Russian media are disseminating false information alleging that Ukraine is being looted by its Western allies. Specifically, they claim that cultural valuables are being moved from Kharkiv to Poland in anticipation of a Russian offensive. These allegations misrepresent a meeting in March 2025 between Kharkiv Regional Council officials and representatives from Poland's National Institute of Cultural Heritage.
The actual discussion focused on the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage in Ukraine amidst Russian aggression. Proposals included organizing exhibitions of Kharkiv region artifacts in Polish museums to showcase Ukrainian history to the Polish public. However, no concrete actions were agreed upon.
In reality, Russia is responsible for widespread destruction and theft of Ukrainian cultural heritage. As of March 25, 2025, over 1,419 cultural heritage sites have been damaged across Ukraine due to Russian aggression. Minister Mykola Tochytskyi reports that Russia has stolen over 1.7 million items of Ukrainian cultural heritage, with some appearing on the black market. The propaganda aims to incite panic and distrust, while Russia continues its cultural plunder.