Vovk Foundation Director Yurij Wowczuk Elected President

CHICAGO, IL — The Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine, Inc. held its Annual
Meeting and 80th Anniversary Gala in Chicago on June 13, bringing together delegates, veterans, clergy,
elected officials, community leaders, cultural organizations, and supporters from across the United States.
The Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine, Inc. was founded in 1946 by Ukrainian
Americans dedicated to defending freedom, democracy, human rights, and Ukraine’s independence. For
80 years, ODFFU has worked to support Ukraine, strengthen Ukrainian-American civic life, preserve
Ukrainian identity and culture, and advocate for the rights and future of the Ukrainian nation.

This year’s anniversary carried special meaning as Ukraine continues its fight for sovereignty, freedom,
culture, and survival against Russia’s ongoing invasion. The gathering served not only as a
commemoration of ODFFU’s past work, but also as a renewal of its mission for the future.

The day began with the official Tri-Annual Meeting of ODFFU. Outgoing President Mykola Hryckowian
opened the proceedings and presented his report on the organization’s achievements and work over the
past three years. His remarks reflected on ODFFU’s continued commitment to Ukraine, the Ukrainian-
American community, civic advocacy, cultural preservation, and support for Ukraine during wartime.
The delegates also heard the Treasurer’s financial report presented by Christine Balko, Treasurer of
ODFFU.

The report reviewed the organization’s financial position, ongoing responsibilities, and the
importance of maintaining strong financial controls and transparency as ODFFU enters its next chapter.
Delegates reviewed financial matters, approved the 2026–2027 budget, and adopted resolutions
addressing issues important to Ukraine and the Ukrainian-American community.
A major focus of the Annual Meeting was the future of the organization. Delegates discussed the
importance of strengthening ODFFU’s mission, reaching younger Ukrainian Americans, improving
communications, supporting educational and cultural initiatives, and continuing advocacy for Ukraine
before the broader American public.

Presentations also addressed cultural preservation during wartime,
support for Ukraine’s defenders, and the responsibility of diaspora institutions to prepare the next
generation for civic service.

During the meeting, ODFFU elected new leadership for the coming term. Yurij Wowczuk was elected
President of ODFFU’s Main Executive Board. The convention also elected a new Executive Board, Audit
Committee, and Arbitration Committee to guide the organization’s work. In remarks following his election,
President Wowczuk emphasized youth participation, modern communication, renewed outreach, and
continued service to Ukraine and the Ukrainian-American community as priorities for ODFFU’s next
chapter.

ODFFU National Board:

Vice Presidents: Mykola Hryckowian, Andij Dobrianski, Ross Sasiuk

Secretary: Bohdan Cherniawsky
Treasurer: Christine Balko
Members: Dr. Walter Zaryckyj, Paul Bandriwsky, Vasyl Peretz, Roman Myhal, Borys

Wowczuk, Steven Gabur

The anniversary celebration continued that evening with a gala banquet at the Ukrainian Cultural Center.
The evening opened with the posting of the colors by Ukrainian American Veterans Post 32, the singing of
the American and Ukrainian national anthems by the Ukrainian American Youth Association Choir, a
moment of silence in memory of Ukraine’s fallen defenders, and a prayer led by clergy from Sts.
Volodymyr and Olha Church.

The gala included greetings, remarks, and appearances by distinguished guests and representatives of
Ukrainian and Ukrainian-American institutions, including Consul General of Ukraine in Chicago Konstantyn
Vorona, Congressman Mike Quigley, Ukrainian Members of Parliament Volodymyr Viatrovych and Andriy
Levus, Senior Lieutenant Mykola Melnyk of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, representatives of the Ukrainian
Congress Committee of America, the League of Ukrainian Canadians, the Women’s Association for the
Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine, the Ukrainian American Youth Association, UPA Descendants,
Revived Soldiers Ukraine, and other civic organizations.

Senior Lieutenant Mykola Melnyk, a veteran of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and founder of Brave Children
of Ukraine, spoke about the continuing need to support both Ukraine’s military and children affected by the
war. The program also recognized ongoing efforts to support field kitchens for hospitals, warming centers,
and frontline soldiers, underscoring the direct connection between diaspora service and Ukraine’s wartime
needs.

