Russian archaeologist Alexander Butyagin was returned to Russia as part of an exchange at the Belarusian-Polish border.

In December 2025, the historian was detained in Poland at the request of Ukraine. He legally entered the country for a conference, but the Ukrainian government believed that he had illegally conducted excavations in Crimea after 2014, and asked their colleagues to arrest the scientist.

Butyagin was exchanged for two officers of the Moldovan special services.

The video above is of Mr. Butyagin finally being freed. “The most terrifying and difficult stage for you is over. You are free.” The FSB showed the first footage of the liberated Russian archaeologist.

The scientist said he feels good, although he can’t convey his emotions yet, as he still can’t believe he is free.

This video game from Telegram Channel Foreign Intel