“Those responsible for Syria crimes must be held to account” says Thornberry as Russia quits international criminal court

This is the full statement issued by shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry following Russia’s announcement that it will withdraw its signature from the founding statute of the International Criminal Court.

“We utterly condemn this appalling decision, and its deplorable and cynical timing.

“It is a severe blow to all those who want to see international justice upheld around the world, and the fact that not all countries are currently bound by the ICC is no excuse for those that are signatories to abandon it.

“We call on the Russian Government to reconsider, and to work with the international community to defend the ideal of universal justice.

“The announcement is particularly alarming given the resumption this week of air strikes in Eastern Aleppo. It is vital that all those responsible for war crimes in Aleppo, across Syria, and in other conflicts around the world are held to account.

“At this time of uncertainty and instability around the world, we must strain every sinew to strengthen the ICC and other international legal institutions.”