Leaders have signed a treaty establishing the International Claims Commission of Ukraine. The agreement creates a body to address war damages from Russia’s invasion. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha led the signing in The Hague, joined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset, and Moldovan President Maia Sandu.
The commission will process international claims related to the conflict. This step advances accountability efforts amid ongoing peace negotiations.
Eastern flank leaders strengthen defences
EU leaders from eight eastern flank countries met in Helsinki to bolster defence collaboration. Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo described Russia as the most significant threat to Euro-Atlantic security. The group includes Nordics, Baltics, Bulgaria, Poland, and Romania.
Their joint statement highlighted Russia’s hybrid operations and sabotage as part of its aggression against Ukraine. Leaders committed to increasing support for Ukraine and pressuring Russia. They reinforced the Eastern Flank Watch, including a European drone defence network, and stressed NATO’s Article 5 alongside complementary EU efforts.
Orpo noted Europe faces existential questions but sees no signs Russia wants peace. Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal tied Europe’s security to Ukraine’s success, urging an EU reparations loan. Sweden’s Ulf Kristersson called Russia the long-term threat to the continent.
Zelensky updates on peace negotiations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated peace proposals negotiated with US officials could finalise within days. After Berlin talks, he expects US envoys to present documents to Russia soon, including security guarantees mirroring NATO’s Article 5.
Zelensky anticipates US Congress approval and high-level meetings possibly this weekend. The main issue remains territory, with no consensus yet on Donbas regions. He suggested options like a free economic zone if approved by referendum.
In a press conference with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Zelensky backed an EU reparations loan using frozen Russian assets. Schoof called it the preferred option despite legal concerns, hoping for agreement at the European Council.
EU accession and peacekeeping discussions
Zelensky and Schoof addressed Ukraine’s EU membership prospects. Schoof affirmed Dutch support, while Zelensky linked it to security guarantees and noted blockers like Hungary.
On a potential European-led peacekeeping force, Schoof said new guarantees from Berlin strengthen Ukraine’s position. Zelensky noted varied roles from logistics to troops, with many countries ready to assist.
Source/Featured photo: The Guardian
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