**Russian President Putin Grants Belarusians Residing in Russia Right to Vote and Run in Local Elections**
In a move that deepens the integration between Russia and Belarus, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law on July 23 that grants Belarusian citizens permanently residing in Russia the right to vote and run in local elections. This decision comes as the two countries face increased isolation from the West due to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
Belarus, led by President Alexander Lukashenko, has been a close ally of Putin for many years. The two leaders have strengthened their cooperation in various fields, including defense policy. Belarus and Russia signed a Union State treaty in 1999, which aims to deepen relations and bilateral integration between the two countries. Minsk already allows Russian citizens permanently residing in Belarus to vote and participate in its own local elections.
**A Move Towards Greater Integration**
The move by Putin to grant Belarusians residing in Russia the right to vote and run in local elections is seen as a step towards greater integration between the two countries. Authorities in Belarus have welcomed this decision, with officials calling for Belarusian citizens to be given the right to participate in regional elections, according to Russian state media.
The partnership between Belarus and Russia extends beyond economic ties, with both countries cooperating on defense policy. The two nations have also signaled their willingness to cooperate on military matters, particularly in the context of the Zapad-2025 military drills. Initially, Minsk had decided to move these joint Russian-Belarusian drills away from the western frontier to ease tensions. However, due to concerns about escalating military activity by Poland and Lithuania near Belarus’ borders, the decision may now be reconsidered.
**Implications for Regional Politics**
The implications of this development are significant in regional politics. As both Russia and Belarus face increasing isolation from the West, their cooperation on defense policy and other matters is likely to continue. This move by Putin can be seen as a way to strengthen the bond between the two countries, making it more difficult for Western nations to exert influence over either country.
As tensions escalate in the region, with Poland and Lithuania expressing concerns about the Zapad-2025 drills, the situation becomes increasingly complex. The decision by Belarus to reconsider moving the joint Russian-Belarusian drills away from its western frontier adds to the uncertainty surrounding regional politics.
**Read More**
To gain a deeper understanding of this development and its implications for regional politics, read more on the Kyiv Independent’s website.
