The Ukrainian city of Kherson experienced a significant cultural theft during its temporary occupation by Russian forces, where over 10,223 items were reportedly stolen from the Oleksii Shovkunenko Kherson Regional Art Museum. The looting was organized by representatives of the Russian-appointed "cultural administration", which aimed to erase local heritage and transfer valuable cultural artifacts to Russian-controlled territories. Among the stolen items were notable works by prominent artists, including Ivan Aivazovsky and Oleksii Shovkunenko, which are now believed to be in the Central Museum of Tavrida in Simferopol, Crimea.

The theft, occurring from October 31 to November 4, 2022, raises concerns about the long-term impact of war on cultural heritage, as such acts of looting are often seen as efforts to undermine a nation's identity. The documentation by Ukrainian investigators facilitates accountability, aiming to bring those responsible to justice. The implication of this organized crime extends beyond mere theft, positioning Ukraine’s cultural identity at risk and highlighting the importance of international cooperation in safeguarding cultural heritage during conflicts.

As of January 2026, the Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office is actively pursuing justice for these unlawful acts, illustrating the ongoing efforts to reclaim and protect Ukraine's cultural artifacts. This case underlines the broader ramifications of the war in Ukraine, not just politically, but also culturally, as the world watches how nations respond to cultural crimes during wartime and the responsibilities of occupying powers to preserve historical artifacts.