FOR THE RECORD: Statement by ODFFU (08/06/06)

FOR THE RECORD: Statement by ODFFU

The Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine on August 1 issued the following statement regarding current events in Ukraine.

The political crisis in Ukraine is the result of Russia's continued efforts to interfere in Ukraine's domestic and international development as a free and independent nation-state. Earlier this year the world witnessed how authoritarian interests in the Kremlin were willing to halt gas supplies in order to subdue Ukraine. These same interests are eager, and more than able, to purchase politicians in Ukraine's Parliament.

Clearly, leaders of certain political parties, having been guided by their own narrow political self-interests, have demonstrated their willingness to trade Ukraine's sovereignty and independence for a seat in a future neo-colonial government.

We believe there should be consequences for those politicians who have demonstrated their utter disregard for Ukraine's national interest and have sacrificed the aspirations of Ukrainians from east and west to their own personal financial gain.

Those political parties and politicians who continue to destabilize Ukraine through municipal government and wantonly ignore the rule of law should not be allowed a seat at the table of government. We reject the efforts of those who would turn Ukraine into a vassal state of a new Russian empire.

We recognize that opinions differ from east to west just like ideas differ between brothers and sisters in one family. However, we firmly believe that all Ukrainians are united in their support and willingness to defend their freedom and independence. We reiterate our solidarity with the people of Ukraine who stood their ground in defense of their liberties in 2004. We implore the Ukrainian leadership to listen to the voices of the maidan that still echo today.

We also reiterate our support for and willingness to safeguard Ukraine's expressed domestic and foreign policy objectives that include Euro-Atlantic integration; NATO membership; a free market economy; openness and transparency in government; combating cronyism and corruption; legal and judicial reform; and the continued development of democratic institutions.

The Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine expresses its solidarity with Ukrainians during these troubling times. We also express our firm belief in a bright and prosperous future for generations of Ukrainians born today and tomorrow who will live their lives freely and independently. May God grant Viktor Yushchenko, president of Ukraine, the wisdom and strength to lead Ukraine into the 21st century.

On behalf of the ODFFU executive, board of directors and members:
Michael Koziupa, president

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