May 14, 2024 was the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the UNESCO Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict. As the war in Ukraine continues, russia’s bombardment of cities through long range aviation strikes, and glide munitions have had devastating effect on Ukraine’s cultural, historical and religious heritage, the UK Defense Intelligence reports.
The Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine states that as of May 2, 2024, a total of 1,987 cultural institutions have suffered losses and damage since the start of russia’s full-scale invasion. The Ministry also estimates that as of May 6, 2024, 1,062 cultural heritage sites have been destroyed or damaged since the start of russia’s invasion, and UNESCO has separately verified damage to 129 religious sites as of April 10, 2024.
Read more: The UK Defense Intelligence Reports on the Situation in Kharkiv Region
In mid-February 2024, UNESCO estimated russia caused $3.5 billion damage to Ukraine’s cultural heritage which will require 10 years and $9 billion to replace. As the war continues, russia’s military apparatus will likely continue to cause damages to Ukraine’s historical and cultural heritage.
Read more: The UK Defense Intelligence Reveals Increased russia’s Reliance on ATVs and Motorbikes for Reconnaissance and Attack
