Russia Criticizes Armenia's Decision to Join ICC after Arrest Warrants Issued for Putin, Children's Rights Ombudswoman

2023-03-28 05:18:46

(MENAFN) Russia has criticized Armenia's decision to join the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) following the recent arrest warrants issued by the ICC for President Vladimir Putin and the country's ombudswoman for children's rights. The Foreign Ministry called Armenia's intentions "absolutely unacceptable" and warned the country about the negative consequences this move could have on bilateral relations.

Armenia's Constitutional Court published a decision on Friday that the Rome Statute complied with the country's basic law. The decision was final and took effect with its publication. This decision has been met with criticism from Russia, which does not recognize the ICC's jurisdiction.

On March 17, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights Maria Lvova-Belova on charges of "illegal deportation" of Ukrainian children. The Kremlin has rejected this decision, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that Moscow did not recognize the ICC's jurisdiction.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova also dismissed the arrest warrants, stating that they were legally "null and void" since Moscow is not a signatory of the Rome Statute.

The tensions between Russia and the ICC highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the international community in enforcing international law and holding leaders accountable for their actions. As more countries join the Rome Statute, it remains to be seen how Russia will respond and whether it will face increasing pressure to comply with international norms and standards.

Armenia's decision to join the ICC is a significant step towards promoting accountability and justice, and it should be encouraged by the international community. At the same time, it is important to address Russia's concerns and work towards finding diplomatic solutions to these complex issues.

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