The European Parliament on Thursday passed a resolution calling for the establishment of a special court to prosecute the crime of aggression against Ukraine by Russia and for Russian political and military commanders to be held accountable for this potential crime.
In a resolution adopted with 472 votes in favor, 19 against and 33 abstentions, the European Parliament notes that the «atrocities committed by Russia in Bucha, Irpin and many other Ukrainian cities show the brutality of war» and highlight the importance of coordinated international action to bring those responsible to justice.
In this regard, the text urges the EU and Member States to «push for the creation of a special international tribunal to try the crime of aggression against Ukraine perpetrated by the politicians and military leaders of the Russian Federation and its allies.»
It urges to find the «legally sound» formula to move forward on this issue, stressing that the initiative should be launched in close cooperation with Ukraine and the international community, preferably within the framework of the UN.
MEPs argue that the creation of this body «will complement the investigative efforts of the ICC and its Prosecutor» and should be based on standards and principles applicable to that court.
According to them, the establishment of this special court would send a clear signal to the Russian society and the international community that President Vladimir Putin and the Russian leadership may be convicted for the crime of aggression against Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky has applauded the vote on Twitter, with a view to holding Russia accountable and «justice prevails.» «I urge all our allies to support this tribunal,» he has demanded.
Source: (EUROPA PRESS)
