The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations' highest court, announced that it has the authority to consider Ukraine's request for a ruling stating that Kyiv is not accountable for genocide. However, the court clarified that it lacks jurisdiction over other aspects of Ukraine's case against Russia.

Ukraine's filing at the ICJ, lodged shortly after Russia's invasion in February 2022, accuses Moscow of using alleged genocide claims as a pretext for the attack. Despite not being able to address this specific issue, the court will examine whether Ukraine breached the genocide convention, a claim used by Russian President Vladimir Putin to justify the invasion.

The court's President Joan E. Donoghue explained that even if Russia falsely accused Ukraine of genocide to justify its actions, this alone wouldn't constitute a violation of obligations under the genocide convention.

While the court cannot rule on whether Russia's invasion violated the genocide convention or if Moscow's recognition of breakaway regions in Ukraine constitutes a breach, Ukraine sees the ruling as a positive step allowing the case to proceed.

Ukraine's legal team leader, Anton Korynevych, expressed satisfaction with the court's decision, emphasizing that it addresses Ukraine's non-responsibility for alleged genocide.

Despite ongoing challenges, including Russia's disregard of the court's interim order to halt the invasion, Ukraine views the ruling as progress in their pursuit of justice.