Belarus seeks new partners to reduce Russian pressure

Significance

The abrupt halt to Russian oil supplies threatened the refining industry that is critical to Minsk's finances. Acutely aware of Russian leverage, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenka is exploring possible alternative sources of oil and diversified trade partnerships.

Impacts

• Petrochemicals exports and domestic fuel availability would be rapidly curtailed by even a short refining shutdown.
• The opposition is watching Lukashenka for any sign of weakening on the defence of Belarusian sovereignty.
• A decision to accept a 500-million-dollar loan from China instead of 600 million dollars from Russia is another statement of independence.