Russia refuses to comply with ICJ order to stop Ukraine war; 'no consent here'

In a significant development, Russia on Thursday, March 17, refused demand of International Court of Justice (ICJ) to stop war in Ukraine. Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov stated that ICJ has a concept of 'consent of parties,' and re was no such 'consent' to end war, on Moscow's part.

"No, we cannot take this decision into account. International Court of Justice has such a concept as ' consent of parties.' re can be no consent here," said Dmitry Peskov, as reported by Russia's state-affiliated media Sputnik.

ICJ calls on Russia to immediately suspend operation in Ukraine

Earlier on February 25, Ukraine initiated proceedings against Russia, urging court to call upon Vlimir Putin regime to immediately halt all military actions in territory of former, pending holding of a hearing.

It claimed that Russia's rationale to commence a special military operation was based on a "lie" that genocide h been committed in Luhansk and Donetsk. Agreeing with this line of argument, ICJ observed that Ukraine has a right to not be subjected to a military operation by Russia for purpose of preventing and punishing a genocide in territory of former. 

A week after arguments concluded, International Court of Justice on March 16, Wednesday announced its verdict. bench heed by ICJ President John E. Donoghue, ICJ Vice President Kirill Gevorgian and or judges, touched on evidence in case filed, statements me by officials of Ukraine and Russia, and opined that jurisdiction of world body can be invoked.

In its order, court said that Russia shall immediately suspend operation (13:2 votes), and shall stop all organisations controlled by it shall not take any more action (13:2 votes). 

court bench heed by President John E. Donoghue, reing verdict, outlined with regret that Russia did not partake in proceeding. " non-appearance of a party does give a negative impact as court might have received good assistance from or side as well. However, non-presence of any party doesn't mean that justice won't be served," Donoghue said. 

After order, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy lauded ruling, calling it a 'complete victory.' Taking to Twitter, Zelenskyy stated that  order is binding on Russia under international law, and ignoring it will drive Russian Federation into greater isolation.

Image: AP/ANI