Australia has returned two illegally exported archaeological objects to Ukraine as it renews support for the war-torn nation amid peace talks.
Arts Minister Tony Burke formally handed back the items to Ukraine’s Ambassador to Australia Vasyl Myroshnychenko at a concert in Sydney to mark Ukraine’s independence day.
The items are an iron arrowhead dating from the 12th or 13th century and a pendant from the third millennium BCE that was likely a traditional adornment in the ancient Yamnaya culture.
They were illegally trafficked to Australia in late 2023 and intercepted and seized upon arrival in Sydney.
Archaeological objects are vulnerable in times of armed conflict, with the war between Ukraine and Russia dragging on for three and a half years.
The two artefacts — a temporal pendant from the Yamnaya culture of the third millennium BCE (right) and an iron arrowhead from the 12th or 13th century. Source: AAP / Australian Government / Office for the Arts
“Returning these items reflects Australia’s ongoing commitment to combating illicit trafficking of cultural heritage in all countries, particularly those suffering the hardships of war,” Burke said.
“These objects are part of the history and heritage of the people of Ukraine, which must be preserved for future generations.”
Ukraine declared independence on 24 August 1991 after nearly 70 years under Moscow’s control.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used the moment to renew Australia’s support for Ukraine and multilateral efforts to help it resist Russian aggression.
He expressed admiration for its people’s “extraordinary courage” and said the country stood by all those in Australia with Ukrainian heritage.
“All Australians share the hope and expectation of the Ukrainian people that victory and justice will prevail,” Albanese said in a statement on Sunday.
“May the spirit of Independence Day sustain our belief in a future of just and enduring peace.
“Slava Ukraini!”
Ukraine’s security was the focal point of the meeting, after Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a peace deal in Alaska.
Albanese was part of a meeting of the “Coalition of the Willing”, convened by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The prime minister has said Australia would consider requests to join a peacekeeping force, with Opposition Leader Sussan Ley indicating the coalition is now open to the idea.
