Russian President Vladimir Putin has embarked on an official visit to Mongolia, receiving a warm welcome in Ulaanbaatar despite an international arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. The warrant accuses Putin of illegally deporting Ukrainian children to Russia during the conflict with Ukraine.
Despite calls for his arrest, Mongolia, a member of the ICC, has chosen to ignore the warrant and welcome Putin with open arms. The Russian leader was greeted with an honour guard and flags in Genghis Khan Square as he arrived to meet Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh.
A small protest took place in advance of Putin’s visit, with demonstrators demanding his removal as a war criminal. However, Mongolia’s decision to host Putin peacefully reflects its longstanding friendly relations with both Russia and China.
During the visit, Putin and Khurelsukh are expected to discuss economic and industrial projects between the two countries, including the construction of the Trans-Mongolian gas pipeline. Putin has also expressed interest in holding a trilateral summit with the leaders of Mongolia and China.
Despite the controversy surrounding his visit, Putin’s presence in Mongolia highlights the country’s strategic positioning between two major world powers. As tensions continue to escalate in the region, Mongolia’s decision to welcome Putin signals its commitment to maintaining diplomatic relations with both Russia and China.
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