The ICC has hit back at U.S. sanctions targeting President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, calling the move a threat to judicial independence. The Hague-based court says it remains “undeterred” and will continue its mandate, intensifying the showdown with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Trump administration.The Rubio-ICC clash is escalating as Japan, European leaders and other allies voice support for the court and Akane following the sanctions.

According to the EU, sanctions directed at the Court, its officials and personnel risk undermining the institution’s ability to discharge its responsibilities under international…

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said Wednesday the EU would "stand firmly" behind the International Criminal Court after the US levied new sanctions against its…