Montenegro, Romania and San Marino have officially informed the Council of Europe of their intention to join the agreement on the establishment of a Special Tribunal to investigate the crime of Russian aggression against Ukraine. It is expected that this week the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe will approve the relevant agreement in Moldova.
Three countries support the establishment of the Special Tribunal
Montenegro, Romania and San Marino formally declare their intention to join the enhanced partial agreement to launch a Special Tribunal for the Investigation of the crime of Russian aggression against Ukraine. This was announced by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Andriy Sibiga on Tuesday, 12 May. Already 32 states have joined the process, and the number of participants continues to grow.
The Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe is expected to approve the agreement on Friday in Moldova, which will be an important step towards launching an international mechanism of accountability for crimes of aggression against Ukraine. Sibiga called on all countries to join the initiative and ensure the inevitability of punishment for war crimes.
Expanding support for the deal
The Principalities of Andorra and Monaco, as well as Cyprus, have already declared their readiness to join the expanded partial agreement. This demonstrates the growing international support for the establishment of the Special Tribunal, which is to become an international body to investigate the crime of Russian aggression.
The agreement between Ukraine and the Council of Europe was signed on 25 June 2025. It provides for the establishment of the tribunal as an international institution, not a hybrid or national one. This should strengthen the legitimacy of future decisions and facilitate the effective prosecution of those responsible for crimes of aggression.
Next steps in establishing the tribunal
The President's Office stated that the official launch of the Special Tribunal is expected in 2027. The process of creation has moved to the active stage of implementation after the completion of the main legal preparations.
The European Union has also confirmed its intention to co-found the Special Tribunal. This underscores the importance of international cooperation to ensure accountability for crimes of aggression and to maintain the rule of law at the global level.
Why it matters
The accession of new countries to the agreement on the establishment of the Special Tribunal significantly strengthens the international legitimacy of the future body. This demonstrates the unity of democratic states in the issue of responsibility for crimes of aggression and support for Ukraine.
The international tribunal, which will have the status of an independent body, will ensure impartial investigation and punishment of those responsible for crimes of aggression. This is an important step towards justice for war victims and strengthening international law.
