Minister of Culture and Strategic Communications Mykola Tochitsky declared, that Russia stole over 1,7 A million subjects of Ukrainian cultural heritage, which are now sold in the black market. This includes artifacts from the occupied territories of Ukraine, from archaeological finds to museum collections.
In his interview for Ukrinform, Tochitsky noted, that thanks to the efforts of international partners, Ukraine managed to return some of these stolen artifacts. The minister shared, that during his trips abroad he was often handed over items, which were stolen from Ukraine.
“These stolen artifacts often fall into the hands of Russian officials, who are involved in their sale”, - said Tokchitsky. He also stressed, that this is not the first case, When Russia is engaged in illegal export of Ukrainian cultural values. In ancient times, the Russians took them to such museums, As a Hermitage or Moscow Museums, But now these items are successfully traded in the black market.
The minister noted, that Ukraine for the first time in February this year introduced sanctions against persons, which are involved in theft of Ukrainian cultural heritage. “This applies 55 individuals and three legal entities, for which we clearly proved their involvement in theft, destruction and destruction of our cultural heritage”, - emphasized tochitsky.
These crimes not only violate international law, but also try to destroy the cultural identity of the Ukrainian people. The Minister of Culture called for further cooperation with international partners to return stolen cultural values and bring the perpetrators responsible.
Ukrainian culture, which for centuries was an important part of world heritage, now faces an unprecedented threat. However, thanks to international efforts, Ukraine manages to return its treasures and identify criminal schemes, that accompany them.
