Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the funeral of Pope Francis, the Kremlin said on Tuesday, citing his restriction under an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant.
“No. The president has no such plans,” Putin’s spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, told reporters when asked if the Russian leader would be present at the funeral scheduled for Saturday.
Putin is subject to an ICC arrest warrant issued over the alleged forced deportation of children during Russia’s military operation in Ukraine.
The warrant significantly limits his ability to travel abroad, especially to countries that are signatories to the Rome Statute and obligated to carry out arrests on behalf of the court.
Pope Francis died on Monday at the age of 87, following prolonged health challenges that included respiratory infections and mobility issues.
He served as the head of the Catholic Church since 2013 and was known for his focus on humility, peace, and interfaith dialogue.
The funeral is expected to draw leaders and dignitaries from around the world.