The recent meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Alain Berset, the newly appointed Secretary General of the Council of Europe, highlights the ongoing collaboration between Ukraine and the Council of Europe in addressing the challenges posed by Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for the Council's support and emphasized the importance of accountability for war crimes committed during the conflict. He called for the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression to prosecute all Russian war criminals.
The meeting also addressed pressing humanitarian concerns, including the issue of Ukrainian children illegally deported to Russia. Zelenskyy welcomed the Council of Europe's involvement in the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children.
The discussions also covered the release of prisoners and the economic repercussions of the conflict. Zelenskyy pointed to the Council of Europe's role in establishing the Register of Damage and expressed Ukraine's anticipation for the creation of a Claims Commission and Compensation Fund. The President emphasized that the Fund should be financed through proceeds from confiscated and frozen Russian assets.
The discussions also encompassed the Council of Europe's practical assistance to Ukraine in various sectors, including human rights protection, the rule of law, and the development of democratic institutions. This support is vital for Ukraine as it seeks to strengthen its democratic framework amidst external aggression.
Overall, the meeting reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges posed by the conflict and highlights the pivotal role of the Council of Europe in promoting human rights, democratic values, and economic recovery in Ukraine.