PACE Launches Procedure To Expel Ukraine From Council Of Europe

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe has approved the motion to launch the procedure of expulsion of Ukraine from the Council of Europe. The PACE upheld the wording of the resolution on the report of the PACE Monitoring Committee on Ukraine fulfilling its obligations as Council of Europe member state. 111 deputies voted in favor of the resolution, with 19 voting against and 7 abstentions. Russia's delegation voted against the resolution and against sanctions being imposed on Ukraine. The resolution requires that Ukraine urgently take steps to achieve worthwhile progress in respect of human rights and press freedom before PACE's June session. PACE deputies believe the measures would imply Ukraine passing a new criminal code, a new civil code, and a judicial reform. Failing to fulfil the requirements by the Assembly's June session would mean sanctions will be imposed on Ukraine in keeping with the Council of Europe's standing rules. Ukraine may lose its powers in the Council of Europe and its seat in the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers.