Rubio sanctions ICC leaders to stop ‘sham’ court from trying ‘pretend offenses’

Published August 18, 2026 4:34pm ET | Updated August 18, 2026 4:34pm ET



Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday announced sanctions against the president of the International Criminal Court and a senior trial lawyer as the Trump administration seeks to isolate the international tribunal over what it says are efforts to undermine U.S. sovereignty.

The latest targets are ICC President Tomoko Akane of Japan and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye of Senegal.

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.