Ukraine urges global closure of Russian cultural centers

Ukraine has formally called on governments worldwide to shut down the network of Russian cultural centers known as ‘Russian Houses.’ Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that these centers, which operate under the Russian federal agency Rossotrudnichestvo, have transitioned from cultural missions to active tools for disinformation, political destabilization, and espionage.

Sybiha characterized the network as a mechanism for Russia to wage a global battle for influence. While these hubs traditionally promote Russian language and art, Kyiv argues they are now used to disseminate pro-Kremlin propaganda and recruit intelligence assets.

The diplomatic push follows recent actions in Europe, including the closure of a Russian House in Berlin. While several European nations have moved to restrict these structures, Sybiha noted that they continue to operate in at least seven European countries and maintain a significant presence across Africa, Asia, and South America.