Weekly News Recap (26 February - 3 March 2024)
© Photo by United Nations Photo
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ICC: Trial Chamber IX Orders Reparations for Victims in Ongwen Case
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Russia: Human Rights Campaigner Oleg Orlov Given Jail Sentence for Denouncing War in Ukraine
- France: Paris Court of Appeal Upholds Indictment of Warlord Roger Lumbala for Crimes Against Humanity
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US: Former US Diplomat Pleads Guilty to Spying for Cuba for Over Four Decades
International Peace & Security Section
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Lebanon: Israeli Jets Bomb Eastern Lebanon for First Time since 7 October
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UN: Aid to Gaza Strip Down by 50% Compared to Previous Month
- UN: Deadlock Over Nuclear Disarmament Not Acceptable
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Sudan: Al-Burhan Meets Libyan Leaders Seeking Assistance to Combat the RSF
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Chad: Several Deaths Announced After Foiled Intelligence Office Attack
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Gaza: Israeli Attack on Aid Trucks Kills Over 100 and Wounds 700 Palestinians
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UK: Rwanda Plan to Cost a Staggering £1.8 Million for Each Asylum Seeker
International Justice Section
UK: Bulgarian Decorator Ivanchev Appears in Court on Charges of Conducting Surveillance for Russia
On 27 February 2024, a Bulgarian painter and decorator, Tihomir Ivanchev, appeared in Westminster Magistrates’ Court, London, accused of spying for Russia in the UK. It is alleged that Ivanchev is part of a network conducting surveillance for Russia, with five others previously charged. Ivanchev’s link to the surveillance activity emerged during investigations. Allegedly involved in surveillance in Austria and Montenegro, Ivanchev was remanded in custody pending a court appearance on 15 March 2024. The group is accused of aiding Russia in hostile actions, including potential abductions. Orlin Roussev, one of the previously charged suspects, is said to have managed the cell’s operations, receiving instructions from Jan Marsalek, who is not charged but implicated in the conspiracy. Marsalek, former chief operating officer of the company Wirecard, is wanted for fraud in Germany and reportedly resides in Russia.
ICC: Trial Chamber IX Orders Reparations for Victims in Ongwen Case
On 28 February 2024, Trial Chamber IX of the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced its Order on Reparations in the case of The Prosecutor v. Dominic Ongwen. The Chamber, presided over by Judge Bertram Schmitt, Judge Peter Kovács, and Judge Chang-ho Chung, set Dominic Ongwen’s financial liability at €52 429 000 EUR. Reparations focus on collective community-based measures such as rehabilitation programs and symbolic awards. Approximately 49 772 victims are deemed potentially eligible for reparations, including direct and indirect victims of various crimes. The Chamber found Ongwen indigent for reparations purposes, suggesting the Trust Fund for Victims (TFV) to complement the awards through additional fundraising. The TFV is instructed to submit an implementation plan by 3 September 2024, prioritising symbolic monetary awards. The Chamber encourages support for the TFV’s mission and fundraising efforts from various entities. On 4 February 2021, Trial Chamber IX found Dominic Ongwen guilty of 61 crimes, including crimes against humanity and war crimes, committed in Northern Uganda between 1 July 2002 and 31 December 2005. He was sentenced to 25 years of imprisonment on 6 May 2021. On 15 December 2022, the Appeals Chamber confirmed the verdict and sentence, making them final. On 18 December 2023, Ongwen was transferred to Norway to serve his sentence. Additionally, on 6 May 2021, the Chamber ordered submissions on reparations.
