“We agree with the concerns raised on Tuesday by the Presidency of the Assembly of States Parties of the International Criminal Court, regarding these actions which are deemed unacceptable. We urge for their immediate withdrawal,” stated Geneva spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani.

In the previous month, Russia issued warrants for the arrest of the President, deputy, and a judge from the ICC. The ICC is responsible for investigating and prosecuting individuals accused of serious crimes, including genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression.

Reply to International Criminal Court warrants

In March, the Court issued arrest warrants against Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Commissioner for Children’s Rights, Maria Lvova-Belova. They are accused of illegally deporting and transferring Ukrainian children to Russia.

According to reports from the media, Russia has initiated legal proceedings against ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan and three judges from the Court a few days after the incident.

Fighting against impunity

The International Criminal Court (ICC) was formed in July 2002 through the Rome Statute and is located in The Hague, Netherlands.

According to Ms. Shamdasani, the Court plays a vital role in upholding the rule of law and supports national courts in their efforts to combat impunity.

“It is essential that both the organization and its employees carry out their critical duties under the Rome Statute without being obstructed by any form of external influence or intimidation,” she stated.

Source: news.un.org