The non-binding resolution was supported by 141 of the Assembly’s 193 members and is an act to diplomatically isolate Russia from the world body. The South African government abstained from the vote against Russia. The government explained that the resolution does not create an environment conducive for diplomacy, dialogue and mediation.
Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court prosecutor says he will “immediately proceed” with an investigation into alleged war crimes in Ukraine dating back to 2013 when protests erupted against a Russia-friendly government in Kyiv. Karim A A Khan says the probe is starting after 39 countries that are parties to the Rome Statute that established the court – including Canada and France – petitioned the ICC to begin an investigation.
At the same time, Russian troops have completely surrounded the cities of Kherson and Mariupol. Attacks on main cities in the country have intensified, a week after the start of the invasion. It has been reported that more than 2 000 civilians have so far, been killed, in the invasion.