https://www.icc-cpi.int/news/ongwen-case-icc-trial-chamber-ix-orders-reparations-victims
Russia: Human Rights Campaigner Oleg Orlov Given Jail Sentence for Denouncing War in Ukraine
On 28 February 2024, Oleg Orlov, a prominent human rights activist and co-chair of the Nobel Peace Prize-winning organisation “Memorial,” was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for “repeatedly discrediting” the Russian armed forces. The verdict, delivered in a packed courtroom in Russia, marks the conclusion of a retrial after prosecutors complained of a lenient initial sentence. Orlov’s conviction is seen as part of a broader crackdown on dissent in Russia, exemplified by the recent imprisonment of other government critics and opposition figures. Critics argue that such prosecutions violate constitutional freedoms and signal a growing intolerance for public criticism within Russia. Orlov, in his defence, condemned the repression of dissent in Russia, likening it to historical patterns of authoritarianism. The case reflects a broader trend of legal measures being used to silence government critics and opponents of the Ukraine war, contributing to a climate of fear and repression within the Russian opposition.
France: Paris Court of Appeal Upholds Indictment of Warlord Roger Lumbala for Crimes Against Humanity
On 28 February 2024, the Paris Court of Appeal affirmed the charges against warlord Roger Lumbala Tshitenga for complicity in crimes against humanity. The indictment, stemming from actions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) between 2002 and 2003, accuses him of heinous acts such as murder, torture, rape, pillaging, and enslavement, including sexual slavery. Former rebel leader Lumbala was arrested in France on 2 January 2021, as part of an investigation initiated in December 2016. The crimes were allegedly committed during the military operation “Effacer le tableau” in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces, aimed at gaining control of resource-rich areas.
https://trialinternational.org/case/roger-lumbala-tshitenga/
US: Former US Diplomat Pleads Guilty to Spying for Cuba for Over Four Decades
On 29 February 2024, Victor Manuel Rocha, a former career US diplomat who served as the US ambassador to Bolivia, pleaded guilty to working as an agent of Cuba for over 40 years. Charged with passing information to the Cuban government since 1981 while working for the US State Department, Rocha changed his initial not guilty plea in a Miami court. The case, one of the highest-profile espionage cases between Cuba and the US, concluded unexpectedly quickly with this plea deal. Rocha faces charges including violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act, wire fraud, and making false statements to obtain a US passport. Evidence includes covert recordings of Rocha admitting his decades-long involvement with Cuba. James Olson, former head of CIA counterintelligence, views Rocha’s actions as a betrayal of the US. The US-Cuba relationship has been tensed since Castro’s revolution, with both former US President Barack Obama and Raul Castro making attempts to normalise relations in 2015. Rocha, born in Colombia and educated in prestigious US universities, served in various government roles before continuing as a private consultant. The case unfolded when an undercover FBI agent contacted Rocha, leading to disclosures of his activities for Cuba.
ICC: Appeals Chamber Affirms the Decision Allowing the Investigation Regarding Venezuela Situation to Resume
On 1 March 2024, the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court (ICC) upheld Pre-Trial Chamber I’s decision allowing the resumption of the investigation into the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Venezuela’s appeal against the decision was rejected unanimously. The Appeals Chamber clarified various points, including the burden of proof for deferral requests and the scope of domestic investigations concerning crimes against humanity. It emphasised that while States are not required to incorporate crimes against humanity into their domestic laws, such incorporation could aid in fulfilling their duty to prosecute those responsible for international crimes. The background of the case involves Venezuela’s referral to the ICC and subsequent requests for deferral, leading to the authorisation to resume the investigation in June 2023.
ICJ: Republic of Nicaragua Initiates Proceedings Against the Federal Republic of Germany for Alleged Violations of International Law
On 1 March 2024, Nicaragua filed a legal action against Germany at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), alleging violations of international law regarding the Occupied Palestinian Territory, particularly the Gaza Strip. Nicaragua accuses Germany of failing to prevent genocide against Palestinians by supporting Israel politically, financially, and militarily, and by defunding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Nicaragua seeks the Court’s jurisdiction based on agreements accepting the Court’s authority and the compromissory clause in the Genocide Convention. Additionally, Nicaragua requests provisional measures to urgently address Germany’s alleged involvement in ongoing genocide and breaches of international law in Gaza.
