EU Condemns US Actions Against ICC, Warns of Damage to Justice System
EU’s Foreign Policy Chief Expresses “Deep Regret” Over U.S. Sanctions on ICC Officials
Brussels – The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, voiced “deep regret” over the United States’ decision to impose sanctions on several officials of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The statement was delivered on Sunday through the European External Action Service (EEAS). According to Kallas, Washington’s move risks disrupting the operations of the ICC Prosecutor’s Office and hindering ongoing investigations.
“The European Union firmly supports the ICC and remains committed to providing continued assistance and protection for the institution and its staff against external pressures or threats,” Kallas said, as quoted by Anadolu on Monday (August 25, 2025).
In its official declaration, the EEAS stressed that any form of attack or threat directed at the court, its elected officials, or those cooperating with the ICC is unacceptable.
“The ICC must be able to function independently and impartially without interference,” the statement added.
Kallas further urged all states to fully cooperate with the court, including enforcing outstanding arrest warrants and entering voluntary agreements to facilitate the court’s mandate.
The EU announced that it is closely monitoring the implications of Washington’s latest decision and will consider additional steps if necessary.
The new sanctions, unveiled by the U.S. on Wednesday, target two ICC judges and two deputy prosecutors, following earlier measures imposed on four judges in June and on the ICC’s chief prosecutor earlier this year.