MEPs press EU to act on US sanctions against International Criminal Court

MEPs from several political groups pressed the European Commission to act against US sanctions on the International Criminal Court during a debate in Strasbourg on Tuesday. Their call centred on the EU’s blocking statute, but the debate did not activate it. Reports by ANP and EFE described support across political groups, rather than a counted vote. [1] [6]

The question is urgent for the court, which is based in The Hague. The US Treasury placed the ICC itself on its sanctions list on 9 October, while issuing a licence that permits certain transactions needed to maintain or wind down its operations until 7 April 2027. The six-month breathing space does not mean the court’s listing has been postponed. [3] [4]

Dutch MEP Raquel García Hermida-van der Walle urged preparations for emergency measures, according to EFE. ANP reported that Dirk Gotink argued for action within days rather than months, while Tineke Strik said quiet diplomacy had failed to stop President Donald Trump. Not everyone agreed: PVV MEP Mieke Andriese argued that the EU should adopt the US sanctions instead. [6] [1]

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas told MEPs that work was being done on the blocking statute as one possible response, but said it would need careful preparation. She also urged companies not to stop serving the court during the transition period. [2]

Applying the existing statute to these sanctions would require the Commission to amend its annex. It is designed to prevent EU operators from complying with specified foreign sanctions, but the European Parliament’s research service warns that it cannot shield businesses from consequences such as losing access to US markets or finance. Parliament had already backed adding the ICC sanctions to the statute in resolutions in 2025 and 2026. [5]