Cultural performances by the Ukrainian American Youth Association Choir and Elegy Studio highlighted
the importance of preserving Ukrainian memory, faith, and national consciousness across generations.
The performances served as a reminder that culture remains a vital part of Ukraine’s resistance, especially
as Russia continues its attempt to erase Ukraine from the map and from historical memory.

As ODFFU enters its ninth decade, the organization remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s struggle
for survival and victory, strengthening Ukrainian life in America, preserving the legacy of those who came
before, and preparing the next generation to carry the mission forward.

On May 29, representatives from the Canadian Department of National Defence and the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence signed a drone production agreement. The statement, issued by the Canadian government, announced that the agreement with Ukraine would combine the expertise of Canadian and Ukrainian companies to “manufacture Ukrainian drone systems in Canada for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.” The statement added that defense partnerships and defense production with Ukraine will create “opportunities for Canada by expanding domestic manufacturing capacity for critical technologies.” In return, the document stated that Canada is “helping accelerate the delivery of equipment urgently needed by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.”

The drone agreement between Canada and Ukraine is the latest defense diplomacy deal the Ukrainian government has made this year. In April, following attacks launched by Iran in March on U.S. bases and countries across the Middle East, Ukraine sent drone experts to Kuwait, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to help them defend against Iranian drones. The Ukrainians also signed military cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. Following the diplomatic tour in the Middle East, the Ukrainians then signed defense agreements with Germany and Norway. Ukraine also negotiated the establishment of drone manufacturing facilities in the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Romania earlier this year.

Ukraine’s drone and defense agreements with various countries in Europe, the Middle East, and now Canada this year suggest that Ukrainians are establishing themselves as serious leaders in the drone and defense manufacturing industries. When Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, some critics questioned how Ukraine would contribute to Europe’s defense industry.

Today, elected officials, policymakers, and defense industries around the world are requesting that Ukraine share its drone technology. This is because Ukraine’s drones are constantly being used to fight against Russia’s ongoing invasion. Ukrainian battle-tested drones have been used against Russian and Iranian Shahed drones, and they have targeted Russian defense equipment and Russian forces. Ukraine’s unmanned aerial systems have also been used to strike Russian ammunition depots, defense equipment, weapons factories, and energy facilities deep within Russian territory.

“International buyers are not only buying Ukrainian drones. They are buying combat-proven innovation,” Dr. Oleksandr Romanko, an Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto and American University Kyiv, as well as a Senior Policy Advisor at Dignitas Fund Ukraine, told me in an interview. “International buyers are buying systems that have been tested against electronic warfare, air defenses, artillery, armor, logistics hubs, ships, and long-range targets. That battlefield validation is extremely difficult to replicate in peacetime procurement.”

Ukrainian drones are also cost-effective, making them desirable worldwide. According to a report published by Just Security on June 1, a Ukrainian-made first-person-view drone costs between $300 and $400, while a Ukrainian Sting interceptor drone costs around $2,500. By comparison, a U.S.-made Patriot interceptor costs more than $3 million, and Russian Shahed-style drones cost $50,000. Despite the exponential difference in cost, Ukrainian drones have been used to hunt enemy infantry, target Russian armored vehicles, and strike other Russian targets.

Additionally, throughout Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine’s defense industry has been forced to adapt. When the war began, the Ukrainians constructed drones and other equipment so that they could be used to protect Ukrainian civilians from Russian missile strikes. The BBC reported that civilians were building FPV drones in their apartments, garages, and stores as they looked to provide assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Over time, the Ukrainians refined their drone technology and equipment, and drone manufacturing plants were established. Enhanced drone production also meant that Ukrainian drones were fine-tuned and improved, where they were used to conduct strikes against Russian targets. AP News has reported that drones have helped save Ukrainian lives without putting Ukrainian soldiers and civilians in harm’s way.

