Russian leader Putin challenges international warrant for his arrest with visit to Mongolia

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Mongolia without any indication that the host country would comply with calls to arrest him for alleged war crimes related to the invasion of Ukraine. The visit marked Putin’s first to a member country of the International Criminal Court since the warrant was issued. Mongolia, economically dependent on Russia, welcomed Putin with honors and signed agreements for power plant upgrades and rail system development. Despite concerns from Ukraine, the EU, and activists, Mongolia did not execute the arrest warrant. Putin’s visit was seen as an attempt to counter international isolation following the Ukraine invasion.