Russian President Vladimir Putin was welcomed with open arms during his state visit to Mongolia, despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant hanging over his head. The failure of Mongolia to act on the warrant has sparked criticism from Ukraine, with accusations of a blow against justice.
Upon his arrival in the capital Ulaanbaatar, Putin was greeted by Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh with a grand ceremony, complete with horseback guardsmen and a young girl presenting him with flowers. The ICC warrant, issued last year, mandates member states to arrest Putin if he enters their territory and transfer him to The Hague for trial.
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhiy Tykhyi condemned Mongolia’s inaction, calling it a betrayal of justice and shared responsibility for alleged war crimes. The warrant accuses Putin of deporting hundreds of children from Ukraine, a claim that the Kremlin has vehemently denied as politically motivated.
Despite the controversy, Putin expressed confidence in his visit, emphasizing the strong relationship between Russia and Mongolia. The two countries are working towards enhancing trade and economic cooperation, with plans for a major gas pipeline from Russia to China passing through Mongolia.
The project, known as Power of Siberia 2, aims to bolster Russia’s gas sales to China in light of dwindling European sales due to the Ukraine conflict. Despite challenges in pricing and logistics, Putin assured that preparations for the pipeline are on track.
In conclusion, Putin’s visit to Mongolia highlights the complex interplay between geopolitics, energy security, and international justice. The outcome of this diplomatic maneuvering could have far-reaching implications for global trade, energy markets, and political alliances.
