WASHINGTON: The Biden administration’s decision to support the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into alleged abuses by Russian forces in Ukraine has been confirmed by two senior US senators.
Dick Durbin, the Democratic chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Lindsey Graham, the Republican ranking member of the panel, praised this significant shift in Washington’s stance towards the international tribunal.
In a joint statement, Senators Dick Durbin and Lindsey Graham expressed their satisfaction with the Biden administration’s decision to support the ICC’s investigation after months of pressing the administration.
They affirmed their commitment to work in the Senate to hold those responsible for atrocities accountable. They will focus on closing the gap in US law concerning crimes against humanity.
US support for the ICC’s probe on alleged Russian forces abuses in Ukraine marks a major shift from past non-cooperation. Reluctance stemmed from fears of the ICC possibly investigating alleged crimes by US forces or its allies.
During the Trump administration, sanctions were imposed on ICC officials investigating alleged US violations in Afghanistan. Additionally, the sanctions targeted those involved in probing abuses by Israeli authorities against Palestinians. The Biden administration’s action departs from the past approach, signaling a newfound willingness to engage with the ICC’s investigations.
The US remains one of the few countries not party to the Rome Statute, which established the ICC in 1998. In 2002, the US passed a law enabling military action to rescue US or allied citizens detained by the ICC.
This history has led to criticism of the US for selectively appealing to international law. It seems that the country is shielding itself and its allies from accountability.
The US State Department reiterated its opposition to an ICC investigation in Israel and Palestine. It comes despite the escalation of settler attacks against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. The US has also rejected calls for ICC accountability in the killing of Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh by Israeli forces.
ICC’s Warrant for Putin Sparks Controversy
In March, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over allegations of war crimes. It is specifically regarding the alleged abduction of Ukrainian children to Russia by Russian forces.
The Pentagon has hindered efforts to hold Russia accountable for abuses in Ukraine. It blocked sharing intelligence with the ICC, drawing criticism from Republican and Democratic legislators. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin defended this stance, stating that while he supports holding Russia accountable, protecting US military personnel remains a priority.
