Netherlands returned eight illegally exported artefacts to Ukraine

Leiden, Netherlands (Svidomi) — The Netherlands handed over to Ukraine eight valuable archaeological artefacts that were previously illegally exported from Ukrainian territories. These artefacts include spearheads and arrowheads from various archaeological cultures and regions of Ukraine, dating from Roman times to the Middle Ages.

The Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine reports that Dutch customs intercepted the artefacts after their arrival in the country in March 2023. The investigation showed that the items were likely exported illegally.

When experts from the National Museum of the History of Ukraine confirmed this conclusion, the Inspection took the items under protection. At the same time, the person to whom they were addressed, waived any claims to them, as they constitute the cultural heritage of Ukraine.

These archaeological items are cultural treasures of Ukraine. They hold historical, scientific, and ethnographic significance for the country. Ukrainian law prohibits the export of cultural objects without the consent of national authorities.