Russian and Belarus will study options for ensuring break-even operation of Belarusian refineries and that shipments in 2024 maintain 2023 levels

MINSK. May 24 (Interfax) - Russia and Belarus will study options for ensuring the break-even operation of Belarusian oil refineries, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told reporters following high-level negotiations between the two countries.

"On oil, we have now discussed issues related to the break-even operation of Belarusian refineries; we will soon develop a common position to help our Belarusian colleagues if there are high oil prices, since Belarusian refineries buy oil, and they do not produce. We have been given instructions to consider options for providing support," he said.

Novak also said that Russia supplies Belarus with "as much oil as its refineries need," with no restrictions. "Last year, 14.5 million tonnes were delivered, and this year we are on approximately the same schedule," he said.

Earlier, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said that the leaders of Russia and Belarus had agreed on the terms of oil and gas supplies to Belarus, but there were nuances still needing to be finalized. Putin confirmed this information: "Our colleagues have certain instructions to finalize issues that were still unfinished. However, these are actually details, and there is nothing significant there. The rhythmic operations of the enterprises involved from the fuel and energy sector will certainly be ensured."