshenko said Kyiv “will do during the exchange. “I have not heard his everything we can” to return all Ukrainians voice for three and a half years,” she told held in Russia or “as hostages in occupied Ukrainian news channel 112. “You can’t territory” – a reference to Crimea and sepa- imagine what it means for a mother, not to ratist-controlled parts of eastern Ukraine. see your child for three and a half years, “We cannot betray them. We cannot forget since August 2014.” Ukrainian President them.” Earlier in the day in Kyiv, the presi- Petro Poroshenko greeted the prisoners dent said his government did not release freed by the separatists in the town of any Russian citizens in the prisoner swap Horlivka near the frontline of the conflict on December 27, 2017, which was the larg- and praised their endurance. “I’m grateful est such exchange since the war in eastern to all those who remained loyal to Ukraine Ukraine began in April 2014. “We will do in those unbearable conditions,” he said. more to get our citizens out of Russian “They have shown their adherence to the jails... and because of that not a single principles of freedom and independence.” Russian national was released by us now,” Hundreds of people turned out at the Kyiv he said, hinting that Kyiv would only agree airport late on December 27 to welcome to release Russians in Ukrainian custody in the soldiers home, waving national flags, exchange for Ukrainians held in Russia. On and bouquets of flowers, and shouting December 1, 2017, Ukrainian Ombuds­ “Glory to Ukraine! Glory to our heroes!” woman Valeria Lutkovska said more than Olga Kobtseva, a representative for separat- 2,000 Ukrainian citizens remain in Russian ists in the Luhansk region, told RFE/RL custody. Mr. Poroshenko named several that 99 people from separatist-controlled Ukrainians held in Russia, including film- territory in the Luhansk region were sup- maker Oleh Sentsov and journalist Roman posed to be part of the prisoner swap, but Sushchenko. Mr. Sentsov is serving a that 26 of them had either been released 20-year prison term, while Mr. Sushchenko earlier or chose not to return to separatist- is being held in Russia on suspicion of espi- controlled territory. Officials said that 165 onage. Kyiv says the charges against both people had been released by the govern- men are fabricated. (RFE/RL’s Ukrainian ment to separatists in the Donetsk prov- Service, with reporting by UNIAN and ince. Ukrainian ombudswoman Valeria Ukrayinska Pravda) Lutkovska said that 43 of the 306 govern- ment-held captives who authorities had (Continued on page 13)

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U.S.,) but was ordered not to leave Austria. January 3 turned down an appeal filed by dential powers and complicity in the 2006 NEWSBRIEFS Mr. Firtash is the founder of a consortium Mr. Saakashvili to recognize him as a refu- murder of a Georgian banker. “Ten minutes involved in the fertilizer, titanium and gas gee or “person in need of additional protec- ago a trial against me started in Tbilisi, the (Continued from page 12) sectors, and is the main shareholder of one tion,” the Interfax news agency reported. same time as in Kyiv,” Mr. Saakashvili said U.S. comments on prisoner exchange of Ukraine’s most influential television Mr. Saakashvili has said Ukrainian authori- during his Kyiv hearing on January 3. “Do channels. (RFE/RL, based on reporting by ties were seeking to deny him the protec- you think it’s by chance? Oligarchs are able U.S. State Department spokesperson DPA and Kyiv Post) tion status to “create conditions” for his to make deals. But they could have at least Heather Nauert said on December 28, “expulsion from the country” so he can be decided on different times.” (RFE/RL’s 2017: “The United States welcomes yester- Saakashvili claims evidence fabricated extradited to Tbilisi, where he faces multi- Ukrainian Service, with reporting by day’s exchange between the government of Mikheil Saakashvili, the former Georgian ple charges – including abuse of his presi- Merkhat Sharipzhanov and Interfax) Ukraine and Russia-led forces in eastern president who is now an outspoken Ukraine of more than 300 detainees. This Ukrainian opposition figure, has accused exchange is one step toward implementa- Russia’s lead security agency of helping to “Countries that don’t have a plan for tion of the Minsk agreements. We once fabricate evidence used against him in an development are a resource for those who again call on the sides to fully implement Dismantling... ongoing criminal prosecution. Mr. do have their own plan,” said Mr. Amelin, their Minsk commitments including Saakashvili made the accusation to report- (Continued from page 1) before he presented a year-end summary through a true ‘all-for-all’ detainee ers after a January 3 hearing at Kyiv’s for 2017 and a forecast for the next year. exchange; a full ceasefire; the withdrawal of Guard Service, volunteer groups and vol- Appeals Court, where prosecutors asked This includes introducing “purely pro- heavy weapons; safe and secure access for unteers. the court to place Mr. Saakashvili under portional [parliamentary] elections and the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission monitors; Over 10,330 Ukrainians have died since house arrest for refusing to answer ques- Russian-led forces invaded Ukraine in abolition of parliamentary immunity,” said and humanitarian access to the conflict tions from the Security Service of Ukraine, February 2014, starting with Crimea. economist Mr. Anders. zone.” The statement also noted: As known as the SBU. He did not provide evi- To overcome the “crisis,” Ukraine can Otherwise, if Ukraine doesn’t continue to Secretary [Rex] Tillerson told Foreign dence to back up the assertion. Judges only do it by “achieving self-determination,” comprehensively change how the country Minister [Sergei] Lavrov in their phone call adjourned the hearing at the request of Yuriy Romanenko, director of political pro- functions, it misses out on the economy this week, it is also important for Russia to prosecutors until January 11 without issu- grams at the Ukrainian Institute for the potentially growing yearly by 5-7 percent, return its representatives to the Joint ing a ruling. Ukrainian Prosecutor General Future, said on December 27, 2017. say experts at the Ukrainian Institute for Center on Control and Coordination. The Yuriy Lutsenko has accused Mr. Saakashvili, Referring to the country’s wavering the Future. fighting in eastern Ukraine has claimed the former governor of Ukraine’s Odesa post-Soviet development, he said: “We all Prospects for that to happen are slim in more than 10,000 lives and damaged region, of abetting an alleged “criminal are approaching the rationalization of our the near future, says Vasyl Yurchyshyn, important civilian infrastructure. Russia, group” led by Ukraine’s former President everyday life… the rationalization of busi- director of economic and social programs which started this conflict and perpetuates Viktor Yanukovych, who fled to Russia after ness – everything. That rationalization car- at the Razumkov Center. it through active leadership of military his ouster in February 2014. Ukrainian ries with it definiteness. Identity ends “Regarding forecasts for 2018, I’m not units on the ground that attack Ukrainian authorities also claim that protests led by where Ukraine’s crisis ends. Every one of optimistic… No one will want to take risks positions daily, must commit to bring it to Mr. Saakashvili in Ukraine are part of a us must ask the question ‘Who am I?’ ” and make unpopular reforms… This won’t an end.” Ms. Nauert added: “The United Russian plot against the government in His colleague Anatoliy Amelin said that happen. And this means we shall have post- States is ready, in coordination with France, Kyiv. Part of the evidence presented in the Ukraine needs to rely more on its abun- poned important matters for a later time,” Germany and Ukraine, to engage with case is a recording of an alleged telephone dance of resources and not on others. he surmised. Russia in support of the Minsk agreements conversation between Mr. Saakashvili and a to achieve an end to the conflict, including pro-Russian Ukrainian businessman who is through a peacekeeping force with a broad hiding in Russia. Mr. Lutsenko has charged mandate for safety and security across the With deep sorrow we announce that that the businessman, Serhiy Kurchenko, entire conflict zone, control of the interna- offered Mr. Saakashvili money to organize tional border, and responsibility for ensur- Antonina Les protests and public disorder in Ukraine and ing the cantonment of heavy weapons.” that Mr. Saakashvili accepted a half-million- passed away on Friday, December 15, 2017. (U.S. Department of State) dollar payment. Mr. Saakashvili, who Born 1924 in Poltava, Ukraine, she emigrated to America with Vienna court rejects Firtash extradition attended the January 3 Kyiv hearing with her husband, settling in New Haven, Connecticut. Later they relocated his wife and a son, denies all charges. He A court in Vienna has decided against to East Lyme, Connecticut, where they have lived for the past forty- told reporters after the hearing that the ve years. Antonina was married to Bohdan Ted Les, (who passed away extraditing Ukrainian oligarch Dmytro forensic evidence presented by prosecutors this past summer) and had two children Natalie Les and Theodore Les Firtash from Austria to Spain. Vienna’s was flawed. He also alleged that the evi- and two granddaughters Antonina and Daria. She had one sister, Anna Higher Regional Court issued its decision dence against him was fabricated by the Borowyk, (who survived her), and nieces. Antonina’s family wishes to on December 19, 2017, citing insufficient SBU “with the involvement of” the FSB. thank Companion Homemakers for their years of service. documentation linking Mr. Firtash to “The so-called forensics saying it was prov- alleged money laundering and organized en that my so-called conversation with The Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, December 28, 2017, at St. Mary Protectress Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 50 Fowler St., New crime. The 52-year-old billionaire also Kurchenko was authentic has a lot of flaws,” faces an extradition request from the Haven, Connecticut, followed by Interment in St. Andrew Cemetery in Mr. Saakashvili said. “First of all, I refused to South Bound Brook, New Jersey. West Haven Funeral Home at the Green United States, where he is charged with give them a voice sample when I was inter- attempting to pay $18.5 million in bribes in was in care of arrangements. For online condolences please visit www. rogated by the SBU security service,” he westhavenfuneral.com. a bid to win mining rights in India. Mr. said. “In spite of that, they were able to Firtash has denied all the charges; he says present forensic conclusions saying that May her memory be eternal. they are politically motivated and aimed at the voice on the tape is mine,” Mr. limiting his political influence in Ukraine. Saakashvili said. “But their own expert says Mr. Firtash was a major donor to Ukraine’s in the documentation that the forensic former President Viktor Yanukovych before team didn’t have a proper voice sample to With deep sorrow we share with friends the Russia-backed president’s ouster in make a thorough analysis.” He added, “This that on December 18, 2017, our beloved cousin February 2014. After the mass protests reminds me of the old Soviet style when that ended Mr. Yanukovych’s presidency, authorities proved the authenticity of Daria M. Mudry Mr. Firtash fled to Russia and later went to whatever they themselves claimed.” There Austria, where he was arrested in 2014 on was no comment from the FSB to Mr. passed away after a lengthy illness at age 81. a U.S. warrant. He was set free after posting Saakashvili’s accusation. Meanwhile, the She was born June 24,1936 in Zolochiv, Western Ukraine. bail of 125 million euros ($144 million Kyiv District Administrative Court on Daria received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers Newark, New Jersey, and a Masters of Social Work from Smith College, Northhampton, Massachusetts. The president laid flowers at the She was Director of the Social Work Deptartment at St. Vincent Medical Turning... Embassy of France in Kyiv, signed the book Center, Staten Island, New York, and on the Board of Directors of Richmond of condolences at the Embassy and Home Need Services, Staten Island, New York. (Continued from page 6) expressed deep sympathy and support to Funeral services were held on December 23, 2017, at Holy Trinity Ukrainian of the European Parliament and the Ambassador Alain Remy. President Catholic Church, Staten Island, New York, later followed by interment at St. European Commission. U.S. Ambassador to Poroshenko stated: “Ukraine knows what Gertrude Cemetery, Colonia, New Jersey. France Jane D. Hartley represented the the struggle against terrorism means,” as Her brothers Very Rev. Canon Lubomyr Mudry and Zenon, a member of United States during the march. Ukraine has experienced “terrorist attacks UPA, predeceased her. Mr. Poroshenko stated: “The March of in the occupied territories of Donetsk and In her memory charitable donations may be made to: United Ukrainian Unity has united all civilized countries of Luhansk regions… Ukraine is grateful to American Relief Committee, 12 Cottman Ave., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. the world in France. Today, we are defend- France for its assistance and solidarity in www.uuarc.org ing the values of democracy and freedom of the struggle against terrorism on the speech together. I believe that humanism With great sorrow she is survided by her cousins: Ukrainian land. Ukraine supports France in Lidia Boyko (Stephen), and unity will always overcome terror.” its struggle against terrorism.” Daria Canton (Troy) Thousands of marchers carried placards Maya & Elena Canton that had become a social media slogan of Source: “Poroshenko takes part in March unity and defiance, “Je suis Charlie.” Similar of Unity in Paris,” (Press Office of the Ihor Bojaniwsky (Eleanor). marches were held in London, Madrid, President of Ukraine), The Ukrainian Weekly, May her memory be eternal. Cairo, Montreal, Beirut, Sydney and Tokyo. January 18, 2015. 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 No. 1 Wesleyan Concert Choir premieres setting of Stus poem

by Katja Kolcio MIDDLETOWN, Conn. – On Sunday, November 19, 2017, the Wesleyan Concert Choir under the direction of Nadya Potemkina performed a choral setting of Vasyl Stus’s poem “Na Lysiy Hori” (On Bald Mountain) as part of its fall concert pro- gram. The poem was set to music by local Ukrainian American composer Alexander Kuzma, who arranged the piece for mixed choir and tenor soloists. The choir of 47 singers learned the piece in its original Ukrainian and performed it at Crowell Concert Hall on November 19, 2017. Earlier that fall, “Na Lysiy Hori” was premiered at Christ the King Ukrainian

Catholic Church in Boston by the Yevshan Katja Kolcio Composer Alexander Kuzma and choral director Nadya Potemkina pose with Wesleyan Concert Choir following the concert on November 19, 2017. Prior to the performance, the composer In translation the poem reads: was invited to the stage to give a short intro- On a bald mountain duction providing the historical context of The embers of the night are burning down the Stus poem. Mr. Kuzma explained that And the leaves of fall are dying to ashes. Vasyl Stus was a Ukrainian political prisoner But I’ve forgotten where whose poetry was smuggled out of the that bald mountain might be, notorious Perm 36 prison camp in Siberia – And I don’t even know if that bald mountain one of the most notorious and harshest Would recognize me. prisons in the Soviet Gulag. The poem was I don’t know. Don’t know. Don’t know. written in the final years of his life, as Stus reflected on his decision to risk his freedom O hour of dusk, hour in an act of defiance against the Soviet State of thin-throated partings. and in defense of human rights. And still I remember the scent Stus died in 1985 at the age of 47, just six of your worried hands, years before Ukraine achieved indepen- And your lips, acrid, almost saline. And this squandered age flies Neely Bruce dence and the Soviet regime collapsed. A off on the wings At Wesleyan University (from left) are: graduate teaching assistant and assistant con- few years ago, Donetsk State University was ductor Simbarashe Kamuriwo, composer Alexander Kuzma, music director and con- named in Stus’s honor, but since the Russian Of a ragged, startled bird, ductor Nadya Potemkina and Prof. Katja Kolcio. invasion, the university was stripped of its And with a dull, hollow sound, title. Nevertheless Stus remains a revered Like the thrum of blood rushing Ukrainian Vocal Ensemble, but this was the was introduced to the Wesleyan choir by figure among Ukrainians, both as a brilliant through aorta, first time it was performed by a non-Ukrai- Katja Kolcio, professor of dance and envi- poet and as a martyred champion of human You can hear the strident howl nian ensemble in Connecticut. The song ronmental studies at Wesleyan. rights, Mr. Kuzma noted. of nightingales.

Ukrainian educational version of “Okradena Zemlya” is released

by Bohdanna Hawryluk The following documentaries in this series are avail- able. The original, 75-minute Ukrainian-language feature MONTREAL – The Ukrainian-language educational ver- documentary “Okradena Zemlya,” narrated by Bohdan sion of the documentary film “Okradena Zemlya” has been Beniuk; the English-language multi-award-winning feature completed, ushering in the upcoming 85th anniversary of documentary version “Genocide Revealed,” narrated by the 1932-1933 Famine-Genocide in Ukraine. Canadian Oscar-nominated actor Graham Greene; the The new documentary release will add to the resource English-language educational version of “Genocide material available for Ukrainian-language teachers in Revealed” for teachers, with 26-minute and 54-minute ver- Canada, the United States, Ukraine and other countries. sions on one DVD; and finally, the French-language This documentary is a shortened version of the original 75-minute feature documentary version titled “Genocide 75-minute feature documentary directed and edited by d’une nation,” narrated by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Yurij Luhovy. The Ukrainian-language educa- actress Genevieve Bujold. tional release includes two versions for teachers to select These documentaries, which have received high praise from, 28 minutes and 54 minutes in lengh, on one DVD. from historians and specialists in Holodomor-genocide Teachers of the Holodomor can choose the version that studies, were made possible with the support of Caisse better fits into the length of their class time. Populaire Desjardins Ukrainienne de Montreal, “Okradena Zemlya” exposes Moscow’s policy of geno- Shevchenko Foundation, Temerty Family Foundation, cide against the Ukrainian nation. The film focuses on the Zaraska Family Foundation, Danyliw Foundation, BCU 1932-1933 Holodomor engineered by Stalin’s regime Foundation, Chicago Ukrainian Genocide Famine against the rural population, the decimation of the national Foundation and others. elite and Churches, and the destruction of Ukraine’s histor- Mr. Luhovy stated: “I am so pleased we have finally been ical past. It reveals one of the greatest human tragedies of able to complete the Ukrainian-language educational ver- the 20th century. sion. Without the encouragement and financial support of “Okradena Zemlya” is based on testimonies of survi- the community, it would have been impossible to make vors, commentaries by historians, declassified Soviet archi- these documentaries on the Famine-Genocide to help val documents and rare historical footage. The award-win- increase public awareness. This work has not been easy, ning documentary was shot in eastern Ukraine. Today, but with the dedicated and determined team, we never most of the areas where this documentary filmed remain- gave up and continued to ensure these versions are made. I ing survivors is once again inaccessible, devastated by am also pleased we have been able to donate many educa- Russia’s ongoing hybrid war in eastern Ukraine. MMLInc tional versions to schools with contributions made for this Director Yurij Luhovy and Lana Babij, member of the The documentary is under the patronage of the Connecticut Holodomor Committee, hold the newly purpose. Completion of these versions is a testimony of the Ukrainian World Congress. The Ukrainian-language ver- released Ukrainian educational version of “Okradena Ukrainian diaspora’s commitment, relentlessly continuing sion was made possible with the help of the Shevchenko Zemlya.” the work to research and document genocide against the Foundation and support from BCU Foundation, the Ukrainian nation.” Ukrainian Studies Foundation in Australia and others. in their efforts to make available teacher resource materi- To order the newly released Ukrainian educational ver- The Ukrainian-language version is the fifth major als and to help bring public awareness to the Holodomor sion “Okradena Zemlya,” or other versions, readers may release by producers Mr. Luhovy and Zorianna Hrycenko and the policies of genocide against the Ukrainian nation. e-mail [email protected] or call 514-481-5871. No. 1 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 15 Promin celebrates 45 years of song and camaraderie by Oles Kuzyszyn For a quality musical ensemble to thrive for nearly half a century, talent, vision, dedi- cation and persistence are the minimum requirements. The Promin Vocal Ensemble, founded in 1972 by the indefatigable and inimitable conductor, vocalist, musician and arranger Bohdanna Wolansky, has all these qualities and more – most notably, a passion for singing in general, and for Ukrainian song in particular. All accentuat- ed by a genuine camaraderie and the pure joy of making good music together. In the late 1970s and ’80s, Promin was a staple at the now legendary Ukrainian Youth Festivals in Glen Spey, N.Y., at the time, the premiere U.S. showcase for lead- ing Ukrainian ensembles and soloists from the United States and Canada. Later, Promin performed at such prominent venues as Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, the United Katia Woloszyn Nations in New York, and Harvard Performers of the Promin Ensemble with director Bohdanna Wolanska in the center. University in Cambridge, Mass. The ensemble has appeared with the Yordani” (arr. Kyrylo Stetsenko) followed. the Grazhda Music and Art Center of ular Ukrainian recording artists, such as foremost Ukrainian artistic organizations of The first non-Ukrainian selection was the Greene County. Danchyk (Bohdan Andusyshyn) and Olya the Ukrainian diaspora, including Roma popular British carol “Ding Dong! Merrily Guests were treated to a reception with Chodoba-Fryz, as well as prominent vocal Pryma’s Syzokryli, Lydia Krushelnytska’s on High!” (arr. George Woodward). Then, refreshments and libations, during which soloists Oksana Bodnar and Maria Drama Studio, the Ukrainian Music another arrangement by Ms. Wolansky, “V former and present Promin members and Wolansky (still a member of Promin), Institute, the Dumka Chorus, the Grazhda Nashoho Pana Noviyi Dvory.” their friends had ample opportunity to among others. Promin has also helped seed Music and Art Center of Greene County, the Midway through the program, Promin reminisce and rekindle past experiences. the ranks of the above-mentioned bandura Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus and the Echo provided several surprise treats, the first of Not surprisingly, a “koliada” sing-along ensembles, and molded future music of the Steppes Bandura Ensemble. which was Ms. Wolansky’s arrangement of soon broke out, led by several Promin instructors, all enriched by their Promin Since its inception in 1972, Promin has the Scottish New Year’s favorite “Auld Lang members, the highlight of which undoubt- experience. been under the direction of Bohdanna Syne.” Leontovych’s classic, “Shchedryk,” edly was the reprise of Leontovych’s It should be noted that Promin has Wolansky – the ensemble’s music director was followed by a Ukrainian version of “Shchedryk.” Given the many singers in the released several recordings of its own, the and artistic voice. Irving Berlin’s timeless “White Christmas,” audience, the effect of nearly the entire hall first of which dates back to 1984. Its most On Saturday, December 2, 2017, at the sung by an ensemble composed entirely of singing this world famous Ukrainian recent CD, “Sing A Song of Christmas,” was venerable Ukrainian National Home on New Wolansky family members, accompanied “shchedrivka” – all vocal parts accounted released just this year. More information is York’s Lower East Side, the Promin Vocal by Bohdanna and Lev on guitars. for – was literally spine-tingling. available on the ensemble’s website, www. Ensemble celebrated its 45th anniversary Three more Ukrainian selections fol- On this night, as had been true for the ProminVocal.org, or by writing to the with a seasonal concert of Ukrainian “koli- lowed, namely, “Shchedryi Vechir, Dobryi past four decades and then some, the hall- ensemble at [email protected]. ady” and “shchedrivky.” Several internation- Vechir” (arr. K. Stetsenko), the familiar “Na marks of Promin’s style featured the core After 45 years, it would hardly suffice to al and American Christmas selections were Yordanskyi Richtsi” (arr. K. Stetsenko) and principles consistently espoused by Ms. simply congratulate Promin on nearly half a included for good measure, as befits an “Vo Vyfleyemi Zorya Siyaye” (arr. Alla Wolansky: proper vocal technique, subtlety century of musical achievement. A heartfelt ensemble that has been an integral part of Kutsevych). of interpretation, sonic balance, quality rep- thank you is more in order. Since its incep- New York’s multicultural fabric for decades. The closing selection, “Silent Night,” was ertoire and the often elusive “good taste.” tion, Promin has endeavored to present the Many of the selections were accompanied sung in three languages – the original Promin members past and present know very best of Ukrainian vocal repertoire in by an exquisite ensemble of “bandurysty,” German, English and Ukrainian. full well how fortunate they are to have had the most worthy possible guise. As such, comprising Promin vocalists performing The full house, comprised equal parts in Ms. Wolansky an expert vocal coach, a Promin stands proudly at the forefront of double duty as accompanists. Promin alumni, friends and supporters, and musical mentor, an enthusiastic motivator the Ukrainian diaspora’s cultural achieve- “Kolyada Yide” (arranged by Ms. music enthusiasts, greeted the ensemble and an aesthetic compass, whose expertise ments, alongside its most prominent expo- Wolansky) served as the “introit” – the with tumultuous applause. Promin and guidance will serve them well not only nents. And it has achieved all this in the ensemble entered from the rear of the hall received flowers and congratulatory greet- as performers, but as informed listeners of spirit of camaraderie, and with the pure joy and then took the stage, all while singing. ings from the Consulate of Ukraine, the music. of singing that is irresistible to all who have “Oy Tam Za Horoyu” (arr. Mykola Dumka Chorus, the Ukrainian Bandurist It is no wonder that, through the years, had the pleasure of hearing them. Leontovych) and “Oy Na Richtsi, Na Chorus, the Ukrainian Music Institute and Promin’s ranks have produced several pop- Mnohaya lita, Promin! Many happy years!

