Ukraine's Armed Forces form unit to protect cultural heritage

The Ukrainian Armed Forces' General Staff reported the information.

The decision was made by the Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi. It was approved through a joint directive with Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. Before that, extensive consultations were held with international partners, the Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications of Ukraine, and the public.

Who will be part of new unit?

The General Staff reported that the new unit will include servicemen with education and prior experience in the fields of culture, archaeology, history, and museum affairs.

What is its main task?

The main task is to coordinate actions aimed at protecting, preserving, and preventing the destruction of cultural heritage sites that may be threatened by combat operations.

"This initiative is further evidence that Ukraine adheres to international law, fulfills its commitments, and makes full use of all available mechanisms and tools to protect and preserve cultural values in the context of armed conflict," emphasized the General Staff.

• In early November, it was reported that 1,179 cultural heritage sites in Ukraine had been damaged due to Russia's aggression.