Warsaw court postpones extradition of Russian archaeologist Aleksander Butiagin to Ukraine pending appointment of new judge.
Court Delays Extradition Decision
On Thursday, January 15, the Warsaw District Court announced its decision regarding the extradition of Russian scientist Aleksander Butiagin to Ukraine. The court postponed the case indefinitely until another judge is appointed. Butiagin’s defense had requested the recusal of Judge Dariusz Łubowski, citing concerns about his impartiality.
Russian Archaeologist Detained in Poland
In December, Aleksander Butiagin was arrested in Poland by officers of the Internal Security Agency (ABW). The Russian national was placed in detention. Ukrainian investigators requested Butiagin’s extradition. He served as head of ancient archaeology at the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. Ukrainian authorities suspect him of destroying cultural heritage objects during archaeological work on Russian-occupied Crimea, causing damage exceeding 200 million hryvnia (equivalent to more than 17 million Polish zloty).
Russia’s Position on Butiagin
Russia demands the immediate release of Butiagin. According to the Kremlin, the accusations against him by Ukrainians are “absurd and politicized.” On Monday, January 12, Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Polish Ambassador Krzysztof Krajewski, presenting Moscow’s demands regarding the detained archaeologist.
Butiagin’s Defense
Butiagin stated that his work on Crimea was “for humanity.” He told the court, “Extradition to Ukrainian justice could endanger my health and life because I am Russian,” as cited by RMF24. Butiagin’s lawyer, Adam Domański, argued that after Russia’s annexation of Crimea, his client could not obtain archaeological work permits from Ukrainian authorities, so approvals were issued by Russian officials.
