Justice Steps Forward for Ukraine

In a pivotal meeting on October 16, 2025, Iryna Mudra, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, engaged in discussions with Clare Ovey, Director of Human Rights at the Directorate General of Human Rights and Rule of Law of the Council of Europe. The focus of their conversation was the forthcoming initiatives including the Special Tribunal and the Claims Commission, aimed at addressing the Russian aggression against Ukraine.

During the meeting, Mudra expressed gratitude towards the Council of Europe for its unwavering support and emphasized the Ukrainian administration’s commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect human rights. The dialogue also covered the 2023–2026 Action Plan for Ukraine, laying out a blueprint for continued cooperation in justice, human rights, and reform sectors.

Highlighting the progress made, Ovey praised Ukraine’s efforts in setting up mechanisms to hold Russia accountable for its offenses. She assured that the Council of Europe would actively participate in the ratification of the convention for establishing the Claims Commission and provide ongoing expert and technical assistance. Both parties underscored the urgency in operationalizing the Special Tribunal for the Russian Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine and the Claims Commission, with expectations to have them functional by next year. Additionally, the European Union has pledged EUR 10 million this week to support the establishment of the Special Tribunal.