US Urges Latin American Nations to Leave ICC
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Latin American ACCC members to leave the ICC, accusing the court of undermining national sovereignty.
United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently called on Latin American nations within the Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition (ACCC) to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), alleging that the court undermines national sovereignty. Speaking in Panama, Hegseth stated, "I strongly encourage every ACCC member to leave the ICC and reject their attempts to rob your governments and your courts of your sovereignty."
He argued that each country should maintain the power to deploy troops and protect citizens under their respective laws and constitutions.
Hegseth further accused the ICC of attempting to extend jurisdiction to U.S. and partner military personnel and their operations, labeling the move as an "unlawful power grab." The Defense Secretary emphasized that the primary concern should be "lethality" and urged President Donald Trump to take action to defend military personnel facing war crimes charges.
Colombia, under President Abelardo de la Espriella, has joined the ACCC, becoming the 19th member, according to Hegseth. The Colombian leader had requested the U.S. to participate in the country's fight against narco-terrorism. Hegseth also announced that Colombia would join the coalition, which he described as a "warrior culture" initiative.
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