EU Plans Special Tribunal for Russian War Crimes Accountability

Ukraine remains confident that the International Criminal Court (ICC) will continue its investigations into Russian war crimes despite U.S. sanctions imposed by former President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, a coalition of international organizations, including the European Union and Ukraine, has made significant progress toward establishing a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, aimed at prosecuting senior Russian officials responsible for the invasion. This tribunal is designed to address the limitations of the ICC, which lacks jurisdiction over the crime of aggression, and aims to proceed without Russian participation. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need for justice following Russia's violation of the UN Charter. The special tribunal's framework has been developed through extensive negotiations and reflects a multilateral commitment to accountability for war crimes. Despite challenges ahead, the formation of this tribunal represents a crucial step in ensuring justice for Ukraine and its victims.