https://www.icj-cij.org/sites/default/files/case-related/193/193-20240301-pre-01-00-en.pdfo
US: Former US President Donald Trump Appears in Court as Judge Deliberates Postponing Trial Concerning Classified Documents
On 1 March 2024, former US President Donald Trump appeared in court in Florida where a judge hinted at delaying his criminal trial for alleged mishandling of classified documents. Originally set for May, the trial faces delay due to disputes over evidence review. Prosecutors push for a July start, while Trump seeks post-election or August dates. The judge did not set a trial date but discussed pre-trial procedures. Trump, who remained silent with his lawyers in the courtroom, pleads not guilty to 40 felony charges. He is accused of retaining national security files at Mar-a-Lago post-presidency and obstructing efforts to retrieve them. Alongside him, his aide and property manager face related charges. Trump, anticipating Republican nomination, labels the cases as politically driven. Legal experts criticise delays in the pre-trial process. Judge Cannon previously hinted at delay due to the volume of evidence. Recent rulings favoured prosecutors regarding evidence access. The decision on the trial date will impact Trump’s other court cases, including one in New York starting on 25 March 2024 and another in Georgia awaiting scheduling.
International Peace & Security Section
Sweden: Hungary Approves Sweden’s Accession into NATO
On 26 February 2024, the Hungarian Parliament approved Sweden’s accession into NATO, solidifying a relationship evolving since the Cold War’s end. Despite Finland’s quicker approval, Sweden’s suitability for NATO was uncontested and brings key benefits to the alliance. Firstly, the symbolism of two traditionally neutral states joining deters Russia and supports Ukraine, especially considering their strategic geographic location. Second, Sweden’s expertise in countering Russian influence aids NATO’s defence plans and Sweden’s advanced military technology enhances NATO’s capabilities. Finally, Sweden’s defence industry supports NATO’s rearmament efforts. However, Turkey and Hungary’s initial opposition reveals internal divides and weakens NATO’s unanimity. The swift offering of membership to Sweden and Finland also highlights the delays for Ukraine and Georgia. In the short term, NATO must focus on defending eastern members, while the long-term question revolves around NATO’s role in global defence.
Lebanon: Israeli Jets Bomb Eastern Lebanon for First Time since 7 October
On 26 February 2024, Lebanon struck the Hezbollah stronghold of Baalbek, 100km inside the Lebanese border, and killed two. The strike was significant as it was the deepest into Lebanese territory since the killing of Hamas senior official Salehel-Arouri in Beirut in January 2024. Israel claimed the strikes targeted Hezbollah’s aerial defence sites in response to the downing of an Israeli drone by a surface-to-air missile earlier that day. The airstrikes hit a warehouse linked to Hezbollah’s Sajjad Project, known for providing discounted food to locals. Hezbollah retaliated by launching rockets at an Israeli military base. Tensions have continued to escalate since the Gaza conflict, with near-daily exchanges of fire along the border. Despite Hezbollah’s ties to Hamas and calls for ceasefire in Gaza, Israel warns against expecting a halt to northern front hostilities. Hezbollah’s actions underscore the complex web of regional tensions, with Lebanon’s territory becoming a battleground for broader geopolitical struggles. The airstrikes and retaliatory attacks signal a dangerous escalation, raising concerns about further violence and instability in the region. Efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza may be complicated by the spillover of conflict into neighbouring territories, emphasising the interconnected nature of conflicts in the Middle East. As both sides continue to engage in military exchanges, the situation remains volatile, with the potential for further casualties and humanitarian crises.
UN: Aid to Gaza Strip Down by 50% Compared to Previous Month
On 26 February 2024, the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, Philippe Lazzarini, lamented a drastic reduction in humanitarian aid to Gaza this month, with a 50% drop compared to January 2024. He attributed this decline to various challenges, including political obstacles and closures at crossing points, in addition to security concerns and intermittent closures that have severely impeded aid delivery. Continuous airstrikes and ground operations in Gaza further complicated humanitarian efforts. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with over 75% of the population displaced and more than two million people facing food insecurity. Critical medical services, such as prenatal and postnatal care, are severely impacted, leading to premature births and newborn deaths. The resignation of Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh adds to the political uncertainty in the region. UN Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledged Shtayyeh’s resignation, emphasising the need for a robust Palestinian government to address the humanitarian, political, and security challenges and work towards lasting peace. He added that the UN remains committed to supporting efforts to overcome the numerous challenges facing the Palestinian people and achieve a fully independent and viable Palestinian state.
