Kremlin: ICC Warrant to Keep Putin from Attending Pope Francis’ Funeral

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend Pope Francis’s funeral, the Kremlin announced Tuesday, citing travel restrictions related to an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed, “No, the president has no such plans,” when asked about Putin’s attendance at the funeral scheduled for Saturday.

The ICC issued a warrant for Putin’s arrest over the alleged forced deportation of children during Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine. The warrant restricts his international travel, particularly to countries that are signatories to the Rome Statute and are legally required to enforce ICC actions.

Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 87 after battling various health issues, including respiratory infections and mobility limitations. Serving as the head of the Catholic Church since 2013, he was widely respected for his emphasis on humility, peace, and interfaith dialogue. His funeral is expected to draw leaders and dignitaries from across the globe.