Russian President Vladimir Putin made a prominent visit to Mongolia, landing in Ulaanbaatar and meeting with President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh in a display of nationalism and solidarity. This trip, characterized by red carpets and a military band at Genghis Khan Square, comes in the context of international legal issues, as Putin is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for accusations related to the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children since Russia's invasion in 2022.

Putin's arrival has provoked outrage from Ukraine, which criticized Mongolia for allowing him to enter the country without arrest. Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin condemned the action, stating that Mongolia is sharing complicity in Putin's alleged war crimes, while a European Union representative expressed disappointment over Mongolia's failure to uphold its obligations under the Rome Statute.

Despite the ICC's expectations for member states to detain wanted individuals, the U.S. acknowledged Mongolia's difficult geopolitical position between Russia and China and emphasized the importance of maintaining the rule of law. On the streets of Ulaanbaatar, public opinion was mixed, with some residents believing that arresting Putin would be offensive given the significant relationships Mongolia has with both neighboring powers.

Putin's visit is not only a celebration of bilateral relations but also serves as a strategic balancing act for Mongolia, which has historically treaded carefully between its close ties to Russia and its significant economic relationships with China. While there was no anticipation of an arrest during the visit, some protests emerged, albeit hindered by tight security measures in place for Putin's arrival, showcasing the ongoing tensions within Mongolia about the visit of a leader facing serious international accusations.

This trip coincides with the 85th anniversary of a critical military victory by Mongolian and Soviet forces over Imperial Japan, underscoring the historical ties between Russia and Mongolia. The choice to host Putin reflects both admiration and a degree of reliance on Russia, as Mongolia navigates its complex identity in the global arena.