Venezuela Announces Withdrawal from ICC; U.S. Welcomes Move
By Suman Munshi | IBG NEWS
July 26, 2026
The interim government of Venezuela has announced its decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), a move that has been welcomed by the United States.
In an official statement issued on July 25, the U.S. Department of State described Venezuela’s withdrawal as a significant development and said the new Venezuelan administration under Interim President Delcy Rodríguez has chosen to align with U.S.-led efforts aimed at challenging the role and authority of the ICC.
The U.S. government criticized the ICC, arguing that the court has failed to deliver meaningful results in its investigation into former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, which began in 2018. According to the statement, Washington believes the ICC has devoted considerable resources to investigations that have produced limited outcomes while also pursuing cases involving countries with established and independent judicial systems that do not recognize the court’s jurisdiction.
The State Department further alleged that the ICC has demonstrated political bias and selective enforcement, questioning the institution’s credibility, independence, and legitimacy.
Referring to ongoing legal proceedings against Nicolás Maduro in the United States, the statement said that, through the efforts of the U.S. administration and law enforcement agencies, Maduro is now facing judicial proceedings in a U.S. court over alleged criminal activities.
The United States also renewed its long-standing criticism of the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC, and urged member states to reconsider their participation in the court.
The announcement is expected to add fresh momentum to the global debate over the ICC’s jurisdiction, effectiveness, and role in international justice. While supporters of the court view it as a vital institution for prosecuting genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression, critics argue that it has been inconsistent in its approach and overly influenced by political considerations.
Venezuela’s withdrawal, if formally completed in accordance with the Rome Statute’s procedures, could have significant implications for international legal cooperation and the country’s future engagement with global justice mechanisms.
