Selenksiy seeks Putin's appearance in court.
Reborn Justice: A Hague Trial Aims to Bring War Criminals, Including Putin, to Account
In the heart of international judicial power, a new tribunal emerges, promising to bring Russian war criminals to justice. Led by the Council of Europe, this panel, soon to begin operations, holds high hopes for held accountable for their acts, with President Volodymyr Selenskyj placing particular faith in it.
Political Winds
Ukraine and the Council of Europe's Secretary General, Alain Berset, recently inked an agreement for the special tribunal aimed at war crimes against Ukraine. Berset asserted, "The Council of Europe stands with Ukraine," while Selenskyj emphasized, "Justice for every war criminal, including Russia, is necessary."
Political Undercurrents
The Council of Europe has been steadily preparing this judicial panel for justice against Russia's aggression on Ukraine. Established in The Hague, the tribunal aims to hold key Russian leaders accountable for their involvement in the conflict. Selenskyj himself advocated for a trial against Russian President Vladimir Putin.
A Question of Sovereignty
While the Kremlin chief's appearance in court may be questionable, the tribunal is of utmost importance, according to the Council of Europe. It will serve to gather evidence, prepare indictments, and hold war criminals responsible for atrocities committed during the conflict. The tribunal is currently seeking the participation of interested states and the EU in its efforts.
Background Insights
The new tribunal specifically targets the crime of aggression – the act of launching an unprovoked war – to address the critical legal gap where existing courts, such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), lack the authority over Russian nationals committing this crime[1][3][4]. Key aspects include focusing on the crime of aggression, complementing the ICC’s efforts, targeting senior Russian officials, and overcoming challenges related to enforcement[2].
Scheduled to operate in The Hague due to its robust legal foundation, this tribunal signifies a significant milestone on the path to justice, accountability, and hopefully, lasting peace[3].
The Council of Europe, in its effort towards promoting justice, is establishing a special tribunal in The Hague to hold Russian leaders accountable for their involvement in the war-and-conflicts against Ukraine. This employment policy, spearheaded by the Council of Europe, aims to bring to account those responsible for war crimes and is a part of a larger general-news narrative that seeks to fill a legal gap where existing courts, such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), lack the authority over Russian nationals committing aggression.
