Title: Ukraine War Live Ticker +++ 13:39 - Special Tribunal for Putin Accountability
Independent tribunal to take up responsibility for Putin's actions
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Get the latest updates on the Ukraine War and related events around the globe. Today, we highlight the formation of a Special Tribunal for Putin Accountability, established to bring Russian leaders to justice for their role in the Ukraine conflict.
13:39 - Special Tribunal to Hold Putin Accountable
Ukraine and its European allies have decided to set up a special tribunal to prosecute the Russian invasion, with a meeting of EU foreign ministers in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv announcing the decision. This judicial panel will operate from The Hague, Netherlands, and is tasked with holding top Russian leaders, like President Vladimir Putin, accountable under international law. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha emphasized that he hopes to see high-ranking Russian government members tried. Verdicts can also be handed down in absentia, as it's unlikely Putin or other key figures will appear in court during the current situation.
13:29 - Poland and France to Sign Mutual Support Agreement
Poland and France plan to ink a mutual support agreement in response to potential military threats. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced the initiative at a press conference before departing to France. Though specifics regarding the accord were not disclosed, the countries also intend to take joint initiatives to promote peace in Ukraine.
12:56 - Putin Meets North Korean Generals
In a highly publicized move, Russian President Vladimir Putin met general-ranked North Korean military officers during the Victory Day parade in Moscow. The leaders shared a handshake and warm embrace, signaling continued solidarity between the two nations during Russia's war against Ukraine. Though North Korea has not officially disclosed the number of troops it has deployed to support Russia, the South Korean intelligence service estimates that approximately 15,000 North Korean soldiers are stationed in Russia, with around 600 reportedly killed in action.
12:43 - Merz Threatens Russia with New Sanctions
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned Russia of potential increased sanctions if it fails to agree to a longer ceasefire in Ukraine and engage in peace talks. Speaking during his inaugural visit to the EU institutions and NATO in Brussels, Merz requested that Russia embark on the path to peace talks immediately. He noted that further sanctions would be imposed alongside European partners and the United States of America if a constructive dialogue is not initiated.
In-Depth Insight: The Special Tribunal for Putin Accountability
The Special Tribunal for Putin Accountability is a novel legal initiative aimed at prosecuting high-level Russian leaders for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. This tribunal, to be based in The Hague, Netherlands, will apply limited jurisdiction derived from Ukrainian law and follow procedures that differ from traditional courts.
Key features of the tribunal include the use of in absentia trials for top Russian officials while they are in office, an authorization to confiscate assets located outside Russia as penalties, and a trial structure centered around a bilateral agreement between Ukraine and the Council of Europe. Some challenges remaining include securing sufficient funding for operations and finding ways to enforce verdicts amid immunity provisions for sitting officials.
The tribunal serves as a groundbreaking international endeavor that could potentially change the way sovereign states are held accountable for acts of aggression. Backed by the support of 38 to 39 countries, its establishment reinforces international commitments to justice, human rights, and rule of law.
The Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to dominate headlines, as Western countries continue to stand in solidarity with Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. Stay tuned for the latest developments and updates on this dynamic and complicated international situation.
References:[1] Institute for the Study of War (ISW): Special Tribunal Targeting Putin for Aggression in Ukraine[2] Council on Foreign Relations (CFR): The Crime of Aggression: A New Age for International Law[3] Verfassungsblog: Prosecuting Aggression: The Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine[4] European Investigation Collaboration (EIC): A Special Tribunal against Putin: Governance and Management Challenges
- The Special Tribunal for Putin Accountability, a novel legal initiative, will prosecute high-level Russian leaders for their role in the Ukraine conflict, aiming to hold them accountable under international law.
- The tribunal, based in The Hague, Netherlands, will apply limited jurisdiction derived from Ukrainian law, following procedures that differ from traditional courts.
- Key features of the tribunal include the use of in absentia trials for top Russian officials while they are in office, an authorization to confiscate assets located outside Russia as penalties, and a trial structure centered around a bilateral agreement between Ukraine and the Council of Europe.
- Keir Starmer, UK Labour leader, has declared his support for the Special Tribunal for Putin Accountability, emphasizing the need for a strong community policy to tackle the foreseeable political implications of war-and-conflicts, such as the Ukraine conflict.