ICC president criticizes Russia and US senator for threats against court

The president of the International Criminal Court (ICC) criticized Russia for issuing arrest warrants against its prosecutors and judges. This follows the ICC's investigation into Russian President Vladimir Putin for war crimes related to Ukraine. Judge Tomoko Akane also condemned comments from U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, who labeled the ICC as politically motivated. Akane described the threats against the court as shameful, highlighting the challenges faced by the ICC amid these pressures. The ICC is currently holding its annual Assembly of States Parties, where member countries will discuss the court's budget and elect committee members. The court has faced criticism for its recent arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, contrasting with the strong support for the warrant against Putin.