“There is now very strong evidence that this is a deliberate Russian move, with specific paintings and ornaments being targeted and transported to Russia,” said Brian Daniels, an anthropologist working with archaeologists, historians and digital imaging experts. From a lab in the US state of Virginia, Daniels and his colleagues have been tracking looting and destroying cultural targets since the invasion began and have identified motifs for the crimes. The theft trail focuses heavily on precious Scythian gold. These are ancient pieces of high value filigree, which often depict animals. They were produced by tribes in the region of Central Asia and Eastern Europe that was once known as Scythia. “These items are visually impressive and now there are so many reports of theft that it is obviously a strategy,” Daniels said. “Ukrainians, of course, are also very willing to make a list of stolen items.” Daniels told the Observer that it was difficult to know whether monetary value was the most important factor for the Russians or whether the objects were chosen for their cultural significance. “There is a possibility that it is part of undermining Ukraine’s identity as a separate country by implying the legal Russian ownership of all their exhibits.” What is clear to Daniels is that the thefts tend to follow the menacing interrogation of the museum’s curators and guardians. Russia’s efforts to locate and steal hidden objects in occupied cities of Ukraine are becoming more decisive. “We have a growing concern for the museum staff and security staff, especially when they are behind the Russian lines,” Daniels said.
