Netherlands backs special tribunal on crime of aggression against Ukraine

Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen has reaffirmed his country’s intention to continue providing humanitarian and financial assistance to Ukraine, while also backing efforts to establish a special tribunal to investigate the crime of aggression attributed to Russia.

Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv, as reported by European Pravda, Berendsen stressed that the Netherlands remains firmly supportive of Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. During his visit, he underlined that Dutch assistance will include both humanitarian and financial support, alongside participation in Ukraine’s future reconstruction efforts.

The minister emphasised that his country also intends to assist Kyiv in establishing and carrying out the work of a special tribunal focused on the crime of aggression.

Journalists asked Berendsen about the expected timeline for launching the tribunal and whether it could begin operating this year. In response, he noted that the Netherlands and Ukraine have worked closely on this issue for several years and described the matter as a priority for The Hague, adding that the Netherlands is playing a leading role in the current international efforts.

He confirmed that Ukraine can rely on continued Dutch support as the process moves into its next phase. According to Berendsen, initial steps have already been taken, and further progress will be coordinated by a specially appointed envoy tasked with advancing the initiative.

Addressing questions about whether the tribunal could be established in 2026, the foreign minister explained that the new Dutch government has been in office for only six days, meaning additional time is required for internal discussions before firm decisions can be made.

By Tamilla Hasanova