The looting of Ukrainian museums by Russian troops became the largest theft of art objects since the Second World War. According to the prosecutor’s office and the museums themselves, Russian soldiers looted or completely destroyed more than 30 museums in Kherson, Mariupol, Melitopol and other cities in Ukraine.
In Kherson, Russian troops stole more than 15,000 art objects and objects of historical heritage. It is noted that these figures refer only to documented facts. In practice, the scale of embezzlement can be much larger. According to experts, this is the largest theft of art objects since the Second World War.
“They were loading such masterpieces, which there are no more in the world, as if they were garbage,” said Alina Dotsenko, Director of the Kherson Art Museum.
Experts believe that the purpose of the looting was not only to obtain material or historical values but also to deprive Ukraine of its cultural heritage. Eyewitnesses note that the looting of museums was organized, and under the leadership of Russian specialists.
“Shocked is not the word. I am furious. If they [Russian troops – ed.] stole our heritage, they believe that we wouldn’t continue to live and to create. But we will,” explained Oleksandr Tkachenko, the Minister of Culture of Ukraine.
See also: 1,132 objects of cultural infrastructure were damaged in Ukraine due to the aggression of Russia
