Minister Tkachenko outlines number of cultural heritage objects affected by Russian attacks

A total of 1,500 cultural infrastructure sites and 600 cultural heritage objects and historical monuments have been destroyed or damaged by Russian troops since the full-scale invasion started.

The relevant statement was made by Ukrainian Culture and Information Policy Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko during a nationwide telethon, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“Over 1,500 cultural infrastructure facilities, mainly clubs and libraries, were damaged or destroyed, as well as over 600 cultural heritage objects and historical monuments,” Tkachenko told.

In his words, this war is also being waged for the Ukrainian identity, culture, language and history.

Since the very beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukrainian cultural representatives have been raising funds, both in Ukraine and abroad, in support of the Ukrainian Army.

According to Tkachenko, over the past 500 days, Ukrainian theaters have presented dozens of premieres, Odesa’s historic center has been inscribed on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List, and hundreds of thousands of exhibit items have been evacuated from dangerous areas.

Meanwhile, Tkachenko emphasized that international organizations could and should do more to protect Ukrainian cultural heritage objects and condemn the actions of Russians. In this regard, the minister mentioned that, for example, Russian representatives are still working in the executive bodies of UNESCO.

Photo: Ukrainian Culture and Information Policy Ministry