Ukraine stepping up efforts against cultural heritage theft – Culture Ministry

That is according to MCSC, Ukrinform reports.

The discussion focused on developing a comprehensive action plan to implement restrictive measures against individuals and entities from the aggressor state involved in the theft of cultural heritage from temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories.

A key topic was holding Russian museum officials accountable for illegally registering stolen Ukrainian cultural artifacts in their collections.

Participants also addressed the prevention of Russian museum professionals’ engagement in international activities and emphasized the need for global coordination in combating the illegal appropriation of Ukrainian cultural heritage.

The meeting explored ways to strengthen cooperation with international partners to develop effective response mechanisms to these threats.

"MCSC continues its active efforts to protect Ukraine’s cultural heritage, including participation in international initiatives aimed at identifying and blocking illicit transactions involving stolen cultural objects," the ministry stated.

As previously reported, the Stolen Heritage database of the War&Sanctions portal managed by Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence now lists 828 cultural heritage objects stolen by Russian forces along with nearly 300 individuals and organizations involved.

Photo: Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications