MOSCOW: Russia has strongly criticized Armenia’s “extremely hostile” decision to join the Rome Statute, a move that would place Armenia under the jurisdiction of the tribunal located in The Hague.
Armenia is a sovereign state, and Moscow hopes these decisions will not harm our bilateral relations. It’s essential to emphasize that “we neither recognize nor are a party to this statute. Nonetheless, we view these decisions as highly unfriendly toward us,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov during a press conference in Moscow.
Peskov acknowledged that Armenia is aware of the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, which is based on the Rome Statute. Despite this, Armenia opted to join the statute.
He added that the Armenian side has presented Russia with an explanation of their decision and a draft document aimed at resolving differences.
Armenia Offers Bilateral Deal to Russia Concerns
In a separate statement, Yeghisheh Kirakosyan, the Armenian representative on international and legal issues, mentioned that Yerevan has proposed a bilateral agreement to Russia as a means to address the issue.
“We have offered Russia the possibility of entering into a bilateral agreement so that, if Armenia ratifies the Rome Statute, Russia’s concerns can be alleviated,” Kirakosyan stated.
Regarding recent developments in Karabakh, where Azerbaijan concluded an anti-terror operation and declared a cease-fire, Peskov noted that Russia is closely monitoring the situation, particularly the humanitarian aspect. Russian peacekeepers are actively assisting those who wish to relocate to the territory of Armenia.
Peskov emphasized Russia’s primary concern for the humanitarian well-being of the people affected and the importance of providing them with normal living conditions.
Responding to remarks by Russian Vice Prime Minister Anton Siluanov about the necessity of increasing the defense budget, Peskov affirmed that such an increase is essential. He pointed out that Russia is currently engaged in a state of hybrid warfare and an ongoing “special military operation,” which demands significant financial resources.
