Ukrainian Catholic University rectorate joined the student strike and issued a statement in which blames government in conglict escalation.

UCU Statement

The line on our nation’s electrocardiogram has again peaked. The Maidan survived the internal forces’ assault yesterday, but suffered unspeakable losses. On TV the smoke rising from the numerous fires on the Maidan looks like smoke from censers at a massive national memorial service.

May the souls of the innocent victims rest in peace, where the righteous repose! Let the Lord accept them into the kingdom of heaven, let Him heal the numerous wounds with His merciful hand, let Him relieve the pain of the people who have once again been deceived by the authorities!

We unequivocally affirm that responsibility for the current escalation rests solely on the government – personally Viktor Yanukovych and his “hawkish” command. Every case of escalation, each more striking in its complete absurdity, slashes our hopes for a peaceful and wise solution to the crisis and brings us closer to a humanitarian catastrophe. Every case seems to check off the next item in the “crisis managers’” secret plan.

Conversely, every step toward overcoming social tensions, every manifestation of the people’s self-defense, every effort to be faithful to God’s commandments – all of this makes us co-authors in the positive program of the Lord’s Providence. The Ukrainian Catholic University is and will always be a supporter of this latter path and calls upon all people of good will to choose it. In the current difficult conditions, where those in power undermine the very institution of government, we aim to be an island of peace and reliable support to all those who defend the national interests of Ukraine.

We declare our unwavering loyalty to Mayor of Lviv Mr. Andriy Sadovy and the legitimately elected bodies in Lviv and the region, who are trusted and protect the interests of the people. We are willing to cooperate with them to ensure the rule of law and civil rights. At a time when the whole executive branch is wobbling, the Ukrainian Catholic University announces a mode of self-management and self-discipline.

This decision embodies our belief that at this critical time for the state, universities have to demonstrate their ability not only to function effectively without guidance from above, but also to become a mainstay in the formation of a new framework for education and social life in general.

The leadership and all faculty of UCU are in solidarity with the strike declared today by the students and support its demands. We live in one community and share the same values.

May the merciful Lord fill us all with hope and courage to sacrificially serve Ukraine during these difficult trials!