21 October 2025
Russian Occupiers in Crimea Detain Ukrainian Antarctic Scientist Leonid Pshenychnov
In mid-September, Russian occupiers in Crimea illegally detained Leonid Pshenychnov, a leading Ukrainian scientist and Antarctic expert.
Leonid Pshenychnov is a distinguished Ukrainian researcher, recognized internationally, who has dedicated over 40 years to Antarctic studies and the protection of its marine ecosystems. He is the author of numerous scientific publications, including works on reducing the bycatch of seabirds and marine mammals during fishing, and on the conservation of krill populations—the primary food source for many species in the Southern Ocean. Since 1994, Pshenychnov has consistently represented Ukraine at the annual meetings of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). Thanks to his contributions, Ukraine has had a significant international voice in Antarctica’s environmental protection and fisheries management. Within CCAMLR, he actively contributed to developing international environmental standards, including supporting the creation of marine protected areas. His research helped shape evidence-based policies for the sustainable use of marine resources, which are crucial for preserving the region’s biodiversity.
In September 2025, while in Kerch with his family in temporarily occupied Crimea, Leonid Pshenychnov was detained by Russian authorities. He was allegedly accused of “creating a threat to the security of the Russian Federation” due to his participation in international scientific forums as a representative of Ukraine. After the occupation of Crimea, the Russian occupiers unlawfully forced him to obtain a Russian passport. Then they accused him of “treason,” labeling him a “Russian citizen who sided with the enemy.” These actions constitute a gross violation of international norms and human rights.
Pshenychnov’s detention occurred just before an essential international CCAMLR conference in Hobart, Australia, where he was to present Ukraine’s position on the conservation of Antarctic marine ecosystems. This unlawful arrest is an apparent attempt by Russia to undermine Ukraine’s scientific activity in international organizations and restrict its participation in global environmental initiatives.
The Ukrainian delegation at the CCAMLR conference condemned Russia’s actions and called on the international community to demand the immediate release of Leonid Pshenychnov. His arrest is politically motivated and aims to limit scientific work and pressure Ukraine within the international scientific community.
Russia must end political repression against Ukrainian citizens engaged in scientific work and immediately release Leonid Pshenychnov. The international community must respond decisively to prevent further human rights violations and scientific freedom.