STATEMENTS ON THE FAMINE-GENOCIDE

President George W. Bush

Below is the text of President George W. Bush's message on the occasion of the 72nd anniversary of the Ukrainian Famine.

I send greetings to those gathered to commemorate the 72nd anniversary of the Ukrainian Famine. I join my fellow Americans in expressing deepest condolences on this solemn occasion.

Millions in Ukraine were oppressed by Joseph Stalin's totalitarian regime and suffered through devastating famine from 1932 to 1933. They showed great courage and strength throughout this atrocity, and the world will always remember those who gave their lives to resist evil. We must strive to prevent similar acts of cruelty from ever happening again.

The desire for justice, freedom, human rights and accountable, representative government is universal. Since Ukraine's independence in 1991, the Ukrainian people have demonstrated a firm commitment to freedom for all people, and last year's Orange Revolution was a powerful example of democracy in action. In President Viktor Yushchenko, the Ukrainian people have a courageous leader, and America is proud to call Ukraine a friend.

Laura and I send our best wishes on this solemn occasion.

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, December 4, 2005, No. 49, Vol. LXXIII

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