International Claims Commission for Ukraine: Statements from Austria and Croatia

Russia's Aggression and its Impact

• ⚠️ Russia launched an illegal and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
• 💔 The aggression has caused immense human suffering, including torn families, kidnapped children, and tens of thousands of soldiers killed.
• 🏠 Russia has aimed to cripple Ukraine economically and socially by destroying residential homes, hospitals, businesses, and critical infrastructure.

International Response and Accountability

• ⚖️ Austria condemns Russian aggression in the strongest terms, asserting Russia cannot destroy Ukraine with impunity.
• 🌍 The international community and a November 2022 UN General Assembly resolution affirm Russia must bear legal consequences and make reparations.

The International Claims Commission

• 💡 The convention establishes an International Claims Commission for Ukraine to implement the UN resolution.
• 🎯 This commission will objectively identify damage and quantify necessary reparations to ensure sustainable and just peace.
• ✅ It represents a strong commitment to the rule of law and accountability for the harm inflicted.

Austria's Commitment

• 🇦🇹 Austria is a first signatory and founding member, actively contributing to the commission's negotiation.
• 🤝 Austria promises to keep its word to the Ukrainian people, stating there can be no peace without justice.
• 🇺🇦 The commission is Austria's contribution to bring justice and rebuild Ukraine for a strong, sovereign, and flourishing future.

Croatia's Support and Precedent

• 🇭🇷 Croatia proudly participates, seeing the convention as a crucial step towards justice for victims and redress for suffering.
• 🎗️ Drawing on its own painful legacy of war (missing persons, killed children), Croatia shows unwavering solidarity with Ukraine.
• 📜 This initiative sets a vital precedent and reaffirms collective commitment to a rules-based international order.