European partners back tribunal to prosecute Russian aggression in Ukraine, announce €2 billion aid package

LVIV — In a pivotal meeting held in Lviv, Ukraine, European partners of Ukraine reached an agreement to establish a tribunal aimed at holding Russian officials accountable for alleged crimes of aggression during the ongoing conflict. 

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement welcoming the completion of technical preparations for drafting the legal framework needed to create the tribunal, which will operate under the auspices of the Council of Europe. 

The meeting saw the participation of 35 senior European representatives, including Germany’s recently appointed Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, underscoring European solidarity with Ukraine. 

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, after consultations with EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell, emphasized the symbolic and strategic significance of this unified stance. “The establishment of this tribunal is a testament to our collective commitment to justice and accountability,” Shmyhal said. 

Additionally, Shmyhal lauded the EU’s announcement of a €2 billion military aid package for Ukraine. According to reports, €1 billion will be allocated for purchasing weapons from Ukrainian manufacturers, €600 million will go toward artillery and ammunition, and over €200 million will be used to bolster Ukraine’s air defense systems. 

The establishment of the tribunal and the announcement of military aid signify Europe’s deepening commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense and pursuit of justice amid the ongoing conflict.