title: Belarusian need for Russia will limit angry disputes
abstract: Significance Belarus is defying Russia with varying success. It has scored a win by securing aircraft purchases rather than handing over air bases, but is hamstrung by oil and gas disputes. Minsk is also pursuing independent engagement with Europe and Ukraine. Lukashenka is articulating these policies in a characteristically abrasive style that is poorly received in Moscow. Impacts A rising tide of social protest could force Lukashenka to revert to repression and might be exploited by Russia to 
journal: Emerald expert briefings