Belarus Will Not Forget Russia

Referred to by some as "Europe's last dictatorship," Belarus has long had a complicated relationship with the European Union. The country has many of the hallmarks of a security state and has maintained one of the most restrictive visa policies for tourists, especially those from the West. So it was notable Jan. 9 when Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko signed a decree allowing citizens of 80 countries — including the United States, EU members and Japan — to visit Belarus for up to five days without a visa. Once the decree comes into effect, one month after it is published in official Belarusian state-run media, travel to the country from the West and other parts of the world will become much easier.

At first glance, the change appears to be part of a broader trend: Over the past two years, Belarus, long one of Russia's closest allies, has become increasingly friendly with the West. Recent tension between Moscow and Minsk has led to more speculation that Minsk is distancing itself from Moscow while reaching out to the West. But the reality is much more complex and, although Belarus is gradually opening to the West, it will not come at the expense of its vital strategic ties with Russia.