Belorussian vector in Russian federation’s gas policy in 1990s.

Abstract

This article analyzes evolution of natural gas sphere of Russian energy policy on Belorussian vector during 90s of past century. In order to better explore the reasons of strategic energy interests of RF in Belarus and conditions that stimulated start of active expansion strategy on natural market by Russia, the author did a complex analysis of energy features of gas segment of Belorussian economy. The importance of Belorussian geography for Russian Federation’s energy strategy in this state and region is underlined; economic potential of Republic of Belarus as one of key factors of Russian growing interests on this energy vector; the role of Soviet energy heritage as key integral element of Russian and Belorussian gas spheres is considered; the Republic of Belarus as sales market for Russian natural gas is analyzed. These aspects allow us to build clear understanding of Russian interests in energy relations between Belarus and Russia. There is also emphasis on political sphere of energy interests of Russian Federation in gas segment of strategy towards Republic of Belarus. While analyzing evolution of Russian Federation’s gas policy on Belorussian vector, clear attention is made on first half of 90s years of XX century as key period when formal bases for energy cooperation between two states were created. In order to explore this period better, specifics of using political, economic, energy methods by Russia to satisfy its own interests on Belorussian gas market are analyzed. Great emphasis is made on analysis of political environment in Russia Federation and Belarus during 90s as one of the main factors that influenced dynamics of realization of Russian gas strategy. This article also explores use of integration mechanisms in cooperation between two states in second half of 90s by Russia as an instrument for pressuring Belorussian part in energy dialogue between Minsk and Moscow.