EU Project Pravo-Justice Handed over to SEPO the Equipment for Combating Environmental Crimes

EU Project Pravo-Justice, implemented by Expertise France, has transferred to the Specialized Environmental Prosecutor’s Office of the Office of the Prosecutor General special equipment to intensify efforts on bringing to justice for international crimes committed in Ukraine.

Among the equipment provided, there are two SUVs, as well as devices designed to strengthen the documentation, investigation and prosecution of international environmental crimes.

This important contribution to the fight in the name of justice has become possible thanks to funding specifically provided by the Government of the French Republic.

During the equipment transfer ceremony, Oleksii Khomenko, Acting Prosecutor General, emphasised that there were no prohibited targets for the Russian Federation, as it continued attacking hydroelectric power plants, dams, and even nuclear facilities in Ukraine.

"Today, more than 200 cases of war crimes against the environment and 14 cases of ecocide are being investigated. Our priority remains, of course, the protection of the environment through effective accountability mechanisms, that is why we are grateful to our partners for their constant support and contribution to strengthening the capacity of Ukrainian prosecutors to investigate the crimes of the Russian Federation," stressed Oleksii Khomenko.

In his turn, Gael Vessier, Ambassador of France to Ukraine, stated that the work that prosecutors were doing on daily basis was necessary to restore justice and bring to justice all the perpetrators.

"This is the establishment of justice that the entire civilised world strives for. We understand that we are much stronger when we stand together. Therefore, all European institutions are working side by side with Ukraine to ensure that our common goal is achieved," he said.

In his turn, Remi Duflot, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Ukraine, assured that the European Union would continue supporting Ukraine on the path to restoring justice and stressed the importance of documenting the crimes of the Russian Federation.

"Massive environmental crimes that are currently being committed in Ukraine have terrible consequences. We can already see them, such as, many species of plants and animals disappearing. That is why we are here today to provide support, in particular, in documenting crimes, because this will help to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice through all available legal instruments," he noted.

For her part, Tinna Goletiani, Senior International Expert, Fight against International Crimes Sub-Component Lead of EU Project Pravo-Justice, assured that the Project will continue making significant efforts to advocate for environmental justice and will help overcoming challenges in Ukraine

"For the Team of EU Project Pravo-Justice and for me personally, it is a great honour to contribute to bringing to justice for international crimes committed in Ukraine. After all, ensuring justice is not just a professional duty, but also a deep responsibility," concluded Tinna Goletiani.