12.02.2025 01:00
The European Union condemned the sanctions decision taken by U.S. President Donald Trump against officials of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and stated that it would take the necessary steps to protect the ICC.
The European Union (EU) once again confirmed its support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which were targeted by sanctions imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump's officials, condemning the pressure and threats against these institutions.
A session on "Protection of the International Justice System and Institutions" was held following Trump's signing of the sanctions decree against ICC officials at the European Parliament (EP) Plenary Session held in Strasbourg, France.
REACTION TO TRUMP'S SANCTION DECISION
During the session, the EU Council's rotating presidency was represented by Poland's Minister for European Affairs Adam Szlapka, while the EU Commission was represented by Michael McGrath, a member responsible for Democracy, Justice, and the Rule of Law.
In his statement here, McGrath pointed to the decree signed by Trump on February 6, stating, "This decision represents a serious challenge to the work of the ICC and poses a risk of influencing ongoing investigations and prosecutions, affecting years of efforts to ensure accountability worldwide."
"WE WILL CONTINUE TO USE THE TOOLS AT OUR DISPOSAL TO PROTECT THE ICC"
McGrath noted that the EU is ready to take all necessary steps to protect the ICC, stating, "The Court must be able to continue its fight against global impunity without interference, and its independence must always be steadfastly defended. In the face of U.S. sanctions, the EU is aware of the urgency of providing both financial and diplomatic support to the Court. We will continue to use the tools at our disposal to protect the ICC," he said.