Ireland has officially announced its intention to join the agreement for the establishment of a special tribunal addressing Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. This decision was confirmed by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha.
In a statement, Sybiha expressed gratitude to Ireland for its commitment to the Council of Europe regarding the tribunal. He noted, “This is a logical step, given Ireland’s consistent and principled support for all efforts aimed at holding Russia accountable.” He also acknowledged the strong position taken by Irish Minister Helen McEntee.
Sybiha emphasized the historical significance of the tribunal, stating that it would hold the highest political and military leaders of Russia accountable for their actions. He urged all nations, both within Europe and beyond, to join this crucial initiative, asserting that justice for the aggression against Ukraine is vital for lasting peace in Europe.
The Council of Europe is set to take further steps toward launching the tribunal during a meeting in Chișinău on May 14-15, where an agreement regarding its governing committee will be finalized. So far, 25 EU countries have expressed readiness to participate in this initiative.
Background on the tribunal’s creation dates back to November 21, 2022, when the NATO Parliamentary Assembly recognized Russia as a terrorist state and supported a resolution for the establishment of a special tribunal. However, national approval is still required from each member country.
On November 8, 2023, Ukraine’s parliament passed a bill aimed at creating a registry of damages caused by Russia, designed to protect the rights and interests of Ukraine and its citizens. This legislation facilitates the submission of claims related to war damages and supports the establishment of compensation mechanisms.
The Office of the Registry for Damages caused by Russia was inaugurated in Kyiv on March 22, 2024, staffed by approximately ten legal and communication professionals. They are expected to begin accepting compensation claims shortly, starting with those related to destroyed housing.
On May 9, 2025, EU foreign ministers and senior officials approved the launch of the special tribunal focused on the military-political leadership of Russia. The tribunal will be based in The Hague, with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, anticipating initial rulings as early as 2026.
On May 14, the Council of Europe endorsed the creation of the tribunal, with over 40 countries already part of the coalition. Subsequently, on June 25, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Council of Europe Secretary General Alena Berse signed an agreement to establish the tribunal. The final version of the tribunal’s statute was published on the Council of Europe’s website.
Finally, on July 15, 2025, the Ukrainian parliament ratified the agreement with the Council of Europe regarding the establishment of the tribunal for Russian aggression against Ukraine.
Ireland's commitment to join the special tribunal for Russian aggression against Ukraine marks a significant step in international accountability efforts. As more nations align with this initiative, the tribunal aims to address the actions of Russia's leadership, underscoring the global call for justice.