Upping The Ante In The Near Abroad

BMI View: In its battle to recoup its influence in the 'near abroad', Russia has sought a range of tangible concessions from these countries in exchange for phasing in energy price rises and reducing trade pressure. While this policy has brought results in some cases, including in Ukraine, Belarus and Armenia, Russia's strong-arm tactics risk pushing its more able or determined neighbours to step up efforts to break away from its sway.

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