Venezuela announces withdrawal from the International Criminal Court

Venezuela has officially initiated its withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC). Acting President Delcy Rodríguez instructed Foreign Minister Félix Plasencia to notify UN Secretary-General António Guterres of the nation's "firm and irrevocable decision" to exit the tribunal.

The announcement marks a further step in the country's detachment from international judicial oversight. Venezuela has previously been under investigation by the Hague-based court regarding alleged crimes against humanity and political repression. Under the Rome Statute, a state party's formal withdrawal takes effect one year after the official notification is received by the United Nations.

Sources: Die Zeit