State Duma of the Russian Federation
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State Duma Vice Speaker Irina Yarovaya proposes to introduce liability for Russophobia into Russian legislation, thus she reacted to the decision of the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to the warrants for the “arrest” of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Commissioner for Children’s Rights Maria Lvova-Belova.
“Undoubtedly, this decision should be qualified as an act of international terrorism directed against Russia and undermining the foundations of global security in the world. Russophobia as a dangerous crime should be introduced into the legislation,” Yarovaya said. Her words are given on the website of the State Duma.
The vice speaker also stressed that the president and the children’s ombudsman are special powers that directly ensure the safety and guarantees of Russian citizens. Such a decision by the ICC, in her opinion, is a kind of demonstration of intimidation for Russian citizens.
ICC Pre-trial Chamber issued warrants for the arrest of Putin and Lvova-Belova in connection with the situation in Ukraine. The Russian Foreign Ministry said that the decisions of the ICC are legally null and void. The presidential press secretary, in turn, noted that the Russian Federation does not recognize the jurisdiction of this court.
