BRAMA, Aug 18, 2004, 1:00 pm ET
Press Release
Ukraine's course towards Russia troubling as Independence Day celebrations draw near
As a Ukrainian American community, we have struggled for many years for a free and independent Ukraine. After this dream came true in 1991, our community is helping Ukraine solidify its democracy and market economy. We continue to work to achieve the dream of many generations of our ancestors and leave a stable, democratic, European Ukraine to our future generations. Since restoring independence, Ukraine has undergone many transitions; however, many problems remain.
We, as a Ukrainian American community, are troubled by Ukraine's recent policy shift toward Russia, expressed in the changes made to the military doctrine, as well as the expedited creation of the Common Economic Space (CES) between Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. In the same sprit, the practical overturning of the Odesa-Brody pipeline under Russia's control will strengthen Ukraine's energy dependence on the "northern neighbor", instead of alleviating it. Russian Federation President Putin's warnings against "Western agents" who supposedly try to "sabotage" the creation of CES are very reminiscent of the 1654 Pereiaslav Treaty.
The presidential elections scheduled for October of this year carry great significance for solving Ukraine's international and domestic issues. Conducting the elections in a free and fair manner will guarantee Ukraine's progress on its way to a mature democracy, otherwise the Belarus scenario may recur. The European Community, as well as the United States, should not allow this to happen. A stable, democratic Ukraine is a guarantor of peace and stability in Central Europe, which is one aspect of the Euro-Atlantic community's strategic interests. Let us, therefore, assist our brethren outside Ukraine vote during the upcoming presidential elections for the candidate of their choice. Whether in Ukraine or here in the United States, the Ukrainian people's strength lies in unity, thus it should be our to promote harmony within our community in the United States.
On this 13th anniversary of Independence, the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) sends its warmest greetings to the Ukrainian American community and urges all to celebrate this anniversary appropriately. There is much work ahead, but there is no doubt that Ukraine will become an equal member of the Euro-Atlantic community. The UCCA urges our community to take an active role in American and Ukrainian civic life. With your assistance and participation, Ukraine will overcome all obstacles and build a democratic, prosperous nation built on the rule of law!
On behalf of the UCCA Executive Board,
Michael Sawkiw, Jr.
President
Marie Duplak
Executive Secretary
August 13, 2004
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