In a significant move that is poised to heighten geopolitical tensions, Armenian lawmakers gave the green light on Tuesday for the country to join the International Criminal Court (ICC). This decision is expected to strain relations with Armenia’s historical ally, Moscow.
Russia swiftly expressed its disapproval, asserting that the ratification of the ICC treaty was a “wrong” move. The ICC, known for its international jurisdiction, had previously issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March. The warrant was linked to allegations of his involvement in the conflict in Ukraine and the illegal deportation of children to Russia.
If President Putin were to set foot in the territory of ICC member states, the international court is mandated to carry out the arrest.
The approval of the ICC membership by Armenian lawmakers underscores the widening gap between Yerevan and Moscow. Armenia has grown increasingly frustrated with what it perceives as the Kremlin’s lack of action concerning Armenia’s ongoing conflict with Azerbaijan.
Last month, Azerbaijani forces seized control of the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, where Russian peacekeepers were stationed. This military maneuver resulted in the surrender of Armenian separatist forces that had held the mountainous region for decades.
During an online broadcast of the parliamentary session, a majority of 60 deputies voted in favor of joining the ICC, while 22, primarily opposition lawmakers, opposed the move.
The immediate response from the Kremlin was critical of Armenia’s decision. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated, “We are doubtful that, from the point of view of bilateral relations, Armenia’s accession to the Rome Statute is correct. We still believe that it is the wrong decision.”
This development signals a deepening rift in the longstanding alliance between Armenia and Russia, with potential implications for the geopolitical landscape in the region.
