Addressing the participants in the discussion, the President underlined that in the context of Russia’s war in Ukraine, Europe has demonstrated unity and political will, and has consistently supported and continues to support Ukraine with all means in its fight against the aggressor. According to Gitanas Nausėda, it is necessary to step up military assistance to Ukraine until victory is achieved and the aggressor is defeated. The President underscored the importance of maintaining the spirit of support for Ukraine among European citizens and not letting war fatigue set in.
Gitanas Nausėda pointed out that it is critical to ensure that Russia is held accountable for the crimes of war and aggression committed in Ukraine. According to the President, the creation of a Special Tribunal would be the most effective way to bring those responsible for war crimes to account. Therefore, it is necessary to continue building an international coalition and to work towards putting this idea into effect. Gitanas Nausėda stressed that accountability is crucial as avoiding it will encourage Russia to commit crimes of aggression again and again.
The President welcomed the Council of Europe’s decision on the Register of Damage to document the consequences of Russia’s war in Ukraine.
“For more than a year now, Russia has been ruthlessly destroying and ravaging Ukraine. I am confident that Ukraine will prevail, but once victory is achieved, Russia will have to take responsibility for its actions. We must ensure that the aggressor pays for the damage caused to Ukraine and its people by the war. The aggressor inevitably will have to take full responsibility for the atrocities committed in Ukraine,” the President said.
The Fourth Council of Europe Summit in Reykjavik has gathered the leaders of 46 member states as well as representatives of observer states and international organizations from around the world.
