US President Joe Biden has spoken in support of the International Criminal Court (ICC). ICC’s decision to issue an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. ICC accused Putin of illegal deportation of minors and movement of people from Ukraine to Russia. In response, the Kremlin has strongly criticized the ICC, saying that it does not recognize its jurisdiction.
Despite the criticism, Joe Biden has voiced his approval of the ICC’s decision, saying that Putin has undoubtedly committed war crimes. “Well, I think it’s justified,” the US president said in a statement quoted by The Guardian. He further stated that although the decision is not globally accepted, it still represents a significant point. “But we also do not recognize it internationally,” he questioned. But I think it makes a very strong point,” The Guardian quoted Joe Biden as saying.
Russian leaders have condemned the ICC’s decision, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov describing it as “outrageous and unacceptable.” Peskov declined to comment when asked if Putin fears visiting countries that recognize the ICC and may attempt to apprehend him, as Russia, like many other countries, does not recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction and considers any rulings by the court to be invalid.
Zelenskyy hails ICC decision as “historic” and expects accountability.
The ICC’s ruling, controversial as it may be, is a major step towards ensuring accountability for world leaders, especially in cases involving alleged war crimes. The endorsement of the US president, Joe Biden, is likely to put additional pressure on Russia and may influence other countries to follow suit. The case is far from over, and the world will be watching how it unfolds in the coming months.