Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to address the Council of Europe in Strasbourg on Wednesday, aiming to advocate for the establishment of a special court to tackle crimes against Ukraine.
The Council of Europe comprises 46 countries, including Ukraine, and is responsible for upholding democracy and human rights across the continent.
In a press release on Monday, the Council of Europe announced that Zelenskyy will address the Ministerial Committee, tasked with finalising legal instruments required to establish a tribunal that could prosecute Russian leaders for the invasion of Ukraine.
The special court, announced on 9 May in Lviv, aims to prosecute acts of aggression, an area where the International Criminal Court currently has no jurisdiction.
“This aggression must not go unpunished,” stated Alain Berset, Secretary-General of the Council of Europe. “The court aims to ensure those bearing the greatest responsibility are held accountable for their actions.” However, the court will be unable to prosecute Russian President Vladimir Putin, his Prime Minister, or Interior Minister as long as they remain in office.
In addition to establishing the court, the Council of Europe will also address the damages caused by the war in Ukraine, noting that over 34,000 compensation claims have been submitted to date, according to a press statement.
Zelenskyy will also speak to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and respond to their inquiries.
Ukraine is a member of the Council of Europe, whereas Russia was expelled in 2022 shortly after its invasion of Ukraine.
An earlier version of this article incorrectly referred to the Council of Europe as the European Council.
