Every year on April 18, the global community draws attention to the need to preserve cultural heritage. In Ukraine, this day takes on special significance, as the issue of protecting cultural heritage is now linked not only to history but also to national security.
The full-scale war has put thousands of cultural heritage sites at risk. The destruction of churches, historic buildings, museums, and entire historic environments is a deliberate policy of the aggressor, aimed at erasing Ukraine’s cultural presence.
However, cultural heritage is not limited to physical objects. It is the bearer of historical experience, spiritual values, and national memory. It is through this heritage that a sense of belonging to one’s country, its past, and its future is formed. Therefore, its preservation today is a matter not only of culture but also of national resilience.
For the Donetsk region, this day holds special significance. Amid a full-scale war, the region’s cultural heritage is suffering significant losses. As of today, 199 cultural heritage sites have been damaged as a result of the Russian Federation’s armed aggression, and, unfortunately, this number continues to rise.
Despite the complex security situation, the Donetsk region remains a region with powerful historical and cultural potential. It is home to remarkable landmarks that reflect the region’s centuries-old history. At the same time, Donetsk Oblast has become one of the regions where cultural heritage has suffered the greatest losses as a result of hostilities.
Despite this, efforts to preserve cultural heritage continue. Damage is being documented, sites are being inventoried, and materials are being prepared for their future restoration. Significant attention is also being paid to shaping contemporary memory policies.
It is important that this work involves not only government agencies but also community representatives, scholars, and cultural workers. It is thanks to their efforts that cultural heritage does not lose its significance even under the most difficult conditions.
On this day, we express our gratitude to everyone working to preserve the cultural heritage of Donetsk Oblast. Your work is a significant contribution to preserving historical memory and shaping the future of Ukraine.