Russia's Vladivostok City Aquarium to Be Replaced by Military-Patriotic Exhibition Center

Vladivostok City Aquarium, which had operated since 1991, officially closed on January 31, 2025, and is now set to become a branch of the National Center "Russia," featuring military-patriotic exhibitions. This was reported by the Vladivostok City governmental website on February 6.

The center’s flagship location opened in Moscow in November 2024 at the initiative of Russian leader Vladimir Putin to promote “traditional values.”

Some of the marine animals from the aquarium are expected to be transferred to the Primorsky Aquarium on Russky Island, but the details and timeline remain uncertain. The relocation process could take months, raising concerns among staff about the well-being of the animals.

“The situation is such that we might as well release the fish into the river,” one employee told local news outlet.

The future of the Other World reptile zoo, located within the aquarium and home to around 80 reptiles, is also unclear. Meanwhile, organizers of an exotic butterfly exhibit doubt whether it can be relocated elsewhere.

On January 30, aquarium staff had planned to release a public appeal calling for support from officials and the community. However, before they could do so, representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, National Guard, and Emergency Ministry arrived at the facility. The administration was then issued a warning against violating Russia’s law on public gatherings, according to the local Telegram channel "Les Muk."

Previously, it was reported that Russian schools are increasingly incorporating war-related exhibitions, with museums dedicated to the Kremlin’s “special military operation ” opening alongside patriotic lessons and memorial plaques for killed soldiers.