Makhno reads “Jerusalem Poems” at Washington’s Holy Family Shrine

by Andrew Sorokowski tion of stories and essays “Dim u Beiting Hollov” (“The House in Baiting Hollow”) in 2015. WASHINGTON – Poetry is first of all meant to be heard. In the congenial setting of the Shawel Room at the nation- Hence, poetry lovers flock to live readings – especially when al shrine, Dr. Makhno read from the three above-mentioned the reader is the poet himself. books. His Jerusalem poems, particularly apt in this venue, Such was the case on Sunday, November 5, 2017, when the combined philosophical meditations with the sounds, Shevchenko Scientific Society’s chapter in Washington, smells, tastes, textures and images of the holy city. An together with the Library of the Ukrainian Catholic National excerpt from the appended essay “Crickets and Turtle Shrine of the Holy Family, presented a reading by New York Doves” extends this panorama of contrasts and conflicts, Ukrainian poet Vasyl Makhno. beauty and antiquity. Originally from Chortkiv, Ternopil Oblast, Dr. Makhno has Dr. Makhno’s dynamic delivery enlivened several excerpts lived in New York since 2000. He is the author of numerous from his two other recent collections of poetry and prose, works of prose and poetry, including essays and translations touching on such topics as memory, history, war, love, rejec- from English, Polish and Serbian. Among the poets he has tion, solitude and the plight of the emigrant. In his informal translated are Zbigniew Herbert, Jean Valentine and John commentary, he recalled his childhood and youth in Chortkiv Ashbery. Dr. Makhno’s own works have been translated into and nearby Buchach. Noting that in the late 17th century, 25 languages, including Armenian, English, German, Hebrew, this area was under Turkish rule, he observed that as a Polish, Russian, Serbian, Yiddish and Malayalam (the classical meeting place of Christians, Muslims and Jews, his home- language of Kerala, India). He received the BBC Book of the town was a microcosm of the wider world. Year award in 2015. After a discussion focusing on the history of Buchach and Dr. Makhno’s collection “Ierusalymski Virshi” (“Jerusalem its prominent natives, Shevchenko Scientific Society chapter Poems”) was published in Kyiv in 2016 in an artfully designed President Bohdana Urbanovych closed the proceedings. and illustrated edition by Krytyka, with English translations Members of the audience immediately lined up to purchase by Orest Popovych and a preface by Yohanan Petrovsky- Svitlana Makhno copies of the speaker’s works, which he graciously signed. Shtern. The most recent of his 12 poetry collections is Vasyl Makhno reads his poems at the Ukrainian After all, an initial recitation may give the listener a vivid first “Paperovyi Mist” (“Paper Bridge”), published by Vydavnytstvo Catholic National Shrine of the Holy Family in impression of a work, but one can only explore its depths and Staroho Leva in 2017. The same publisher issued his collec- Washington. layers through careful and repeated exploration of the text. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 No. 1 Ambassadors meet Ukraine’s parliamentary interns Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Program OTTAWA – Fifteen Ukrainian university students are participating in the 27th Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Program (CUPP) in the Canadian Parliament. On October 31, 2017, the interns held a Prayer for Peace in Ukraine and Throughout the World at the “Reconciliation: The Peacekeeping Monument” located on Parliament Hill. Clergy of various faiths read the prayers for peace, and Andrew Bennett, Canada’s former ambassador for religious freedom delivered the closing prayer. That evening, a reception was held at the Sir John A. Macdonald Building, featuring many distinguished guests and speakers. Among the speakers were Ukraine’s Ambassador to Canada Andriy Shevchenko; Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman of Ukraine; Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Ralph Goodale; Member of Parliament Borys Wrzesnewskyj, chair of the Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group; MP James Bezan, deputy chair of the National Defense CUPP alumni and 2017 interns meet Canada’s Ambassador to Ukraine Roman Waschuk in Kyiv on September 12, Committee; Ihor Bardyn, director of the Canada-Ukraine 2017, to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary. Parliamentary Program; and Taras Pidzamecky, president of Ukrainian National Federation of Canada. The 15 interns were welcomed to Canada back on September 27, 2017, by Ukraine’s ninth ambassador to the country, Mr. Shevchenko, at the Embassy of Ukraine. All of the students were introduced, noting their universities and the members of Parliament in whose offices they would be serving internships. Earlier, on September 12, 2017, these interns plus a group of CUPP alumni were hosted in Kyiv at the residence of Canada’s ambassador to Ukraine, Roman Waschuk. On that occasion they celebrated Canada’s 150th anniversary. The meeting in Kyiv was also an opportunity to cele- brate the strong ties between Canada and Ukraine, the countries’ common values and shared ambitions. Ambassador Waschuk spoke about Canada’s proud tradi- tions of multiculturalism and of his belief that “Ukrainian DNA” has been deeply integrated into the Canadian identi- ty, placing particular stress on the important role that Interns of the Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Program on Parliament Hill in Ottawa gathered on the occasion of Ukrainians have played in contributing to the ethnic diver- the Prayer for Peace in Ukraine and Throughout the World. sity and history of Canada. No. 1 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 17

The Taras Shevchenko School of Ukrainian Studies of Greater Washington in cooperation with The Washington Group requests the pleasure of your company at the Washington, DC Ukrainian Debutante Ball Saturday, January 20, 2018 Omni Shoreham Hotel Alexandra Maria 2500 Calvert Street, NW Sofia Julianna Danylyszyn Washington, DC 20008 Piazza Musical entertainment by KLOPIT

Odessa Sophia Oksana Elizabeth Howera Vickers Bozhena Krystyna Anna Lena Andrea Katya Elizabeth Julia Anna Kulchyckyj Mojsiak Yearout Vaichekauskas Tickets Now Available! Please visit www.ukrainianschooldc.org or contact [email protected] 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 No. 1

