Co-creator & Journalist
Akim Halimov
Akim is an award-winning Ukrainian journalist, producer, and historical researcher. His dedication to uncovering forgotten chapters of history led to the partnership with Real History to realize this project.
BE BRAVE FILMS, REAL HISTORY
& 435 Films Present
& 435 Films Present
The untold story of how the Ukrainian diaspora helped shape Ukraine's independence.
- Documentary
- 70 min
- English / Ukr Subtitles
U.S. Screenings 2026
New YorkWashingtonChicagoBostonLos AngelesSan Francisco
The Story Behind Ukraine’s Independence
In 1991, as the Soviet Union stood on the brink of collapse, Ukraine faced the defining moment of its modern history. While millions fought for freedom inside the country, another powerful movement emerged thousands of kilometres away.
Distance to Independence tells the little-known story of Ukrainian Canadians and Ukrainian Americans who travelled to Ukraine during the final years of the Soviet Union to support the country’s path to independence. They brought printing presses, shared democratic ideas, organized campaigns, and stood alongside Ukrainians during one of the most important political transformations of the twentieth century.
The project was initiated by producer Anna Palenchuk, who moved to Canada after russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Inspired by the untold story of the Ukrainian Canadian community’s contribution to Ukraine’s independence, she partnered with the REAL HISTORY team and journalist Akim Halimov to bring this chapter of history to the screen.
Through rare archival footage, personal testimonies, and contemporary interviews, the film reveals how ordinary people helped shape extraordinary history—and why their story matters now more than ever.
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Why This Story Matters Now
01
35 years later, this story has never been more relevant.
In 2026, Ukraine marks 35 years of independence. The events of 1991 shaped not only the country's future but also the geopolitical landscape of Europe. Understanding how that independence was achieved helps us better understand the challenges Ukraine faces today.
02
A global Ukrainian community
Today, millions of Ukrainians live outside their homeland. Just as the Ukrainian diaspora played a vital role in 1991, communities around the world continue to support Ukraine through advocacy, humanitarian aid, diplomacy, and cultural initiatives.
03
The power of solidarity
Distance to Independence shows that history is shaped not only by politicians but also by ordinary people. The actions of the Ukrainian Canadian community demonstrate how solidarity, determination, and shared values can influence the course of history.
04
Understanding today's war
Russia's full-scale invasion has renewed global interest in Ukraine's past. The film reveals that the struggle for Ukraine's freedom did not begin in 2022—it is part of a much longer story. By looking back at 1991, audiences gain a deeper understanding of why Ukraine continues to defend its independence today.
CHARACTERS_
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Meet the Key Figures
John Hewko
Prominent Ukrainian American lawyer, crucial organizer, and supporter of democratic and legal reform initiatives in Ukraine during the pivotal transition years.
Borys Wrzesnewskyj
Ukrainian Canadian politician and business owner who heavily funded and delivered vital independent printing presses and equipment to Ukraine in 1991.
Stefko Bandera
Grandson of Stepan Bandera, active journalist and editor based in Kyiv during the transition period, representing the voice of the returned youth.
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Images From the Film
Frames pulled from the cut and from the 1991 archive it draws on — two formats, thirty-five years apart, laid out side by side.
Canada Shoot
4 Frames
Kyiv 1990-1991
4 Frames
Verkhovna Rada 1991
4 Frames
Donetsk 1990
4 Frames
U.S. Screening Tour
Looking for the Canada tour? →Experience Distance to Independence on the big screen during a special screening tour across the United States.
Selected screenings will feature Akim Halimov—award-winning Ukrainian journalist, producer, and co-creator of the film—who will personally present the documentary and join audiences for exclusive post-screening Q&A sessions.
New York
To be announced
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Washington
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Chicago
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Boston
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Los Angeles
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San Francisco
To be announced
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Presented with support from_
And other generous community sponsors that helped us to tell this story.