The clash between the European Union and the United States over the International Criminal Court has become public in clear political terms. According to the EU statement, sanctions against the Court threaten not only its work, but also the very principle of the independence of international justice.
Brussels calls for the withdrawal of the measures
In a statement on behalf of the European Union, High Representative for Foreign Policy Kaja Kallas called on Washington to withdraw the sanctions imposed on the International Criminal Court.
According to the EU, any pressure on this institution could damage its functioning and undermine its ability to carry out its mandate independently.
Kallas: Attacks on the Court are unacceptable
In Brussels’ official position, the Court must be able to work without pressure and external interference.
Kallas said that attacks or threats against the Court, its officials, staff and the people who cooperate with it, including civil society actors and service providers, are unacceptable.
EU signals measures to protect the continuity of the ICC’s work
According to the statement, the European Union is ready to take all necessary measures to guarantee the continuity and effectiveness of the work of the International Criminal Court.
This position shows that the issue is not being treated only as a diplomatic debate, but as a test of the political protection of international institutions when they face pressure from powerful states.
Delay of the measures seen as a step toward dialogue
Kallas welcomed the US decision to delay the entry into force of the measures, presenting it as an opportunity for diplomatic dialogue and a solution between the parties.
She stressed that the objective, according to the EU, remains the lifting of the sanctions as soon as possible and the avoidance of other measures that could damage the independence and integrity of the Court.
The Rome Statute is also mentioned
The High Representative also welcomed the willingness of the United States to discuss its concerns with the states parties to the Rome Statute, the founding document of the International Criminal Court.
Along the same lines, the EU confirmed that it will continue to support the Court, its staff and the people who cooperate with it.
Brussels’ position confronts Washington with an issue that directly touches on the limits of political pressure on international justice.
Beyond the diplomatic language, the EU’s message is clear: sanctions against the ICC are considered unacceptable and must be lifted.