The Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine (Register) was honoured to welcome the European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, Michael McGrath, to its headquarters in The Hague.

During his visit, Commissioner McGrath met with the Executive Director of the Register, Markiyan Kliuchkovskyi, during which they discussed the importance of securing justice for the victims of the Russian Federation’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine. In this respect, the Executive Director emphasised the vital role played by the European Union (EU) on the issues of accountability for Ukraine, expressed his gratitude for the EU’s steadfast support of the work of the Register as one of its 44 Members, and expressed his confidence that a Claims Commission for Ukraine will be established in the near future.

The visit took place on the day of the Register’s launch of submissions of claims in Category A2.1 (death of an immediate family member). This allows family members who lost a close relative as a result of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine to seek compensation for their own mental pain and anguish. This became the second category of claims opened by the Register, with additional categories expected to launch soon.

Reflecting on the significance of this development, Commissioner McGrath stated that:

“Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has caused monumental destruction and pain to the Ukrainian people. The unnecessary loss of loved ones creates immeasurable sorrow. Reparations will be crucial for a just and lasting peace down the line. I welcome the important work of the Register of Damage to record such claims and their tireless efforts to seek compensation for victims of this brutal war of aggression.”

In turn, the Executive Director observed that:

“By opening this category, we have taken an irreversible step towards the realisation of justice for the loss and trauma inflicted on families all across Ukraine. Every life lost is irreplaceable, but through this work, we strive to bring accountability and compensation to those enduring the pain of their loss.

For families, this process is more than an acknowledgment of their suffering; it is a recognition of their pain and an affirmation of their rights. Submitting these claims is a powerful act that contributes to a broader effort to hold accountable those responsible for this devastation. While no action can ever replace the lives lost, the Register represents a vital step towards justice, healing, and the restoration of dignity for surviving family members. The Register is committed to making this process accessible, transparent, and meaningful.”