The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and his commissioner for children’s rights, Maria Lvova-Belova, citing them for unlawful deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia. Neither Russia nor the U.S. recognizes ICC jurisdiction, so they’re not likely to be enforced, but could serve to restrict travel to countries that do recognize the court. Ukraine reported last November that at least 10,000 children were removed from their parents and deported to Russia; more than 30 countries referred the Russians for investigation. If true, the allegations are a shocking descent into barbarity for a nation that loves to brag about its artistic heritage – from the 19th century, since they haven’t produced anything noteworthy since. (Peter Dejong/AP)
Daily Office Asia-Pacific 