UN: Deadlock Over Nuclear Disarmament Not Acceptable
On 26 February 2024, the UN Secretary-General expressed deep concern over the failure of the UN Conference on Disarmament to make meaningful progress amidst growing geopolitical tensions, arms races, and heightened nuclear risks. Established with the aim of promoting mutual disarmament, the Conference has been plagued by paralysis and deadlock, failing to deliver tangible results year after year. Despite its proud history in drafting significant agreements like the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), the current state of the Conference reflects a global trust crisis and entrenched geopolitical divides. Urgent reforms are needed to revitalise the Conference and restore its effectiveness in promoting disarmament. The Secretary-General emphasised the importance of inclusive diplomacy and urged the Conference to actively engage in finding solutions to propel humanity forward. He underscored the significance of the UN’s proposed New Agenda for Peace, which prioritises prevention and disarmament as essential components of global peace and security. Established in 1979, the Conference on Disarmament remains the world’s sole multilateral forum for disarmament negotiations, with 65 member states, including the five declared nuclear powers.
Sudan: Al-Burhan Meets Libyan Leaders Seeking Assistance to Combat the RSF
On 27 February 2024, Sudan’s military ruler, Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, travelled to Libya to seek assistance from Libya to combat the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a renegade paramilitary group controlling large parts of Sudan. Accompanied by key officials, Al-Burhan met with Libya’s leaders, given Libya’s divided governance and its ties with the RSF. Historically, Libya has been a source of weapons and support for the RSF, with ties between the RSF and Libyan National Army (LNA) brigades facilitating smuggling. The UN panel noted Libya’s role in financing Darfurian movements. However, Al-Burhan’s visit aimed to address these ties and possibly solicit military aid. Libyan President Mohamed Al-Menfi affirmed support for Sudan’s unity but rejected foreign interference, referring implicitly to the role of the United Arab Emirates in Sudan and comparing it to the Emirates’ previous support for the rival Libyan administration based in Tobruk, during the recent Libyan civil war. Meanwhile, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo claimed to have been invited to Libya as well, pointing to potential mediation efforts by Libya. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing military developments and humanitarian crises demanding international attention and intervention.
https://sudanwarmonitor.com/p/al-burhan-seeks-libyan-help-in-sudan
UN: Grave Concern Over Dire Humanitarian Situation in Syria
On 27 February 2024, UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen addressed the Security Council, expressing grave concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Syria amidst ongoing conflict and regional tensions. He highlighted the devastating impact of ongoing fighting in Syria and regional spillover, exacerbated by recent airstrikes attributed to Israel and retaliatory strikes by the United States. Pedersen emphasised the urgent need for de-escalation, particularly in Gaza, and called for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. He also provided updates on efforts to reconvene the Syrian Constitutional Committee, highlighting challenges in selecting a neutral venue. Meanwhile, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, underscored the critical humanitarian needs in Syria, with 16.7 million people requiring assistance, the highest since the conflict began. Griffiths emphasised the importance of sustained funding to address the worsening humanitarian crisis, noting the insufficient funding received for last year’s Humanitarian Response Plan. Despite challenges, efforts continue to provide essential aid to millions of Syrians through cross-border missions.
