The EU has criticized the U.S. decision to impose sanctions on the leadership of the ISS
The European Union expressed deep regret over the United States’ decision to impose sanctions on Tomoko Akane, President of the International Criminal Court, and Abdoulaye Seye, Senior Counsel at the ICC. The EU emphasized the importance of the court’s independence.
The European Union, Kallas emphasized, reaffirms its unwavering support for the International Criminal Court.
“The EU deeply regrets the decision by the United States to impose sanctions against the President of the International Criminal Court, Judge Tomoko Akane, and Senior Prosecutor Abdoulaye Seye,” the statement reads.
According to Kallas, the ICC is one of the key elements of the international criminal justice system and the global fight against impunity. The Court plays an important role in ensuring accountability for the most serious crimes of concern to the entire international community.
She emphasized that the court’s independence, impartiality, and ability to carry out its mandate must be protected from pressure, intimidation, and interference.
“Sanctions against the Court, its officials, and its staff undermine its work,” Kallas stated.
She assured that the EU would continue to support the ICC and provide assistance to protect the court and its staff from external pressure and threats.
This was stated by Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
As a reminder, the U.S. imposed sanctions against two top officials of the International Criminal Court.
It should be noted that Lithuania is not considering withdrawing from the International Criminal Court amid reports of pressure from the U.S.
Chad’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it had informed the UN Secretary-General of the country’s intention to withdraw from the Rome Statute—the international treaty on which the International Criminal Court (ICC) is based. This was reported by Deutsche Welle English.
Following the suspension of International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, the Russian Foreign Ministry stated that it hopes to secure his extradition. Moscow believes that he will now allegedly no longer enjoy international immunity in countries that are parties to the Rome Statute.
