Russia’s embassy in Poland advises against travel to the country due to alleged Russophobic sentiments and legal risks.
Russian Embassy Advises Against Travel to Poland
The Russian embassy published a statement on Wednesday, January 14. “In the current situation, the Russian embassy in Poland strongly recommends that Russian citizens refrain from traveling to Poland unless absolutely necessary” – the statement read.
Increase in Russophobic Sentiments
The Russian embassy stated that “an increase in Russophobic sentiments is observed in Poland, and the number of cases of persecution of Russian citizens and accusations against them based on completely fabricated charges is growing”.
The statement also reads that “travel to new regions of Russia involves risks”. “Such actions may be deemed illegal by Polish authorities at Ukraine’s request” – it is written.
Arrest of Russian Archaeologist
The phrase “new regions of Russia” may refer to territories occupied by Russia in Ukraine. Meanwhile, the mention of actions taken by Polish authorities at Ukraine’s request likely refers to the case of Aleksandr Butaigin.
He is a Russian archaeologist who was detained in Poland in December by ABW officers. Ukrainian investigators suspect him of destroying cultural heritage objects in Crimea. The Ukrainians have filed an extradition request for Butaigin.
On Monday, January 12, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Polish ambassador in this matter.
