PACE does not recognize illegal Russian elections in occupied territories, calls for Russian accountability – Tochytsky

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has taken a firm stance against Russia's actions in Ukraine by refusing to recognize the elections and electoral processes in the temporarily occupied territories. Mykola Tochytsky, the Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the Council of Europe, reported on these decisions. PACE has called for a more decisive response to Russia's destabilizing actions against European democracies.

Tochytsky emphasized that it is crucial for PACE to highlight Russia's persistent refusal to comply with judgments of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). He stressed that withdrawing from the Council of Europe has not nullified Russia's obligations. Russia's state assets should remain accessible to ensure justice and compensate victims, especially Ukraine.

The Permanent Representative stressed that the decisions adopted by PACE must be implemented in practice. Ukraine remains committed to working with the Council of Europe and its member states to ensure these decisions are put into action: "Accountability must be translated into practical actions. Ukraine will continue cooperating with the Council of Europe and its member states to make this a reality."