Ukraine opens new claims to make Russia pay humanitarian and demining costs

Ukraine has launched new claims against Russia, seeking to hold the nation accountable for humanitarian support and demining expenses, according to Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine's presidential chief of staff. The new categories, B4 for humanitarian costs and B5 for demining, were introduced on August 14th. These categories, which cover public spending to aid those impacted by the war and the expense of clearing mines and unexploded ordnance, aim to financially burden Russia for every crime and hryvnia spent dealing with its aggression.

Budanov emphasized that Ukraine is meticulously documenting every loss caused by Russian forces and that the enemy will be held financially accountable. Only claims for costs already paid from national or local budgets are eligible under these categories. The International Register of Damage for Ukraine, known as RD4U, established by the Council of Europe in 2023, now has 21 claim categories, including these two new ones. Ukrainians can file claims for losses through the Diia app or online portal.