Belarus: Who Are Their Allies & Enemies?
Belarus, a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe, has a complex set of alliances and adversaries. Belarus’ political orientation is often seen as being aligned with Russia, however, the country has also been expanding its partnerships with other nations, including China, the European Union, and Iran. At the same time, Belarus has also faced criticism and opposition from the United States, NATO, and some other European countries.
Historical Overview of Belarus Alliances
Belarus has a long history of alliances and conflicts with its neighboring countries. In the early 20th century, Belarus was part of the Russian Empire until the 1917 revolution. Following World War II, Belarus became part of the Soviet Union, which lasted until the collapse of the USSR in 1991. Since then, Belarus has been an independent country with its own foreign policy. In the early years of independence, Belarus maintained close ties with Russia, but has since sought to expand its partnerships with other countries.
Belarus and Russia: A Strong Partnership
Belarus and Russia have a strong partnership, based on cultural, economic, and political ties. Belarus is part of the Eurasian Economic Union with Russia, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan. Belarus also hosts a Russian military base, which is seen as a key strategic asset for Russia. However, the relationship between Belarus and Russia is not without its tensions. In recent years, Belarus has sought to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on Russia.
Belarus’ Partnership with China
Belarus has been expanding its partnership with China in recent years, in particular in the area of trade and investment. China is now one of Belarus’ top trading partners, and has invested billions of dollars in Belarusian infrastructure projects. Belarus is also part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a massive global infrastructure project aimed at boosting economic connectivity between Asia and Europe.
Belarus’ Ties with the European Union
Belarus has sought to improve its relationship with the European Union in recent years, with both sides taking steps towards greater engagement. The EU has lifted some of its sanctions against Belarus, and the two sides have held high-level talks on a range of issues. However, the relationship remains complicated, with ongoing concerns over human rights and democracy in Belarus.
Belarus’ Relations with the United States
Belarus and the United States have a strained relationship, due to differences over issues such as human rights and democracy. The US has imposed sanctions on Belarusian officials, and has criticized the country’s elections and treatment of civil society. Belarus has responded by accusing the US of meddling in its internal affairs.
Belarus and NATO: A Complicated Relationship
Belarus and NATO have a complicated relationship, with Belarus viewing NATO as a potential threat to its security. Belarus has voiced concerns over NATO’s expansion in Eastern Europe, and has opposed NATO’s military exercises in the region. At the same time, Belarus has taken part in some joint military exercises with NATO member states.
Belarus’ Connection with Ukraine
Belarus and Ukraine have a relatively stable relationship, with both countries seeking to cooperate on issues such as trade and border security. However, Belarus has been critical of Ukraine’s pro-Western stance, and has expressed support for Ukraine’s pro-Russian separatists in the Donbass region.
Belarus and Iran: A Strategic Partnership
Belarus and Iran have a strategic partnership, with both countries seeking to boost their economic and political ties. Belarus has been a key partner for Iran in its efforts to develop its non-oil export industries, and the two countries have signed a range of agreements on trade and investment.
Belarus and Venezuela: A Growing Alliance
Belarus and Venezuela have been developing a growing alliance in recent years, with both countries seeking to deepen their cooperation in areas such as energy and agriculture. Belarus has provided assistance to Venezuela in building its agricultural sector, while Venezuela has provided Belarus with oil.
Belarus’ Relationship with Israel
Belarus and Israel have a complex relationship, with both countries seeking to balance their economic and political interests. Belarus has been critical of Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians, while Israel has expressed concerns over Belarus’ human rights record. However, the two countries have also sought to improve their economic ties, with Israel being one of Belarus’ top trading partners outside of Europe.
Belarus’ Adversaries: Who Are They?
Belarus’ adversaries include the United States, NATO, and some other European countries, who have criticized the country’s human rights record and democratic governance. Belarus has also faced opposition from some of its neighbors, such as Poland and Lithuania, who have accused Belarus of being a Russian stooge and supporting separatist movements in their countries. At the same time, Belarus has faced internal opposition from civil society groups and opposition politicians, who have accused the government of suppressing dissent and violating human rights.
