‘Historic Decision’: Netherlands to Host Tribunal on Russian Aggression

President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Netherlands has agreed to host the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, calling the move a “historic decision.”

In a statement on Friday, July 3, following a phone call with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, Zelensky thanked the Netherlands for its continued support and welcomed the decision to host the tribunal.

“This decision will make it possible to hold Russia’s top political and military leadership accountable specifically for the crime of aggression, not only for its consequences,” Zelensky said.

Leaders discuss Russian attacks and air defense

During the conversation, Zelensky briefed Jetten on the aftermath of Russia’s latest large-scale strike on Kyiv.

He said rescue operations had concluded following the overnight attack on Thursday, which killed 30 people.

“It is important that Ukraine’s friends are ready to take steps to protect lives, and air defense remains one of the key areas of our cooperation with the Netherlands,” Zelensky said.

Further cooperation planned

The two leaders also agreed on the schedule for upcoming bilateral meetings and reaffirmed continued cooperation.

Zelensky thanked the Dutch government for what he described as its solidarity with Ukraine and its readiness to continue supporting the country’s defense and security.

The Netherlands has been one of Ukraine’s key European partners, providing military assistance, backing international accountability efforts and participating in initiatives to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.

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Backed by a growing coalition of 36 countries and the European Union, The Special Tribunal is designed to fill a crucial gap in international law. While the International Criminal Court handles specific war crimes, this separate tribunal will focus directly on prosecuting senior Russian political and military officials for the overarching “crime of aggression” – the initial decision to launch an illegal war.

Last month Norway’s parliament has unanimously ratified the country’s accession to the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine and the International Claims Commission for Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha thanked Norwegian lawmakers, saying the move strengthens efforts to hold Russia accountable.