Conferences... (Continued from page 9) The featured speaker of the second ple- nary was Phillip Karber, president of the Potomac Foundation, who spoke on “Securing Ukraine’s Future: A Way Forward in the Assistance of the Global Ukrainian community.” Several breakout sessions held during the conference were devoted to the follow- ing topics: assessing the role and contribu- tion of the UWC to the successes of the last two generations, six breakout sessions examined the following topics: external relations (relationship building with gov- ernments, international agencies and non- governmental organizations); community development (cooperation within the UWC 53-country UWC network); informational Member of the Canadian Parliament efforts (engaging mass media, social media Borys Wrzesnewskyj. Participants of the conference in Toronto with postcards for Ukrainian political prisoners. globally and locally); human rights protec- Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish and Crimean- Klympush-Tsintzadze, Bishop Bohdan tion and humanitarian efforts (assisting Methodius Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Tatar communities. Dziurakh, Bishop Borys Gudziak and the Ukrainians worldwide); educating the next Church in St. Catharines, Ontario, with a Mr. Czolij addressed the gathering, and president of the Representative Committee generation of Ukrainians around the world; benediction from the archbishop of guests had an opportunity to view the film of the Ukrainian Community in France, and cooperative and financial endeavors. Chernihiv and Nizhyn of the Ukrainian “50 Years of the Ukrainian World Congress.” Tarass Horiszny. Moderators of breakout sessions includ- Orthodox Church – Kyiv Patriarchate (UOC- In recognition of his dedication and Participants of the roundtable viewed the ed: Mykola Hryckowian, Washington KP), Yevstratiy Zorya. achievements, the Ukrainian Canadian film “50 years of the Ukrainian World bureau chief, Center for U.S.-Ukrainian Greetings were presented by Mr. Grod, Congress Montreal Branch presented the Congress” and discussed future cooperation. Relations; Tamara Olexy, chair of the UWC’s MP Wrzesnewskyj, Sen. Andreychuk, UWC president with a painting by well- U.N. Affairs Council and UCCA executive Consul General of Ukraine in Toronto Forum in Belgium known Ukrainian artist Volodymyr Zabeida. director; Ms. Kluchkovskyi of the Andriy Veselovsky, Mmes. Sushko and The commemorative banquet included International Institute for Education, Kluchkovskyi, and Ukrainian National On November 7, 2017, the UWC presi- performances by Yuri and Anna Konevitch, Culture and Diaspora Relations; Peter Deputy Viktor Kryvenko. A letter of greet- dent, while on a working visit to Brussels, Irena Pawliw and the Rossa ensemble with Sztyk, UWC third vice-president and chair ings from Ukraine’s Minister of Science and Belgium, took part in a forum titled “UWC Natalia Bedik, Dania Kolanitch and Sonia of the UWC International Human and Civil Education Lilia Hrynevych was read by Ms. at 50: European and Euro-Atlantic Forum” Kulycky. The master of ceremonies was a Rights Committee; Oksana Wynnyckyj- Wynnyckyj-Yusypovych. on the premises of the European Economic well-known member of the Ukrainian com- Yusypovych, chair of the UWC International The keynote address at the banquet was and Social Committee (EESC). munity, Orest Humenny. Educational Coordinating Council; and delivered by acting Minister of Health of The participants, numbering over 150, included policy-makers, scholars, civil soci- Taras Pidzamecky, CEO of Ukrainian Credit Ukraine Dr. Ulana Suprun who focused on Conference in Brazil Union Limited and president of the the positive changes in Ukraine over recent ety and Ukrainian diaspora representatives Ukrainian National Federation of Canada; years and the country’s path of reform in In Curitiba, Brazil, the conference “UWC from over 25 countries in Europe and and Marc Shwec, former president of the the health care system. The banquet also at 50 and beyond: The South American around the world. Panelists and guests UCC Toronto Branch. included a screening of the documentary Vector” was held on September 30, 2017, from European Union institutions, NATO, Participating in the breakout sessions as film “50 years of the Ukrainian World with the participation of representatives of the United Nations and other international lead discussants over the two days in addi- Congress.” Ukrainian community organizations in organizations also featured on the agenda. tion to the plenary presenters were Orysia After UWC President Czolij delivered the Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay. The opening session of the forum began Sushko, UWC second vice-president and closing remarks, Archbishop Yevstratiy pre- Organized by UWC member organiza- with welcoming remarks by EESC Vice- president of the World Federation of sented to Mr. Czolij a medal of recognition tion Ukrainian-Brazilian Central President Michael Smyth, and the opening Ukrainian Women’s Organizations; Petro for the UWC from the UOC-KP – the Order Representation, it was the fourth in a series keynote address was delivered by the UWC Rewko, president of the Association of of St. Apostolic Prince Volodymyr the Great, of conferences organized by the UWC in president. In a video address, EU Ukrainians in Great Britain; Valeriy second rank. The president of the 2017 to include various regions of the Commissioner for European Neighborhood Semenenko, UWC vice-president; Vira Association of Ukrainians Zakerzonnia, Alla world in an analysis of its achievements to Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Konyk, UWC vice-president and president Kobeliak, and the president of the Lemko date and development of a roadmap for the Johannes Hahn reiterated the EU’s support of the Congress of Ukrainians in Estonia; Association of Canada, Roman Kolos, pre- future. for the reform process in Ukraine. The Ihor Mychalchyshyn, CEO, Ukrainian sented the UWC with a commemorative Words of welcome were delivered by the managing director for Europe and Central Canadian Congress; Jurij Klufas, Producer, medal issued on the 70th anniversary of president of the Ukrainian-Brazilian Asia at the European External Action Kontakt TV; Serhiy Kasyanchuk, director of Akcja Wisla. Central Representation, Vitorio Sorotiuk, Service (EEAS), Thomas Mayr Harting, took the UWC Mission to Ukraine; Orest A gala concert on November 11 included who was also the moderator of the confer- stock of EU-Ukraine relations to date and Zakydalsky, senior policy advisor, UCC; performances by the world-renowned ence. shared his vision for the future. Victor Hetmanczuk, UWC director of Taras Shevchenko Ukrainian Bandurist During the conference, presentations The plenary sessions of the UWC forum humanitarian initiatives; Marta Baziuk, Chorus of North America, Canadian mezzo were made by UWC President Eugene focused on five major themes: Ukraine’s Christina Yurchuk and Anastasia soprano Stephania Romaniuk and virtuoso Czolij on the topic “Past Accomplishments European integration, Ukraine’s Euro- Leshchyshyn, Ukrainian Political Prisoners violinist Vasyl Popadiuk with the Papa of the UWC and a Vision for the Future”; Atlantic integration, a Marshall Plan for Project; Halyna Masliuk, chair, UWC Duke band. professors of the Slavic Department of Ukraine, human rights, and countering International Task Force to Stop Human The concert program also featured brief Unicentro University, Marileia Gartner and Russian disinformation. Discussions on the Trafficking and Association of the Ukrainian historical facts about the UWC, scenes from Luciane Trennephol Da Costa, on teaching reform process in Ukraine in the context of Diaspora in Greece Ukrainian Hellenic 50th anniversary commemorations around the Ukrainian language and the first the implementation of the EU-Ukraine Thought; Iroida Wynnyckyj, former chair, the world, a video produced by students of accreditation of 15 professors who teach it; Association Agreement and Deep and UWC International Educational Lviv Polytechnic National University titled and professor of the Ukrainian language at Comprehensive Free Trade Area and the Coordinating Council; Nadia Luciw, former “What do you know about the Ukrainian the Federal University of Parana, Olga Minsk process complemented the agenda. chair, UWC International Educational World Congress?” and video excerpts from Kalko, on teaching Ukrainian language Ukraine’s Vice-Prime Minister Council; Basil Kalymon, professor emeritus, the “Ballet of Life” performed by courses. Klympush-Tsintsadze delivered a keynote The Richard Ivey School of Business; and Reminiscencii.UA. Two authors presented their books dur- address on the topic “Ukraine’s Difficult ing the conference: Jorge Balanda present- Challenges: Stopping Russian Aggression Roman Medyk, chair, BCU Foundation. Banquet in Montreal Based on the deliberations of the break- ed “Nashi Llude” on the history of while Furthering Reforms.” out sessions, Plenary Session III included a A commemorative banquet at the Ukrainians in the Brazilian province of During the concluding session of the presentation of recommendations for Ukrainian Youth Center in Montreal on Misiones, and Emilio Gaudeda presented conference, Mr. Czolij presented a certifi- UWC’s next 50 years in the delineated pri- October 22, 2017, marked both the 26th “Herois Nao Morrem” (Heroes Never Die) cate of recognition to Estonian politician ority areas. anniversary of the independence of featuring biographies of 44 individuals who Tunne Kelam, a member of the European During the two-day conference, the Ukraine and the 50th anniversary of the contributed to the development of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Ukrainian Philatelic and Numismatic UWC. It was organized by the Montreal Ukrainian community in life in Brazil. one of the speakers at the UWC forum, for Society produced a commemorative UWC Branch of the Ukrainian Canadian his contribution to supporting Ukraine in Roundtable in Paris postage stamp and presented an exhibit. Congress. the EU. A commemorative banquet concluded Greetings were delivered by Ukraine’s On November 18, 2017, an anniversary The forum ended with a reception orga- the first day of the conference. The pro- Ambassador to Canada Andriy Shevchenko, roundtable was held in Paris with the UWC nized by the Embassy of Ukraine to gram opened with the national anthems Montreal City Councilor Mark-André president delivering a keynote address on Belgium and Luxembourg. sung by the Prometheus male chorus of the Gadoury, UCC National President Grod and the main priorities of the UWC. Ukrainian Youth Association Toronto UCC Montreal Branch President Helen Remarks were also given by Deputy Compiled by The Ukrainian Weekly on the Branch, followed by a prayer offered by the Holowka. Greetings were also presented by Prime Minister of Ukraine for European basis of reports from the Ukrainian World Rev. Bohdan Choly of Ss. Cyril and representatives of the Armenian, Georgian, and Euro-Atlantic Integration Ivanna Congress. No. 1 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 19

