The Kremlin confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has landed in Mongolia for an official visit, as the nation sits on the path of a proposed new gas pipeline connecting Russia and China.
For years, Russia has been discussing the construction of this pipeline to transport 50 billion cubic metres of gas annually from the Yamal region to China through Mongolia. This project, known as Power of Siberia 2, is a key part of Russia’s strategy to offset the decline in gas sales to Europe following the Ukraine conflict. It is set to replace the current pipeline with the same name, which already delivers Russian gas to China and is expected to reach its full capacity of 38 bcm per year by 2025.
Despite facing challenges such as gas pricing negotiations, Putin announced before his visit that the necessary groundwork, including feasibility studies and engineering assessments, is progressing as planned. He is scheduled to engage in discussions with Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh during his stay.
Last week, Ukraine called on Mongolia to arrest Putin based on an International Criminal Court warrant issued in 2021. The warrant accuses Putin of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children and mandates member states, including Mongolia, to apprehend him if he enters their territory for trial in The Hague. The Kremlin has refuted these allegations, attributing them to political motives, and expressed confidence in Putin’s safety during the visit.
When asked about discussions regarding the ICC warrant, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that all aspects of the visit had been thoroughly deliberated with Mongolian authorities.
Analysis: Putin’s visit to Mongolia amidst the gas pipeline plans signifies Russia’s strategic efforts to diversify its gas exports and strengthen ties with China. The successful implementation of Power of Siberia 2 could have significant implications for Russia’s energy sector and geopolitical relationships. The ongoing geopolitical tensions, highlighted by the ICC warrant issue, further underscore the complex dynamics at play in the region.