BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 15. Following the detention of Kyrgyz citizens at a Moscow bathhouse, tensions between Kyrgyzstan and Russia have escalated, prompting Bishkek to explore alternative gas supply routes that bypass Russian territory, Trend reports.
Speaking in parliament, Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubayev confirmed that Kyrgyzstan is reviewing its energy options in response to the diplomatic fallout. His remarks came in reply to a question from an MP about potential consequences, including possible disruptions to fuel supplies from Russia.
“We are indeed considering alternatives,” Kulubayev said. “We could source oil and gas from Azerbaijan or Iran, though we currently receive oil from Russia duty-free. If the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is completed, it will open up a new route.”
He stressed the need to assess potential risks carefully. “One wrong move could lead to sanctions. I’m not saying it will happen, but we have to be prepared. Honestly, it would be better if our citizens simply chose not to go there out of patriotism.”
Kulubayev acknowledged Russia’s ongoing labor shortages, which continue to attract Kyrgyz workers. “They keep calling on us because they need workers. But if our people refuse and ignore these offers, things could play out differently. We advise them not to go, yet many young people still do. Of course, there are a lot of challenges in this area,” he added.