Putin and Lukashenko celebrate trade boom amid tensions
Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko met at the Kremlin. One topic of their discussion was the potential ceasefire in Ukraine, but they also decided to deepen cooperation between Russia and Belarus. Putin announced a record increase in trade, reaching over 51 billion dollars.
What do you need to know?
- Trade between Russia and Belarus increased by 5.7 percent, reaching a record level of over 51 billion dollars according to Belarusian statistics.
- Vladimir Putin emphasized that despite external difficulties, the economies of both countries are developing successfully.
Many reports presented by Russian and Belarusian media or authorities are elements of propaganda. Such reports are part of the information warfare conducted by the Russian Federation.
Putin on record growth
During the Russian-Belarusian talks, President Vladimir Putin reported record growth in trade between Russia and Belarus. According to Belarusian data, the trade exchange value exceeded 51 billion dollars, which means a 5.7 percent increase. Russian data indicate a slightly lower value, but it is still a record level.
Putin noted that despite external difficulties, the economies of both countries are developing in the best possible way. He emphasized that trade cooperation not only progresses normally but also with a view to the future. "This demonstrates that Russia and Belarus are determined to continue economic development," stated the President of Russia.
Visit to Moscow
Lukashenko is visiting Moscow. After today's meeting between Putin and Lukashenko, a joint press conference is planned. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov suggested that Putin might address the issue of Ukraine during the event, reports ria.ru.
On Thursday, an American delegation also arrived in Moscow to conduct talks with the Russian side. On board the plane, was, among others, U.S. President Donald Trump's special advisor on the Middle East, Steven Witkoff.
