At present, Russian President Vladimir Putin is on a visit to Mongolia. This two-day visit comes at a time when the International Criminal Court (ICC) had ordered the Mongolian government to arrest him. However, disregarding the arrest order, the Mongolian government rolled out the red carpet for Putin.
Upon arriving in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, President Putin received a grand welcome. He was given a guard of honor, and the Genghis Khan monument was adorned with the flags of Mongolia and Russia. Mongolia's Foreign Minister Batmunkh herself arrived at the airport to welcome him.
What Was the International Criminal Court's Order?
In 2023, the International Criminal Court, or ICC, had issued an arrest warrant against Putin, holding him responsible for genocide in Ukraine. Due to these accusations, the International Court had ordered the Mongolian government to arrest him.
According to the ICC's order, once an arrest warrant is issued, if the person sets foot in any ICC member country, it becomes that country's responsibility to arrest him. Hence, Putin has avoided visiting nations that are ICC members. Before this, he had visited countries like China and North Korea, which are not ICC members.
Why Are Russia and Mongolia Close?
Russia and Mongolia are close allies. Mongolia's economy significantly depends on Russia for essential supplies such as oil and electricity. Positioned between Russia and China, Mongolia maintains excellent relations with both nations. Regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, Mongolia has maintained a neutral stance, believing in balancing relations with both sides.
Opposition to Putin's Visit
However, Russian President Putin's arrival in Mongolia did spark some opposition. Protesters holding Ukrainian flags demonstrated against his visit.
Source: aajtak
During the protest, people held banners reading 'Get War Criminal Putin Out of Here,' expressing their opposition peacefully. Despite this, police used force to disperse the protesters.
Why Is Russia Agitated with Mongolia?
Ukraine is outraged by Putin's visit to Mongolia. Ukraine claims that Mongolia is harboring a war criminal and will need to face consequences for it.
