### Ukraine and Council of Europe Forge Path for Accountability Against Russian Aggression - On June 26, 2025, Ukraine and the Council of Europe signed a significant agreement to establish a Special Tribunal aimed at prosecuting senior Russian officials for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. This agreement marks a pivotal step in holding accountable those responsible for the ongoing conflict that has devastated Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. The initiative follows extensive diplomatic efforts and reflects a growing international consensus on the need for justice in the face of war crimes and aggression [https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/ukraine-european-rights-body-sign-accord-for-tribunal-on-russian-aggression]. ### Structure of the Tribunal Initiative 1. **Formal Approval by Ukrainian Leadership** - President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has formally endorsed the establishment of the tribunal, emphasizing the necessity of legal action against Russian leadership for their roles in the invasion [https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/ukraine-president-volodymyr-zelenskyy-backs-prosecution-of-russian-leaders-23578654]. 2. **Collaboration with the Council of Europe** - The agreement with the Council of Europe is a historic collaboration aimed at creating a legal framework for prosecuting war crimes and aggression [https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-council-of-europe-sign-historic-agreement-to-establish-tribunal-on-russian-aggression]. 3. **International Court's Mandate** - The tribunal will focus on prosecuting senior Russian officials, thereby addressing the broader implications of the invasion and seeking justice for the victims of the conflict [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/3482423-zelenskyy-greenlights-tribunal-for-russian-war-crimes]. ### Evidence Supporting the Tribunal's Necessity - **Historical Context**: The agreement comes after over three years of diplomatic negotiations, highlighting the urgency and importance of establishing a legal mechanism to address the crimes committed during the conflict [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/3481131-zelenskyy-champions-new-tribunal-for-russian-aggression]. - **International Support**: The initiative has garnered support from various international bodies, indicating a collective desire for accountability and justice in the face of aggression [https://ca.news.yahoo.com/zelensky-council-europe-rights-body-205233739.html]. ### Conclusion: A Step Towards Justice for Ukraine - **Establishment of the Tribunal**: The signing of the agreement between Ukraine and the Council of Europe represents a crucial step towards establishing a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression, aimed at prosecuting Russian leaders. - **Legal Framework for Accountability**: This initiative not only seeks to hold individuals accountable but also reinforces the international legal framework against aggression and war crimes. - **Future Implications**: The tribunal's establishment could set a precedent for future international legal actions against state aggression, emphasizing the global commitment to justice and human rights. 1. Ukraine and the Council of Europe have signed a landmark agreement to establish a tribunal. 2. President Zelenskyy has formally approved the plans for this international court. 3. The tribunal aims to prosecute senior Russian officials for their roles in the invasion of Ukraine, reflecting a significant move towards accountability [https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/zelensky-signs-deal-in-pace-to-launch-special-1750882009.html].