Hermitage cancels archaeological expeditions in Crimea

The Hermitage Museum has decided to halt all planned archaeological expeditions in Crimea, a move likely influenced by the ongoing political tensions and the occupation of the region. This decision follows the recent detention of archaeologist Alexander Butyagin in Poland during excavations there, who was later released in a prisoner exchange with Russia. The cancellation underscores the museum's stance amid the complex geopolitical landscape and raises questions about the future of cultural heritage projects in contested territories.