Ukraine is aiming for the ratification of a convention by at least 25 countries to establish an International Compensation Commission by 2027, according to Iryna Mudra, Deputy Head of the President’s Office. Mudra expressed confidence that the necessary number of ratifications could be achieved by the end of 2026.
Speaking at an international justice conference on February 23, Mudra noted that the Register of Damages currently contains over 100,000 claims, but the rate of submissions has been slower than anticipated. She indicated that all categories of damages are expected to be opened soon, which should increase the number of claims.
“Our people are waiting, the victims are waiting. We have no right to delay,” Mudra stated.
On the topic of frozen Russian sovereign assets, Mudra emphasized that access to these funds hinges on the political will of Ukraine’s partners. She pointed out that legal grounds for this exist, including the doctrine of countermeasures and the doctrine of joint responsibility.
“Russia is also active; it is working to amplify its objections,” she added.
Mudra stressed the importance of Ukraine working throughout 2026 to find solutions for accessing the frozen Russian assets.
Overview of the Register of Damages
On November 8, 2023, the Ukrainian Parliament approved a bill concerning the Register of Damages caused by Russia. This legislation aims to protect the rights and interests of Ukraine and its citizens, allowing for the submission of claims related to damages inflicted by Russia and facilitating the establishment of compensation mechanisms.
The office for the Register of Damages was opened in Kyiv on March 22, 2024. By April 2 of the same year, the register became operational within the “Diia” app, enabling Ukrainians to submit claims for destroyed or damaged property, including private homes, apartments, and other residential structures. To file a claim, individuals must be property owners and possess a survey report from local authorities.
The Register of Damages will accept claims across more than 40 categories, including loss of life, torture, sexual violence, bodily harm, forced displacement, loss of property and income, damage to critical infrastructure, and harm to historical and cultural heritage.
Ukraine is working to secure ratification of a convention for an International Compensation Commission by 2026, aiming to address damages caused by Russia. The Register of Damages has over 100,000 claims but is expected to expand as more categories are opened.