Armenian Parliament ratifies Rome Statute of International Criminal Court despite tensions with Russia
The Armenian Parliament recently ratified the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), a decision which did not fail to provoke the anger of Russia, Armenia’s traditional ally.
This ratification comes in a context of increased tensions between the two countries, following Azerbaijan’s recent military victory in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which Armenia accuses Russia of having abandoned.
By joining the ICC, Armenia hopes to strengthen its security against possible invasions of its territory. Indeed, this would place such an invasion under the jurisdiction of the ICC and exert a deterrent effect on Armenia’s potential adversaries.
The ratification of the Rome Statute provokes mixed reactions. France, through its Minister of Foreign Affairs, Catherine Colonna, welcomed this decision, stressing that the fight against impunity for crimes was an essential condition for peace and stability. On the other hand, Russia criticized this move, calling it extremely hostile.
Relations between Armenia and Russia are currently experiencing turbulence, with Armenia having sought closer ties with the West in recent months. Azerbaijan’s recent offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh has increased tensions, with Armenia feeling abandoned by its Russian ally.
Interestingly, Armenia signed the Rome Statute in 1999, but did not ratify it at the time citing contradictions with its Constitution.
In any case, this ratification demonstrates Armenia’s commitment to international justice and its desire to protect itself against any aggression. It remains to be seen what Russia’s reaction will be and what the consequences will be for their bilateral relations. To be continued…