January 13 Malanka celebration, Ukrainian National Women’s January 20-21 International Conference, “The 100th Anniversary of the Santa Clara, CA League of America – San Jose Branch, Ukrainian Catholic New York Ukrainian Revolution 1917-1921,” Shevchenko Scientific Center of St. Volodymyr, www.eventbrite.com Society, Ukrainian Academy of Arts and Sciences and the Ukrainian Institute of America, 212-228-8660 January 13 Malanka celebration, “Adventure in Old Kyiv,” Assumption Ottawa of the Blessed Virgin Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, January 25 through Art exhibit, “Five Elements of War,” by Daria [email protected] or 613-222-7373 February 3 Marchenko and Daniel Green, Ukrainian Institute of New York America, 212-288-8660 or www.ukrainianinstitute.org January 13 Presentation by Olga Kobryn, “Art of Ukrainian Embroidery,” Shrewsbury, NJ Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (Branch 98), January 26-28 The New York Times Travel Show, U.S.-Ukraine Foundation, Jacob K. Javits C Shrewsbury Library (Eastern Branch), [email protected] New York enter, [email protected] January 27 “Chervona Kalyna” presentation of Debutantes, Plast January 13 Malanka celebration, Ukrainian Youth Association East Rutherford, NJ Ukrainian Scouting Organization, Hilton Meadowlands, Mississauga, ON in Canada, Mississauga Convention Center, 416-554-6779 www.kalynadeb.org or 866-295-8986 or www.cymmalanka.com January 27 Winter Ball and Presentation of Debutantes, Ukrainian January 13 Malanka dinner and dance, Ukrainian American Society Detroit Engineers’ Society of America – Detroit Branch, Dallas of Texas, Hyatt Place Dallas/Garland/Richardson, featuring music by Klopit, Dearborn Inn Marriott Hotel, [email protected] or 830-660-6569 586-677-9466 or [email protected]

