Venezuela Withdraws From International Criminal Court Over Perceived Bias

The Government of Venezuela announced its firm and irrevocable decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC) and denounce the Rome Statute on July 25, 2026. Foreign Minister Felix Plasencia formally notified United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres of the move, which was instructed by interim leader Delcy Rodríguez. The decision follows a December 2025 parliamentary vote to repeal the Rome Statute and the ICC's March 2026 dismissal of Venezuelan complaints regarding U.S. sanctions.

Venezuelan officials justify the exit by claiming the Hague-based tribunal is heavily politicized and maintains a systemic geographical bias by disproportionately targeting African and Latin American countries. This occurs while the ICC continues to investigate alleged crimes against humanity committed during protest crackdowns since 2014 under the administration of former President Nicolás Maduro, who was ousted by U.S. forces in January.

The ICC stated it has not yet received formal notification and noted that withdrawal takes one year to take effect, meaning Venezuela remains bound by existing investigation obligations. The exit coincides with significant instability at the court, including the dismissal of top prosecutor Karim Khan over sexual misconduct allegations and sanctions imposed on the court by the United States. President Donald Trump has supported the current Venezuelan transition, praising Rodríguez's leadership while stating the country is not yet ready for elections.