Boris Nemtsov: Putin should stop giving money to Lukashenka

The Belarusian dictator regards Russia as a cash cow.

Boris Nemtsov, one of the leaders of Russian opposition, wrote it on his blog.

“Lukashenka called Putin's policy stupid and pointless,” he says. “I agree with Lukashenka in general, but I think Russia should stop financing his regime after such statements. He does not have the right to make such statements as long as he receives huge assistance from Russia. The aid is 5 billion dollar a year, including a $200 discount on gas and permission to pay export duties on oil products to the Belarusian budget.

Lukashenka regards Russia as a cash cow, but we don't have money even for medicines and the medical sector. Lukashenka may say whatever he wants only after Russia stops backing his regime. But now it looks like making a mockery of the country and Putin's masochism.

The heads of Belarus and Russia do not plan to have a face-to-face meeting at the nearest EEU summit.