There is a crime — there must be a fair punishment. This is a principle that remains unchanged for Ukraine and the world, even in the toughest times. Today at the Office of the Prosecutor General, important international partners were welcomed — Director-General of the Directorate of the European Commission Gert Jan Koopman, Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine Katarina Mathernova, and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Norway to Ukraine Lars Ragnar Hansen.
With Mr. Koopman and Ms. Mathernova, the main focus was on the strategy of documenting and investigating international crimes, preparing them for submission to the Special Tribunal. The recent massive attacks by Russia on civilians only underscore the importance of the systematic work Ukraine is carrying out with European partners to stop the war.
The activities of the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression at Eurojust and the Advisory Group on the Most Serious International Crimes, which help us strengthen the ability to hold the aggressor accountable, were highlighted. Special attention was paid to the rule of law, reform of the prosecution bodies, and the justice system, as well as the challenges facing law enforcement in wartime conditions.
The discussion included Ukraine’s path towards European integration. It was confirmed that the Office of the Prosecutor General fully meets its commitments in the field of justice as part of the preparation for EU membership. One of the most sensitive issues for us is the deportation of Ukrainian children. We have already managed to return 1,835 children illegally taken by Russia. “Each such return is a restoration of justice and preservation of Ukrainian identity,” — said the office representative. Thanks to the European Union for its leadership in these processes.
With Ambassador of Norway Lars Ragnar Hansen, the focus was on strengthening bilateral cooperation. The “Nansen” program is a confirmation that Norway is our reliable strategic partner, supporting Ukraine both on the battlefield and in the field of law. Information about the audit of criminal proceedings regarding business and the launch of the “StopPressure” portal was provided. It was agreed to consider the possibility of a meeting with representatives of Norwegian business for direct and open dialogue.
During both meetings, the importance of supporting prosecutors in frontline regions was emphasized. “These are people who work under shelling every day, document crimes, collect evidence, and hold the line of justice where it is most dangerous,” stated the office. They do not have additional guarantees or special status, but their work is no less heroic. The possibility of material and technical support from partners was discussed.
Grateful to our European friends for substantive and honest discussions. I am convinced they will transform into concrete solutions and actions.We continue to move towards justice. And this path is irreversible.