ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Russian Officials Over Ukrainian Strikes
By Anatoly Kurmanaev, June 25, 2024
The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants on Monday for Russia’s top military officer, General Valery V. Gerasimov, and former Defense Minister Sergei K. Shoigu. The Hague-based court accuses them of orchestrating strikes against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure during the winter of 2022. These actions targeted Ukraine's power plants, resulting in extensive civilian harm and damage deemed excessive compared to any anticipated military advantage.
Russia’s Security Council dismissed the warrants, labeling them as “pathetic” and part of a “hybrid war” by the West against Russia. On the other hand, Ukrainian officials, including Chief Prosecutor Andriy Kostin, lauded the decision, viewing it as a step toward holding the aggressors accountable.
General Gerasimov and Mr. Shoigu are close allies of President Vladimir V. Putin and are considered key architects of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Despite initial strategies failing and leading to substantial Russian casualties, Putin retained them in key roles for the first two years of the conflict. While General Gerasimov continues to head Russia's forces in Ukraine, Mr. Shoigu was reassigned following a reshuffle prompted by corruption charges against several of his associates.
Previously, the ICC had issued arrest warrants for President Putin and another official over the abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children. Russia has consistently rejected the ICC’s jurisdiction and the validity of the arrest warrants.
South Korea on High Alert Following Russia-North Korea Security Pact
By Charlie Bradley, June 25, 2024
South Korea is on heightened alert after a recent security pact between Russia and North Korea, signed during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Pyongyang. The pact commits both nations to mutual military assistance in the event of an attack, and Putin hinted at supplying weapons to North Korea.
Kim Sang-woo, a former South Korean politician, emphasized the need for South Korea to prepare for worst-case scenarios amid escalating threats. He expressed concerns that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un may feel emboldened by this newfound support from Russia, potentially escalating to a nuclear confrontation.
Recent events have further heightened tensions, including gunfire at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) following North Korean soldiers charging towards South Korean territory. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has reaffirmed a zero-tolerance stance on territorial infringements.
The situation remains volatile, with potential implications for regional and global security, especially concerning the United States' commitment to South Korea's defense amidst these rising tensions.