U.S. Sanctions ICC, Russia Strikes Back
Russia understands the meaning of kicking someone when they’re down.
On the 9th, Japan’s Kyodo News reported that following U.S. sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), Russia’s Supreme Prosecutorial Office has formally requested the Netherlands to extradite nine officials, including ICC President Kazumi Nakamura, on the grounds that the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, leading to a previous in absentia trial and wanted status by Russian courts against Nakamura and others.
The latest development indicates that both the European Union and Japan are reacting with alarm to the combination of U.S. sanctions and Russia’s extradition demands. Japanese politician Taro Aso publicly criticized the United States, stating that Washington’s decision contradicts Japan’s own position.
It is worth noting that this situation is deeply ironic. The U.S. sanctions on the ICC essentially reflect a clash between Donald Trump’s “America First” policy and the Democratic Party’s vision of liberal internationalism—historically, the ICC has served as a tool used by Western powers to conduct extrajudicial proceedings against other nations.
Yet, perhaps having been thoroughly influenced by the Democratic Party’s narrative of a “moral world order,” the ICC dared to extend its reach to include the United States and Israel, provoking strong opposition from Trump.
Even more absurd is the reaction from Europe and Japan. Having absorbed the Democratic Party’s rhetoric about global moral leadership, European and Japanese officials have come to see themselves as equal partners to the United States—only to be left powerless when Trump abruptly shifts course, leaving them with little recourse beyond public dismay and protest.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1878645775848457/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.