Putin's Mongolia Visit Amid International Arrest Warrant

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Mongolia despite an international warrant for his arrest over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Mongolia faces pressure from the International Criminal Court to detain him but relies on Russia for fuel and electricity. The visit marks Putin's first to an ICC member since the warrant was issued.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Mongolia on Tuesday, despite calls for his arrest under an international warrant for alleged war crimes related to the Ukraine conflict.

This marks Putin's first visit to a member country of the International Criminal Court since the arrest warrant was issued 18 months ago. Ahead of the visit, Ukraine urged Mongolia to detain him, and the European Union voiced concerns over Mongolia's potential non-compliance.

The Russian leader was given a ceremonial welcome in Ulaanbaatar, indicating Mongolia's delicate position. While obliged to arrest Putin under international law, Mongolia's dependence on Russia for fuel and electricity complicates matters. The International Criminal Court lacks enforcement powers, adding to the diplomatic complexity.

(With inputs from agencies.)