We are deeply concerned by recent arrest warrants against senior judges of the International Criminal Court by the Russian Federation, following earlier warrants against the Court’s Prosecutor and Pre-trial Judges involved in the Ukraine situation. We share the concerns expressed on Tuesday by the Presidency of the ICC’s Assembly of States Parties that these actions are unacceptable, and we call for them to be promptly withdrawn.

The ICC is a tribunal of last resort mandated to ensure justice and accountability for the gravest crimes of concern to the international community. It is a cornerstone of the rule of law and complements the work of national courts in the fight against impunity. It is therefore crucial that it, and its officials, can perform their vital functions under the Rome Statute, unhindered by pressure, interference, or intimidation - from any quarter.