Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Mongolia next week, marking his first trip to an ICC member state since the Hague-based court issued an arrest warrant for him last year. The visit, scheduled for September 3, has sparked controversy as the ICC accused Putin of the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia and Russian-controlled territory.

Despite concerns raised by the arrest warrant, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that there are "no worries" over Putin's visit, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. The trip comes as a result of an invitation extended by Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh, with whom Russia has reportedly maintained a positive dialogue.

However, Ukraine has called on Mongolia to arrest Putin during his visit, highlighting his status as a "war criminal." The Ukrainian foreign ministry released a statement urging Mongolian authorities to execute the binding international arrest warrant. This move adds to the tension between Ukraine and Russia, which have been at odds over the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

The ICC's arrest warrant against Putin was a significant development, as it marked the first time the court issued a warrant against a leader from one of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. Since the warrant was issued, Putin has avoided travel to ICC member states, asserting that it holds no validity.

Last year, Putin opted out of attending a summit of the BRICS bloc in South Africa, which included countries like Brazil, India, China, and South Africa, all of which are ICC members. South Africa had lobbied against Putin's attendance, reaching a "mutual agreement" to exclude him from the meeting.

In a similar vein, Armenia's decision to join the ICC caused tension with Russia. However, Armenian officials quickly reassured Russia that Putin would not face arrest if he were to enter the country.

During his visit to Mongolia, Putin is expected to hold talks with President Khurelsukh and other high-ranking Mongolian officials. The discussions will revolve around "ceremonial events dedicated to the 85th anniversary of the joint victory of the Soviet and Mongolian armed forces over the Japanese militarists on the Khalkhin Gol River."

Putin's trip to Mongolia underscores the diplomatic challenges posed by the ICC arrest warrant against him. While the Russian President remains confident in his visit, Ukraine's call for his arrest highlights the tensions and ongoing disputes among the involved nations.