go to the original language article
The imposition of sanctions by the US on the International Criminal Court (ICC) threatens its independence and undermines the entire international criminal justice system – stated European Council President Antonio Costa on Friday. It was President Donald Trump who decided on the introduction of the retaliatory measures.
“The EU continues to advocate for ending impunity and ensuring that perpetrators of all violations of international law are held accountable,” Costa emphasized.
On Thursday, Trump signed an order imposing financial and visa sanctions on the ICC and individuals assisting the court in prosecuting Americans, officials of Israel, and other US allies. This is a reaction to the issuance of an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Costa, who as the President of the European Council hosts EU summits, met on that day with the President of the ICC, Tomoko Akane. On this occasion, he recalled that the ICC plays a crucial role in delivering justice for some of the world’s most heinous crimes. (02/07/2025)