In a move that further intensifies international tensions surrounding the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Mongolia on Tuesday, despite facing an outstanding arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC). Putin’s visit, his first to an ICC member state since the warrant was issued last year, was met with a red carpet welcome in the Mongolian capital, Ulaanbaatar.
The visit is seen as a direct challenge to Ukraine, the ICC, and the West, all of whom have called for Putin’s detention. It further highlights Russia’s growing influence in the region, particularly among developing nations who have not condemned Moscow’s actions in Ukraine.
Upon arrival, Putin was greeted by an honor guard and met with Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh at Genghis Khan Square. The ceremony included a display of traditional Mongolian martial attire on horseback, with a band playing martial tunes and the national anthems of both countries.
Mongolia, a democracy situated between Russia and China, has close cultural ties with Russia and a critical trade partnership with China. Despite being an ICC member, Mongolia has not condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine and has abstained from UN votes on the conflict. It’s unclear whether Mongolia will execute the ICC warrant against Putin.
Putin’s visit coincides with the 85th anniversary of a victory by Mongolian and Soviet forces over Imperial Japan. In an interview, Putin highlighted “promising economic and industrial projects” between the two countries, including the construction of the Trans-Mongolian gas pipeline linking China and Russia. He also expressed interest in a trilateral summit with Mongolian and Chinese leaders.
The visit underscores the growing geopolitical complexities of the Ukraine conflict, with Russia seeking to strengthen its ties with nations beyond its traditional allies. The West, meanwhile, continues to exert pressure on Russia through sanctions and diplomatic isolation, while Ukraine calls for Putin’s arrest and accountability for alleged war crimes.
