Moscow, Mar 1 (UNI/Sputnik) The International Criminal Court (ICC) has stated that it will launch an investigation into the situation in Ukraine “as rapidly as possible.” “Today, I wish to announce that I have decided to proceed with opening an investigation into the Situation in Ukraine, as rapidly as possible… I have reviewed the Office’s conclusions arising from the preliminary examination of the Situation in Ukraine, and have confirmed that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with opening an investigation,” Prosecutor, Karim Khan, said in a statement on Monday. Khan further said that the preliminary examination of the situation showed that alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity have been committed in Ukraine. “I am satisfied that there is a reasonable basis to believe that both alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity have been committed in Ukraine in relation to the events already assessed during the preliminary examination by the Office. Given the expansion of the conflict in recent days, it is my intention that this investigation will also encompass any new alleged crimes falling within the jurisdiction of my Office that are committed by any party to the conflict on any part of the territory of Ukraine,” the statement further read. The prosecutor informed that he has already tasked a team to explore all available evidence and now is seeking authorization from the Court’s Pre-Trial Chamber to start the investigation. Khan added that he will call for support from the international community and for additional financial and voluntary aid in order to proceed with the investigation.
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