Energy Ministry comments on ban to export Belarusian electricity to Ukraine

MINSK, 26 May (BelTA) – The Belarusian Energy Ministry made a few comments in response to Ukraine's decision to stop importing electricity from Belarus, the ministry's press service told BelTA.

According to the source, inconsiderable amounts of electricity were exported from Belarus to Ukraine before the ban. This is why one can hardly say the ban will be a sensitive issue for Belarus.

A ban on exporting electricity from Belarus to Ukraine was in effect in the past, too – from April through December 2020. Once it expired, commercial trade in electricity resumed. Due to unfavorable weather in winter the Ukrainian side repeatedly asked Belarus for electricity to ensure the steady operation of its power grid. Belarus provided the necessary amounts of electricity in response.

Ukraine repeatedly made bold statements about the intention to stop importing Belarusian electricity in the past. The press service said: “The question is whether our Ukrainian partners will feel consequences of the ban themselves or not. The Belarusian stance remains unchanged: we are intent on constructive cooperation and are ready to supply electricity to Ukraine if necessary.”