This article reports on an investigation by the Kyiv Independent into the theft of Ukrainian cultural artifacts, including artworks and historical relics, by Russian forces during their occupation of Kherson. The investigation reveals that a senior Russian naval officer, Dmitry Lipov, coordinated the looting of museums in Kherson with FSB officers, who helped organize the theft of thousands of valuable items.
The article quotes eyewitnesses and defectors who describe how the Russians targeted specific artifacts, including paintings by famous Ukrainian artists like Ivan Aivazovsky. It also notes that the scale of the thefts is impossible to accurately assess at present, but estimates suggest that nearly 35,000 artifacts were stolen from six museums in liberated territories.
The investigation highlights a plan by Russian authorities to use international law to cover up their crimes, citing the Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict. The article also quotes a lawyer and military serviceman who notes that this is part of Russia’s broader policy to destroy Ukrainian culture and identity.
Key points from the article include:
* Russian forces stole nearly 35,000 artifacts from six museums in liberated territories.
* A senior Russian naval officer, Dmitry Lipov, coordinated the looting of museums in Kherson with FSB officers.
* The Russians targeted specific artifacts, including paintings by famous Ukrainian artists like Ivan Aivazovsky.
* Russia is trying to use international law to cover up their crimes and claim they were saving artifacts from damage caused by being near the front lines.
Overall, the article provides a detailed account of the theft of Ukrainian cultural artifacts and highlights Russia’s broader policy to destroy Ukrainian culture and identity.
