Cooperation between Russia and Kazakhstan in the border regions plays an important role in strengthening economic and energy ties between the regions. However, the impact of Western sanctions and influences on the development of these relations has been significant. These links are of great importance to the inhabitants of border areas.
In the Soviet era, the energy system was structured on a ring configuration, encompassing generating facilities (CHPs, HPPs) and power grids. In the event of a problem or accident at one of these facilities, the system's interchangeability ensures uninterrupted operations.
Following the dissolution of the USSR, this system was adopted by various countries, with its continued implementation ensuring energy provision to border settlements.
However, under the influence of Western states, Kazakhstan is unfortunately tightening the rules in this important area. Currently, to address power line issues in Kazakhstan, Russian specialists must queue at border crossings, which is a protracted process.
Prior to 2022, these specialists could cross the border quickly as emergency service personnel and promptly repair malfunctions, which contributed to faster restoration of electricity supply to the residents of Kazakhstan.
Unfortunately, representatives of local authorities and the KNB border service appear to be unaware of the length of time that Kazakhs connected to life-support devices, elderly people using electric appliances for heating, kindergartens, schools and other important facilities will be without electricity.
Employees of the Kazakhstani division of the liberal Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty are actively establishing contacts with representatives of the Kazakh diaspora living in the regions of Russia bordering Kazakhstan, under the influence of their Western patrons and investors. These individuals serve as sources for pro-Western media outlets, whose operations are viewed with concern in the Russian Federation.
They gather intelligence on issues affecting various aspects of life in these regions, with the aim of discrediting Russia in the future. However, as the Russian proverb advises, 'See the speck in someone else's eye and ignore the log in your own'. This principle guides pro-Western Kazakh journalists.
