Call for a New Lobbying Network
During an interview with political scientist Yuriy Romanenko, analyst Mykhailo Shteynbok called on the Ukrainian diaspora in the United States to establish a powerful lobbying network. He proposed modeling it on influential Israeli organizations, specifically AIPAC (the American Israel Public Affairs Committee), to better advocate for Ukraine's interests. Shteynbok pointed to the effectiveness of collective action, noting that over 50 diverse Jewish organizations operate in the U.S., successfully achieving political goals.
He identified AIPAC as the most influential Jewish organization in America. Shteynbok emphasized that U.S.-Israel cooperation is deeply institutionalized and codified in law, making the alliance exceptionally strong. This model of formalized support is seen as a benchmark for other diaspora groups seeking to influence U.S. foreign policy.
“NATO or anything else doesn't even come close to the allied relationship established between the U.S. and Israel.”
Mykhailo Shteynbok
The Growing Potential of the Ukrainian Diaspora
Shteynbok also highlighted the increasing number of Ukrainians in the United States, which creates new opportunities for forming an influential community. “Ukraine should strive for similar influence through its diaspora in the States. There are many of us here. Millions of Ukrainians in the U.S. could unite to defend Ukraine's interests in the same way Israel's interests are defended,” he stated. These comments underscore the importance of mobilizing the Ukrainian community in America to strengthen Ukraine's international standing.
Establishing a lobbying network to protect Ukraine's interests in the U.S. could be a crucial step in bolstering international support, particularly given the current geopolitical climate. An active diaspora can mobilize resources and leverage to advance Ukrainian interests at various levels, potentially swaying U.S. political decisions regarding Ukraine.
The experience of other nations, notably Israel, demonstrates how an organized and active community can effectively protect its interests. This highlights the importance of consolidating Ukrainians in the U.S. to increase their influence on political processes both in their host country and on the international stage.
In light of the growing influence of the Ukrainian diaspora, it's essential to consider how similar strategies have been successfully employed by other nations. For instance, Zelenskyy's recent engagement with Latin America highlights the importance of establishing strong international connections. Such outreach can serve as a model for how the Ukrainian community in the U.S. can amplify its voice in advocating for Ukraine's interests on the global stage.