How are Belarus and Russian linked?

- Shared History: Belarus and Russia have a long shared history, dating back to the 10th century when they were part of the Kievan Rus'.

- Cultural Links: Both countries share many cultural similarities, including language (Russian is widely spoken in Belarus), religion (primarily Eastern Orthodox), and traditions.

2. Economic Interdependence

- Trade and Energy: Belarus and Russia have strong trade relations, with Russia being Belarus's largest trading partner. Russia supplies Belarus with oil and gas at discounted prices, and Belarus exports machinery and agricultural products to Russia.

- Common Economic Space: Belarus is part of the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), which allows for free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor between member states.

3. Political and Military Relations

- Security Cooperation: Belarus and Russia have close military ties and cooperate in security matters. Russia has a military base in Belarus, and the two countries regularly conduct joint military exercises.

- Political Influence: Russia exerts significant political influence over Belarus. Belarus's president, Alexander Lukashenko, has been in power since 1994 and is often referred to as "Europe's last dictator."

- Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO): Belarus and Russia are both members of the CSTO, a military alliance of former Soviet states.

4. Energy Dependence

- Oil and Gas Dependency: Belarus relies heavily on Russian oil and gas for its energy needs. Russia has occasionally used energy as a political tool, cutting off supplies to Belarus in the past due to disputes.

5. Influence of the Russian Language and Culture

- Russian Language: Russian is widely spoken and used in media, education, and official communication in Belarus, alongside the Belarusian language.

- Cultural Influence: Russian literature, music, art, and media significantly impact Belarusian culture and society.

Overall, Belarus and Russia have deep historical, cultural, economic, and political ties, making their relationship complex and interdependent.