Brief
Japan protests Russia’s extradition request for ICC president and staff
Tokyo said Russia’s move to seek extradition of ICC officials is unacceptable and will be met with further protests.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Japan on Friday condemned Russia’s request to the Netherlands for the extradition of International Criminal Court (ICC) president Tomoko Akane and eight other court officials, saying the measures are "unjust and unacceptable".
Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki told reporters that Japan regrets Russia’s action and will "respond appropriately, including lodging additional protests". The Russian Prosecutor General’s Office submitted the requests after Moscow issued warrants for the nine ICC staff in retaliation for the court’s 2023 arrest warrant against President Vladimir Putin over the war in Ukraine. Moscow’s courts sentenced the nine in absentia last year.
Ozaki added that Japan will continue to support the ICC, while Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reiterated Japan’s backing of the court in a parliamentary session.
Key facts
- Japan protested Russia’s extradition request for ICC president Tomoko Akane and eight staff (independent.co.uk)
- Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki said the measures are unjust and unacceptable (independent.co.uk)
- Russia’s request follows its 2023 arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin and subsequent in‑absentia sentences (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Japan protests Russia’s extradition requests for ICC president Tomoko Akane and 8 other court staff”
