A Polish judge has ruled that Russian archaeologist Alexander Butyagin can be extradited to Ukraine for allegedly conducting illegal excavations and plundering artefacts from the ancient city of Myrmekion in Crimea, according to multiple reports.
Key Takeaways
A Polish judge ruled that Russian archaeologist Alexander Butyagin can be extradited to Ukraine for allegedly conducting illegal excavations in Crimea. Butyagin denies the charges and plans to appeal.
- Polish court approves extradition of Russian archaeologist to Ukraine
- Charges involve illegal excavations and plundering artefacts from Myrmekion, Crimea
- Russia demands immediate release, calling case politically motivated
- Butyagin faces up to five years in prison if convicted
The ruling by Judge Dariusz Łubowski allows for Butyagin's extradition, although his defence plans to appeal. If upheld, a final decision will rest with Poland's justice minister. The archaeologist denies all allegations and faces up to five years in prison if convicted.
Butyagin was arrested in Warsaw at Ukraine's request in December 2023. He is accused of causing damage estimated at more than $4.5 million, including the seizure of 30 gold coins inscribed with the name of Alexander the Great and his brother Philip III Arrhidaeus.
Russia has demanded Butyagin's immediate release, calling the case politically motivated. The Kremlin argues that Crimea is Russian territory and that the charges are absurd. Poland's decision to arrest Butyagin provoked a furious reaction from Russia, with the Foreign Ministry stating the decision had no legal basis.
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