Ukrainian Leaders in Paris Prepare for Schwartzbard Trial

(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)

Extensive preparations for the forthcoming trial of Sholom Schwartzbard, slayer of Semion Petlura, are being made by the leaders of the Ukrainian emigres in European countries.

At a conference of Ukrainian emigrants concluded here yesterday, a resolution was adopted protesting against the slaying of Petlura. The resolution charges that the Soviet government is interested in causing national enmity between the Ukrainians and Jews. The resolution also contains the statement blaming some of the Jewish newspapers for throwing the responsibility of the Ukrainian pogroms upon Petlura and upon the entire Ukrainian nation. A wreath was placed on Petlura’s grave on behalf of the conference, which also sent greetings to Petlura’s representative Lewicki.

Professor Shulgin, reporting on behalf of the Prague Ukrainian committee for the defence of Petlura’s memory, stated that the Prague committee had collected much material which will rehabilitate his reputation. This will be submitted to the court when the trial opens. He also stated that the collection of the Ukrainian Defence Fund is proceeding satisfactorily.

General Zalsky, one of the witnesses called by Petlura’s representatives, who appeared at the examinations before Magistrate Peyre, was taken seriously ill and it is probable that he will be unable to appear at the trial.