Russian President Vladimir Putin received a warm welcome in Mongolia during his first official visit, despite calls from the EU, Ukraine, and the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his arrest on charges of war crimes in Ukraine. Putin’s visit comes amid an 18-month-old international warrant for his arrest, with both Ukraine and the EU calling on Mongolia to fulfill its obligations as a state party to the ICC and detain him.
However, the Kremlin has dismissed the ICC warrant as “null and void” since Russia is not a party to the Rome Statute. Mongolia, a state party to the ICC, is obligated to cooperate with the court’s decisions, including arrest warrants if issued.
While Mongolia heavily depends on Russia for fuel and electricity and China for investment in its mining industry, it is under pressure to adhere to its ICC obligations. Despite the lack of enforcement mechanisms within the court, ICC judges can make findings of non-cooperation and inform the Assembly of States Parties, which may take appropriate measures.
Putin has refrained from visiting ICC member states since the arrest warrant was issued but has continued diplomatic engagements with other countries. However, the ongoing tensions with Armenia over its decision to join the ICC highlight the complexities surrounding the court’s jurisdiction and enforcement. It remains to be seen how Mongolia will navigate its relationship with Russia and its obligations to the ICC amidst Putin’s visit.
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