January 14 Christmas concert by the Ukrainian Chorus Dumka, St. January 28 Book presentation, “The Ukrainian Night: An Intimate New York George Ukrainian Catholic Church, www.dumka.org New York History of Revolution” by Marci Shore, The Ukrainian Museum, 212-228-0110 or www.ukrainianmuseum.org January 18 Workshop, “The European Union and Russia: Where Ottawa Now?” by EUREAST, Carleton University, February 3 64th Presentation of Debutantes, Ukrainian Engineers’ http://carleton.ca/eureast/cu-events Philadelphia Society of America, Hyatt Regency Hotel at the Bellevue, 610-277-1284 or [email protected] January 20 Ukrainian Debutante Ball, Taras Shevchenko School of Washington Ukrainian Studies and The Washington Group, Omni February 3 Presentation of Debutantes, Plast Ukrainian Scouting Shoreham Hotel, [email protected] Independence, OH Organization in Cleveland, Embassy Suites Hotel Cleveland-Rockside, [email protected] January 20 Montreal Malanka, co-hosted by the Ukrainian Youth February 3 Performance, “Martin Luther’s Deutsche Messe of 1526,” Montreal Association in Canada and Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization, New York featuring Ensemble Origo under the direction of Eric Rice, Le Chateaubriand, 514-774-8428 or 514-887-2094 with elements of Polsih/Ukrainian composer Marcin Leopolita, Ukrainian Institute of America, January 20 Toronto Malanka, “Moulin Rouge,” Plast Ukrainian Scouting Toronto Organization, Liberty Grand, [email protected] www.ukrainianinstitute.org or 212-288-8660 Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events January 20 Presentation of debutantes, Newark Branch of Plast advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions from all Whippany, NJ Ukrainian Scouting Organization, Hanover Marriott, our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors and as space [email protected] or 973-538-8811 allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected].

Sisters of St. Basil seek volunteers for program serving Ukraine’s needy JENKINTOWN, Pa. – The Sisters of St. accepted applicants will collaborate with Basil are seeking volunteers to come and the sisters, priests and seminarians of serve in their ministry to Ukraine’s needy. Ukraine to provide Berlitz-style English The Basilian Volunteer Program for 2018 language camps as well as to continue will take place from May 27 to June 15. bringing financial support to orphanages. English catechetical camps will be held Volunteers provide their own airfare to in Drohobych from May 27 to June 1, in Lviv and the Basilian Sisters provide room, Ivano-Frankivsk on June 3-8 and in board and transportation within Ukraine. Mukachiv on June 10-15. Volunteers will For an application and additional infor- also visit orphanages on June 3-8. mation, readers may contact Sister Ann at Last year the program served 150 chil- [email protected] or 412-260-1607. A limit- dren in three different area camps and many ed number of volunteers will be accepted, other children in eight orphanages, psychiat- so early application is advised. ric institutions, halfway houses, etc. This year, Anyone wishing to support these pro- the Basilian Sisters continue their annual grams financially can donate by sending a ministry of evangelization and bringing sup- check to: Sister Dorothy Ann Busowski, port and comfort to the needy of Ukraine. OSBM, 710 Fox Chase Road, Jenkintown, PA Sister Ann Laszok, OSBM, and Sister 19046. Checks should be made payable to Joann Sosler, OSBM, together with the Sisters of St. Basil.

tant tourism destination, and many of its Crimean peninsula... residents depend on this sector for their livelihood. Considering this vulnerability, (Continued from page 2) Russia faces a political conundrum of how land or infiltrating Crimea’s coastline and to safeguard “fortress Crimea” while keep- territorial waters – of particular concern ing it open to civilians. How long Moscow being the bays of Sevastopol and Donuzlav, will be able to maintain this balancing act where Russia has installed its main naval clearly depends on both external and inter- facilities on the peninsula. nal factors. And the periodic incidents Since the annexation, Russia has invest- stemming from the Ukrainian-Russian spy ed substantially in building up Crimea as a war underscore that both sides understand military stronghold by restoring the bulk of this dynamic. the military facilities on the peninsula dat- ing back to Soviet times (see Eurasia Daily The article above is reprinted from Monitor, December 9, 2014; November 14, Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from 2017). Yet, alongside its military and geo- its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, strategic value, Crimea remains an impor- www.jamestown.org. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 2018 No. 1

This limited-time offer is available now through PREVIEW OF EVENTS January 14, 2018, for new subscriptions. Saturday, January 13 Saturday, January 28 SHREWSBURY, N.J.: Olga Kobryn, mas- NEW YORK: Meet the award-winning ter artist, will present an illustrated lec- author Marci Shore, associate professor ture on “The Art of Ukrainian of history at Yale University, who will Embroidery” at 2 p.m. at the Eastern present her latest book “The Ukrainian Branch Library, 1001 Route 35, Night: An Intimate History of Revolution” Shrewsbury NJ 07702. The history and (Yale University Press, January 2018). symbolism of embroidery, the many Norman Manea of Bard College wrote of styles and how they differ, the types of the book: “An excellent guide to under- stitches, and the contemporary use of standing the Maidan Revolution in Ukrainian embroidery design in cloth- Ukraine, and its consequences. Shore has ing will be explored. The lecture deep knowledge of the region… her book accompanies an exhibit currently on is well written and honestly and deeply view at the library of antique to mod- documented through direct and acute ern embroidered Ukrainian blouses, observations of facts on the ground.” Get 15 months of belts and other objects. Light refresh- Admission (includes light reception) is ments will be provided. Sponsored by $10; $5 for members and students. The Ukrainian National Women’s League of Ukrainian Museum is located at 222 E. America Branch 98. For information Sixth St.; telephone, 212-228-0110; web- THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY e-mail [email protected]. site, www.ukrainianmuseum.org. for the price of a year’s subscription. PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES Preview of Events is a listing of Ukrainian community events open to the public. It is a $90 for our print edition ($80 for UNA members) service provided at minimal cost ($20 per listing) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the Ukrainian community. $40 for our online edition ($35 for UNA members). To have an event listed in Preview of Events please send information, in English, written Want to get 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 a subscription for BOTH print and online? number and/or e-mail address to be published for readers who may require additional Add only $5 to the price of a print subscription. information. Items must be no more than 100 words long. Preview items must be received no later than one week before the desired date of publication (i.e., they must be received by 9 am Monday morning). Please include pay- ment for each time the item is to appear and indicate date(s) of issue(s) in which the item is to be published. Also, senders are asked to include the phone number of a per- Act now by contacting son who may be contacted by The Weekly during daytime hours, as well as their com- plete mailing address. our Subscription Department: Information should be sent to [email protected]. When e-mailing, please do 973-292-9800 x 3040 not send items as attachments – simply type the text into the body of the e-mail mes- sage. Preview items and payments may be mailed to: Preview of Events, The Ukrainian [email protected] Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054.