A new Special Tribunal in The Hague is being developed to prosecute the crime of aggression linked to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, aiming to address gaps not covered by the ICC, which currently lacks jurisdiction over aggression and has warrants for some leaders but not for full aggression.

The tribunal seeks to overcome jurisdiction gaps, with Kyiv and its supporters pushing for accountability despite Russia's opposition and its earlier expulsion from the Council of Europe in 2022.

In ongoing mediation efforts, Zelensky paid homage to victims of a Kiev attack, and a prisoner exchange of 205 Ukrainian soldiers occurred as part of broader negotiations.

Separately, ministers welcomed broad support for the International Claims Commission for Ukraine based in The Hague, to compensate Ukrainians for damages, with 37 Council of Europe members plus the EU and Canada party to the convention.

North Korea criticized UK sanctions on a camp alleged to indoctrinate Ukrainian children, accusing the West of hostility toward DPRK-Ukraine relations.

IAEA warned of heightened drone activity near Ukrainian nuclear sites, with Rafael Grossi stressing nuclear safety amid the conflict.

The initiative emphasizes the tribunal as a mechanism to deliver justice and close accountability gaps for Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset called the commitments a decisive step toward establishing the Special Tribunal and holding Russia accountable.

Council of Europe ministers in Chisinau approved groundwork for a governing steering committee of the tribunal, following Zelensky's push for this measure.

The council of ministers also approved a resolution laying the groundwork for the tribunal, signaling political commitment to its establishment.

The European Council of Ministers in Chisinau endorsed the foundational framework for the tribunal's governing committee, building on Zelensky's 2025 agreement with the Council of Europe.

A coalition of 34 Council of Europe member states, along with the EU, Australia, and Costa Rica, signaled intent to join the future special tribunal to prosecute Russia's invasion, marking a pivotal move toward accountability.