Brussels – President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council Antonio Costa voiced their support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) following the U.S. imposition of sanctions on four judges, including Slovenian judge Beta Hohler. They underscored the importance of safeguarding the court’s independence and integrity.
“The Commission offers its full backing to the International Criminal Court and its officials. The ICC holds accountable those guilty of the gravest crimes and amplifies the voices of victims. It must function freely, without external pressures. We will relentlessly champion global justice and adherence to international law,” von der Leyen remarked on platform X.
“The EU firmly backs the International Criminal Court, a cornerstone of international law. The ICC targets impunity, not nations. It is vital to defend its independence and integrity. The rule of law must triumph over power,” Costa stated.
On Thursday evening, the U.S. enacted sanctions against the ICC judges, which involve asset freezes and a ban on doing business in the U.S., citing the court’s actions related to the U.S. and Israel.
In response, Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon announced Slovenia’s plan to propose the immediate activation of the European Union’s blocking statute, given Hohler’s status as an EU citizen listed under U.S. sanctions. This statute aims to shield EU citizens from third-country measures.
The Commission highlighted that it would closely monitor the sanctions’ effects before considering any potential protective measures. (June 6)
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