Putin’s Planned China Visit: A Diplomatic Step Amidst Legal Complexities

By Ripu Daman Gulati On Aug 30, 2023

In a move that’s caught international attention, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly agreed to visit China, marking his first trip beyond Russian borders since an arrest warrant was issued against him. According to a Bloomberg report, The visit is scheduled for the Belt and Road Forum later this year.

This decision comes against the backdrop of a tumultuous legal situation for Putin. The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March, stemming from allegations related to the conflict in Ukraine. The court claimed that Putin was responsible for “war crimes” involving the displacement of populations from Ukrainian territories.

Putin’s diplomatic travel has been significantly curtailed since the ICC announcement. He hasn’t ventured beyond Russian neighboring countries and Iran, aside from his visit to Ukraine, where conflict has been ongoing. Notably, he also skipped the BRICS summit in South Africa and excused himself from the upcoming G20 summit in India due to concerns over potential legal action.

China’s role in Putin’s travel plans appears pivotal. According to sources, Putin is selectively choosing countries to visit where he believes his safety is guaranteed. China, it seems, is one of those preferred destinations for him. This underscores the significance of the diplomatic relationship between Russia and China, which has grown in strength and influence in recent years.

Xi Jinping, the Chinese President, visited Moscow in March of the same year. This visit marked his first foreign trip after commencing his third term as China’s president, emphasizing the diplomatic ties between the two nations.

The upcoming visit is particularly noteworthy considering the context. Putin’s presence in China earlier this year was just before Russia’s military activities in Kyiv, suggesting a potential link between his visits and strategic actions. The Belt and Road forum, where Putin is expected to participate, focuses on international cooperation and economic development, offering a platform for diplomatic discussions.

While Putin’s decision to visit China sends diplomatic signals, it also raises questions about the complex web of international law and politics. The ICC’s issuance of an arrest warrant for a sitting head of state is a significant step, highlighting the intersection of legal accountability and international relations.

As the world watches the unfolding diplomatic scenario, Putin’s visit to China holds implications for the bilateral relations between Russia and China and the broader dynamics of international diplomacy in the face of complex legal challenges.