Mike Levin: “the nation of Ukraine recently celebrated the 12th anniversary of its independence from the former Soviet Union. This…”

“the nation of Ukraine recently celebrated the 12th anniversary of its independence from the former Soviet Union. This milestone, gained after decades under Soviet repression, is a notable achievement that bears witness to humanity's inextinguishable and universal desire for liberty and freedom. Twelve years after its independence, much has been achieved, yet much work remains to be done before Ukraine is able to fulfill its considerable promise and fully join the Euro-Atlantic community of nations that find unity through their commitment to democracy and a steadfast adherence to the rule of law. Yesterday also marked the third anniversary of the disappearance and murder of Ukrainian journalist Georgiy Gongadze. This anniversary casts a pall over Ukrainian society and underscores the problems it faces as it seeks to reform its domestic political situation. The editor of an internet newspaper, Ukrainska Pravda Ukrainian Truth--Gongadze reported widely on corruption within highest circles of Ukrainian society. He was an outspoken critic of corruption, and his decision to create an internet news journal was done in part to avoid some of the censorship and intimidation imposed upon journalists in Ukraine who routinely have their papers seized, presses damaged, and lives threatened by government officials. However, Gongadze's actions did not escape official notice.”