Strasbourg. The Council of Europe and the European Union have agreed to fund an advance team to establish the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine under the Council of Europe. The project’s goal is to prepare the foundations of the Special Tribunal, which will prosecute senior leaders for aggression against Ukraine. Managed by the Council of Europe, the project will lay the groundwork for electing judges and the prosecutor, and developing rules and management systems. The team will also engage stakeholders to support the tribunal.
“Today’s agreement is a major step towards justice and accountability for Ukraine, crucial for lasting peace. The Council of Europe will work with the EU and key partners to uphold our values, ensure respect for international law, and prevent impunity,” said Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset.
“Unpunished crimes lead to future atrocities. The EU’s initial €10 million to help set up the tribunal is a step towards justice. Russia’s leaders must be held accountable—there can be no impunity,” said EU High Representative Kaja Kallas.
“Our support for Ukraine is unwavering. The Special Tribunal is essential for just peace and holding Russia accountable. There is no peace without justice and no justice without accountability. Today, we move closer to action,” said EU Commissioner Michael McGrath.
The European Union will contribute 10 million euros to the Special Tribunal Advance Team project through the European Commission’s Foreign Policy Instruments. The project will last up to 24 months or until future funding is arranged through an Enlarged Partial Agreement.
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