Now, having witnessed the success of Ukrainian drones in the fight against Russia, and having secured drone and defense deals with countries in Europe and the Middle East, as well as Canada, the United States and Ukraine have drafted a memorandum outlining a potential drone deal. But a broader framework agreement has yet to be signed. During an interview with CBS News on May 31, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared that Ukraine has agreed to U.S. testing terms for its air, land, and sea drone systems. The Ukrainian president noted, however, that a final agreement has not been reached. Despite the uncertain timeline of the drone agreement, a potential finalized deal would be beneficial for both countries.

“For Ukraine, it would bring significant foreign capital investment, technology transfer opportunities, integration with the U.S. defense infrastructure, and expanded cooperation with American NGOs, private firms, and educational institutions,” Yurij Wowczuk, the Director of the Vovk Foundation, told me in an interview. “As for the United States, there are similar benefits, but perhaps the largest would be access to battle-tested equipment and associated performance data, access to Ukrainian engineering technical capability, improved relations as Allies, and the most efficient means to close the technology gap that currently exists in the U.S. defense technology sector.”

It is unclear when a decision will be made about the potential U.S.-Ukraine drone deal, nor is it certain if an agreement will be finalized. Nonetheless, the fact that the U.S. Department of Defense is turning to Ukraine for advice on drone technology and defense suggests that Ukraine has made its mark as a leader in the drone industry. After securing a defense deal with the Canadians last month, Ukraine will hope to achieve another drone-diplomacy victory in North America, this time with the United States.

The Vovk Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was established in 2023 to offer assistance and support to Ukrainians and those of Ukrainian ancestry by focusing on advocacy in the following areas:

Truth Seeking

Amplifying the facts about Ukraine and Ukrainian nationalism

In 2024, we celebrated the release of National Tribune—Legacy of Liberated Nations: The Life and Ideas of Ivan Vovchuk, honoring Ukraine’s history and resilience. This achievement was highlighted by a June book launch event. Our support for Ukraine expanded with drones supplied to the 118th Mechanized Brigade and a community event for war orphans in Cherkasy. A grant from Blue Check Ukraine enabled five communal kitchens in war-torn areas. Additionally, Vovk leadership shared insights on Ukraine’s future at workshops hosted by the Center for U.S.–Ukrainian Relations, reinforcing our commitment during this critical time.

Partnerships

Working with these organizations, Vovk Foundation continues its efforts to support all five verticals, with a particular emphasis on advocacy and mitigating false propaganda.

• UKRAINE FREEDOM PROJECT
• CENTER FOR U.S.–UKRAINIAN RELATIONS
• SHEPHERD UNIVERSITY
• UKRAINIAN VENTURE CAPITAL AND PRIVATE EQUITY ASSOCIATION
• EMBASY OF UKRAINE IN THE UNITED STATES
• UKRAINE AMERICA INITIATIVE
• BROTHER’S BROTHER FOUNDATION
• ORGANIZATION FOR THE DEFENSE OF FOUR FREEDOMS OF UKRAINE

Scholarship

The foundation partnered with the UNWLA–Ukrainian National Women’s League of America, Inc., to offer a scholarship this year for students of Ukrainian descent. The scholarship was awarded to Viktoria Scherba, who is a graduate student in public policy at the University of Chicago.

National Tribune

The book National Tribune, authored by esteemed Ukrainian historian Oleh Protsenko, sheds new light on the life and legacy of Fedir Vovk (also known as Ivan Vovchuk). Vovk was a key figure in Ukraine’s struggle for freedom and independence and played a heroic role in saving Jews during the Holocaust. The book addresses long-standing Soviet propaganda that falsely portrayed Ukrainian nationalists as adversaries of the Jewish people, offering a balanced and well-researched perspective that connects Vovk’s story to broader themes in 20th-century geopolitics, including U.S.–Ukraine relations.

“We are deeply honored to announce the publication of Oleh Protsenko’s book about our grandfather, Ivan Vovchuk. As a pivotal figure in modern Ukrainian history, his legacy has inspired many. We are delighted that this book will make his remarkable story accessible to English-speaking audiences worldwide. It is a must-read for policymakers, academics, and anyone interested in the influential personalities who have shaped our history.

