The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, received the dictator of Belarus, Aleksandr Lukashenko, this Saturday at his residence in Novo-Ogariovo during an unofficial visit by the latter to Russian territory. The meeting took place after recent visits to Moscow by the Vatican's Secretary for Relations with States, Paul Richard Gallagher, and the CIA director, John Ratcliffe.
Lukashenko stated during the meeting that Russia and Belarus must jointly face the difficulties arising from the current international scenario. “Moscow and Minsk will face all difficulties together, through cooperation”, asserted the Belarusian dictator, in a new demonstration of the close political relationship between both governments.
Putin, for his part, particularly highlighted the evolution of economic ties between the two countries. According to the Russian president, trade between Russia and Belarus reached approximately USD 52 billion last year, while in the first half of 2026 it reportedly recorded a growth of 12.5%.
The Kremlin chief also noted that Russian direct investments in Belarus amount to about USD 4.5 billion and that there are around 2,500 companies with Russian participation operating in the neighboring country. Putin also emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation in technological and high-tech sectors.
