ICC Arrest Warrants and Investigations Against Russia and Vladimir Putin

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has taken significant action against Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, in response to the invasion of Ukraine that began in 2014. On March 17, 2023, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, charging them with war crimes related to the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia. This action violates international treaties, including the Geneva Convention, and may constitute genocide. In 2024, the ICC expanded its focus, issuing warrants for senior military officials accused of directing attacks on civilian infrastructure, leading to excessive civilian harm. The ICC's charges highlight concerns over Putin's systematic policy of deporting Ukrainian children and the broader campaign against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This situation raises questions about the legitimacy of leaders accused of grave crimes retaining power, emphasizing the disconnection between legal accountability and political authority. Historical parallels are drawn between Putin's actions and those of Adolf Hitler, showcasing how systematic repression and attacks on civilians echo past atrocities. The ongoing legal actions underscore the need for accountability and the preservation of the social contract within the international order.