President Trump takes decisive action to distance America from European-led investigations targeting Russia over Ukraine war. The move signals a potential thaw in U.S.-Russia relations while reshaping America’s approach to the ongoing conflict.
At a glance:
- Trump administration withdraws from International Center for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine
- U.S. was previously the only non-European country participating in the organization
- Biden administration had committed $1 million to the initiative in 2023
- Justice Department’s War Crimes Accountability Team facing reduced operations
- Decision follows tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy
America First: Trump Administration Shifts Foreign Policy
The Trump administration has officially withdrawn from the International Center for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression (ICPA) against Ukraine, an organization investigating those responsible for Russia’s invasion. This strategic foreign policy shift marks a clear departure from the previous administration’s approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Under Biden, the United States had joined the ICPA in 2023, making America the only non-European country involved in the organization. The Biden administration had committed $1 million to the initiative as part of its broader strategy to isolate Russia on the world stage.
The move could signal that President Donald Trump is inching closer to a deal and trying to keep Russia on the hook.
European-Led Investigation Loses American Support
The ICPA was established in The Hague with European Commission support to hold Russia accountable for aggression under international law. Michael Schmid, a European official associated with the organization, confirmed America’s withdrawal stating, “The US authorities have informed me that they will conclude their involvement in the ICPA.”
Former Attorney General Merrick Garland had previously declared that “The United States stands in steadfast and unwavering support for the people of Ukraine as they defend their democracy against the brutal and unjust war being waged by the Russian regime.”
But Trump knows better.
Path to Peace: Prioritizing Diplomacy Over Conflict
The Trump administration is reportedly seeking to improve relations with Moscow and end the war, taking a more balanced approach to the conflict. Presidential Advisor Witkoff indicated diplomatic channels remain active, stating, “I expect that there will be a call with both presidents this week, and we’re also continuing to engage and have a conversation with the Ukrainians.”
The Justice Department is also scaling back operations of its war crimes accountability team, which was created in 2022 during the previous administration. This team had been providing logistical help, training, and assistance to Ukrainian prosecutors investigating over 150,000 possible war crimes.
Trump could be very close indeed to making a deal here.
