German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul came to the defense of The Hague court after U.S. threats.

“The International Criminal Court makes the world safer and more just,” Wadephul said, according to DW.

According to him, the ICC has delivered verdicts in cases involving some of the most horrific crimes against humanity — for example, the recruitment of child soldiers — and has held those responsible accountable. Possible shortcomings are no reason to “call into question the very existence of this important institution and these achievements,” Wadephul is convinced.

The claim by Donald Trump’s administration that the ICC allegedly poses a threat to U.S. sovereignty was previously rejected by European Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni: “Attacks or threats against the court, elected officials, staff, or individuals cooperating with the court are simply unacceptable.”

Earlier, the U.S. State Department announced the launch of a large-scale campaign against the ICC over its alleged “persecution of American service members and officials,” as well as the supposed “threat to U.S. sovereignty.” Washington threatened to impose new sanctions on the court and take other measures, including calls for countries to withdraw from the ICC and tighter scrutiny of those who refuse to do so.