European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has strongly condemned the sanctions imposed by US President Donald Trump against the International Criminal Court (ICC). She made the statement on social media platform X, stressing the importance of the court in the fight against global impunity.
“The ICC guarantees accountability for international crimes and gives a voice to victims around the world. It must be free to fight against global impunity. Europe will always stand for justice and respect for international law,” von der Leyen said.
EU reaction and possible consequences
The European Union strongly criticised Trump’s decision, stressing that it undermines the independence of the international judiciary. The EU noted that it will closely monitor developments and analyse further steps in response to Washington’s actions.
The US sanctions against the court were a response to the ICC’s arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump repeated actions from his first presidential term, when similar restrictions were imposed on court employees.
The ICC is the main guarantor of international justice
The International Criminal Court, established in 2002, investigates war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and acts of aggression. It acts when national courts are unable or unwilling to prosecute criminals.
The European Union remains committed to the ICC and its independence, stressing that no pressure from the United States should undermine its work.