Chad: Several Deaths Announced After Foiled Intelligence Office Attack
On 28 February 2024, in N’Djamena, Chad, an attack on the offices of Chad’s internal security agency resulted in several deaths, according to the government. Blaming elements of the opposition Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF), led by Yaya Dillo, the government declared the situation under control, with alleged perpetrators either arrested or being pursued for prosecution. The incident followed the arrest of PSF member Ahmed Torabi, accused of an assassination attempt on the president of the Supreme Court, although Dillo claimed it was staged. The PSF’s general secretary alleged that soldiers shot at a group of party members, resulting in casualties when they went to retrieve Torabi’s body deposited at the agency’s headquarters. In response, the army deployed around the PSF’s main office and blocked roads to the security agency. Sporadic gunshots were reported near the PSF office, with internet restrictions in parts of the capital. The attack occurred after Chad announced a presidential election on 6 May. Both Dillo and transitional President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, who took over after his father’s death in 2021, intend to contest. Deby had promised to transition to an elected government within 18 months, a deadline unmet before postponing the election to this year. Despite casualties from the attack, the government did not disclose the exact number of deaths.
UN: Calls for Increased Donor Support for Haiti
On 29 February 2024, Ulrika Richardson, UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti, called for robust donor support for a USD 674 million appeal to aid 3.6 million Haitians affected by ongoing gang violence. Last year saw a sharp increase in violence, with January 2024 being the most violent month in two years, marked by murders, rape, and lynchings. Sexual violence, especially collective rape, increased by 50% compared to 2022. Displacement also surged, with 314 000 people displaced, straining resources in host communities. About 5.5 million Haitians need assistance, with over four million facing acute food insecurity and 45% lacking access to clean water. Children, comprising three million of those in need, are particularly affected, with violence disrupting education and school feeding programs. Gang control of major roads hampers humanitarian aid delivery. Richardson emphasised the need for a multinational security support mission, acknowledged by Haitians, to combat gang violence. Despite last year’s funding shortfall, hopes are high for the 2024 plan, but Richardson stressed that humanitarian aid alone cannot solve Haiti’s crisis and called for parallel investments to address root causes.
Gaza: Israeli Attack on Aid Trucks Kills Over 100 and Wounds 700 Palestinians
On 29 February 2024, Israeli forces killed over 100 Palestinians and left 700 others wounded as they gathered for food aid near Gaza City, north Gaza. This assault prompted widespread condemnation, with the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denouncing it as a “massacre” and urgently calling for international intervention. Witnesses described Israeli tanks advancing and running over victims after opening fire on them. Palestinians in north Gaza are suffering from a dire hunger crisis because, according to aid agencies, Israel is purposely delaying aid deliveries. As aid agencies continue to grapple with logistical hurdles and security risks in delivering assistance to vulnerable populations in Gaza, the UN warned of the severe consequences of delayed food distribution and emphasised the urgent need for unrestricted access to humanitarian aid. The UN warned against “looming famine” and stated the situation was a “man-made disaster”. As the Israeli offensive on Gaza persists and the humanitarian situation worsens, concerted efforts are required to alleviate suffering, protect civilians, and facilitate the delivery of life-saving assistance to those in need.
UK: Rwanda Plan to Cost a Staggering £1.8 Million for Each Asylum Seeker
On 1 March 2024, according to Whitehalls’ official spending watchdog, the Rwanda plan to send asylum seekers back to the central African nation would cost taxpayers £1.8 million each for the first 300 people that the government plans to deport to Kigali. According to figures released by the National Audit Office, the overall cost of the scheme is more than half a billion pounds and even if the government sends no one back to the central African country, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has signed up to pay £370 million pounds for public purse over the five-year deal. According to the report, the five-year plan also called the ‘processing and integration package’ for each relocated person would cover accommodation, essential items such as food, medical services and education, which would cost £150 874 for each asylum seeker. About £20 million has already been spent by the Home Office for setting up the Rwanda plan, but it is expected that further costs will be incurred between now and the end of the scheme. Diana Johnson, the chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee, expressed serious concerns over the final figures and lack of transparency while urging that the government should fix the “real issues in the asylum and immigration system” and the costs reported raising serious questions about how could the plan be cost-effective.
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2024/mar/01/rwanda-plan-uk-asylum-seeker-cost-figures