Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Mongolia amid fears that he could be arrested on an international warrant for alleged war crimes related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Despite calls from Ukraine and concerns from the European Union, Mongolia welcomed Putin, a move that put the country in a delicate position as a member of the International Criminal Court. The court lacks a mechanism to enforce its warrants, making it uncertain whether Mongolia would comply with the arrest warrant.
Putin’s visit marked his first to an ICC member country since the warrant was issued approximately 18 months ago. He was greeted in Ulaanbaatar by Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa and a vibrant honor guard dressed in attire inspired by Genghis Khan’s personal guard. While a few protesters were removed by police, Putin and Khurelsukh engaged in discussions about the developing relationship between their countries. Putin even invited Khurelsukh to a summit of BRICS nations.
The ICC has accused Putin of involvement in abducting children from Ukraine during the ongoing conflict. Despite concerns raised by the EU and calls from over 50 Russians to detain Putin, including statements denouncing the warrant as “illegal” by Russian officials, Mongolia proceeded with the visit. Putin’s trip aimed to commemorate the joint victory over Japan’s army 85 years ago, demonstrating the historical ties between Russia and Mongolia.
Putin’s visit to Mongolia is part of his efforts to combat the international isolation he faces following the Ukraine invasion. During the past months, he has visited various countries, including China, North Korea, Vietnam, and Kazakhstan. Historically, countries tend not to arrest heads of state during official visits, according to Enkhgerel Seded, a student in Moscow, reflecting on Mongolia’s obligations to the international community while considering the appropriateness of an arrest in this case.
