Russia-Ukraine conflict: UN ICJ orders Russia to stop offensive on Ukraine

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is entering its fourth week as Russia continues its offensive. The UN’s International Court of Justice ordered Russia to cease all its military operations in Ukraine, expressing concern over Moscow’s use of force on Ukrainians.

The judges at the International Court of Justice ruled in a 13-2 vote Wednesday that Russia must stop its military offensive on Ukraine. The judges added that Russia must ensure that other military forces that it controls or supports also cease operations in Ukraine. Ukraine filed its case on Russia shortly after Putin announced the invasion, saying that Putin’s reasons to justify the invasion, such as preventing genocide in eastern Ukraine, are unfounded.

While the verdict may be binding, there is no definite way to enforce the order. There have been cases, while rare, where countries have ignored rulings by the ICJ. However, countries that refuse to comply with the court’s order will be referred to the UN Security Council, where Russia also holds veto power.

Nevertheless, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the decision by the court.

“Ukraine gained a complete victory in its case against Russia at the International Court of Justice. The ICJ ordered to immediately stop the invasion. The order is binding under international law. Russia must comply immediately. Ignoring the order will isolate Russia even further,” tweeted Zelenskyy.

During the hearings, Ukraine said that there is no threat of genocide in its eastern region, citing the UN 1948 Genocide Convention, which both countries have signed, does not allow an invasion to prevent such an event from happening. Russia did not attend ICJ hearings on March 7, describing the lawsuit as absurd.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken accused Russia of committing war crimes in Ukraine, echoing President Joe Biden’s remarks, with the US leader also referring to the Russian dictator as a “war criminal.”

Speaking with reporters, Blinken said the State Department is already documenting and evaluating possible war crimes in Ukraine to assist in the international efforts to hold Russia accountable. However, Blinken added that it is apparent that Russia is committing abuses in the midst of the war.

“Yesterday, President Biden said that – in his opinion – war crimes have been committed in Ukraine. Personally, I agree,” said Blinken.