Ratification of the Rome Statute as one of the tools of protection against military aggression in the conditions of the Russian-Ukrainian war: the oretical aspect
Keywords:
Rome Statute, International Criminal Court, war crimes, Russian aggression, impunity, Ukraine, international law, prisoners of war, propagandaAbstract
This article explores the significance of Ukraine’s ratification of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) as a crucial step in countering Russian military aggression and holding perpetrators accountable. The authors emphasize that this move has strengthened the legal basis for prosecuting Russian war criminals at the international level.
A key aspect of the article is the analysis of the Rome Statute of the ICC and its importance for Ukraine. The authors argue that despite the fact that ratification has provided Ukraine with legal instruments to combat impunity, the question of the effectiveness and speed of the ICC’s response remains critical.
The article highlights that Ukraine has gained full legal access to the ICC mechanisms for investigating war crimes committed on its territory. However, the authors express concern about the slow pace of investigations and the lack of tangible results in the punishment of Russian war criminals.
The article also analyzes the challenges faced by the ICC in its work, particularly regarding the recognition of genocide in Bucha and Izyum. The authors draw attention to the fact that the lack of operational action by the ICC in such high-profile cases raises serious concerns about the court’s ability to ensure justice.
The issue of cooperation with other ICC member states in the context of the arrest of suspects in war crimes is considered separately. The authors cite the example of South Africa’s refusal to arrest Putin, which underscores the limitations of international law without mechanisms for real punishment.
In conclusion, the authors call on Ukraine and its international partners to increase pressure on the ICC to ensure effective investigation of war crimes and bring perpetrators to justice. Otherwise, in their opinion, there is a serious risk that Russian criminals will remain unpunished.
