Putin Belongs in the Dock, Not at the Peace Table, Says Ukraine's Foreign Minister

Statement by Ukraine's Foreign Minister

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has issued a statement condemning a Russian missile attack that occurred on January 24, 2026. This assault coincided with peace consultations in the UAE involving delegations from Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. Sybiha stressed that this barbaric strike further proves that Russian President Vladimir Putin's rightful place is not in a peace council, but in the dock of a special tribunal.

The Attack of January 24, 2026

In the early hours of January 24, Russia launched a massive strike on Ukrainian territory, deploying 375 attack drones and 21 missiles of various types. The primary target of the assault, which focused on Kyiv and its surrounding region, was the nation's energy infrastructure. Sybiha highlighted the critical role of volunteer initiatives, such as the #WarmthForUkraine campaign, in helping the Ukrainian people endure these difficult times.

The establishment of a Special Tribunal to investigate the crime of aggression against Ukraine entered a practical phase in January 2026. The European Union and the Council of Europe signed an agreement to fund and prepare the legal framework for this tribunal, which was first initiated by Ukraine in 2022. The tribunal is now backed by a coalition of over 40 countries, with EU funding amounting to 10 million euros. This legal mechanism represents a significant international effort to address the foundational crime of the war.

Consequently, the events of January 24, 2026, underscored the urgent need for an international investigation into Russian aggression. Sybiha's words reflect Ukraine's firm stance on holding the guilty accountable. With the creation of the Special Tribunal and the support of the international community, Ukraine aims to increase pressure on Russia and secure justice for its actions. This process is seen as a crucial step toward restoring justice for the victims of aggression and supporting long-term regional stability.