As Russian President Vladimir Putin begins his visit to Mongolia, Human Rights Watch (HRW) is urging the country to arrest him in line with an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant.
Putin's trip to Ulan Bator comes despite ongoing legal issues, with the ICC issuing a warrant for his alleged involvement in war crimes in Ukraine.
"Mongolia would be breaking its international obligations as an ICC member if it lets Russian President Vladimir Putin visit without arresting him," said Maria Elena Vignoli from HRW's International Justice Division, as reported by Kurier.
Putin arrived in Mongolia's capital, Ulan Bator, on Monday evening and is set to meet Mongolian President Uchnaagiin Khürelsüch on Tuesday.
The visit aims to strengthen ties between Russia and Mongolia, even as Putin faces legal action from the ICC, which issued a warrant in March 2023 for the "unlawful deportation" of Ukrainian children to Russia.
Moscow Downplays Arrest Concerns
Despite HRW's demands, the Kremlin remains untroubled.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that there is no risk to Putin due to the strong relationship between Russia and Mongolia. This visit marks Putin's first trip to an ICC member country since the start of Russia's actions in Ukraine.
The Ukrainian government has criticized Mongolia for hosting Putin, accusing the country of helping him avoid international justice.
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhij Tychyj said, "Mongolia's failure to arrest Putin as required by the ICC is a serious setback for international justice."
Tychyj also warned that Mongolia could face consequences, stating that Ukraine would work with its international partners to hold Mongolia accountable.
Mongolia’s Difficult Position
Mongolia, which borders both Russia and China, is in a tricky position as it tries to maintain good relations with these powerful neighbors while also engaging with the West.
Given Mongolia's dependence on Russia, it is seen as unlikely that the country would risk its relationship with Moscow by arresting Putin.
The ICC, based in The Hague, has been responsible for prosecuting serious crimes like war crimes since 2002.
The court began investigations after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. While the ICC can issue arrest warrants, it relies on member countries to arrest and extradite individuals when they enter their territories.
