A Warsaw court agreed to extradite Russian archaeologist Aleksandr Butiagin to Ukraine on March 18, prompting strong criticism from Moscow.
Russia Protests Extradition Decision
The Russian Foreign Ministry views the Polish court’s decision as part of a politically motivated process lacking legal basis, according to RIA Novosti.
Maria Zakharova stated the decision is temporary and subject to appeal within a week, adding Russia will work towards Butiagin’s swift return.
Initial Russian Response
Russia previously demanded Butiagin’s immediate release, leading to the summoning of Polish Ambassador Krzysztof Krajewski to the Russian Foreign Ministry on January 12 to receive a “strong protest” regarding his detention.
Moscow argued the arrest was unjustified, as the State Hermitage Museum employee had freely traveled through several European countries prior to his arrest in Poland.
Diplomatic Efforts to Secure Release
Zakharova stated in February that the Foreign Ministry was utilizing all available diplomatic means to assist Butiagin, who was detained on “absurd charges” brought by Ukraine.
Russian embassy representatives provided Butiagin with legal assistance, maintained contact with his lawyer, and facilitated communication with his family.
Details of the Arrest and Allegations
Butiagin was arrested in Warsaw on December 4, 2025, and is sought by Ukrainian authorities for allegedly conducting illegal excavations in Crimea.
These excavations reportedly caused damage to the “Ancient City of Myrmekion” archaeological complex in Kerch, resulting in over 201 million hryvnias in losses.
Russia maintains the work was legal, with Butiagin obtaining “all necessary permits,” and that all discoveries were transferred to the Eastern Crimea Museum-Reserve, enriching the region’s cultural heritage.
Media Coverage
Michał Żyłowski of Wyborcza.pl reported on the extradition agreement, titling his article “‘Imperial appropriation of relics’.”
Editorial Note
The article was edited by Kamila Cieślik.
