Venezuela has formally notified the United Nations of its decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court, triggering a one-year countdown to its departure from the Rome Statute. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez ordered the notification, delivered to UN Secretary-General António Guterres on July 24, Foreign Minister Félix Plasencia announced on social media. The withdrawal is being pursued under Article 127 of the Rome Statute.
The ICC, which opened its investigation into Venezuela in 2018, said it regretted the decision and noted that Venezuela will remain a state party for another year. The court has been investigating alleged crimes against humanity committed in the country.
Amnesty International criticized the move, saying the withdrawal does not cancel Venezuela's existing legal obligations.