The Kremlin stated on Monday that the International Criminal Court's decision to issue an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin reveals "clear hostility" against Moscow and against Putin personally. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Russia is responding "calmly" and continuing its work.
Peskov said in a regular news briefing: "We are witnessing this number of 'positions' that showcase clear hostility against our country and our president." He added, "We notice them, but if we take each one seriously, it would lead to nothing good. Thus, we view this calmly, noting everything with interest and continuing our work."
It remains unclear how the ICC's move to issue an arrest warrant for Putin, along with the Russian commissioner for children's rights, regarding the mass abduction of children from Ukraine, will impact the situation.
Russia is not a party to the Rome Statute of the Court, meaning the warrant has no legal force in Russia; however, this action could hinder Putin's travel to any of the 123 countries that recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC.
Following the issuance of the warrant, Russia reacted angrily to the ICC's decision against Putin, labeling it as "shameful and unacceptable."
