The European Parliament has called for Russia to be held more accountable for the war against Ukraine
On Thursday, 30 April, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning Russia’s war against Ukraine as illegal, unprovoked and unjustified. The resolution was supported by 446 MEPs, with 63 voting against and 52 abstaining.
The text emphasises that Russia is deliberately and systematically targeting the civilian population and civilian infrastructure, in particular energy facilities and medical institutions. It is specifically noted that in April 2026, an unprecedented number of attacks were recorded, resulting in the deaths of at least 75 civilians and over 400 wounded.
The European Parliament emphasised that no peace initiatives should hinder the process of holding those responsible to account. The document states that justice must be an integral part of a just and sustainable peace.
MEPs supported the establishment of a Special Tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine and called on EU member states to join it as soon as possible. It is noted that the Netherlands is ready to host the first phase of the tribunal’s work. The launch of the International Claims Commission is also expected on 14 May 2026 in Chisinau.
The resolution emphasises the need to broaden the scope of those to be held accountable, including representatives of the judiciary and legislators, in particular members of the State Duma and judges of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation.
The European Parliament also drew attention to the need to use frozen Russian sovereign assets to finance Ukraine’s defence, infrastructure reconstruction and compensation for victims. In particular, this concerns the restoration of the protective arch over the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
The document states that Russia’s actions near nuclear facilities pose a serious and ongoing risk to nuclear safety. According to the data cited, since the start of the full-scale invasion, over 15,500 civilians have been killed and more than 43,000 wounded. The deportation and forced displacement of Ukrainian children are classified as war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The resolution also welcomes the adoption of the 20th package of EU sanctions against Russia and calls for their further expansion, as well as for stepping up the fight against sanctions evasion. The document states that sanctions must not be lifted until a peace agreement has been concluded and fully implemented.
During the debate, European Commissioner for Defence and Security Andrius Kubilius stated that there can be no just and lasting peace in Ukraine without justice. According to him, the first claims could be considered by the International Claims Commission by the end of 2027, and the Special Tribunal could begin its work in early 2028.
During the debate, representatives of most political groups agreed that Russia’s actions constituted war crimes and deliberate attacks on the civilian population. At the same time, differing views were expressed regarding the next steps, including calls for tougher measures or more active use of diplomatic tools.
