Estonia's Parliament Speaker: Russia Must Compensate Ukraine for All War Damages

The Speaker of the Estonian Parliament, Lauri Hussar, has stated that Russia should compensate Ukraine for the damages inflicted during the war. He urged other countries to actively explore ways to utilize Russia's frozen assets for this purpose.

Hussar made this declaration during the Second Parliamentary Summit of the International Crimea Platform, as reported by the press service of the Estonian Parliament.

In his address, Hussar affirmed that Estonia will continue to firmly support Ukraine in military, economic, and political aspects until Ukraine wins the war initiated by Russia, regains its territorial integrity, and becomes a member of the European Union and NATO.

"In times when the darkness of autocracy seeks to replace the flame of democracy, our message remains clear. We will continue to staunchly support Ukraine through military, economic, and political means until Ukraine's sovereignty is restored, and Crimea is returned to Ukraine," he emphasized.

The politician called on countries to support Ukraine's peace formula, which, in his view, should serve as the foundation for further efforts. He stressed that in the event of the aggressor's victory, there can be no lasting peace.

Hussar emphasized that a top priority should be the establishment of an international tribunal to hold all those responsible for Russia's aggression accountable.

"Russia must be held accountable for all crimes committed in Ukraine, including the crime of aggression. No one should be allowed to hide behind immunity," he stated.

Hussar also highlighted that Russia must compensate Ukraine for the damages it has suffered. According to him, there is a draft law in the parliament that outlines internal rules for the use of frozen assets of individuals under sanctions in Estonia to compensate Ukraine for the losses incurred during the war.

"The use of frozen assets needs to be explored both at the European Union level and in each individual country," he added, underscoring the importance of strengthening sanctions against Russia and restricting Russia's international activities.

The parliamentary summit, taking place in Prague, is focused on discussing the situation in Crimea, with an emphasis on sanctions, ensuring freedom of navigation, human rights issues, and the economic and environmental consequences of Russia's temporary occupation. Representatives of parliaments will also deliberate on supporting Ukraine and increasing international pressure on Russia to restore Ukraine's territorial integrity.

As previously reported by The Gaze, the Estonian government approved and submitted an amendment to the International Sanctions Act to its parliament. The amendment contains provisions for directing frozen Russian assets toward compensating Ukraine for war-related damages.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas emphasized the importance of holding Russia accountable for its aggression and ensuring proper compensation for Ukraine during the war. In her view, Estonia should serve as an example to other European countries in implementing such norms.