Commission proposes that EU becomes founding member of the International Claims Commission for Ukraine

The European Commission has adopted a proposal for the European Union to become a founding member of the International Claims Commission, a body tasked with ensuring that victims of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine are compensated. The proposal will need to be adopted by Member States in the Council and approved by the European Parliament. The European Union will then become a founding member of the International Claims Commission.

The International Claims Commission will operate under the umbrella of the Council of Europe. It will be responsible for reviewing, assessing, and determining claims for compensation for the damage, loss and injury caused by Russia in Ukraine and to its people. It will also be responsible for determining the amount of compensation due in each case.

Kaja Kallas, High Representative/Vice-President for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said: “If you start a war, you foot the bill. And as the full-scale invasion of Ukraine enters its fifth year, the price of Russia’s aggression is only growing. Hundreds of billions will be needed to rebuild Ukrainian homes and infrastructure, and clear explosives scattered across the country. Every Ukrainian citizen can already register compensation claims for damage, loss or injury thanks to the Claims Commission. And when the war is over, Russia must pay for the damage it has caused.”

Michael McGrath, Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, said: “Peace without accountability is no peace at all – and accountability demands repair. The International Claims Commission will document the true cost of Russia’s aggression and ensure that fair compensation is determined. The European Union will continue to stand with Ukraine and ensure justice for its people.”

In December 2025, the European Union signed the Convention establishing the Claims Commission, alongside 35 countries, and committed up to €1 million to support its establishment within the framework of the Council of Europe.

The Claims Commission builds on the important work carried out by the Register of Damage, which was established in May 2023 to record eligible claims. Through the Register, Ukraine and its people can already submit claims for damage, loss or injury namely for death and serious injury, sexual violence, loss of housing or residence and deportation of children.

More information on the EU’s efforts to ensure accountability for Russia’s atrocities against Ukraine can be found online. 

Source: European Commission