The 2007 Russia-Belarus Gas Agreement

After prolonged negotiations, the 2007 Russia-Belarus Agreement was signed two minutes before the previous contract expired, with Europe wondering whether there would be a repetition of last year’s Russia-Ukraine gas crisis. Fortunately, a crisis was avoided but not without renewed speculation and adverse commentary on the reliability of Russian gas (and oil) supplies. Our comment analyses the available details of the new agreement, looks at the advantages and disadvantages for both parties and assesses its durability.

By: Katja Yafimava