European Union foreign ministers have endorsed the creation of a special tribunal, called the “Lviv statement,” to hold Russian leaders, including President Vladimir Putin, accountable for the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Announced in Lviv, the tribunal aims to prosecute the crime of aggression, with EU officials stressing that no one should enjoy impunity.

While Putin’s immunity as a sitting leader remains for now, prosecutors can prepare indictments for future action.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy called it a moral duty, while Russia dismissed the development, Al-Jazeera has reported.

The tribunal adds to ongoing legal efforts, including ICC arrest warrants issued in 2023.

Written by B.C. Begley