Ukraine apologizes to Russia for vandal destruction of Pushkin monument

KIEV, June 9 (RIA Novosti) - Advisor to the Ukrainian Culture and Tourism Minister Igor Pristavksky condemned the vandal destruction of the monument to the great Russian poet Alexander Pushkin in Lvov (Western Ukraine).

Unidentified vandals broke the monument made by local sculptor Kassel and unveiled in front of the Russian Cultural Center in Lvov on June 8.

"I apologize to the great Russian nation for this vandalism," Pristavsky said adding that Pushkin was highly popular in Ukraine.

"I am sorry to say this because I was born in Lvov and graduated from its university. Lvov is a city with rich cultural traditions known for high morals and tolerance," Pristavsky said.

"The Ukrainian Culture Minitsry is ready to help restore the monument to the great Russian poet," the advisor added.