Tribunal for Russia: 25 countries agree to participate
Photo: Kaja Kallas, EU foreign policy chief (flickr by european_parliament)
At least 25 countries have already declared their readiness to participate in a special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine, states the European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas.
She noted that last week, during her visit to Kyiv, an announcement was made about allocating €10 million for the establishment of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression.
"Today, 25 member states committed to becoming parties to this tribunal. This brings us one step closer to operationalize the tribunal. Of course, we are waiting for all cost estimates also from the Netherlands, and then we can move forward," she added.
Kallas emphasized that the regime of Russian President Vladimir Putin started the war against Ukraine and must be held accountable for it.
Special Tribunal for Russia
Work is ongoing in Europe on the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine.
The initiative received a significant boost following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Strasbourg on June 25, where a bilateral agreement between the Council of Europe and Ukraine was signed. Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset noted that the signing of the document was a key step toward implementing the project.
Immediately after the agreement was signed, extensive preparatory work began: legal instruments are being developed, personnel and infrastructure are being selected.
Berset emphasized that the launch of the tribunal is possible only with the active support of member states and their involvement in the process, including ratification of the extended agreement. The Council of Europe side is ready to begin work immediately; however, the process depends on the political will of other countries.
The statute of the special tribunal does not provide personal immunity, which will allow charges to be brought against the current Russian leadership. However, a verdict or trial in absentia will only be possible after the accused are removed from office.
