US Senate Approves Resolution Probing Putin For War Crimes

In a recent move the US senate has approved a resolution probing Putin for war crimes after Russia’s assault of Ukraine.

Late Tuesday, the US Senate passed a resolution calling for investigations against Russian President Vladimir Putin and his regime for war crimes in connection with the assault of Ukraine, reported Associated Press.

The Senate strongly condemns the “violence, war crimes, and crimes against humanity” perpetrated by Russian military forces under Putin’s command, according to a bipartisan resolution introduced by Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina. It calls for Putin, his security council, and military officials to be investigated by international criminal courts for alleged war crimes.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said, “These atrocities deserve to be investigated for war crimes.”

The bill was passed quickly and without opposition, as members of Congress continue to press for a bipartisan response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. The Senate resolution, which was presented almost two weeks ago, does not have legal power, but it is another example of Congress lending political support to the Biden administration in its fight against Putin’s actions.

Last week, US Vice President Kamala Harris endorsed calls for an international probe into Russia’s assault of Ukraine, noting “atrocities” such as bombing civilians, including a maternity hospital.

At a press appearance in Warsaw, Harris spoke with Polish President Andrzej Duda, but avoided outright accusing Russia of war crimes.

“Absolutely, there should be an investigation, and we should all be watching,” Harris said, noting that the UN has already begun an investigation into the accusations.

The International Criminal Court has already announced the opening of an investigation into senior officials suspected of war crimes and other offences during the conflict in Ukraine.

Senators from both parties, Republicans and Democrats, have endorsed the resolution passed by the Senate.

Putin, the Russian Federation, the Russian Security Council, personnel of the Russian military, and others are accused of committing brazen acts of aggression and other atrocities that approach to the level of war crimes, according to the statement.

The resolution asks for the US and allies to investigate Putin and his regime for possible war crimes at the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice.