Story perspectives

Venezuela Exits ICC, US Praises; UN Warns Impunity

7/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Venezuela withdrew from the International Criminal Court, calling the decision irrevocable and citing bias.
The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela said the exit evades accountability, reinforces impunity and urged re-entry, while the ICC closed its Caracas office in January 2025 after the Maduro government refused cooperation.
The United States welcomed the withdrawal, calling the ICC corrupt, and noted that interim President Delcy Rodríguez allies with President Donald Trump.

History

Historical Context

August 2002 the U.S. passed the American Service-Members’ Protection Act 75–19 in Senate, signed by President George W. Bush, authorizing the president to use “all means necessary” to free U.S. or allied personnel detained by International Criminal Court in Hague. Condemned by EU and dubbed the “Hague Invasion Act,” law set a precedent that Venezuela used in its 2025 ICC withdrawal, praised by Washington, Delcy Rodríguez.

1 of 2

Story summary

Venezuela withdrew from the International Criminal Court, calling the decision irrevocable and citing bias.
The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela said the exit evades accountability, reinforces impunity and urged re-entry, while the ICC closed its Caracas office in January 2025 after the Maduro government refused cooperation.
The United States welcomed the withdrawal, calling the ICC corrupt, and noted that interim President Delcy Rodríguez allies with President Donald Trump.

1 / 2