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Polish Court Clears Extradition of Russian Archaeologist to Ukraine Over Crimea Digs

The case concerns alleged unauthorized digs at Crimea’s Myrmekion site, with Ukraine citing about €4 million in damage.

Overview

  • The Warsaw District Court ruled that extraditing the detainee to Ukraine to open a criminal case is legally permissible.
  • The decision does not determine guilt and would allow Ukrainian authorities to initiate proceedings if the transfer occurs.
  • Ukrainian prosecutors accuse the archaeologist of unauthorized excavations in Kerch and intentional, partial destruction at Myrmekion, estimating losses at roughly €4 million.
  • The defense said it will appeal the ruling and is awaiting the court’s written justification.
  • Poland’s ABW arrested the suspect on December 4, 2025, during transit, and Russian authorities previously criticized the detention as arbitrary.