The Kremlin has acknowledged concerns regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to Mongolia, a member of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
A Potential Issue
According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, there are apprehensions about the trip, but he emphasized that Russia has a strong relationship with Mongolia, and the visit has been carefully planned to mitigate any risks.
Peskov noted that while Mongolia's membership in the ICC, which has issued an arrest warrant for Putin over alleged war crimes, presents a potential issue, the Kremlin has ensured that all aspects of the visit have been meticulously prepared.
This preparation is aimed at addressing any possible complications that could arise due to Mongolia's involvement with the ICC.
Will Discuss Strategic Partnership
President Putin is scheduled to visit Mongolia on September 3, where he will meet with Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh.
The two leaders are set to discuss the future development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and Mongolia, highlighting the significance of their bilateral relations despite the challenges posed by international legal frameworks.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin on March 17, 2023, accusing him of being responsible for war crimes committed during Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
The charges primarily focus on the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia, a violation of international law.
The ICC alleges that these deportations were part of a broader strategy to forcibly transfer thousands of children from occupied areas of Ukraine to Russian territory, effectively stripping them of their Ukrainian identity.
The warrant for Putin's arrest marks a significant moment in international law, as it is rare for a sitting head of state to be targeted by the ICC.
