Putin Visits Kazakhstan to Discuss Energy Ties

Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting Kazakhstan to strengthen energy ties amid trade tensions and Kazakhstan's attempts to distance itself from Russia's involvement in the Ukraine conflict. The visit underscores Kazakhstan's heavy reliance on Russia for oil exports and imports of essential goods, despite efforts to shift export routes to reduce this dependence. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has called for peaceful dialogue regarding the Ukraine war, while Putin aims to enhance bilateral cooperation in the oil and gas sector and nuclear energy projects. Recent agricultural trade disputes have also strained relations, particularly after Russia banned Kazakh agricultural imports. Both leaders are expected to sign a protocol to expand oil supply agreements during the visit, which comes as Kazakhstan seeks new avenues for crude oil exports. Kazakhstan remains committed to maintaining its ties with Western nations despite its historical alliance with Moscow.