Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Mongolia on September 2, 2024, for a two-day official visit, marking his first trip to a country that has ratified the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) since the court issued an arrest warrant for him in March 2023. The visit coincides with the 85th anniversary of the Soviet and Mongolian forces’ victory over Japanese troops at the Khalkhin Gol River in 1939.Putin’s visit has sparked international controversy due to Mongolia’s obligations as an ICC signatory. The ICC, Ukraine, and various human rights organizations have called on Mongolia to arrest Putin, who is wanted for alleged war crimes related to the forced deportation of Ukrainian children. The European Union has also expressed concern and reminded Mongolia of its legal obligations under the Rome Statute.Despite these calls, Mongolian authorities have indicated they will not detain Putin, citing diplomatic relations and economic interests with Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that all aspects of Putin’s visit were thoroughly prepared and that Russia has no issues with Mongolia related to the ICC’s decisions.During his visit, Putin is expected to meet with Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh to discuss bilateral cooperation in areas such as industry, agriculture, energy, and transportation. The visit is also seen as an opportunity to advance talks on a major gas pipeline project from Russia to China via Mongolia.This diplomatic event has become a test of the ICC’s authority and Mongolia’s commitment to international law versus its geopolitical interests. As the visit unfolds, the international community watches closely to see how Mongolia will navigate these competing pressures.
Key points
- Putin arrived in Mongolia for a two-day visit, defying an ICC arrest warrant.
- International bodies and human rights organizations have called on Mongolia to arrest Putin.
- Mongolia is not expected to arrest Putin, prioritizing diplomatic and economic ties with Russia.
- The visit includes discussions on bilateral cooperation and a major gas pipeline project.
Contradictions👾While some sources report that Mongolia has assured Putin he will not be arrested, others state that Mongolia has not officially confirmed its stance on the matter.
