European ministers sign Lviv statement backing special tribunal and ceasefire efforts

European foreign ministers signed the Lviv Statement supporting a special tribunal and a U.S.-backed ceasefire, during a visit to Ukraine that included a memorial tribute to fallen soldiers.

European foreign ministers signed the Lviv Statement during a visit to the city of Lviv in Western Ukraine, formally endorsing the creation of a special tribunal to address the crime of aggression related to the conflict. The proposed tribunal, to be established under the Council of Europe’s framework, has already completed its legal groundwork and could begin operations as early as next year.

The joint declaration also reaffirmed broad support for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, a proposal originally put forward by the United States. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a video message to the ministers, called the tribunal a moral duty and an essential step to deter future aggression.

The delegation, comprising nearly 20 European foreign ministers, took part in a memorial ceremony at a military cemetery before the meeting. Led by Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, the group included EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy.

“It is symbolic to be here on European Day,” said Kallas. “Everyone who values freedom should witness what we’ve seen today.”

Lammy reiterated support for the ceasefire effort, stressing that “international unity remains strong.”

The United Kingdom introduced new sanctions against Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, which is allegedly used to transport oil in breach of international restrictions. Meanwhile, European governments continue to advocate for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, a proposal initially put forward by the United States.

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