An international commission has been established to address compensation claims for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Over 30 nations have ratified the agreement, signaling a unified effort to hold Russia accountable for damages incurred during the war. However, Moscow has expressed concerns about European involvement in peace negotiations, suggesting it may not lead to a favorable outcome.
This development comes as Ukraine, with the backing of several European countries, seeks a compromise with the United States regarding a proposed resolution to the conflict. The initial framework of this proposal was perceived by some as leaning favorably towards Moscow. The formal signing ceremony for the international commission took place on the sidelines of a conference in The Hague. Signatories included Ukraine, the Council of Europe, and the aforementioned 30+ nations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, following the signing, urged increased pressure on Russia to demonstrate respect for peace and its neighbors. He emphasized that joining the European Union would serve as a crucial safeguard for his country in the aftermath of the war. “It is vital that Russia bears the cost of its aggression against Ukraine, and that no concessions are granted to either Russia or President Vladimir Putin,” Zelenskyy stated. He also indicated that he had reached mutually agreeable positions with American counterparts regarding President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan for Ukraine.
The International Compensation Commission will operate as an independent entity within the institutional framework of the Council of Europe. It will be overseen by an executive director, a commissioner, and a secretary-general. The commission’s primary function will be to assess compensation claims for damages and losses resulting from internationally wrongful acts committed by the Russian Federation in or against Ukraine. This includes violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. While the commission’s headquarters location is yet to be determined, the agreement stipulates that it will maintain an office in Ukraine to facilitate its operations.
Separately, at a summit of the “Eastern Flank” in Helsinki, Finland, eight European nations declared Russia as the foremost and long-term threat to European security, peace, and stability. In a joint statement, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania affirmed that the critical security situation on the continent necessitates prioritizing the security of the region.
