Putin won’t face Hague trial in absentia while he leads Russia

Euronews reported the information, citing the words of two European officials who spoke to the publication.

According to them, the special tribunal can only take place if Putin is physically present in the courtroom. An alternative would be an in-absentia trial once he leaves office. The same rule applies to Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

These conditions are outlined in a draft agreement that would provide the legal basis for establishing the special tribunal under the Council of Europe - a human rights organization based in Strasbourg.

It is stated that the technical work on the draft agreement was completed at the end of March. Three separate documents were prepared: a bilateral agreement between Ukraine and the Council of Europe, the statute of the special tribunal, and an agreement detailing its administration. According to preliminary information, the signing is set to take place in Kyiv on May 9, although the date may change.

Sources told the publication that the restriction on trials in absentia is seen as a compromise between countries: after months of discussions, this provision became final and is unlikely to change.

"At the end of the day, it's about politics and bargaining," the official said.

• On March 17, 2023, the Hague Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian leader Vladimir Putin. 
• On April 20, 2024, the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe instructed the Secretary General to begin preparing documents to facilitate consultations with Ukraine on the establishment of a special tribunal for Russia's crimes.
• In February 2025, Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset expressed hope that the Special Tribunal for Russia would be launched this year. To do this, it is necessary to create a structure and provide resources.