2026 tribunal to hold top Russian leaders accountable
In 2026, a special tribunal is set to begin operations to address Russia's crimes of aggression against Ukraine. The primary goal will be to hold the highest Russian leaders accountable.
The tribunal, dedicated to addressing crimes of aggression committed by Russia against Ukraine, will commence its activities in 2026.
Initially, prosecutors will focus on President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. A substantial amount of evidence has already been compiled against these individuals.
European Union Support
The foreign ministers of European Union countries gathered in Lviv to express their support for Ukraine. A key aspect of the visit was political backing for the creation of the new tribunal.
The Special Tribunal will ensure that those most responsible for the aggression against Ukraine are held accountable, emphasized Kaja Kallas, head of diplomacy.
Scope of the tribunal's activities
The tribunal will investigate responsibility for the decisions to invade, including who gave the orders and who directed the attacks on Ukraine. There are plans to initiate proceedings against 20 to 30 key military and political Russian leaders.
The European International Center for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression (ICPA), which includes Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Romania, will assist the tribunal in gathering evidence. A representative of the European Commission stated that this institution has already amassed a substantial amount of evidence.
Procedures and sentences
The tribunal will be able to conduct trials without the presence of the accused, with only their lawyer participating. If the accused appear at the tribunal, they will have the right to a retrial. The sentences handed down by the tribunal align with the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, including the possibility of life imprisonment.
International support and location
The tribunal will operate within the framework of the Council of Europe, and its establishment is supported by nearly 40 countries. Although the U.S. initially participated in the preparations, they withdrew from the project after a change in administration. However, the door remains open for their return. The Netherlands is being considered for the tribunal's headquarters.