“We are thrilled to have partnered with Borys Lozhkin on this critical work and look forward to strengthening the Ukrainian–Jewish communities both in Ukraine and here in the United States. Telling the story of Ivan Vovchuk, who risked his life to save Jews during World War II, is a step forward in this mission.”

Fundraising and Financial Statement

Fundraising decreased in 2024 as compared to 2025, with leadership’s focus being solely dedicated to research, preparation, and publication of National Tribune. It is important to note that the investment in this project exceeded $500,000 USD. All funds for this work were provided by the Foundation’s leadership—no donated monies or related assets were used to complete this project. In 2025, fundraising efforts will resume in support of all five Foundation verticals.

In the news

• JERUSALEM POST
• CHARLESTON GAZETTE-MAIL
• NUMEROUS ON-LINE, PRINT, AND TV STATIONS IN UKRAINE
• ANTI-IMPERIAL BLOCK OF NATIONS
• WBOY-TV

Social Media

In 2024, social media channels remained a powerful way to connect with our audience. Through sharing relevant content conveying messages that resonate with our followers, we witnessed continued growth across platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. This robust network of individuals who are passionate about our cause is one we can continue to build upon in coming years.

Ukrainian leader will visit western Pennsylvania and West Virginia in mid-April

Morgantown, WV—Oleh Medunytsya, president of the Anti-imperial Bloc of Nations (ABN) and leader of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN), will visit western Pennsylvania and West Virginia later this month as a guest of the Vovk Foundation and the Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine, Inc., officials announced today.

A former member of the Ukrainian Parliament and Deputy Commander during the EuroMaidan/Revolution of Dignity protests, Medunytsya made significant strides in various domains. He established the Bureau of Policy Analysis (BPA), an anti-corruption
NGO endorsed by prestigious institutions. His multifaceted leadership reflects an unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s progress, integrity, and sovereignty.

Medunytsya will participate in events in Pittsburgh, PA, and Morgantown, WV, during his two-day visit.

April 17 – Meet & Greet Fundraiser*
4:00 – 6:30 PM
Crowne Plaza Suites Pittsburgh South
164 Fort Couch Road, Bethel Park, PA 15241
*Suggested/recommended donation: $40.
Free for members of the press/media and students.

April 18 – Meet & Greet
5:00 – 7:00 PM
West Virginia University, The Mountainlair
1550 University Ave, Morgantown, WV 26506

About the Vovk Foundation

Founded in 2023, The Vovk Foundation Inc. is a registered 501c(3) nonprofit corporation with full tax-exempt status. Headquartered in Morgantown, WV, it also maintains offices in Pittsburgh, PA, and New York, NY. The Foundation’s impactful work centers around five verticals in support of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people: a) Education: Fostering knowledge, skills, and opportunities for Ukrainian students. b) Entrepreneurship: Empowering aspiring entrepreneurs and promoting economic growth in Ukraine. c) Innovation: Encouraging forward-thinking solutions and technological advancements. d) Economic Rebuild: Contributing to Ukraine’s economic recovery and development, and e) Truth Telling: Shedding light on the Ukrainian nationalist movement and its enduring legacy. The Foundation has commissioned the writing of a significant book on the noted OUN leader and civic figure Ivan Vovchuk, which will be available in June 2024. For more information, visit the Vovk Foundation website at www.vovkfoundation.org

About the Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms of Ukraine Inc.

Founded in 1946, ODFFU is a national organization dedicated to supporting the Ukrainian community in the United States. Its mission revolves around upholding and promulgating the four fundamental societal freedoms initially presented by President Franklin Roosevelt in 1941. These include: a) Freedom of Speech: Advocating for the right to express ideas and opinions without censorship or repression. b) Freedom of Conscience: Safeguarding the freedom to hold and practice one’s beliefs and values. c) Freedom from Want: Striving to alleviate poverty and ensure basic necessities for all. d) Freedom from Fear: Working to create a secure environment where individuals are free from intimidation and oppression. The organization experienced rapid growth following the passage of the Captive Nations Resolution by Congress in 1959, a significant milestone that garnered full support from then-President Eisenhower.

Contact
412-334-7555
info@vovkfoundation.org