Archaeology at war: Russia and its hybrid heritage politics

This paper explores how archaeology functions within Russia’s modern hybrid warfare framework. Moving beyond exploring historical rhetoric and narrative politics, it suggests that archaeological excavation, conservation, and museum development actively influence geopolitical realities and support strategic objectives. Using Russian-language sources and extensive research on Russian heritage policies, the study examines projects in Siberia, Syria, Crimea, and eastern Ukraine’s occupied territories. It highlights the significant involvement of military actors in research and their connections with various heritage partners. The paper contends that archaeologists, museums, and heritage institutions serve as vital intermediaries in a broader strategic communication network, translating archaeological expertise into a potent tool for modern geopolitical influence.