**Russian Hermitage Museum Employees Accused of Illegally Excavating Crimea’s Cultural Heritage**
For nearly a decade, seven employees of Russia’s prestigious State Hermitage Museum have been conducting secret archaeological excavations in occupied Crimea. According to a recent human rights report, these employees have been working without proper permits and approvals from Ukrainian authorities.
The report by the Regional Center for Human Rights reveals that Alexandra Kattsova, a research associate at the Hermitage, has been carrying out unauthorized digs since 2014. She received permits from Russia’s Ministry of Culture to conduct excavations in various locations, including the Kitei settlement site and Zapovitne village.
Other employees named in the report include Maria Akhmadeeva, Svetlana Adaksina, Olga Sokolova, Vasily Gukin, Mark Kramarovsky, Nadezhda Novoselova, and Alexandra Kattsova. These researchers have conducted excavations at various Ukrainian archaeological monuments, including the Genoese fortress Chembalo, Ancient city of Feodosia, and UNESCO World Heritage site Ancient city of Chersonesos Tauric.
**Russia’s Cultural Heritage Heist**
The report suggests that Russia has been using archaeology as a tool to legitimize its occupation of Crimea. By conducting excavations without proper permits, the Hermitage employees have effectively stolen Ukrainian cultural heritage. This not only destroys historical sites but also distorts Crimean history to fit Russia’s narrative.
In 2023, Ukraine sanctioned the State Hermitage Museum for its involvement in these activities. However, the report reveals that Russian authorities continue to support and fund these excavations through “open letters” provided by the Ministry of Culture.
**Charges Filed Against Russian Citizen**
In a separate case, a Russian citizen was charged with conducting illegal archaeological excavations at a Ukrainian cultural heritage site in occupied Crimea. The suspect, who worked as head of an archaeology sector at the Hermitage, was accused of carrying out unauthorized digs without proper permits from Ukrainian authorities.
The report highlights the ongoing destruction of Ukraine’s cultural heritage sites during Russia’s occupation. It also emphasizes the need for international action to prevent further damage and protect Ukraine’s historical sites.
**Conclusion**
As the world witnesses the continued conflict between Russia and Ukraine, it is essential to highlight the cultural significance of this struggle. The illicit excavations conducted by Hermitage employees are a stark reminder of Russia’s disregard for Ukrainian heritage and history. It is crucial that international authorities take action to prevent further damage and support Ukraine in preserving its cultural treasures.
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